Being home with my family was such a blessing during this time of losing my grandfather. I cannot imagine facing this hardship alone. I was showered with blessings upon blessings in my time with them, but there were still times when things were not easy. Times when I felt like I didn't quite fit in, times when I just needed to be face to face with the children I love so dearly across the ocean, and times when adjusting to 1st world life was easier said than done. Now, as I prepare to head back to Ethiopia I find myself in a state of extreme cultural transition. I want to be there, I want to fulfill the purpose for this phase in my life, and I want to live... Really live! In these moments of confusion as to where I really belong I reminded myself that God never promised me that it would be easy. He never said following him would come free of battles between the head and the heart, free of feeling out of place, or free from uprooting and replanting myself time and time again. In fact, in some strange way, I enjoy the challenge of all those things, because without fail they bring me to the feet of my Father.
Six months ago tomorrow I was in this same place--at the airport preparing to hop the puddle formally known as the Atlantic Ocean. Now, as I sit here looking back over the last six months my mind is blown as to how much my life has changed. I am in awe of how far I have come and how quickly time has flown. Last time I was beyond excited to get there, and this time holds more of the same, but on a new level. Today, I know the faces and names of the children waiting for me on the other side. I know their hearts and the changes God has made in their lives. This time, I look forward to walking onto the orphanage compound and hearing them call out my name. This time, I look forward to greeting them with open arms, 3 weeks worth of kisses, and an overflow of built up love. This life, these children, this is living.
Ethiopia Round 2 is in full swing. Looking forward to what the next 6 months will hold!
