Change means "Leaving and Going"

The time has come to return back to a country and people that I have come to love.   
    As I have made several transition from my work in Wisconsin and now from my time here in Alabama, I have had many mixed emotions.  Recounting God's faithfulness has brought joy and celebration.  Seeing friends and renewing relationships fill my heart with joy.  Many smiles and laughter were shared.  There have also been moments of sorrow as I realize what "leaving" means.  Leaving my home and country means leaving family and friends whom I love.  In the last few years I have grown close to many people through work, church fellowship, recreation, class, and many other activities.  The "leaving" is bittersweet because I do not like the separation that it brings. 
    "Leaving" also means not being able to stay as much in my "comfort zone."  I am used to living in America.  I know how to live, work, and be apart of the activities of life with friends here.  In another country, I will be required to take on a whole different type of skills.  Things like going to the post office or shopping for food, take on a whole new challenge without the comfort of using my own language.  I am about to step into a place where the first thing people will notice is that I'm "not from there."  I am an American.  I do not know how to speak and carry on conversation in Albanian (their language) yet.  Saying simple sentences is a challenge.  Yet, it will get easier as I study.

    There are some good things that will be apart of "going."  I will have a simpler lifestyle.  For example, buying groceries means walking to the market and carrying it all back home.   I will be surrounded by people who enjoy sharing hospitality.  In their culture, there will be many opportunities to connect with friends in town.  They will ask and expect me to stop by and visit.  I will get to enjoy a new culture and society that is welcoming and that highly values relationships. 

   So, as it comes closer, much could be written.  Memories flood my mind from the two summers I was there.  Yet I realize that whether or "leaving" or "going," my purpose is to know Him and make Him known.  I am comforted by the love of my Father.  I am held in His strong hand.  Whatever comes my way, must pass through His hands first.  So I go trusting His Sovereignty and plans.  I look forward with hope.  I look forward to being able to share many stories of God's faithfulness as I enter a whole different world in a new country.