Put me in Coach. I'm ready to play.

I have been in Nicaragua for a week or so and that journey can be better understood by viewing the team blog at www.stjohngoestonicaragua.blogspot.com

Three hours after arriving home, the nausea began. I suspect that the stomach ailment generated from being in close proximity to a sick team mate, however, I may never eat KFC again -- sorry Con. Sanders.

It is five days later and I have missed one, if not the, most significant national events in my lifetime. We had an election party and I slept through most of it -- me, the political junkie and card carrying democrat. I have been waiting for this week for 22 months. I supported Hillary. I adjusted. Long before November, I knew where my ballot would be marked. That morning, I stumbled into the little church where I vote and waited 5 or 6 minutes before stepping up to the ballot screen. I sorted through 18 pages of questions and tried hard to remember exactly what the referendum babble was saying. I know all of this, because a friend drove me to poll and returned me to bed. Later she repeated my description of the line and process. As for me, most of this week has been a blur. Today, I begin to catch up on the news. Today, I begin to soak in the events of this past week. Today, I role my eyes at ignorance and smile at those who have a little more spring in their step.

Today, I also begin a new pilgrimage. Every once in a while, I experience the movement of god in or around me. Every once in a while, I am compelled to respond to this movement. Today, I begin to wake up to need for contemplation and prayer. Often I jump without regard. However, today, I am called to listen. Tomorrow, will be the time to jump.