I’ve been wanting to write a blog on my thoughts about reentry but sadly have not had the time or will power to do so until now in a quaint Airbnb with two of my beloved squadmates slumbering beside me. These are the words I can assemble to best represent my tender heart towards the groups of people I claim as mine.
To the ones who were stateside. Oh how elated I am to see you, hug you, squeeze you, talk with you, cry with you, and laugh with you. I cannot wait until I hug the necks of my mom, dad, sister, and brother tomorrow afternoon at 4:30. I expectantly await recalling stories upon stories of the Lord’s glory that I have beheld. You, my dear ones, will help me unpack all of the stories my Good Shepheard has given me on this grand adventure. I trust that you will come with genuine curiosity and I promise I will not count any question as dumb, I want to answer them all. Please be patient with me as I reintroduce myself to you. I have changed and yes, I am still Emily but more completely so. I might cry at things that do not make sense or I may become overwhelmingly giddy at the sight of something ordinary. Please give me grace as I figure out how America works again. I’ve missed the simplicity of coming over and hanging out or calling your cellphone when I had a few extra minutes to talk. I’ve missed going to J&B (or wherever the cool coffee shop is nowadays) to sip on an iced caramel cowboy and talk about everything under the sun. I’ve missed homemade meals and SONIC and going to a church with sound doctrine and spirit led worship. I’m so excited to do all of these things and so much more with you. Thank you for anticipating my return with so much joy. Thank you for your prayers and messages and encouragements and how you have supported me from halfway around the world. My friends, you have loved me so well in my absence. Thank you.
To the ones that were with me. There are so many words I want to say and I already gave a spiel at debrief but please know this. You are one of the most treasured jewels on my crown. When I think you, beloved i-squad, I am reduced to tears and become overwhelmed in the very best way with love and pride. Men and women, you are beautiful and glory-filled Kingdom bringers who have loved me in every way. I know our Father more fully and worship him deeper because of how each of you poured out your heart and soul multiple times this past year. This past year was the hardest and fullest year of my very short life, how thankful I am to have shared it so intimately with each of you. There is absolutely no doubt in my mind that our King Jesus will use each of you to continue to display his glory all over the earth. You are fiercely loved by me.
All of my love,
Em
