Josh became the big brother I never had. He sat with me as I cried so many tears. He comforted me with wise words in times where we both knew I could only be comforted by our Father. He listened to my heart in my deepest hours of need and didn't judge me when it was bitter and angry. We laughed at things that were extremely Australian and found every opportunity we could to use our newly acquired Aussie lingo. We were the family in the stands for each other at each game. We were reminders to each other of God's faithfulness. It's because of my big brother that my journey to Australia even happened.
Josh is also an AIA Alum. He went on a tour to Israel that took place before my own tour to Czech. It was on our tours that we met Jessica. An AIA staff member and dear friend. When Josh got to Australia they asked him if he knew of any female bballers as they were looking for a female import. He suggested Jessica. Jessica had other commitments but as Josh's journey to Australia started in August 2010, I guess in a sense mine did too. I remained in close contact with Jess after our Czech trip in August. We talked at least twice a month and she prayed for me when I was in a time of deep questioning and well, depression. The funny thing is, we were praying for Australia because she thought it would be a good fit for me. I had been praying and had started the application process to go on STINT [short term international internship] with AIA. Little did we know because of Josh's suggestion the opportunity for Australia would come in a different avenue. Jess said no but immediately suggested me and that's how this whole journey came about for me.
Yet our Australian journeys were as different as night and day. Josh knew about Australia since August of last year. He came in December 2010 for preseason training giving him the opportunity to get to know his teammates and coaches. He was on the correct visa, had a car and started working straight away. That's not to say he didn't have bumps in the road but our first weeks in Adelaide were quite different. As many of you know, I was on the wrong visa, didn't have a place to live or a car or a job. Josh did however experience something I have yet to experience. He left behind his beautiful fiance Natalie. I could write an entire blog on how much she means to me as well!!! He left love for Australia and I found love in Australia. Despite all of the differences we both experienced a deep, deep yearning for God. As unique as our situations were, God was the common denominator. He empowered us to overcome our struggles and sufferings. He gave us hope and reminders of our purpose here, even though Josh and I would sit and try to make sense of our time here. Surely it was more than just finding an incredible new friend:) I'm so thankful God blessed me with a fellow American that had so much in common with me and pushed me to grow closer to Christ.
Even though it was incredibly hard to watch Josh walk onto the plane, I was so excited for him. Here in Australia you can go to the gate even if you don't have a ticket. It's a blessing and a curse. Of course I started to cry as soon as he couldn't see me anymore. They were tears of joy, sorrow and reality. Josh finished his task here and that was a weird thought. We both never thought that day would ever come way back in February. To think we made it. Although our men's team didn't make it to the finals they had a great season. Josh finished strong and was such an amazing contributor to those men on and off the court. It was so hard to see him go. He was my confidant and to think that I still have 4 weeks without him is rough but I know God will get me through. It's selfish of me considering he is back home with his future bride. Happier than ever. I can assure that! The GREAT news is that I get to see him again in 37 days. Josh lives in Arizona which couldn't be closer considering the United States is massive. Close proximity is HUGE but Josh and Nat say their vows in 37 days and I got an invite!! I can't wait. I get to come home and I get to see my two amazing friends display their love for one another in front of their families and closest friends. I am so honored that I get to be a part of their day! Despite missing Josh like crazy, I get to see him in his element in a few short weeks. Such a blessing!!
Thanks Josh. For the invite to your wedding and for all of our Aussie memories. Oiii mate I miss you HEAPS! I'm so keen for our reunion. It's going to be sweet as!!!
Josh & I at Glenelg
Josh & the Lion Men & Me sneaking in:)
