Thankful Thursday
I just did a post yesterday outlining all the happy things that happened to me on Tuesday. I have to say, life is at a good place right now. It feels great to be able to say that.
One year ago next week, my children and I left everything and everyone we knew and loved and set out to join Hubby in our new life here in Doha, Qatar. It's been a year of tumultuous change. We have had to adjust to a new culture, a new climate, and a new home. We've gone from Hubby working long hours 5 days a week to working somewhat shorter hours 6 days a week. I've had to learn the currency and I'm still confused as to how much money I spend each week on groceries! My much-loved 8 week menu plan has been tossed out the window, as it's virtually impossible here to predict what items will be in the stores on any given day.
I've gone from a committed homeschooling stay-at-home mom, to being a mom with two kids enrolled in school who is actively seeking to rejoin the workforce. After 14 years of being at home, that's no small matter. I'm nervous and excited and scared all rolled up into a bundle of jangled nerves.
I've lost access to Target (:::sob:::), the library, rational grocery stores, decent customer service, and honestly, some of my sanity.
We've had to give up our friendships and then try to build new ones here in a land where most people come and go within 4-5 years at most. Many of the friends we've made within the last year have already moved during the course of our year here or will be leaving this summer.
And yet, now one year later, we have survived. I don't know that I would say we have thrived, but we haven't withered on the vine either. And for that, I give all the glory to God. He has helped me learn to be content in whatever circumstance I find myself. He has been teaching me patience, a trait which I am sadly lacking in and have been praying for as long as I can remember. He has comforted me when I was desolate. He has been the one I rejoice with when I'm happy.
He is my rock. I love him and am so grateful for the fact that he led me here to this wilderness to use it as a time of teaching and growth in my life. Everything that he removed from my life has been restored in some form or fashion. Well, except Target. But I can live with that!
So today I am grateful for a God who will do whatever he needs to do to make me more like him.
For more Thankful Thursday posts, be sure to visit Lynn at Spiritually Unequal Marriage.
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11 comments:
It's amazing how when we hand things over to God, even the most daunting situation becomes easier.
I recently found out I'm expecting, despite the fact that my tubes are tied. This was a real struggle for me, but once I handed it over to God and told Him whether it is ectopic or viable, it was all in His hands. And it became bearable. At my appt last week I prayed before the dr came in to tell me which it was. Now we are able to relax and celebrate because we will have a new baby in November, and I know that it's His will.
Beautiful post, Lori.
I'm so glad you can see the good like you do. I don't think I'd be able to write the way you do if I were "out of my element." Your words are always such an encouragement.
I'm praying for your new job! I hope it's all you want it to be and more.
Wonderful list of your blessings! Let us know if you get the job and which one you are taking.
How exciting. I mean, how crazy, to move like that. But so exciting. My dh and I have talked of such a move for our family, but . . . it would be tough. Good for you, to see the good in it. Enjoy your adventure. Enjoy learning patience. :) Keep smiling.
Bless you for your faithfulness.
Great post. I especially appreciated when you said, "So today I am grateful for a God who will do whatever he needs to do to make me more like him."
Not everyone can truthfully say that! God bless you and your family.
Praising the Lord with you!! Blessings to you on this journey!
Oh Lori, you absolutely inspire me! I think I would draw up the draw bridge and never venture out of my home if I were where you are. What a brave and courageous woman you are.
Bless your thankful heart.
I guess it would be cruel to tell you I'm going to Target on Saturday! ;)
I cannot imagine facing the challenges of living in a different culture, but I know you are where God wants you. So glad you are finding things to be thankful for. Happy Thankful Thursday!
Wow... what a personal and powerful post. What a great reminder to be content with what God has us in, no matter the circumstances. Our joy from Him, not what's around us. Thank you for sharing. May He continue to bless you in ways you can't even imagine.
What a wonderful testimony of the grace of God to meet you wherever you are. :-)