Today was my last shift at Fair Haven, and what a day it was. It was a normal working shift, but so different in other ways. I kept thinking about 'lasts'. It was the last time I did the breakfast run, the last time I turned the stove on, the last load of dishes etc.. But then, in other ways, saying goodbye to so many people, sharing a last coffee break with amazing staff, talking about my career and aspirations as a thing of the moment rather than the future and all those kind of things you do on the last day of work made my day rather different. And difficult. It's not always easy to say 'goodbye' and 'thank you' and 'all the best'. It was hard to do, and quite saddening.
I knew the day was coming, and it was something that I looked forward to, but also didn't want to pass. Somehow, it was the end before a beginning, the sign of change, and the last words of another life chapter. So I guess I can feel a bit sad. But at the same time, I'm excited for what's coming ahead. There's a career waiting for me. I've studied for 3 1/2 years to get to this point, and now it's time to take another leap out of my comfort zone, away from all the 'student stuff' toward my career as a professional teacher. So although I leave my job with sadness, it's with no regrets, for there are better things to come.
13 months ago, I would never have guessed that I would be writing this today. And in some way, 13 months seems like a long time, but in other ways it doesn't. Taking my average shifts, I've done more than 170 days, or more than 1100 hours, and I'll leave the maths there. For me, it went fast, but in other ways the amount that I've been able to grow and achieve in that time is incredible. I don't think I would have thought that I could have come this far as an individual person- the growth I have experienced in my knowledge, confidence, relationships, world view, attitudes and God-focused lifestyle is something to truly be thankful for. And I can only thank the loving staff and residents, and my heavenly Father, for that. I never knew that being holed up a kitchen for 7 hours could help me become the person I am today. And therefore I leave with confidence in my ability to pursue my dreams, new relationships, a new perspective on life, and a whole lot of knowledge about how to cook porridge and Dutch food. :)
It's also very comforting to know that I leave Fair Haven in God's hands, knowing that He looks after His children there, and that I may leave in confidence that He'll continue His plan of salvation for all those that live and work there. It is a blessing to have been part of a loving and Christian community there, and I pray that God will continue to bless them all.
Thanks so much to all the staff at Fair Haven who have joined me and helped me on life's journey over the past year. Thanks to all the residents who have accepted me as part of their community, enjoyed my cooking, and were always willing to share a smile and chat. And thanks to God who has given me this opportunity and will continue to guide me in the future.
