It occurred to me today that we have been in the States now longer than any other furlough or visit during our time in Togo. It feels like it too! Life is starting to feel somewhat normal here as we continue to settle into Tennessee. Here are some thoughts/observations that have been on my mind relating to “settling in”.
“Going to church” continues to be the most odd and surreal part of my week. There are many factors that go into this fact. For starters, this is the first time (except for a brief stint in college) that I have been a free agent. Growing up in a preacher’s family, being married to a missionary and youth minister excluded me from visiting around and choosing a church family. It feels strange to have a choice of where to attend. I have never understood the consumer mind-set concerning church. I am learning fast though! We have been to four different congregations on Sunday mornings. Each place has it’s own personality. At this point, Owen is uncomfortable attending bible class, so he’s hanging out with me during that time. Isaac and Graham seem to enjoy every place’s children’s programs. I have found that we have some connection to every place we’ve visited. It seems like people I haven’t seen since Harding have been living out their days in Nashville! We are still in the visiting and praying stage of deciding where to join God’s work in this area.
On to other topics, I think the reality of daily public school is starting to set in for all of us. Isaac and Graham are still enjoying school overall, but little things are starting to crop up. They are both reporting teasing and perplexing behavior by other students. I am proud of the way they are handling themselves. Although, it’s hard for me as Mom to not be there and really know what’s going on! They are both tired once they get home and homework is the last thing on their minds. We’ve been working on our after school routine and it’s been a challenge! Graham is melting down daily…tears, yelling, throwing things. It’s painful to watch. I think he’s just feeling overwhelmed and having a hard time dealing with the changes. Please continue to pray for these two precious boys as they go through such a big change!
Our finances have me stressed out! This has been such a huge faith struggle for me. I have trusted God is the past with my emotions and relationships, but this is a whole new area for me to trust Him. He has proven himself to be true and I am working on getting that fact nestled deep down in my being. Here are some of the things that are causing this struggle. We found out this week that ministers don’t qualify for unemployment. We aren’t poor enough yet to qualify for a certain type of health insurance. We are too rich to qualify for the other one. And the big one…no jobs yet! Yes, things are happening in that department, but nothing’s official yet. Please continue to keep us in your prayers. I need a big dose of patience.
There are other things, but that’s enough for one post don’t you think? Thanks for reading and praying. Love, T
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