Since I’ve been here for about a month, I thought it was time to explain what exactly I’m doing in Battambang, Cambodia!
Who: 3/5 teams from my squad are in Battambang, the other two teams are in Siem Reap.
What: my team works at a coffee shop/library called Ezra Library Cafe. We mostly have expats, tourists, and members of our squad coming to visit the cafe. The business here is pretty slow so we are working on weekly events to get business up! My teammates, Abby and Lexi, are working on events like: blind date with a book,
When: my squad arrived on March 8 and we will be leaving May 27 for our final debrief in Thailand. 9 more weeks of the race WOW!! Time flies and goes slowly here all at the same time; slow days, fast weeks.
Where: Battambang, Cambodia!!! My first visit to Asia has been nothing but an adventure. Waking up to incredible sunrises, loud traditional music coming from who knows where, and Saboos grazing in the field in front of our appartment. The rain is unpredictable and heavy when it decides to come. The people here LOVE to teach us small phrases in Khmer and laugh along with us as we try to navigate this difficult language. The kids scream “HELLOOO!” at us as we walk/drive by on tuk tuks and bikes. This culture is so happy, yet so lost. We want their temporary happiness to turn into everlasting joy that comes only from the Lord.
How: how am I? That’s a weighted question now-a-days.
First, I’m still trying to find my energy here. The transition was really hard for me and the exhaustion from heat wasn’t helping my mood and attitude. But as the weeks have gone on, I’ve gotten used to being sweaty all the time and am refocusing my newfound energy on what the Lord has for my team and me here, instead of sulking in front of a fan.
Second, I’m overwhelmed at God’s provision for me. As the race comes to a close, I’m making plans for next year and the Lord is giving me glimpses into how this puzzle that is my life all fits together.
Third, it’s a lot harder than I thought to stay present at the end of the race. Half of my heart doesn’t want the race to end and the other half is eager to be home with my people again. I constantly have to check myself in the little things and say, “Is this bringing God’s kingdom or my own? Who am I really doing this for?”
Life here is so unique from anything I’ve ever experienced, and although the heat is oppressive at times, God has spoken the word THRIVE over me and my time here. I am committed to growing and thriving here. I am committed to helping this country thrive in true joy from the Lord. I am committed to helping my team thrive while here. It’s not time to be done yet, we still have work to do. I am committed to thrive wherever God places me and in whatever He asks me to do.
Thanks for reading everyone!! As much as I’m excited for what God is doing here in Cambodia, I’m also excited to announce that I am officially attending Appalachian State University starting this fall! My school decision journey has been a long one and had many unexpected changes, but the peace and excitement I have about going “home” for school comes straight from the Lord. It feels right in my heart.
Many blessings,
Gracie J
