Back in the USA, a Year Later

One year ago today, I returned to the USA after living in Lawra, Ghana for almost eight years. It's a day full of mixed emotions and memories. Sometimes I miss my Ghanaian family so much it hurts and brings tears to my eyes. I moved there, by myself, with God as my Guide. I was the only "white lady" in that area, at least the only white lady who stayed. There were others from NGOs or the Peace Corps but they did their time and left. I was the only one who stayed day in and day out for years and years, being there for American holidays, family special days, weddings of friends and loved ones and funerals for other friends and loved ones. Lawra was my home for the duration of time that God would have me there. I moved half way across the world knowing (as acquaintances) two people in that town. Yet God provided me with everything I needed and more. 

So much has happened in the last twelve months - the good, the bad and the ugly. I MIGHT be at the place where I can start talking about things that have been buried in my heart for what seems like ages. I have been homeless, sleeping at the homes of friends and family who were very gracious to me. I have lived in the mountains, where I hoped to sleep for three months. I was really, really tired and not feeling well. It didn't happen. Now, I am in the foothills, in an apartment, which I consider a gift from God...and I didn't know anyone here except those I met at church. My family and close friends are still eight hours away in the same country where I am! The apartment is more than I hoped or dreamed for. (Yes, I actually allowed myself to dream.) Since I had no furniture and very little home items, I used money I have been saving for this time in my life. My home church in Pennsylvania and my new home church in Virginia along with some of my supporters, have blessed me so much that my apartment is fully furnished and I have everything I need and want. I even have money left for which to live, praise God! (Not many of my Ghanaian family could say that.) 

I still hope to sleep for three months. I have taken a job as a part-time hermit, so I schedule my "at home, leave me alone" times. My three month sleep might happen during the winter months, I don't know. I do get out. God has placed me in a church that preaches His Word. When I'm around, I attend Bible Study and I actually joined a gym! So, a part-time hermit isn't a bad thing, for me it is wonderful, just what I need. And now, that I am in this place, you may actually hear from me more than once every six months! God bless you.