I did not realize how hard this would be. This is the first time I have been back to the jungle since my good friend Wilder passed. He was our right hand man in the jungle. I thought I had dealt with this! Why then when the plane started its decent into Iquitos did a wave of emotion wash over me like the blanket of thick humidity that would soon be on me. Tears started to stream down my face as I thought the selfish thought of his smiling face isn't going to be there to greet me. There will be no "Hola Jo ell". My name is never pronounced in one syllable down here it is a two syllable Jo ell. I am over that hurdle now and have settled into Iquitos ( if there is such a thing). Got to the hotel and met all of the teachers that have come in for the conference. What an amazing team God has assembled! I can't wait to see this all unfold. We will be heading up river to Santa Rita on Saturday. Another big emotional hurdle as this also is the first time going to Santa Rita since Pastor Javier's recent passing. I am sure this will be hard for every one on the team and especially Tom(Junglemaster Minsitries founder). We need lots of prayer for strength and guidance. I will try to post again when I get back out of the jungle, talk to ya soon.
Joel
