Seven months ago, we traded the chaos of a disintegrating society in Athens for my beloved Seattle. It's been such a big adjustment, there hasn't been much time for words. Living back at home with my quiet parents instead of next door to my very Greek in-laws. A basement suite with a big back garden for a 3rd floor urban apartment. A job that was more a calling and a passion for my first job as a mental health professional, working 3 days a week for DESC. A vocation where the job never ended to one where I'm sitting with nothing to do for hours at a time. Leaving International Teams and the connections with so many conference friends and mentors to create a brand new network around the profession of counseling and my new life as a suburban mom in Normandy Park. Watching Iannis struggle through the indignities of a minimum wage job, with a work schedule that makes a social life nearly impossible. Leaving Ianni's lifelong friends and connections to reconnect with family and friends or make new ones here. Watching Erik forget (?) Greek and Chloe absorb language so fast...
I think all of these transitions are so character building but... tough! How can we discern where God is leading us through the middle of it?
The beautiful thing is watching the growing connections, the new directions that are glimmering through the fog of transition. We love being part of John Knox Presbyterian Church. We are finding our way as a family to new friends and playdates.
I'm feeling connected again to my passion to see people find restoration and healing. Providentially, my mind-blowingly boring job has allowed me to really explore my calling, and make new connections professionally. How does that work that I did with trafficking victims and refugees connect with the needs that exist in the Seattle area? What did I learn about working with people in such difficult circumstances that can be utilized to bring healing to others?
I'm working on starting a private practice as a counselor this spring. It's a giant step, and one that takes risk and trust, just like getting to Athens did. I'd love to hear your feedback!
I think all of these transitions are so character building but... tough! How can we discern where God is leading us through the middle of it?
The beautiful thing is watching the growing connections, the new directions that are glimmering through the fog of transition. We love being part of John Knox Presbyterian Church. We are finding our way as a family to new friends and playdates.
I'm feeling connected again to my passion to see people find restoration and healing. Providentially, my mind-blowingly boring job has allowed me to really explore my calling, and make new connections professionally. How does that work that I did with trafficking victims and refugees connect with the needs that exist in the Seattle area? What did I learn about working with people in such difficult circumstances that can be utilized to bring healing to others?
I'm working on starting a private practice as a counselor this spring. It's a giant step, and one that takes risk and trust, just like getting to Athens did. I'd love to hear your feedback!
Really beautiful thoughts, Emma! We're glad that you're in this part of the world and hope to be part of the "new friends and playdates." : )
ReplyDeleteWow, Emma, what an intense transition! I imagine it's got to be so very hard for your husband. I'm sure the kids are resilient. Mine have amazed me with how easily they move from culture to culture. I love hearing your thoughts. I'll be praying for your job changes!
ReplyDeleteI've just checked in on your blog again. "The fog of transition," yes. I got married 4.5 months ago and have been living between our respective parents in Wyoming and hotels in Michigan with my new husband while he works.
ReplyDeleteIt sounds like you have an optimistic outlook. I hope that's with you and Ianni most days. Keep up the good work, whatever form it takes.