Xenophilations

It’s true hard work never killed anybody, but I figure, why take the chance? –Ronald Reagan

It was the first day of spring, by my definition: warm enough to make it painful to stay inside… I did not want to go to the office this morning. Perhaps it was warm in Bolivia as well. The President resigned. This one lasted 17 months. A record-long length for Bolivia. I guess some countries love the democratic election process so much they drive their officials out of office so they can start over again electing them! Which brings me to my second Reagan quote of the day: “Double, no triple, our troubles, and we’d still be better off than any other people on earth. It is time we recognized that ours was, in truth, a noble cause.” –Reagan

As I was working on a memo to the Secretary on Vietnam today I had a thought… this could get boring. In fact, this is already getting routine. If it weren’t for the actual good coming out of this specific office’s work for religious freedom, I would quickly learn to detest work. I’ve only got two full-time weeks left at the Department and I intend to fully enjoy it. But I do not find myself wishing it were two years left… or more… in fact, while I do not long to leave, I will not long to stay either, I don’t believe. I always thought that if I did not know this wasn’t God’s calling for me, Government work would enthrall me. I do enjoy it, and some aspects I actually can thrive in… but even if it weren’t for God…I would still want more. I guess what I’m saying I realized is I’m glad this is only a season God has called me to. Diplomacy is fun, but long term life-on-the-edge ministry is more fun…. Besides, as evidenced in Bolivia today… Latin America is in a lot more desperate need of well-trained leaders so what could be more exciting than helping train them? I really feel like I’ll leave this season having gained even more preparation for the future than I expected….

Speaking of seasons, it was in the 70s today. It’s supposed to snow tomorrow.

And my final stolen thought for the day….Government’s view of the economy could be summed up in a few short phrases: If it moves, tax it. If it keeps moving, regulate it. And if it stops moving, subsidize it. –Reagan