Box of Books

Many years ago, back in 2004, I am facing an exciting venture: going to Germany to be a missionary, working with middle-school kids. I faced this venture with thrill and trembling...after all, the ministry involved middle-school kids.

In the midst of my preparations, I heard fellow missionaries talk about a M-Bag...what the heck is a M-bag? It is a very cheap way to send books, brochures and other paper-related media around the world. My heart leaped with joy.

You see, I love books and love having books around me. I wanted to take over a handful of good books with me but knew that books weigh a ton, especially when the airlines tell you that you can only pack 50 lbs (22 kg) per suitcase. So I had prepared myself to go without.

So with my new-found information, I mailed a box of books. I think it was about 30 lbs total and only cost me about $20. Granted, I mailed these books in July before I left and didn't see them until October. They went by way of tugboats and donkeys...but hey! it was cheap!!

I was in Germany for two years and found a few bookstores that had small English sections. Therefore, I inevitably picked up a few more books. By the time I left in 2006, I had two boxes of books. I mailed them home and said, "see you in October, my loves!" Sadly, only one box arrived. I often wonder what became of my 2nd box...where it ended up, who are now the fortunate owners of my books, and why they never got to me.

Occasionally I will think of a book I own and wonder where it is...a book I haven't seen for awhile. Then I realize it must have been in that box. Lost. At Sea. Forever.

The book that crossed my mind today was devotional that a friend in England sent to me. Every devotional was coffee-related. I loved it! I found it charming, funny and so perfect for my coffee-addicted mind. One of these days, I'll take the time to restock the few books that I remember and maybe one of these years, I'll come across my book in a bookstore...wouldn't that be fun!