I was crammed on the bus, from our hostel to the airport, peering out the window at the dusty fields all around when it happened…it hit me…we’re going home!! Wade was sitting behind, and called me out…he could tell I was soaking it in – my last looks at the African landscapes, my last crowded African bus ride, my last few days with squad mates and best friends.
I can’t believe this whole journey is coming to an end. We’re going home and I’m so excited, but I’m also sad to be writing the final words of an incredible chapter in my life. This has without a doubt been the most exciting, adventurous, growing, memorable and challenging year of my life. I never could have dreamed that God would take me to 11 countries in 11 months. When Paul proposed nearly 4 years ago, he said he wanted to travel the world together – it makes me smile to realize that’s exactly what we’re doing! I’m so thankful to have shared this experience with him.
It’s been a spiritual pilgrimage, an offering, a sacrifice, a classroom, and a blessing. Throughout the past 11 months:
– My faith has grown exponentially.
– I have found a new trust in the Lord – that he is always in control, and He knows what’s best – always!
– I have learnt the incredible power of prayer and practiced praying with a boldness and authority that I didn’t have before.
– I have had the privilege of serving the least of these, sharing God’s love and preaching His word.
– I have been a construction worker, teacher, mentor, playmate, labourer, evangelist, preacher, office worker, custodian, and gardener.
– I have gotten down and dirty, been away from family and friends, gone without internet and a cellphone, ate many questionable things, ate an absurd amount of rice, beans and various forms of fried dough, had limited privacy with my husband and had no sense of style.
– I have been in my absolute favourite classroom – the world, and I have learned so much about geography, language, religion and culture.
– I have formed incredible friendships with our B-squad family and now have people to visit all across the United States.
And all of this…has been one of the greatest blessings of my life! It’s difficult to put into words how I’m feeling right now – the thought of re-entry is something we have dreamed of for months – picturing the embrace of our families in Toronto International Airport or imagining delicious and healthy food that we’ll be able to consume whenever our heart’s desire. This journey has undoubtedly changed me – I am a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come! And although I’m a little bit nervous about all the transitions that will take place in the next few days, I know that God has a plan for us. We’re praying for job opportunities within Canada, and the possibility of me returning to school. But, we also know that God’s not finished with us yet!
Coming soon, to a town near you…. Katrina & Paul Annunziello
