And now it begins. Returning to the lives we left behind almost three weeks ago. Each of us reconnecting with family and the lives that we live when we are not thousands of miles away in Africa.
For Fred, Randy, and me, this is our second time of returning from Uganda, full of stories that are yet to find the words to express, meetings to create strategies to chart a path into the future with Lead Like Jesus for the work in Uganda, and memories, thoughts and emotions that are yet to be processed. Randy, Luke and Terri have been on mission trips (long and short) before, so this is not a new experience for them either. For others—James and Dave—this is a first time experience.
I am guessing that regardless of the number of times one experiences this abrupt transition, it doesn’t become routine. 26 hours on a plane is not enough time to process two weeks worth of experiences. Gratefully hugging loved ones and reconnecting with friends are the beginning steps that allow the words to find shape, the stories to surface.
At the same time, we have to re-engage with responsibilities that others have carried in our absence: daily activities, family roles, household responsibilities, work goals and deadlines. Returning is almost as complex as leaving!
The evening I returned, I walked into a grocery store to buy fig bars for my brother-in-law, and was overwhelmed with three new types of Oreos that had been added to the shelves in my absence. I couldn’t even decide on a type of cookie I might like (highly unusual behavior for me!), so I contented myself with taking care of him, and simply walked to the checkout line.
Today, I return to the office for the first time. I’ve re-engaged with my writing for Lead Like Jesus and my seminary studies, still playing catch-up and hoping to be current very soon.
Reflecting on our trip continues, and I am intending to continue posting photos and insights. Missing new friends, wondering how they are adjusting, moving forward with commitments to new friends in Uganda, hoping to connect personally with friends and supporters soon, and committing all of us to the Lord.
Here’s a photo from Watoto Church in Kampala, where we worshiped last Sunday,
Debbie Goes To Uganda 