Emotional Rollercoasters

Transfers week and riding the emotional rollercoaster began all over again.

Rollercoasters are thrilling though – aren’t they!?

Missionary arrivals on Tuesday and departures on Thursday mean that emotions are pulled in opposite directions over a very short period of time – again!

During our 3-year period of service, transfers happen 27 times.

This week was our 9th rotation.

Our emotional heartstrings have already been stretched in so many ways.

The thrill and excitement of welcoming our new arrivals.

Followed by the joyful and agonising feelings that accompany those departing for home.

For instance, highs and lows, laughing and crying in rapid succession (or even at the same time) are commonplace in the mission field.

𝑶𝒖𝒓 𝒆𝒎𝒐𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏𝒔 𝒄𝒐𝒏𝒏𝒆𝒄𝒕 𝒖𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝒐𝒏𝒆 𝒂𝒏𝒐𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓.

Rather than let these emotions run my life, I am learning to deal with them in a much healthier way, by considering the bigger picture for each of those coming and going.

I am beginning to understand my emotions more as a barometer to measure my own sense of wellbeing and happiness, by mastering those feelings and listening to my heart.

The most challenging moment for me is the final hug at the airport with those departing missionaries.

Yesterday I did better!

I stopped for a moment and took a big conscious breath. It made a difference, at least until we started walking back to the car, and I had a wee tear (or two even!)

The best thing about the afternoon on departures day, is when I take a break and have a wee nap. It allows me to reconnect with my heart and is a golden opportunity to relax.

9 transfer weeks down, only another 18 to go.

Do you listen to your heart?