Tuesday, January 21, 2014

Saying Goodbye....again

Leaving.  The goodbyes.  The hugs.  The promises of keeping in touch.  The promises of staying safe.  The last smile.  The "I love you's."

It's difficult.  I won't lie.  I love working for CURE, I love Malawi and I'm excited for Uganda.  But to say that I'm ready to go right now would not be entirely true.  I have accepted the fact that I'm leaving tomorrow but it's going to be harder this year.  I know what a year away feels and looks like.  I know I will miss family the minute they are out of sight.  I know I will miss friends before I even land in Uganda.

I don't care about restaurants or food here.  I don't care about the clothes, shoes or cars.  I don't care about the convenience of stores & shops being open past 6pm.  I don't care about not having things abroad that are available 24/7 here at every single gas station.  I care about my community that surrounds me with love at home.  I miss people.

 It's a difficult lesson that I'm gradually learning to grasp.  Learning to trust.  Letting go of the worry and anxiety.  Not worrying about what's next.  Learning to live in the moment.  Learning to love.  Learning to be content and not constantly looking forward.  Learning to be completely honest and bold in prayer.  We can't hide the deceit and darkness in our hearts.  Why do I even try?

The stories will be different in Uganda.  The people will be different.  The hospital will be different.  The doctors will be different.  The housing will be different.  The food and language will be different.  The traditions will be different.  The medical conditions will be different.  My co-worker and translator will be different.  Challenges will be different.  Struggles will be different.  There is only one constant in my life.  My faith.  Our savior.  Our Father.  Our provider.  Our Lord.