Yes I was mistaken in all my previous mentions of Transnistria. I (now ashamed to say) said that Transnistria is not a real country because you can’t find it on a map. If I can’t see it on a map that is such a widely used and accepted piece of information then it must not be a legit country right? WRONG! This invisible country is full of life. It is full of culture and tradition. It is filled with an intelligent, loving, and caring people. When I look out of the window I see gray skies and gloom but that is not what I feel in my heart. I feel joy. I feel the love that is showed by people filled with the spirit. I think of Mashruka (spelled wrong), the joy of riding the sardine packed mini bus. I think of teenagers walking or busing it in the cold to show up on Saturday evenings to rock out to worship music in the church. I think of a pastor and church so passionate and diligently working together to bring Christ to this country. I think of the many workers that quit their jobs to come and work for free day in and day out to build the orphanage. I think of the many volunteers that show up Sundays to help set up for church and serve tea and cookies. I think of the teenagers giving up their Friday night to serve the adults attending the ALPHA course. I think of home; people caring for people with no hidden agenda except to show Christ’s love to all.
This country is perfect? Of course not! This country still has the KGB walking the streets. This country still has some Communism. This country still experiences battles with the church and government. This country still has many restrictions and limited freedom. This country had its war in the 90’s and experienced tragedy and suffering. This country has a history filled with pain as all countries did and still do. This country has also overcome tragedy and pain as so many countries have. This country has a history. This country has beauty. This country has a future. This country has Jesus. This country has hope.
