Day 08 - Western Coast: Miletus, Didyma & Pottery Shop

Written by Allan Folsom:

Today was personal for me. I came to Turkiye after having had surgery on my ankle (fusion) about 16 weeks ago. I tried (unsuccessfully) to get out of going on the tour, as I considered that it might be physically difficult for me. The first part of the tour was indeed quite difficult as my orthopedic issues made doing the hikes challenging. I did however, hang in there. The help and encouragement from my tour mates was a blessing. 

As the days rode on, I grew stronger with all of the walking we were doing. I also began to hear God's voice. His voice came to me at Miletus, in the theater. We were reading about how the apostle Paul said his goodbyes here before heading to Jerusalem. Paul knew he would not see these people again, in this life. It was an emotional departure for him and an emotional moment for me standing in the shadows of the theater corridor. 

Some of the friends I have made on this tour I will possibly not see again and I have grown quite close to them. I silently thanked God for strengthening me not only physically, but spiritually as well in these last few days. 

I also considered my own mortality. I have less in front of me than I do behind. It was then that I heard God's voice; “finish strong, Allan. I am preparing you for the rest of the journey. Finish strong.” I was overcome with emotion. Today’s visit to Miletus was deeply personal for me. I will remember it for the remainder of my life.