This afternoon as I was searching for jobs online, an instant-message chat box popped up from a friend who lives in Ontario. I met her when both of us lived in Alberta a few years ago but now Elizabeth is married (I had the privilege of shooting her wedding photos) and has a beautiful new baby girl. We typed back and forth for about twenty minutes – I laughed and cried and loved having a chance to connect with her.
Elizabeth taking it easy on her wedding day.Liz is a godly woman who never ceases to amaze me with the way she pours herself into the lives of those around her – I miss having her family in my life in person! I spent many weekends with her family during the three-and-a-half years I lived in Alberta and I've done numerous photo shoots with them – family photos, a CD cover, baby portraits, wedding photography. When I long for the sound of something familiar, I often listen to a CD of her family singing. I wish so much I could cuddle her sweet baby, take photos, play piano duets, and just spend time with Liz and her sisters. But chatting with her brought yet another reminder of how fast time flies and how quickly life changes. Only a few years ago I was teasing her about a cute guy she barely knew who was going to stay with her family for a few days... now he's her husband. (I'm still trying to convince her that she misses my teasing.) I don't like thinking about how far apart we live, not only while I'm living here, but even when I move back to Canada. I know we may never hug each other again on earth, but eventually we'll praise God together in heaven some day and I'm so thankful to know that!
One of the adorable nephews at the wedding.
There are so many people back home that I miss a lot – those people who make me laugh, give me hugs, offer words of encouragement, or provide opportunities for great conversations. I'm so glad God has given me people in England to help fill those roles in my life. I have people here who I know I can count on to give me hugs, friends who inspire me, a wonderful church family, people who crack me up every time I see them, and friends who send emails or texts that make me smile.
Elizabeth taking it easy on her wedding day.
One of the adorable nephews at the wedding.
3 comments:
If I may be honest, you sound homesick. I know what that feels like. I hope you don't mind a little advice, but try not to let homesickness in on your decision making. I know you're trusting God for what happens next. Just remember that you're on the adventure of a lifetime! Seize the
day! Make the most of where you are.
I had a chance to tour Israel when I was at Capernwray and I actually regret not going.
I know you may miss your friends, but at least there is IM & email & blogging etc.
I hope I have encouraged you.
Becky
You have encouraged me! I've been determined to keep job hunting and pursue leads, even on the days when I just want to book a flight home. I was tempted to just give up on the job search but I refuse to do so - I need to keep pushing on doors and see what God opens.
The longing for home comes and goes, but I don't talk about it much. After I chatted online with my friend I wrote the blog entry right away as I wanted to throw in a bit of the reality of missing home. I try not to mope about it on the blog - I try to focus on the fun stories and adventures - but being away from family and friends is a reality of life here and I wanted to have a record of a piece of it.
i love hearing your stories, but it would be really nice to have you on this side of the pond again!
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