I arrived in Liberia for the first time.
It's hard to believe it's been a year! I've learned so much, I've made so many wonderful friendships and I've had the privilege of telling some heartbreaking stories. As I've told the stories of so many Liberians recovering from war, I've been on my own journey of healing. God has blessed me deeply in giving me a heart for His most broken people and bringing me all the way to Liberia to show me how He can comfort and restore and give new life.
Here's a look back at what I've learned ...
- I've come so far in my relationship with ants, cockroaches, hand-size spiders and even chickens.
- Somehow, I've made myself more likable to Liberian children. I used to make them cry.
- I survived a robbery only about a month into my stay. I lost all of my stories and equipment. I felt real terror. Later, I saw how God could use this situation. I had gained a unique empathy for Liberians who experienced terror during war. I reported on Liberia's crime rate and the struggle of its people to stay safe. I learned more about forgiveness and how much I really trusted God with my life.
- I learned to cook. Seriously.
- I grieved, I grieved, I grieved.
- I laughed, I laughed, I laughed.
- I told the stories of some amazing people. Here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, and here.
- I survived my first bout with malaria.
- I explored ways to bring about healing in a country with widespread yet undiagnosed post-traumatic stress disorder.
- I learned that working in a wartorn country gives you the opportunity to be all things to all people. I not only had the opportunity to be a journalist but also a teacher and a counselor.
Thank you for your encouragement and support on this incredible journey! I will be forever thankful.
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