RAFTing

Another two weeks have floated by since I last wrote! I don't know where time has gone! It is crazy how life can become so normal in a place that was once considered so foreign. By now I am used to seeing a sea of black (and red) hair when I am walking to class, and to not knowing what's going on around campus since I don't understand any signs. Many things took time to adjust to at first, but now I barely think about them anymore.

These last two weeks have been all over the place emotionally. I will be saying goodbye soon to this place I have learned to call home. Jochiwon, Korea will always have a special place in my heart and I cannot believe the time has come for me to leave. My thoughts are everywhere, and I have begun RAFTing again: the process of Reconciliation, Affirmation, Farewells and Think Destination that I know all too well. It is a tool designed for TCKS, but applies to anyone in transition. I have learned a lot from following the simple steps.

Click here for more explanation on the TCK RAFT

Though my thoughts are everywhere and often my heart is preoccupied, these days have been full of little events like cafe dates, game nights, fun roommate conversations, skype dates, farewell parties, continual laughter at cultural blunders, and late-night talks with my best friend by a stream in the town talking through how God is growing both of us. It is these little events that brighten each day. 

A dear friend of mine reminded me of this verse earlier this week:

A happy heart makes the face cheerful, but heartache crushes the spirit. 
Proverbs 15:13

Oh how very true that is! With finals coming up, goodbyes on my mind and other burdens on my heart, it is easy to feel like you're wrestling with God in a battle that you know you cannot win. As Christians and strangers in this world, God does not call us to be happy at all times. (How terribly unhappy the "happiness" would feel if it was forced!) Yet, He does tell us to rejoice at all times, and to trust him always. 

Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. 
1 Thessalonians 5:16-17

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. 
Proverbs 3:5-6

Our maker is an awesome God. He is full of love for you and me, and full of understanding. In every change comes a new opportunity to trust in Him. As I say goodbye to the friends I have made here and the places I have fallen in love with, I must continue to remember that God has my heart and that He is good. Though nervous, I look forward to this next change, because I know He will carry me through the waves, one paddle at a time.

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. 
Romans 8:28