Did I ever tell you about the time I introduced myself as my name when asked by my British boss how I was doing? Yes, ladies and gentlemen, that happened. Sit back, grab a cup of coffee (or tea if you’re feeling particularly British today), and let me take you down memory lane—a place filled with awkward moments, fancy accents, and a young lady who hadn’t quite figured out how to decode “nose-English.”
I call this one: Days of Little Beginnings
Reflecting on my early days at CLC Kenya, I can draw out several valuable lessons from the humorous challenges I faced. I hope these lessons will encourage you today:
- Embrace Humility in New Beginnings Starting a new role was daunting, especially when I had to navigate cultural and linguistic differences. My initial miscommunication with my British director was both funny and humbling. I quickly learned the importance of recognizing my limitations and being open to learning. As Proverbs 22:4 reminds us, “Humility is the fear of the Lord; its wages are riches and honor and life.” That lesson in humility became a cornerstone for my growth.
- Adaptability is Key Moving from ushago (upcountry) to a multicultural environment was a significant adjustment. I had to learn to adapt quickly to thrive in this new space. Looking back, I realize how important it is to remain flexible and open-minded in unfamiliar situations. Romans 12:2 says, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” This mindset allowed me to embrace change and grow in ways I never anticipated.
- The Power of Perseverance Despite the awkwardness and early mistakes, I kept pushing forward. It wasn’t always easy, but perseverance paid off as I gained confidence and competence. James 1:4 encourages, “Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” I’ve seen firsthand how perseverance can turn even the most uncomfortable situations into moments of growth.
- Finding Joy in Growth Now, I can laugh at those early missteps and see them for what they were—integral parts of my journey. This perspective has taught me to find joy in the process of growing, knowing that every mistake was a stepping stone to something greater. Psalm 126:2 beautifully captures this sentiment: “Our mouths were filled with laughter, our tongues with songs of joy.” These moments remind me to embrace God’s faithfulness and celebrate how far I’ve come.
