august 2024.

& just like that, august slipped away into a moment in time. I’ve been back in Nairobi for over a month now and SO much has happened. I went through some major transitions from moving across the city to beginning a new role at a new school. When people ask me how I am, my response has been, “I am feeling a roller coaster of emotions.” I’m navigating living life in the tension of transition which can bring about discomfort. I’ve been learning a lot about transition during this period. There has been so much new and unfamiliar even in the same city. Learning to navigate a new part of town, settling in to a new home, meeting new coworkers, trying to make new friends, adjusting to a new position, there has been a lot of change.

I was reminded recently that just because things are hard, does not mean it is not God’s plan. In fact, often times throughout the Bible, God intentionally used ‘hard’ to grow people. In Philippians 4, Paul talks about learning to be content in all things (and if Paul knows anything about hard, he would be one to talk). That reminder has been ever present in my mind recently as I am challenged to grow. I choose the posture of my heart. There have been many times over the past month, that I have felt incredibly overwhelmed. If you’ve ever moved houses, I’m sure you can relate to the feelings of excitement and anticipation while also dealing with elements of frustration, sadness, and loss. I am reminded, as Paul says in verse 11, “In all things, I have learned to be content,” therefore indicating that contentment is a learning process.

The school’s theme verse this year is Proverbs 3:5-6, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways, acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” I feel this passage will be an intentional focal point for this new school year. Trust is a choice, that despite feelings of fear, I choose to trust in the Lord’s plan. I choose not to lean on my own understanding, I choose to acknowledge him in ALL things. Now, I recognize that straight paths are not synonymous with perfect, smooth-sailing, easy paths, but rather, the path that includes walking alongside Christ.

I came across a liturgy recently from liturgies for life abroad and much of it resonated with me. The realness of living in the tension of two places and the truth that our true home is not meant for earth, but rather is yet to come in eternity with Christ.

“I want adventure” you say, but they never tell you that adventure means with every passport stamp, you are less like who you were and more like the person you discover yourself becoming – with every new place, flavor, language, landscape, culture. So that when you return home, you find that perhaps home is no longer where you’re from but a collection of all the places you’ve been. And the hard thing about loving so many places is that the world is just too big and no matter where you are, you’re missing somewhere else. So, my dear, pursue adventure, but be ready to have your mind opened, your heart expanded, and your home spread wide over boarder and oceans. So that no matter where you unpack your bags, you’re both at home and yet not quite there.”

Alright, time to get into the new role. My new school is beautiful, so lush and green, and spacious. Home to many monkeys and birds. I am in awe of the beauty that surrounds me and do not take for granted the safety and freedom to explore my new campus. I’ve been enjoying walking outside and thanking God for such beauty I get to experience. Here are some photos of my new campus.

My new role as a Learning Support Teacher has begun. It is a shift from having my own classroom and crew of students to having more of an office to use for individualized programs and smaller groups. I enjoyed setting it up with affirmations and encouraging words on the wall. In this new role, I support students with diverse learning needs at school many of which include intellectual disabilities. I am grateful to create and implement plans for students. I have begun some of my ‘classes’ and I am really enjoying them. I am grateful to encourage children, empower them, and remind them that God made them exactly how he wanted with purposeful design. We begin our sessions with affirmations and prayer each class and I am hopeful to see these students grow in confidence this year.

I was concerned at the beginning of the school year if I would be able to make meaningful connections with students without being a classroom teacher, but the Lord has quickly shown me that He has given me the gift and ability to connect with students. So many students know my name and love to see me on campus and I am grateful that I am able to continue to make an impact on all students in this new role.

The view outside my office – a family of tortoises!

One amazing event that kicks off the school year at Rosslyn Academy is Open House. An event which allows families to come on campus and see “a day in the life.” They can meet their children’s teachers and develop a sense of community. This school has 700 students representing 53 different countries! It is beautiful to see all of these cultures come together. Afterwards, a huge BBQ is served and a children’s movie is played outdoors on the field. It was really special to see this community at large at this event. It is a great opportunity to engage and connect with students and their families.

Some other highlights from this month: new coworkers, outdoor markets, trying out new dance and spin classes, and attending a friend’s baby shower. My favourite part of August was definitely going to an outdoor worship event in Nairobi. Maverick City came to perform and it was an amazing time to gather with fellow brothers and sisters in Christ to worship our Almighty God. It was an experience I don’t think I will ever forget. Hearing people pray and sing in multiple languages, dance together, and celebrate God’s mighty hand and His goodness in our lives. All praise and honour to Him – the King of Kings!

Thank you for praying for me as I transition into a new season of ministry.

I am grateful to be back in Nairobi.

I am grateful to serve.

Thank you for your prayers and support. I appreciate you all so much.

-j.