I can travel all over the world. I can learn new languages and
adapt to different cultures and customs.
I can eat strange food and bathe from a bucket under the stars. I can do all these things.
I can meet and befriend all varieties and
colors of peoples. I can live and learn with
and become a part of many families. I
can plant tiny or big roots in every country on this earth.
However, that doesn't or shouldn't change
where I come from or who I am.
I will
still miss my parents and siblings at home.
I will still want to stay connected with all my friends across the
States. I will still feel most
comfortable in my sweatpants and a long-sleeved shirt. These won’t change.
I will still crave a tasty Jersey
beef burger or steak. Blueberry pancakes
will still be an ideal breakfast food. I
will still love listening to country music. I will still want to hug and kiss and love
beautiful baby calves. These won’t change.
Living in a new place challenges people in all different ways. It is hard to be a minority. It is hard sticking out like a
sore-thumb. It is especially hard trying
to help people who seem uninterested in any help. Each day is a new journey with ups and downs.
The past few weeks and months, I have been
able to meet and spend time with more people who've shared their kindness and
made me feel closer to ‘home.’ There are
super farmers, missionaries, and others here in Zambia that area always willing to
offer a meal, a ride, or a hot shower. I
met some American missionaries just recently that went above and beyond good hospitality!
After having lasagna for supper as well as a
delicious lettuce salad with homemade dressing, we enjoyed a tasty pecan
pie. We discussed Texas
and the Midwest , hunting and cooking, and
life. Finally to top off the evening, I
had the best shower yet in Zambia ! I was able to bathe under the stars with the
bright sliver of moon shining. However,
this was no bucket bath. Nope! A real hot shower with amazing pressure! What a great night!
I truly enjoy learning new things,
travelling, and experiencing life. But,
sometimes, it’s the people and little things closer to home that really can
brighten our days. It is the feeling of
being truly comfortable that we all need from time to time. Adversity and challenges make us stronger,
but caring for our selves and taking a break is sometimes necessary.
I am proud of where I come from. I am grateful for my family and how they
raised me. I am super happy I have had
so many fantastic opportunities and experiences. I am still an American, and proud to be
one!
This is me. Just me!
