What is one of the hardest transitions you have ever had? These can be challenging times. Loneliness. Feeling lost and insecure. Not having roots. Feeling stupid because you can't do things and get places. These are just some of the feelings we can have during times of transition. Our guest, Wendy Zahorjanski understands our struggles. As a missionary, she has had many transitions. She currently is a church planter in Serbia. At age 19, she moved to Kryzkstan, then to Hungary, and then to Serbia. Wendy shares many interesting stories of her experiences overseas.
There are many transitions in our lives besides moving. Going to college, getting a job, getting married, having kids, empty nesting, new jobs, retiring, and other things. For Wendy, her most difficult time was when she moved to Serbia. It was a very lonely and insecure time.
Here are some wise words from Wendy:
During transitions, be kind to yourself. Let go of guilt and shame. It is common to be exhausted amid so many changes, so try to get more rest. Give yourself grace and tell yourself it is normal to go through the emotions and struggles you are having. Rely on God as He never changes. He is your rock and your anchor. Remind yourself that the Lord knows and understands you, even though others may not.
Changes can help you let go of control and put God more in control. Wendy said, "Part of my personality was lost for a season. I normally am funny, but in another culture and language, I didn't have the language or cultural cues to be funny." Expect that it takes time to adjust to changes, so give yourself grace. It can take a long time to build a community, but push yourself to get out there.
Don't compare your new friends with friends you used to have, or your old community with your new community. Friends in a new culture can be very different and it can take time to bond. Find a cultural insider with whom you can ask questions. Never criticize the culture with someone from that culture. Don't just hang out with friends from your own culture, but get to know the local culture. However, having a few friends who are from your background can be a place of safety, support, and comfort.
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