The past 2 weeks have been an absolute blur. Seriously. For those of you who don’t already know, I recently moved from Nashville, TN to St. Croix, Virign Islands to work at a Christian school. While my decision to move suddenly shocked many, it was one I can honestly say that God orchestrated and completely provided for in every capacity. Although I enjoyed Nashville for the past year, it was never my intent to stay for a prolonged period of time after graduation. I never wanted to be one of “those” graduates: the ones who stay around greater Nashvegas and never really get plugged into serving their local church and community. As I began to feel restless with staying in Nashville, I continued to work this summer at Cumberland Youth Camp and passionately participated in the Go10 Walk (in both Nashville and in Oklahoma). Wondering where the Lord was leading, I began to beg God for a place of service and for closed doors to make the decision easier.
While I continued to follow Him, I became impatient with no resolution as to where I was supposed to go. My impatience grew into discouragement. After a brief conversation with my former pastor,Bro. Larry Powell, I received confirmation that I would indeed go somewhere. We parted with Bro. Larry saying, “Jessica, you’re young. I know you’ll move lots of different places.” Little did he know that those were the exact words that I needed to hear.
Maybe you’re wondering why St. Croix? After putting out my resume nearly everywhere, St. Croix was the only door that flung wide open. After the interview and job offer, I literally had seven days to move. I packed up everything I owned, either put it in storage or hauled it to Georgia, said my goodbyes and flew out to St. Croix. This irrational impromptu move befuddled many, but after realizing this unique opportunity to move on a moment’s notice (without husband or family) to serve on the mission field, I received enthusiastic support from friends and family . Not one to miss an adventure, I whole heartedly seized the opportunity.
So, hear I am: a newly minted twenty-four year old living on a beautiful island, working with some of the most sincere people I’ve ever met. I’m thankful to the many people who have supported and prayed for me during this transition. I am so humbled and grateful for your willingness to help a single gal following God outside of her comfort zone.
Who needs a pool when you've got the Caribbean?
Since I’ve been here, I thought I’d share with you a couple of observations:
1. St. Croix is a US territory. Hence, US Virgin Islands. We use the dollar as our currency. (You may laugh, but I’ve had several people ask about it being a foreign country.)
2. We drive on the left side of the road. In addition to driving on the left side, I get the privilege of driving a 15 passenger van on the left side. Needless to say, I feel like a 16 year old with a fresh license having to learn everything like the first time.
3. I’ve enjoyed getting to hear steel drums accompany our worship services. It’s my goal to learn how to play them. How many Southern girls do you know who play the steel drums? That’s what I thought.
4. Our church is very diverse. On any given Sunday morning we have Indians, Puerto Ricans, Caucasians and every nationality in between (or so it seems) in our congregation. It makes me wonder what Heaven will be like (not that my fallible mind can imagine it.)
5. In case you were wondering, I spent my 24th birthday securing classrooms, checking out property damage due to Hurricane Earl, and hanging out with my St. Croix family. I mean, not only did I get the day off from work, but I got to wear my swimsuit under my clothes and got to play in the rain on account of Earl! It has truly been an adventure and one that’ll never forget with my new community of friends (who just happen to be my colleagues).
Straight from de Islands,
-Jyess
Jumping off a 10 foot pier.
