I have always had family around me, good friends supporting me, and places I knew I belonged. Then, I decided to move across the world, without family or friends, to a foreign country. Upon arrival, I had no idea where I would fit in or if I belonged, but I had faith and a promise that He would see me through. I can honestly say I have been shocked by the results.
My first 72 hours in-country were rough, but the Lord showed up through family. He allowed me to live about 6 houses down from team members of mine. They are young parents, with a 3 three year old and a 14 month old, with another one on the way. They immediately took me in, fed me, and provided a place that felt like home. The Lord gave me family.
I started language lessons the second week and instantly hit it off with my language tutor. Since she is my age, we are able to talk and relate to one another as friends, not just as student to teacher. Another colleague of mine found out I was interested in running/soccer so she took me under her wing and introduced me to a girls running club. While the girls running are school-aged, their coaches are a local Djiboutian girl and an American girl who are both my age. I quickly realized how much fun I have with my colleague and the two coaches, so I befriended them. Now, I see the three of them at least three times a week. We cook meals for one another, laugh, play games, and make fools of ourselves playing volleyball and soccer with other locals. They have become close friends who I can share difficulties with as well as highlights. The Lord gave me friends.
I have been in-country for 7 weeks now and I have a church community, a school I am proud to be a part of, weekly volleyball and soccer matches at the stadium, and grocery stores I am becoming more and more familiar with. When on the buses, I know where to get off. I know where to find the best rotisserie chicken and I know which produce stand will not try to charge me more for a kilo of apples. The Lord has given me places where I belong.
If you are like me and are considering moving away from everything you know and love because the Lord has called you somewhere you never anticipated, have faith. The Lord will give you what your heart desires. He loves and creates the things that help make you, you. No matter where you are, or where you go, He provides. I have seen it first hand through this family, these friends, and the places I now belong.