Hardships

One of the common questions I get asked is 'what are some of the struggles of being over here as a single person?'. I'd be lying if i said there were none, but I also thank God that for the most, many of the struggles have been fairly minor in the big scheme of things. But no matter how big or little the struggle has been, God's providence in providing the help and support I've needed has been amazing.

So what have some of the struggles been?
Old & New Relationships
One of the hardest struggles I've had has been wisdom in managing friendships/relationships. It's actually a struggle that could just as easily happen back home, but I do think that operating in a second language does sometimes exacerbate the problem as there are times when things said are 'lost in translation'. I've found it challenging trying to balance my time with new friends without making old friends feel neglected. I'd really appreciate your prayers for wisdom in how to manage this in a godly way.

Giving Advice
I'm so thankful for local friends here who feel that they can open up to me. However sometimes it is a struggle to know when it is the right time to just sit and listen, to give advice or if I should step in and actually 'do' something. I know that I am still trying to get my head around so much of the culture here, so I often feel like I'm out of my depth to give any advice, but sometimes it is also hard to sit back and simply be a listening ear. Please pray for wisdom in knowing how to best help friends.

Creepy Crawlies
As stupid as this is, one of the biggest struggles I've had is having to deal with creepy crawlies in my house. I know that if I'm going to choose to be on my own I also have to get over my fear of bugs, flying beetles, cockroaches, spiders, rats and whatever other random 'nasty' happens to appear. So far the can of Baygon has got to be the best investment that I've made so far, but for some things, it's just not enough. But I do also thank God for the provision of friends with kids who love beetles, bugs and other randoms, so they've been able to come over and rescue me :)


Facing my fears.....

Thankfully things like climate, food, language have not been an issue...so far. I think it has definitely helped me to have lived here for a couple years already. Please pray that God continues to provide wisdom and support as I face whatever other struggles that might come my way.