Yes, believe it or not I'm finally HOME! I've actually been here for a little over 2 weeks, but the first several days were pretty rough as I was still having problems with the house. Thankfully the new allergy treatment we learned in ID has helped tremendously! So now I'm somewhat settled in the guest bedroom (my bedroom still has a faint paint fragrance - hopefully we can finish airing it out once the weather turns a little drier & cooler).
After 14 months of "wandering" I can't tell you how wonderful it is to be at home once again! It was a crazy time, not without its benefits, but definitely something I hope I never have to experience again. God knows.
While you may think my situation was extraordinary, it actually isn't unique. There are hundreds of thousands of people in this country who are sick with similar problems to mine (a condition now known as "Environmental Illness"), and many of them cannot live in normal houses. I personally know several people who have gone through experiences similar to me, some even worse. One lady lived out in the woods of Montana for several months. Another friend of mine slept in his aunt's backyard in a sleeping bag for many months because he couldn't be inside without getting sick. One of my friends has about 6 air purifiers in her apt just so she can keep breathing. The stories go on....
So even though I'm home now, my heart is still thinking about those people who can't go home, who are still looking for answers, still struggling to survive in a toxic world. I'm hoping to share more thoughts and infomation about this as I have strength and energy. Maybe just promoting awareness will help somehow.
We have so much to be thankful for, so much we take for granted. If you're living in a house and not in a car or on the street - be thankful for your home! I know I am!
Sincererly,
-Joanna
2 comments:
I was able to give your Mom a hug today! Too sweet!
I'm so thankful you're home and able to stay there. God is so good! Every small progress you make feels like a grand celebration . . . we've been praying for you for SO long, and we will continue to do so!
Joanna, I keep going back to your post several months ago when you were at the beach, how this is almost like a tribal mission for you. You have spent years learning the language of the people group God has placed you in, and now you're able to share His love with them. The fact that you're still concerned for them shows me that God HAS given you this mission field, to the praise of His glory. I CAN'T WAIT to see what He does here.
Much love to you!
Please always keep up the writing. you have a gift for sharing from your heart. You are such an inspiration and daily challenge to me.
love and love
Post a Comment