two years

two years ago, on this exact date....I was flying to Beijing to begin a new life. I said my teary, heart-wrenching goodbyes in the airport and boarded my plane. I knew had limited Chinese and an even lesser idea of what He might have for me in the future.

but I had Him. And frankly, that's all that mattered.

When I look back on the past two years, I am amazed. He has used my time, my adventures, and my challenges in China to grow and shape me into the woman I am today. He used China to stretch and squeeze me and reflect back to me my own selfish, sinful heart. He used China to increase my faith and renew my commitment to Him.

If I had known what the next two years were going to be like when I first stepped on the plane, I might've backed out. China has held many heartaches (and headaches).

Ghastly pollution. Language difficulities. Racist taxi drivers. Swindling street vendors. Missed flights. Missed memories.

And yet, it has all be infinitely worth it.

I'm so thankful I stepped on the plane. True, China has held some heartaches...but it has held even more blessings.

Kiddos who love you when you don't deserve it. Sweet friends from all over the world. An amazing teaching team. Roommates who love Him with their whole hearts and encourage you to do the same. Sweet soymilk vendors who defend your terrible Chinese to scoffing passerbys. Smiling strangers who extend unexpected kindness. Crazy "China moments."

And so many more.

As I prepare for another semester in China, I have to remember this. I have to look back and remember this amazing God who is weaving all the little details of my life together for my good and His ultimate glory.

Truth be told, I don't know what the future holds or how many more years (or months) I have in China.

 But I have Him. And frankly, that's all that matters.