I'm LOVING my life here in the 'bul. And to think I didn't want to come. Silly me.

While the first difficulties were finding stores, learning my way around, overcoming my fear of "new", and hearing yet another language that I didn't know... the challenges have become finding places to plug in, to be useful, to be a Light in the overwhelming dark.

Yesterday morning I woke up to a drum beat at about 4 am... A man was walking down the street with his large drum to remind people to wake up and eat before the sun rose. Those who woke would begin their fasting with the first rays of light, and would last all day until the sun set. And this happens all month.
I only saw a few lights on in the neighborhood flick on... but what those few lights represented really stuck with me. Because in this city, even those people that were behind the other darkened windows, don't know.

hoşgeldiniz

It's funny, I was one of those people that thought it was ludicrous that Wallmart had people whose job was "greeter." But... after having three months of no, "Welcome!" when I enter stores... I am enjoying getting greeted by this phrase as I enter malls, stores, offices here.

But- it's a reminder that I'm still not at home.

I'm so privileged though. I am appreciating the opportunities to meet new people - to read a lot of books - to be in a bustling, busy city - to see some sights.

Even though there is still no word on how or when I will receive permission to go back- I am being daily reassured that He has it ALL in control. He knows- even if I don't- and I am grateful for the chance to trust Him and to rest in Him (and I can only say this because of His grace).