A dear friend, older and wiser than me, told me to bring my hobbies and passions with me into a new culture. She had lived in multiple countries in the Middle East and said her love for painting and drawing has helped her build relationships and kept her afloat emotionally in tough times. I took her advice and have found ways to pursue activities I enjoy in a new context.
A few months ago I joined a girls running club. Once a week we get together and run three or four kilometers. I ran cross country and track in high school before getting into weightlifting while in college. When I heard about this running club, I thought it would be the perfect opportunity to get back into running and meet people while doing it.
This weekly run has become one of the highlights of my week. Every week different people come and I’m constantly making new friends. Some of the girls now recognize me because they see me every week. Being a consistent attendee has helped me feel invested in the local community, and I am praying will lead to intentional friendships and conversations.
Outside of running, I also enjoy sewing. I’ve been sewing since I was in middle school and knew I wanted to continue sewing overseas. Fabric here is much cheaper than in the States, and I’ve been able to make myself some new, culturally-appropriate clothes. Wearing me-made clothes around town has given me plenty of opportunities to introduce sewing to my friends. Most girls would not think of making their own clothes as a hobby because the cultural norm is to bring fabric to a tailor and have someone else do the sewing. I would love to have girls over to my apartment to have a sewing class where they make their own abayas (loose, robe-like dresses)!
As you think about moving overseas, think about some hobbies and activities you enjoy. What would it look like for you to pursue hobbies in the local community? Are there activities or things you could join, or could you start a new group?
Our “day job” is only part of our ministry; our hobbies and outside activities have the potential to leave a lasting impact on our neighbors. Share the activities you love with your community!