I am not writing because I felt like it was about time I posted something new.
I am writing because of the insane amount of life and growth I have walked through in this last week.
We are onto day number 8 of being back in Chicago. Day 8. That is one week and one day. Not a long time at all. But holy moly. Have I said "WOW" yet? WOW!
Where to even begin, you know? I feel like i'm overflowing with too many words (even for me). I am on overload yet I am very much at peace....which is weird.
If you were to follow me around with a video camera and document my life in this last week, it would have been a soap opera comedy. I really believe that God knows how little I can handle in this world and yet how stubborn I am to turn to him quickly. His humor comes out when He places me in new seasons of life knowing fully I need Him yet won't give up my independence. This week, I think Jesus gained some chunk in his belly from all the kettle corn He ate as He sat back and watched me live my life...on my own...
Day 1. I left the green forests of Washington for the red bricks of Chicago. I was phoneless due to a sink and soapy water. I moved into my new apartment.
Day 2. Still phoneless. Too scared to go anywhere with no geographical knowledge of the Little India neighborhood. Had an "I am really on my own" reality hit after spending too much at Target. Walked more miles than I could count. Got lost. Had to work on my confidence face (to cover up my lost puppy eyes) as I sorted out my location. Had three separate meltdowns. Hard day.
Day 3. First commute day. Went to a Cubs game. Received furniture which allowed me to fully move in. Phone started working. Culture shock starting to settle in. Can't give eye contact to men on the streets. Women and children play outside into late evening. Shorts and tanks are unacceptable. Decent, busy day.
Day 4. Getting used to the commute. An hour is a long time. What did I get myself into?
Day 5. First grocery trip ever. Spent under budget :). Lunch date with Mentor- found how she is pregnant. Last roommate arrived. The house is complete. Much more stable day.
Day 6. Beginning of two orientations. Figured out I am really not a good listener. Wrestling with balancing being present in the neighborhood, while being present on campus, while being present to all my relationships at home. Reconnected with a childhood friend. Refreshing, routine day.
Day 7. Roommates birthday. Orientation. Lost wallet. Had to cancel all cards. Met new people in the neighborhood. Frustrating yet fun day.
Day 8. Last day of Orientation. Went to buy a turtle- decided not to. Still without a wallet. No ID, no money. Ready to take this school year on.
So there is a quick summary of my week. And to think...this was just one week, one week without school. Growing up is busy, fast paced, and unforgiving at times. BUT SUCH AN ADVENTURE.
Sure I had some down moments and frustrating days BUT I am more excited for this year than ever before. I am ready to take this year on! Be intentionally missional. Dive into community. Grow in cultural understanding. Understand more how to love every person, culture, and season in life. Ah SO EXCITED.
