Part 2. Back in Toronto!

The life long student?

Yes, I love learning and improving. In different areas. Even while working as a teacher I kept on exploring and developing new ground. After I quit my job, I challenged myself to get my English language skills to a higher level, to grow in confidence in that area and to expand my horizon. I overcame my fear of failure by taking the TOEFL test. I enjoyed the adventure of living abroad, being part of a group of people. And it was because of these steps that I was ready to participate in this English speaking ministry school and again, it brings me so much joy and many new opportunities. I'm meeting precious people from all over the world, though easily experiencing deep connection, love and unity. Why? because of this special dimension: we're sharing our faith in God, being and growing in relationship with Him. Open hearts, expecting Him to speak into our lives through the bible, the worship and through each other.

A married student

After a 4 week study-break I dived into the Advanced course. During the leaders school in January I surprised myself by cancelling my new job/training as a NT2 teacher, in order to continue studying at Catch the Fire for another 3 months. Though not fully on site. Besides I don't want to leave home for that long anymore, the school doesn't allow me anyway, because I'm married. It's a rule, meant to protect our marriage. Except Peter is coming along to the school.. Well, honestly, I even didn't ask him, he would be back on the plane within 2 days;)) So, I made my way through the first 2 months online, watching teachings/ connecting on Zoom but since last week joining in person until graduation, Yay!:) 

"Appropriate education" (for those who are teachers: you know.. "passend onderwijs":)

Because I'm in a unique position of rolling into an existing, running group, the staff prepared my own personal schedule so I can get the most out of these weeks! For example, most students went this weekend on outreach, which I couldn't join yet (I missed the preparation), so they registered me for a leaders day at church, Saturday. Which was great! Further, there are moments I'm having lunch with a leader and I'm joining a women's connect group on Wednesday evenings. And what I like most: the Advanced course gives students as part of the training the opportunity to volunteer in the school and church ("placement"). Therefore, we needed to be screened, I was required to hand over a Certificate of Conduct and filled- out forms by 2 references. I got interviewed and had to sign papers. But no worries, I'm a good girl;)

I was welcomed back into the school in a really warm way and went immediately through 4 busy days, meanwhile getting over that nice always returning jetlag.. I'm glad I have a day off;) The weather is soooo much better now, and no lock down anymore, we can hang out for a drink or whatever. The other side of the coin is, I need a bit more money, honey..:0

Thanks for following again, next time I'll attach more photo's. (For now I was too busy to think of it!)

love, Marieke