By John
Moving to Kenya is like getting married. Every time I have been in Kenya before has been for a fixed amount of time and then I leave. Quick little romantic dates— six months, two months. I always knew I was going home, that I was going to go back to a place that was familiar. I was merely “dating” Kenya.
Now I am committed. I have said “I do” and cannot take it back. All the little annoyances that were easily overlooked when everything was new, feel like they are suffocating me. I am angry that they make me introduce myself in front of the congregation on Sunday mornings. I am not happy that I am given the “Muzungu” price at the market, easily three times what a Kenyan would pay. I already feel tired of being stared at. I wish I could blend in.
These things are not overwhelming in themselves, but they are not escapable. Like marriage, I am in this for the long haul because of love. Just like the first few weeks of marriage, I am in a period of expectation realignment, culture shock. It happens to everyone, but I thought I was immune. I thought having already spent a collective 8 months in Kenya I was ready to just step into our role here.
I was wrong. I am thankful for our three weeks at Africa Based Orientation. To re-acclimate to Kenya to readjust my expectations. It will take time, but just like marriage, in the long run it will be worth it. Marriage is far more rich a blessing than mere dating.
Single-Hearted Sojourners 
Doreen - VCG
July 30, 2012
Dear brother in Christ – Thank you for posting the true reality of your struggles & your emotions as you transition during this adjustment to your new culture. I too have struggled with feelings anger and perceived injustices during times of adjustment to a new job of which the LORD provided & enabled me to have the skills to do. I can tell you this…each day it gets a little easier as I continue to learn to Trust in HIM more.
Just recently I was reading in Proverbs 15 & it is on my heart to share this with you as you continue to seek God during your & the Mrs. adjustment to your new home.
Proverbs 15:9 & 11 (NLT) “The LORD despises the way of the wicked, but he loves those who pursue godliness…Even the depths of Death and Destruction* are known by the LORD. How much more does he know the human heart!”
* Hebrew: Sheol and Abaddon.
These were an encouragement to me because it reminded me the HE knows my struggle with anger & rebellion, however he also knows I am discontent to stay in this place of struggle & He sees my heart as I try desperately to pursue godliness.
Be encouraged brother as you may struggle now for a little while, continue your path & press evermore closely into The LORD & He will see you through!
I thank you both for your sacrifice as you are a new family & you continue to grow. Praying for you all!
Your sister in Christ,
Doreen – Village Church of Gurnee
eric
July 31, 2012
Well said my friend. We miss you guys.
Take it slow and steady… like my climb to the top of Adams last weekend. We raised $100,000 for cancer research. 🙂
God is good. All the time.
Eric