Transition

I've been through some major transitions in my life. Moving from the farm to the near-north side of Chicago at 18 was the first. Then I moved to France and learned a new language and culture. Four and a half years ago I moved to Minneapolis. And last month I moved to an area about 35 miles from where I grew up. You would think it wouldn't be that difficult. After all, I knew where the grocery stores, the YMCA, the library, and the courthouse were. I recognize people when I'm out and about. People have actually heard of my hometown. I'm enjoying the benefits of being in a smaller town and back in farming culture where people actually have known each other for a long time. It sounds like it should be an easy transition, but I've decided that no transition is easy.

Four years ago I was wondering how long the transition would take, when I would have friends, and when I'd feel at home. All of that takes time. After all, history can only be made one day at a time. Last weekend I went to Minneapolis to visit friends and was reminded of the type of relationships that can be built in a few short years. I am thankful for the people I have met at the church I've been attending here who have invited me to join them for Sunday brunch after church and to be a part of their missional group. Those small things have helped.

The bigger transition for me is in my work. It's a new career, and though I've passed a test saying I know what I'm doing, in reality, I often feel like I don't have a clue. I told a friend that I don't know enough to actually know what I'm doing, but I do know enough to act like I do. I'm often searching my textbooks for answers to my questions when I get home. I guess I can only gain experience one day at a time as well.