Change. I’ve never really been fan of it. Right now, change in my life looks like walking the streets of India every day TO laying on my couch at home trying to think of things to do.
When I got home, I went to the doctor a few times to have more blood work done and a third chest x-ray. The diagnosis was bilateral bacterial pneumonia (it spread from my left lung to the right since being in India) and the treatment is two antibiotics paired with a minimum of one month of recover. I have a super weak immune system right now which means getting out into the stomach bug/flu infested real world isn’t the best idea every day. I admitted to myself that I was bored. I love being home with my family and a better environment that will allow me to heal but being home now is actually kind of hard. Home is not where I expected to be today. This was not supposed to happen. I know I had to come home, and I know that the Lord knew this was going to happen. Trusting His plan is not always easy.
I’ve been home for a little over a week now. I miss my squad and life on the Race a whole lot… but I am home and away from them. The Lord has me here and set my feet here, which I believe is for a reason. I’ve been processing how fast things changed and recognized that not everything has to change. I can still do ministry, so I have been asking the Lord what that could look like. Throughout my last two days with the squad I asked as many people for prayer requests as I could. Prayer is a huge ministry that tends to get overlooked, so I have been working through my list and praying for about five of my friends each day while texting them hoping to encourage them even just a little bit. I know the Lord will reveal more ministry opportunities while I am home, and I am excited to see what that will look like.
Since being home, it has been really cool to recognize the growth that has taken place in the last six months. Whether that be through my conversations or how I see things here in a different way, the lie from the enemy was torn down that said, “You aren’t growing and will be the same person when you get home.”
Right now, I am sitting with my dog thinking about every emotion that has been felt this week: Joy because I was reunited with my family and getting the right medical care, anger because my plans had been changed, sadness because I missed my squad family and life on the field… Whether expected or unexpected, change brings a lot out in a person. The Lord uses change to grow us and challenge us. He gives us opportunities to trust Him and let go of control.
Again, thank you for your prayers and continuing on this journey with me. The encouragement and support have been overwhelming and meant a lot.
P.S. I’m sure some of you are wondering if I’ve gotten to meet my new nephew and reunite with my niece! Well, after almost two weeks of being home, I finally get to see them on Wednesday!!
