1. Personal space isn’t a thing. We sit on each others laps for transportation, during all squad meetings we’re crammed in sometimes very small places. And sleeping quarters can be really tight.
2. Showers are not always a daily thing and when you have the chance to take a shower, you feel like a new person. Bucket showers are common and hot water is not. Many days in Nepal I don’t even bother brushing my hair because it’ll get dirty and tangled within the first 5 minutes being outside anyway.
3. You don’t become best friends with everyone and deep friendships aren’t immediate. It takes time to get used to people, and share your life with them. There’s nothing wrong with that. Embrace it and make an effort to get to know people in a deep way.
4. You will miss home. It will happen, even if it isn’t right away. I went over a month without even really missing home. Until we were walking around at 7pm for 30 minutes looking for a place to eat that was in budget($1-$2 for a meal), I got annoyed and all I wanted was to be home, get in my car and go on a Taco Bell run. The next morning while sitting on a soccer field during ministry I burst into tears just at the thought of home. Oh what I would give! And more than that, you’ll miss things you didn’t expect to miss.
5. Your squad mates will understand you in a way no one else will. You will share unique experiences together that people back home will never understand. They will know you in a way that most people don’t. I’ve told my squad and my team things that even my best friends don’t know about me.
6. Church is often at least 3 hours long. It’s currently 2pm, we’re finally on our way home and church started at 10am. It can be awkward, you will have to share testimonies, a sermon and even sing while the congregation takes pictures and videos of you.
7. Dance parties are a must! Dance while you walk down the street, at home after ministry and any time you have the opportunity. Laugh with you team and have a blast!
8. You’re gonna need to be vulnerable and open, it’s ok. We’re all human and believe it or not, the things in your life that you think no one else in their right mind would struggle with, they do! I’m serious. Just ask me about it and I’d be more than happy to share with you.
9. You can find wifi often, but the connection isn’t always good. Don’t throw a fit. It’s better that way sometimes. Always remember that when the race is over, home will be there. Home will always be there. When the race is over, it’s over. This is the only chance you get so don’t spend hours upon hours with your face in your screen.
10. The race is hard. It’s really hard. The things God teaches you and the things you need to grow in, always being around other people and not having much alone time. Sometimes it’s just hard to not have American food or your bed.
11. “Look at all those Chickens!” But seriously. Chickens, cows, dogs, goats, sheep…. they walk down the street often. Yes, I’ve seen cows on major roads.
12. Alone time can be few and far between so when you need time alone, go for it. Your team/squad will understand. Even if it means missing out on some things.
13. You won’t always want to spend time with your team. That’s ok. You’re with them 24/7 for the most part and there’s nothing wrong with not wanting to be with them constantly
14. Once you leave America, you will crave things that you never used to. I’m serious. I barely ever drink soda at home and now I find myself wanting it at every meal. It can be hard to find you favorite american food in other countries but when you do find it, just don’t go overboard.
15. Appreciate every moment and take nothing for granted. This doesn’t last forever. But it’s a great ride.
