After I graduated from college, I was given the opportunity to live and teach abroad, and I jumped at the chance. Before I left, I collected insights about packing lists and culture shock from friends and acquaintances. ....When the time came to move back to the States, those voices that had been present at my outset, telling me what to pack and how to process, weren't there....
This little volume is for the adventurers coming home.
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reviews
A personal and honest account of cross-cultural transition back to the United States that touches on so many aspects of the emotional, spiritual and physical challenges of coming back to what one considers 'home'. This personal journey gives voice to what many of us have encountered when diving into or back into a place where we are supposed to and expected to 'fit in'. A balm for the soul of anyone coming back from long term service in a different culture, to know you're not alone in the space in between. - Julia
As someone who suffered silently upon re-entry and felt deeply the pain and frustration that comes with this type of loneliness, these words were a balm to my still-healing heart. If you were to ask me prior to moving overseas that coming home would be 10x harder, I would have kindly said, “Thank you, but that certainly cannot be true.” Oh, the naivety. I am so appreciative of this author’s perspective and vulnerability. She has reminded me that the magnificent God I served overseas is the same God who holds me today and does magnificent things—even in my brokenness when I feel like crumbling or want to blame those who just don’t get me sometimes. In His presence, there is freedom and forgiveness; and when we “live in forgiveness…this is home,” she says. I highly recommend this book to anyone who has traversed back to the land of their origin—no matter how long ago. I’ve been back five years and through this journey, this author has helped me breathe again. This is also an exceptional read for family and friends who probably don’t understand why their loved one may look the same but is somehow…changed. - Sarah
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e.m. was raised in a ministry family where she found her love for reading, writing, making art, and traveling. After college, she joined a team living and serving in East Jerusalem. When her work visa expired after five years, she moved back to the States. At the time of this writing, she’s still Stateside -- if not spending time with her students, then taking a long walk or sitting by a window with a cup of tea.
She is not responding to requests for personal contact but encourages you to check out www.velvetashes.com if you are seeking an online community of women who share the unique experience of overseas missions.