As we are about to leave Nepal, I can't help but think about how this has become my home this month. We had “Uncle”, our 48 year old dad taking us to villages, teaching us how to make bamboo fences, encouraging us and teaching us how to rest. He took care of us. He was our dad. He even slept outside in a classroom next to our room at night to protect us. He and his wife, two sons and daughter-in-law cooked all of our meals and always welcomed us every morning with warm smiles. We became part of the family.
This is the first month I have thought so much of the idea of home. I have been missing my boyfriend and thinking about our life together after the race. I have been talking a lot with my dad and missing sitting on a couch with him and relaxing while watching The Voice. Now as I am about to leave here, I am finding myself already longing to be back here again.
As I was writing an e-mail to my boyfriend about our desires to be with one another, God put things into perspective for me. He said,
“Christel, I am your home. All of the things you long for will never completely fill you up.
Only I can fill you up”.
So today as I am about to leave tomorrow, I am choosing to find my comfort in God. Today, this village is my home. Tomorrow, the 8 hour bus ride will be my home. Next week, debrief in Kathmandu with the squad will be my home and next month, Thailand will be my home.
I want to stay present and appreciate what God is teaching me. I want to wake up every morning and listen to the words God is whispering in my ear,
“Welcome Home”
