Well, it’s not the end of the world, but it is the end of the World Race. Today was our last day of ministry. Yikes!
So yeah…I’m coming home next Thursday (Thanksgiving Day) and to finish in true #11n11 style, here are 11 things you need to know before I get there:
- I don’t really know how I’m going to react when I get home.
They say some people isolate themselves, some people forget everything they’ve learned and other people do just fine. I have no idea where I’m going to land on that scale. I do know that it’s going to be a rough transition and I’ll be grieving the loss of this year and my squadmates, but also really pumped to see you guys! - There are 2 different World Races I could tell you about:
a. What I’ve done and seen each month.
b. What God taught me each month.
Bottom line is that I have a lot of stories and while I want to share them, I’m also aware that not everyone needs to hear ALL of them. I’ll try not to be “that girl,” but it’d be cool if you asked to hear about the race so I don’t feel really annoying all the time 😉 And please ask me specifics. “How was your trip?” is an EXTREMELY broad question. - I’ve lived in community 24/7 for the last 11 months.
This means I’ve never slept in a room alone for more than 1 night, never eaten more than 1 meal a day alone, never gone ANYWHERE without a buddy (except the toilet), never not had someone to talk to at any given time of day. I love community, but being alone sounds awesome right now. I may have community withdrawals and want to come hang out with you at any given moment. Take pity on me. It’s a weird transition. - Weird things have become normal to me.
Cows walking down the street? Normal. Throwing away toilet paper instead of flushing it? Obviously normal. Not drinking tap water ever? Duh. Moving my house, my bed, my wardrobe and everything else I own at least once a month? Totally normal. - I’ve seen a lot of things that should never be considered “normal.”
Extreme poverty, emaciated children, homeless men with open wounds and burns, children without homes or families, victims of domestic abuse who can’t even turn to their families for help, the dehumanization of large orphanages and so much more. - I’m not the same person I was when I left and yet…I still totally am.
I’ve grown a lot and learned a lot, but I’m still the same weirdo Mandi you know and hopefully love! - I have no idea where God is leading me after the race.
I can say that I know going home is right, but I don’t think I’m meant to stay long term. Don’t ask me what that means, because I’m not sure! - I’m excited to come home, but I’m also a little nervous. I’ve changed and I’m sure everyone at home has changed too. I don’t have any idea of what community or life at home will look like and it’s a little scary.
- Missionaries are not perfect, holy, selfless people. I hope no one thinks that. If anything this year has taught me how selfish and self-centered I am. This year has been a very refining one. Living in community has a way of bringing brokenness to the surface and showing you just how far you are from perfect. And just how much you really need Jesus.
- I couldn’t have made it through this year without the support and love of all you guys!
Seriously, your kind words, random Facebook messages, emails, letters, financial support and prayers have meant so much to me this year. In the loneliest moments, it’s been comforting to know I still have people that care and love me at home. Not everyone has community to come home to, but I do and I’m so grateful for each of you! - I want to hang out with you! I haven’t forgotten about you even if I haven’t kept in contact. I’d love to hear your stories from this year too!
