“You can have more than one home. You can carry your roots and decide where they grow.” – Henning Mankell
This is a concept I’m already aware and quite fond of. I took this quote to heart when I moved from Illinois to Oklahoma for school and I find it to be increasingly true as I participate in the World Race. I’m thankful for deep, strong roots and the ability to transplant them.
This quote is reassuring to my teammates and I as we realize how easy it is to feel at home in places so obviously different than our actual homes. My heart is at peace as we leave Zimbabwe knowing I have a little piece of home across the globe. I’m thankful for a fully welcoming community and family in Bulawayo.
We are now beginning to see how hard bouncing around for a year can be… we know what it feels like to open our hearts to strangers, be loved by them, form relationships with them and then depart abruptly. It’s no easy task. Goodbyes are a rough truth I’m learning to accept on the Race.
But, like Jesus, we must move on.
He said in Mark, “We must go on to other towns as well, and I will preach to them, too. That is why I came.”
While I am sad to leave, I am excited for what month three has in store. My team will be working with several other all-girl World Race teams from our squad this month. We are paired with JZone Youth in Livingstone, Zambia!
Please send prayers as we cross boarders, switch cultures and embark on a new journey sure to leave us with more hard goodbyes.
Thank you, Lord, for both roots and wings. This season of growth is so sweet!
Much love, Carley
