Adjust + Embrace = Home

Today I received mail at my school for the first time. I don't even know the address of my school and it was a surprise to me that anyone else knew.... but it made sense when I saw the letter was from the ELCA. Enclosed was a copy of Global Gleanings: global mission news & notes, a monthly newsletter. It was a nice surprise and quite an enlightening read while I had my morning tea/breakfast. I would like to share an excerpt from the feature article, Letting Go, written by Kevin Jacobson.

"If someone tosses a hot piece of coal into your hands, what do you do? You don't ask, "How do I let go of this hot piece of coal?" You don't even take the time to ask, "How do I let go?" You just let go. You just let go. Often in this world of being a missionary I find myself needing to 'just let go' - let go of my old habits, culture, traditions, inhibitions, and, yes, even some beliefs."

I definitely can identify with this quote. It is an amazing experience being immersed in a new culture. It may sound kind of nerve racking or scary (and it may have its moments) but the truth is, like the quote says, you don't have time to think... you just do. You have to drop most things you know... likely things you took for granted, and accept and embrace the new.

I enjoyed reading the article to Teacher Hiew as she drove me home from school today. It was interesting for me to hear her response. She certainly agreed with it and stressed that although it is important to be open minded and allow the new in, she can imagine it must be a difficult adjustment being so far from home. I replied, "Yes that is true. It is difficult at times, but realize, as I let go I am not losing anything. Instead I am gaining this experience and embracing it to the fullest... and beginning to call it home." Over the past few days it has really hit me how much I am beginning to feel at home now. Although, I have only been here for two months and certainly have many more adjustments ahead of me, I am realizing the many hot stones I've let go without taking much notice. This is apparent to me as I reflect on my first few weeks here and even my first month and can sense the change in adjustment. This is something I struggle to put into words but is something I can feel inside.

While preparing to leave this past summer I shared my favorite prayer with many of you. I say it often and as always it brings great peace to me. I am honestly a bit surprised to report that it has gained even more meaning through out these past couple months... reminding me that our spiritual growth is never ending, even in a favorite prayer. As always I have put great trust in the prayer but I feel more than ever my prayer has been answer. Below is the prayer and I have highlighted in bold the three lines I have felt a stronger connection with recently.

May today there be peace within. May you trust God that you are exactly where you are meant to be. May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith. May you use the gifts that you have received and pass on the love that has been given to you. May you be content knowing you are a child of God. Let this presence settle in your bones and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, praise and love. It is there for each and everyone of us. Amen.