What to say? My two years have come and gone, and I find myself back in the States for a few months before I head back to my host country for a new two year commitment. Despite having multiple debrief sessions and lots of conversations with family and friends, I still find myself at a loss for words when it comes to summing up the past two years! When people ask, "so how was Turkey?" I stutter out some reply about it being good and usually end with a joke to cover up my lack of knowing what to say.
It was good. hard. exciting. uncomfortable. stretching. life-changing. It was life!
Obviously I enjoyed my two years there otherwise I wouldn't be going back! I found a place where my talents and passions are being used. I found a 'job' where I feel like I'm doing something that matters. As another blogger and cross-cultural worker put it, I've found, "the pressure cooker of God’s love and the fellowship of like minds" overseas. So what would I say to future goers? or those considering going?
Just Go: I know it's scary. I know it's hard. But it's worth it! Trust me, two years will fly by! If you feel like God is calling you overseas, take the plunge and go! Cross-cultural living is an amazing place to encounter God in a whole new way, learn new things about yourself, and share God's love in a place you never imagined.
Fundraising is hard: If you're like me at all, fundraising is not a place you're comfortable in. The transition from busy college life to full time fundraising is rough. Also there will probably a whole bunch of spiritual warfare to discourage you from your calling. But keep fighting the good fight! Take the time to delve into prayer and God's Word. Take the opportunity to spend time with all your supporters and prayer warriors and share what's on your heart. God will provide!
Language Learning is also hard: sorry to be such a downer, but I just want to keep it realistic for you! I had no idea what really learning a new language looked like! It's a full time job that will take a lot of energy! So don't be discouraged and don't burn out. Set realistic goals, keep trying, mix up your methods so you don't get bored! Be ready to make mistakes :) It's definitely fun too!
Prayer is Important: our God is doing amazing things all over the world all the time. And He listens to our prayers, be they big and urgent or small and seemingly insignificant! Make time for prayer! Take prayer retreats annually or biannually (I'm still working on this too!). Enjoy the time with the Creator of the Universe and keep that time a priority.
Make time for laughing: or to be more general, make time for self-care. Whether it's working out, doing artsy stuff, watching a movie, listening to a comedian, etc. make sure you aren't overscheduling yourself to the point that Yes, your ministry work is important and there will always be something more you could do, but it's still necessary to stop and rest! So laugh and relax, then go back to work with twice the energy!
Ok that's my list. I realize now that it sounds a bit harsh, a bit of a lecture for you soldiers heading off to war... but I mean well! I have a lot of fun in my host country and in my ministry so don't think it's all work and no play. But there is a lot of spiritual warfare facing us and a lot of pitfalls along the way! So if my advice helps at all, I'll be glad.
Go on this adventure! It's worth it :)