I wanted to write a little more in depth blog as I close out my season here in Israel. Last night was a little busy so I didn't write much. After the game, I went out to eat with a couple teammates and then I went and picked up my friend Tolu so that I could take her to the airport this morning as she flies out back to the States. I didn't get to bed until after 3 a.m. and then I was up at 5:50 a.m. to take Tolu to the airport. I figure now I might as well redeem some time this morning before I head out to get some things done.
As I reflect back on this season, this season has had a lot of "ups" and it has had a lot of "downs". I am so thankful for the experience that I have had to play and live in another country. Israel truly is a blessed country and I feel honored to have been able to live in this beautiful place the last 6 months. Yes, it has been a little over 6 months, since I first set foot in Israel...time flies! I have nothing but good things to say about my team in regards to the management and how things were run. Organization is at the top here and I have to give a big shout out to my General Manager Shira...she is awesome! From her countless texts to the team telling us what time practice was, to being willing to pick us up and give us a ride, or lend a hand...she has been phenomenal. To the president of the team Rachel...I am so thankful that I was able to play for a team this year who does in fact pay on time, and who cares about us as people not just on the court but off of the court. To my coaches Orna and Raffi, there were definitely some "highs" and "lows" throughout the season, and while we didn't always agree on things, we as a team made it through the season. To my wonderful teammates what a blessing it was to have some pretty awesome and amazing girls as teammates and also I am so thankful that I have made some lifelong friends as a result of playing on this team. To my roommate "B" (name is too long to spell out lol) - what a blessing it has been to have a roommate like her. After living by myself the last two seasons, I had gotten used to my own living space and area, but I have to say that my roommate this season was awesome!! We both have similar personalities and are both easy going, so the living arrangement couldn't have been better. To the fans of Ramat Hasharon thank you so much for supporting us as a team through the roller-coaster of a season...so neat to have loyal fans who have a smile on their face whether we win or lose.
This team was a special team and one that had a lot of talent! While I don't feel like our talent as a team was ever maximized this season, it was still great to be a part of. As with any season as it comes to a close it is filled with bittersweet feelings. I am always thankful to complete a season healthy and I am thankful that I have been able to do that this year. I am thankful for the many people I have met and will continue to stay in contact with. I am thankful that as a team, us girls, stuck by each other through the thick and the thin. I do feel like we had the potential to make a lot of "noise" in the playoffs, but unfortunately that wasn't the case. The "sweet" aspect of finishing a season is knowing that I will be going back to the USA in a few days. I am excited to see my family and friends, and I am really looking forward to seeing my boyfriend as well! God has been so good throughout these last 6 months and I want to ultimately thank Him for seeing me through and giving me the strength when some days I didn't know if I would be able to get through on my own. ALL the honor and glory belongs to you and you alone Lord!
Each season I glean different things and the Lord teaches me many lessons. There were some painful and tough times this season, but as I mentioned earlier I can't brag on my God enough...He is so good and He is faithful!!!
I just thought I would share a few of my thoughts as I close out my time here in Israel. These next few days here will be spent packing, tying up loose ends, and saying bye to teammates and friends.
Reading for the day:
April 4th
Exodus 18/Romans 16
Exodus 18 – It is awesome to see Jethro (Moses’ father in law) pull Moses aside and advise Moses to seek council and help from other men who are God-fearing! Moses was getting worn out from constantly having to be “on call” and talk to all the people whenever a problem came up. I think delegating is something that is hard for some people to do, but is necessary. What a great reminder to us all that it is okay to seek outside help…and when we do we must strive to make sure it is good counsel. I am so thankful for the Lord’s help and advice in my life!
Romans 16 – So thankful for Paul’s instruction to be ever watchful and vigilant for “smooth talkers” or those who want to trip us up. May we strive to be walking along with Christ so that we can be sensitive to what is right and wrong.
I would love for you all to check the song out below! This is my prayer as I leave Israel and head back to the States!
God bless,
Megan