Wow! These last few weeks have been a whirlwind. First of
all, on August 14th, I left home and flew to Chicago for a week of
in-country orientation with all 60 of the 2013-2014 YAGM volunteers. That week
was so incredible, and filled with good conversations and even better people. I
am truly blessed to be able to join in the journeys of the other 59 YAGMs. You
guys are so great. J
After saying some tearful goodbyes (yes, even I cried when I
had to say goodbye… that shows how much we care for each other), myself and the
other 9 South Africa volunteers flew on the second-largest plane I have ever
seen to Frankfurt, Germany. After a fairly long layover, in which some of us
took to exploring the city of Frankfurt, we left on the largest plane I have
ever seen in my life and flew to Johannesburg, South Africa!
After arriving here, we met up with our country
coordinators, who are seriously awesome, and began to process what this year
may look like for us. This past week was literally one of the greatest in my
life. Not only was I exploring this beautiful country, but I was doing it alongside
nine of the most incredible people. I am so grateful for the other nine South
Africa YAGMs for making this transition smooth, enjoyable, and full of grace
and kindness.
Now this brings me to the present. I have just arrived in
Soweto, South Africa, which is where I will be spending the next 11 months!
After spending probably too much time unpacking and finding homes for all of my
t-shirts (why did I bring so many?), I had a great night of fellowship and food
with a few of the other volunteers and staff with whom I will spend a lot of
time. It was a great opportunity to learn more about the organization I will be
working with (Diakonia AIDS Ministry or DAM) and the city that has now become
my home. Just as I was feeling sad about saying goodbye to my wonderful YAGM
community, God has provided me with another community here in Soweto. How cool,
right?!
Whew, that was a lot. Sorry about writing a novel-length
post, but I felt bad about not posting at all since I left home! Hopefully this
has given you all a glimpse into my life for the last 2 ½ weeks. Soon, I will
begin posting about my daily life here in Soweto! Ahh!
Lots of love,
Emily J
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