The Itch

Well, the itch has begun. As we are nearing the end of our trek across the United States (only 4 states to go!) I am starting to get the urge to move on to the next phase, whatever it may be. This past week we volunteered with four different organizations in Minneapolis. I had a much different perspective this week because I plan to move to the Twin Cities this fall. For the first time in 46 weeks, I went into an organization with the idea that I could come back and volunteer on a regular basis if I so choose. As I played with children at Mary’s Place, the thought was running through my mind that I will have the opportunity to play with them again. I also met an elderly woman from Germany in a low-income nursing home who took special interest in me because of my ability to speak to German. She gave me her phone number and told me to call anytime, as she’d love to help me brush up on my rusty skills. As I took her number I smiled, because I realized I really could meet with her again. I didn’t have to smile and say ‘I’ll be in touch,’ knowing in my heart that our paths will probably not cross again.

I have been very aware of how hard it is to leave places, knowing that likely I may never be back, but I don’t think it hit me how much my spirit has craved something with longevity until I spent time in a place where I can establish roots. The possibility of growing relationships rather than just planting seeds is what I am excited about as I prepare to settle down in one place. As we left on Latreia, the prospect of always being on the move, meeting new people, and doing something very different every day was a huge draw to me. The irony is that the things I am excited about now that we are about done are completely the opposite. I am thrilled with the prospect of living in one place, building solid and real relationships with those around me, and having a bit of routine in my daily life. I will also have the chance to disciple others and to be discipled myself.

And though the itch has begun to begin building roots, I am also eager to finish the amazing journey which began 11 months ago… And, no doubt, after I have settled down for a month or two, I’ll be wondering when it will be time to travel again!

Kelly