Anyways, here is a quick update on how the internship is going:
I have started observing patient ultrasounds and it has been, by far, the most rewarding experience of this whole summer. It is hard to put into words the intense joy I felt the first time I saw a tiny little heartbeat on a 16 week old baby. The technician was able to make out a beautiful profile with a complete view on the spine, hands, feet, and even individual fingers and toes. It was truly breathtaking. If that wasn't amazing enough, last week I witnessed an ultrasound for a baby that was only 7 weeks along. At that point, there wasn't as much to make out in the way of individual limbs and fingers, but that beautiful heartbeat was still there, pumping sure and strong, a wonderful reminder of the beauty of God's creation and the significance and importance of every human life. It never ceases to amaze me that something so small can be so powerful and that God would so carefully knit together such a glorious masterpiece. I feel so privileged! Jesus loves us so much!!!!
In the next few weeks I will also be starting to research ways in which Next Step can take their ministry just a little bit further. Two options they are currently exploring are STI testing and parenting classes. The first option, STI testing, would be pretty difficult with the facilities and staffing they currently have. It would require intensive doctor supervision and oversight, with possibly the use of on-site MD's, PA's, or nurse practitioners. Right now, however, we are just looking into what it would take to provide that service. Parenting classes may be a more immediately achievable goal.They already have resources available for the classes themselves, the only difficulty would be scheduling, finding volunteers, and facilities. Their current office is lacking in meeting space, so if more than a couple people show up for a class, finding room for everyone could be a problem.
I will also be starting to organize a viewing of Abby Johnson's Unplanned documentary in conjunction with the Newman Center at the University of Washington, which is the Catholic ministry there. The associate director, Father Raphael, has asked me to make a short presentation about my experiences with the Coalition for Life and sidewalk counseling with some of the greatest warriors for Christ I have ever met. I am truly humbled to be included in such a wonderful group and I hope some of my experiences will inspire these college students to take a stand for Life on their own campus and in their community.
Not quite related to the internship, but wonderful and relevant news nonetheless, I have also recently been selected to serve on the national board of directors for Lutherans for Life! I am extremely honored to be asked to serve in such a position and pray that I can contribute positively to their mission during the next three years of my term. I know at this point that I will be working with the Generations for Life committee to develop ways to energize and empower younger generations (high school, college age, young adults, etc.) to stand up for Life in their churches and communities and educate them about Life issues. I agree with the current board members that the current generation and the generation after us will be integral to changing the hearts and mind of the world about abortion, euthanasia and other important social and moral issues. As cheezy as it may sound, we are the future of the movement and we can make a great impact if equipped with the right tools. I pray that together we can figure out what those tools are and get them into the hands of the right people. I will officially start the first week of August at their national convention in Dallas, so I will actually be coming back to Texas mid-internship for a couple of days, which should be fun!
As always, thank you for all your comments and prayers! I couldn't do any of this without the wonderful support of my friends and family!
Gig 'Em and God Bless!
Coming soon... Part 1 of Jenn's Northwest Adventure!!!
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