Nostalgic romanticism will be the death of me.
Our ministry in Lesotho (pronounced le-soo-too) is working with the the local branch of Campus Crusade for Christ (Cru) at The National University of Lesotho in Roma. To be able to have easy access to the campus and the students, we are staying in the home of a family who works with Cru—about a five-minute walk away from the university. The house we are staying in is certainly a step up from our lodging in Swaziland, and almost feels like home (in the sense that we have access to video games, we are sleeping in beds, we can take hot showers, etc.) Now, to tie this back to my initial statement: I have had many experiences here that have sparked memories from home and/or my childhood. Memories that have now become dramatically romanticized because I am out of the country, on top of the fact that they are moments I know I will never have again. As I write this, I am having trouble sleeping because I am so caught up in the nostalgic appeal of “yesterday”. In those moments I am fighting not to change my mind about leaving my home behind for the time being.
It is also painful not being able to casually shoot a text to my brother telling him about some ridiculous experience I had; or call my mum and just hear her voice; or ask my sister how my niece and nephew are doing. Prayer for the peace I once had in these areas would mean the world to me. I also need prayer for vulnerability and guidance in fully choosing into my team. Often times I find it hard to make the effort to connect with each of them on emotional and spiritual levels.
On the bright side, Lesotho is beautiful. The country is very mountainous, and every drive into the city of Maseru (where we go to church, get groceries, etc.) feels like a new spectacle. I am excited to explore and go on many hikes and adventures. I am also very glad to be hanging out with young adults around my age, and getting to know their struggles with identity, faith, family, and much more. It is always beneficial to receive encouragement from Godly people who have recently gone through (or are still working through) the situations and problems you can’t quite manage on your own. As much as I love goofing off with kids, it is unbelievably refreshing to spend time in fellowship with college age students.
Just wanted to give a quick update on my current status. Maybe next time I can fill you in on some of the happenings at our debrief in South Africa two weeks ago, as well as some of the events taking place here in Lesotho. As for now, I will be signing off to (hopefully) get some sleep.
Thanks for reading, God bless!
Bring It On Home To Me by Sam Cooke
