My clothes are a little tighter, the circles under my eyes a little darker and my hair a little longer. I'm a little more patient, a bit more willing to try strange food and more adventurous.
I know I've changed in more ways than those- I had to of after traveling for 11 months and experiencing all I did!- but when I look at myself, these are the only things I see.
Why has re entry been so easy? I haven't had any freak outs going to Walmart or haven't wanted to cry in a corner.
Why does it feel like one second no time has passed at, yet the memories of the precious people I met over the last 11 months seem like a lifetime ago?
Time is a funny thing. I can see the changes in other people- my team, my family, my friends at home. But what about me? Did I just enter into some crazy time warp that spit me back up here in Carolina Beach? I sure as heck hope not.
Yet I find myself speechless. I'm not sure how to start "processing" my year or how to talk about my experiences. I apologize to those of you who I've seen or talked to since I've been back. I admit that I haven't known what to say. I haven't known how to share my stories or let you in to the crazy life I lived the last 11 months.
Now I'm asking for your help because I want to share my stories. Ask me about my year. Ask me about the things I saw and the people I met. Ask me about the times I cried because I thought I couldn't physically do it anymore. I'll tell you the stories. I'll show you the pictures, the videos, the cute handwritten notes in all languages from so many precious children.
And please do continue to pray for me. One major prayer request- I would really love a spiritual mentor during this next season of life as I transition home and figure out what the next season holds. Through team leading for 9 months of my trip, I poured out a lot and need some refreshment for my body, mind and spirit.
