Getting Ready for Goodbyes
Today is exactly one month until I leave Nicaragua. I can no longer avoid the thought of how heartbreaking the goodbyes will be. I have been asked many times, ‘’Why are you leaving us?’’ and ‘’Don’t you like Nicaragua?’’ For the first time in my life I am leaving something that is well established. After high school and college my entire cohort left along with me, but this time I am the only one leaving Nicaragua. People also remark, “Oh my gosh, your two years here went by so quickly!’’ I respond with a smile and nod while I internally roll my eyes. In reality, no it actually did not seem to… Read more >>
Next Phase
For a long time now, my friends have asked: How much longer are you going to be in Nicaragua? What are you going to do next? Move back to the United States or stay in Nicaragua? Move somewhere else? Well, I am pleased to answer these questions that have spun in my mind since May. When I first came to Nicaragua, I viewed my two-year commitment as a time of giving back for the wonderful life God has given me. I thought I would give two years of my life dedicated to helping others before beginning my career in the states. However, I can’t go back - I love my work. I love new cultures and working… Read more >>
Family
Two weeks ago my parents and 8 other family friends from my church came all the way to Nicaragua for their first ever mission trip. People I have known my whole life came travel abroad to help with what we are doing and experience how I live. And although they were really helpful with the projects that we did, I think the internal transformation is even more evident. The intensity of encouragement I felt from them was surreal and gave me a glimpse of the work God is doing through us all over, work that had been put in place years in advance. We did get to work though and built a coop for 1,… Read more >>
Home (?)
Last month I got to go home. By home, I mean Texas, although I’m getting more and more confused about where exactly home is. I returned with a welcoming from comforting family, friends, and honestly, food. During the month I was in Texas I got to celebrate Jas’ graduation, birthdays and Mother’s Day all in one trip, reminding me how blessed I am to be living in a country that can look and feel like its own planet, but is a 4 hour direct flight to DFW. Spending time with people who know me and love me (and with whom I can speak to with ease in my own language) is extremely filling. I am still… Read more >>