Like I mentioned in my last blog post, I still question how I got here!
I never thought I would have been moving away from home, but I am learning so much.
Below, I will explain in more details.
My Expectations
When I was on my eight and a half month journey in Guatemala from 2021-2022, I was living a great life!
I spent time with my friends, exercising, and volunteering. I continued to be responsible, but didn’t have much care in the world!
Well when I decided to officially move to Guatemala in October 2022, everything hit me.
I knew with having a job here, I would have more responsibility which was awesome! I had a lot of expectations that I was excited and passionate about.
But a lot changed.
Two of my friends that I would hang out with weekly moved away from Antigua. Things were changing at work. And I was officially on a tight monthly budget.
I listened to the song, As it Was, by Harry Styles all of the time. I related to the song so much because it was if nothing was the same and it made me really sad.
Ecclesiastes 3:1- There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.
I know that there is a season for everything. People come, go, and things cannot always stay the same. If so, life would be boring.
Since then, I have grown spiritually, mentally, emotionally, and physically. I am continuing to do what I want and that is all that matters.
Happiness… not always
I know there are a lot of people who are proud and happy for me. It takes a lot of courage to do what I am doing. Some people may think, “Oh Madison has a perfect life. She looks so happy, doing what she loves, and moved away to a completely different country.”
All of those statements are true, but it’s not always so glamourous. Don’t be fooled by social media.
Because the reality is, I miss a lot of things.
Like hanging out with my family and friends, shopping, going to church and sporting events, eating at my favorite restaurants… Oh, and especially being able to order something off Amazon and it being at your house two-three days later.
I knew a lot of things would not be accessible so easily, especially in a third world country. And that is okay because I knew the risks beforehand.
I’ve Come to the Realization
Family is everything. They are automatically your support system and will be there no matter what.
I have always known the importance of family. But since moving to a Guatemala alone, with absolutely no one, family means everything.
I guess the saying is true, your parents become your friends as you get older. Because my mom and I talk every day and it can be up to thirty minutes… and yes, I always ask, “How is my dog?” I ask about my other dog, Mia, as well! And in May, Mia will be 18-years-old… her health is slowly declining and I hope to be in the U.S if we ever have to come to “that” decision.
So, moving forward, I will embrace spending time with my family. If it’s in the U.S or in Guatemala, quality time is quality time. Because we aren’t getting any younger.
There will always be good days and bad days, just like for you. But we have to remember that we are still living and have a purpose.
XOXO,
Madison Archer
Comments
So proud of you! I worked in Haiti for a year as a missionary with the Episcopal Church. It was great & frustrating, at times. Remember all experiences lead to growth & knowledge of yourself. I don’t believe I could have made Haiti my home unless I had a life partner who shared my vision. You are so brave & I’m behind you 100%.