Transition

Reverse culture shock, initially entertaining, progressed to annoyance and then faded away, leaving behind assorted quirks and oddities that I am still sorting out. I still bobble my head occasionally to answer affirmative to questions. I still click my tongue in distaste when an unsavory event occurs. I still look at price tags and question the logic of ego-centric mall rats. I may retain a few of those quirks.

Fortunately, I learned more in India than just how to be a weirdo upon return to the States. I also learned the value of strong religious values in a world of turmoil, the way unchanging moral anchors and well placed trust can establish hope of a better future and inspire happier living in the now. Naturally, a mission of bringing souls closer to Christ would involve opportunities to test my own faith, and then build and solidify it as well. The interactions that I had with others accomplished both sides of the faith building: theirs, and mine. My new-found honor for faith, an acquired trait far undervalued in the world's eye, is a blessing in itself.

As I reflect upon the process of this transition from a mission in India to a life in the United States it brings to mind other transitions in my past and the various ways in which I will be required to transition in the future. The process is simple enough, adapt to a new situation, location, responsibility, etc.however, the journeys can be varied. They range from simple to complex, dependent on the circumstances and attitude of those undergoing the change. I wonder how much we attribute easy or quick transitions to our mindset. How often are we the ones turning transitions into search and rescue missions instead of pleasant hikes?

I feel like the first thing people fear in a new situation is the change itself. What do I lose? What will I have to do differently? I am beginning to understand more and more the relationship between progression and sacrifice. The concept seems so abrasive to people! Me? Give something up? The idea that there can be a steady growth in monetary assets and convenience without increased liability is a myth. The ability to quickly cut ties with tradition and familiar practice, when necessary, would be a valuable tool in easy transition.


I miss India. I miss my friends. I miss the food. I miss the service. But there is a life to be lived. Time to get on. How pleasant it is when I can appreciate the past, enjoy the now, and eagerly anticipate the future.

New Beginnings

Having recently returned from social recluse in India it has become expedient to resubmit myself into the public eye. Having in no sense been a notable icon of the masses, but rather a friend and acquaintance of many, I have had the opportunity to make opinions and feelings known in times past. However, the person I have become is in many senses different from the man that many once knew. While I pray that what few attractive qualities I maintained before remain intact I have developed myself spiritually and intellectually in ways that require updated dissertation on matters of importance.

I begin.