So by far one of the lamest things about life is having to say goodbye. Today I'm saying goodbye to one of my closest friends in Japan.  For the past year and a half Elizabeth has been my sister, friend and confidante. She's also a kick-butt fellow missionary, who's term here has ended and is heading home.

We first met in Osaka, four years ago, she was on her way through with a group called Envision, touring through Japan meeting pastors and congregations.  I remember her because she fell asleep on my apartment floor.  (It must have been a long day.)  The second time we met was three years ago, I was in Seattle trying to convince her family that Asian Access was a solid organization, and that she was desperately needed in Japan.  (Not that we were just questionable missionaries, trying to steal their precious daughter overseas.)  I was grateful for the loan, and for the past year and a half we've been working together here in Okinawa.

The first photo we took together, after dinner at her parents' house.  

And now today, our last photo- for now.

I can't imagine who will take the place of this friend.  Who will listen to me whinge, will tolerate my drama or tell me puns, who else could possibly understand so well what it means to be a church planter here in Okinawa.  I let her go unwillingly, even as I in the same breath, pray for God's blessing on the next piece of her journey.  We love and miss you E.    

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