I started college this past fall as a freshman at Columbia University. My first semester was filled with many challenges, and I was grateful for the opportunity to go back to Africa and spend time in Dakar over Christmas break. As soon as I landed and got my luggage, I got to see my family. Hugs were passed around, repetitively. We got to go and eat breakfast at my favorite pastry cafe. I sat next to the window and got to see my Dakar that I have been so long without. This was a huge breath of fresh air for my heart.

The next day the family headed out to the village that I grew up in, Bakel. Nothing had changed and that is the biggest thing that I love about Africa. I was remembered and recognized right away and everything was back to the way that it had been before. I got to go hunting and did a lot of baking, which I do not get to do at college. Life became simple again and time wasn't my master. My favorite time was just driving downtown and seeing the place that I had lived my whole life, where my heart started and has always stayed. I got be a part of the family again. The day came when I had to leave and we went to my favorite restaurant, La Mariste, and I ordered a chawarma (similar to a taco).

Then we drove to the airport and I boarded my plane. As the plane took off, I could feel my body leaving but my heart was staying. I know that I belong there in Africa and not as much in the United States.  Now that I am back, my heart feels like it is continually crying and yearning to go back. I am praying that God will provide another opportunity for me to visit again soon. It is hard for me to be away from my family and home, but I know that I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. For many of us who have grown up on the mission field, the countries where we have spent so much of our lives are truly our home. I am grateful for the opportunities to reconnect with the place I love so much, and I trust that God will use my experiences on the mission field for His glory both now and in my future endeavors. Praise Him!