August 19, 2009
At the beginning of this month I returned to America after spending nearly two years living in East Asia. When I began preparing to return to the States I tried to be ready for many of the cultural differences and the "reverse culture shock" that often hits people after they've spent a long time overseas. One thing I prepared myself to expect was a high level of busyness from all my friends and family. I know that the pace of life in America is much faster, compact, and more efficient than in Asia. I tried to set my expectations low, knowing that few people would have time to welcome me home during my first few weeks back in the States. I knew that even fewer people would be able to travel to the Quad City area to visit me, and I would need to travel around visiting others if I wanted to see them and spend time together. Although this was a little disappointing to think about, after spending time in a warm culture where people's lives revolve around their relationships and everything else takes a back seat, I accepted it as the reality I would face upon my return.

The Lord blessed me with a great gift, however, which touched my heart and spoke to me about the loving friends and family I am so grateful to have in my life.

When I arrived at the Moline airport I expected to see only my parents waiting for me. I saw them waiting as I walked toward the arrival area and I felt that I had accurately predicted the size of reception I would receive. I was so happy to see my parents, but felt a bit disappointed to know that no one else had been able to come and welcome me home after being gone for two years.
    

As I began to walk toward the baggage area with my parents I noticed someone talking our picture. I recognized a familiar face and was so pleased that some friends had come to take pictures and make me feel so special. As we walked around the corner I saw a large group of people waiting for someone, many of them holding signs or balloons. It slowly hit me that these were my friends and family all waiting with excitement for me!
       
   

I immediately started crying, as all the exhaustion and emotion of traveling home hit me at once. I hadn't allowed myself to expect any special attention when returning home, and yet a large group of people had come to the airport to let me know I had been missed. It was so overwhelming to feel loved like that after having lived overseas on my own for so long. I will never forget that moment.

My Grandma Mary and Charles had driven several hours to meet me, and other relatives came to the airport from nearby cities. Several couples came from my parent's church. My nephew, who is now 2 1/2 years old, greeted me with a red, white, and blue balloon which read "Land of the Free." What wonderful memories and what a perfect way to be welcomed back home. I have rarely felt so incredibly loved and supported. It was truly a gift from the Lord to allow me to see such a grand gesture from my loved ones at a time when it is easy to become discouraged and critical of my home culture. I believe this special welcome home has allowed me to have a hopeful and positive attitude as I face this period of readjustment to America. I will never forget it!
   
      
    
    

A few days after returning home I traveled to Des Moines for my Grandpa Bill's birthday party. Much of the Davis family came to celebrate together and I had a wonderful evening visiting with all my relatives on that side of the family. I have done some additional traveling around Iowa in the past two weeks, and have been so happy to catch up with family and friends. I couldn't have asked for, or imagined, a better homecoming.
    

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