Where I was
I grew up, like most intrigued with National Geographic magazines and dreamed of those faraway places imagining myself interacting with and sharing life with them. But it only felt like a dream, throughout High School and even into college. Then, that unquechable desire to have my own adventure turned into reality and after a few short term trips I headed off for a “one-year” assignment that has now turned into 11 years living overseas.
What I saw
I was mesmerized by my new life in Mongolia and loved every minute of it and soon could feel this would not be just a one year gig. I knew I was created for this kind of life and immersed myself into my new home in every way possible. I was in love with the people, the culture and with Jesus being manifested in Mongolians lives. One year turned into two and then another.
What I wanted to do
But during those years I struggled spiritually and five years later I found myself in a very dark place where death seemed better than what was happening in my head. I was home for a few months to “get better” but the things in my head became worse and a few days before heading back to Mongolia my walls were torn down and healing came in such a huge and miraculous way. My life has never been the same again. I came back and had the best semester of my then, five years in Mongolia. After that I was lead to teach in Korea for a few years and also had the chance to do training in Mozambique and ministry in Nepal, Bhutan and India for short term trips.
Where I am now
I love what I get to do, even the hard parts. It’s in those hard areas that I see the most growth and I always want to grow and become the person God intended for me to be. Such a work in progress. I have now been back in Mongolia for 2 years and settling into life again after being away for a few years. I love building upon previous relationships and enjoying making lots of new friends. I long for the people of Mongolia to understand they are sons and daughters of a Father who loves them so incredibly much.