Two years ago, during a conversation in Romania with a friend who had established a school in Liberia, Africa, she expressed her desire for teachers to adopt a trauma-informed approach. Little did I know that this conversation would sow a seed that would eventually lead me back to Africa.
A year later, while assisting with a women’s retreat in Vietnam, the organizers mentioned plans for the following year’s retreat in Africa. When asked if I wanted to join, my response was an enthusiastic “Of course!” And now, after two years of planning, the trip has come to an end—but not in my mind, and certainly not in my heart.
Africa has a unique way of touching my soul profoundly, and this experience was no exception.
Each leg of this three-part journey presented its own set of challenges and triumphs. Yet, throughout it all, I was reminded of the vastness of God’s presence and how deeply culture influences our lives. The stories I heard and the moments shared will remain etched in my memory forever.
As I ponder this journey, I am overwhelmed with gratitude for the chance to once again be a part of something larger than myself.
I’ve decided to write about each of these experiences, primarily for my own processing and reflection. I’m uncertain about the length or direction it will take, but I’m committed to this journey even if no one else ever reads it. This is a personal endeavor to delve deep into my own thoughts and emotions, allowing me to grow and learn along the way. So stick around to see where it goes.