By Tewodros Asfaw

Bole, Addis Ababa

There was one resolution that I held for 2015. I didn’t know how I would make it happen, when it would happen, or how long I would stay, but I knew I had to go to Ethiopia. After more than a decade of being away, I just knew I had to go back. Life was calling me home. With the start of a new year, I opened my heart to welcome new possibilities in my life and to embrace what came my way with no resistance.

My first taxi ride in Addis

 
Through a series of fortunate events, I had the opportunity to serve in Ethiopia. Soon after that, I found myself walking out of Bole airport with four other amazing individuals and into the heart of Addis Ababa. The sounds, the chatter, the blue and white taxis, the fresh air, and the people were all new, but also pleasantly familiar.

A few short months later and here I am, trying to put into words all that this experience has meant to me. I have come full circle. Looking back on all that has passed, I know everything fell together perfectly to make my time in Ethiopia the most inspiring, life-changing, challenging and thought-provoking six months of my life.

Running the Ethiopian Great Run

 
I went from training in Los Angeles to serving in Ethiopia. I went from running races in Minnesota, to running the streets of L.A., to running the Great Run in Addis Ababa.

I have learned to appreciate the controlled chaos of the busy roads. What was intimidating from the outside is familiar now that I am apart of the ebb and flow of life here in Addis. I feel more at home, more purposeful, and more complete.

1 First, embrace all your fears and desires. You see your country and want to save it, but realizing how small any move you make is can seem overwhelmingly depressing. I was there, but I guarantee you there is a positive, real and lasting impact here. I see it each day in my students with their stories of resilience. This work matters.

2 Second, open a bank account. This account won’t be for money, but rather an account for Mirekat, or Blessings. Each and everyday, do your best to give your best and life will take care of the rest. Some of the most inspiring interactions have been from strangers passing me by on the street. I got blessings from a lady just for helping her get to church one morning. The small things add up, and then when you’re having a tough day or just need some inspiration, you can take a look back on all the Mirekat you have gotten and remember why you are doing what you’re doing. This has been helpful for me on my journey.

3 If you don’t speak or understand the native language very well, not having all the words to convey what you want to say to be understood by everyone can sometimes be difficult and frustrating. Be patient, embrace this challenge. You’ll quickly find that you can usually find a way to express what you’re trying to say. Besides, many people here understand English.

4 Be flexible. You won’t have reliable Wi-Fi everywhere you go. You might find yourself with a dead phone/computer battery, no charger, or no service. It is not the end of the world. Go out for a walk, take a view of the city from a mountaintop, take a taxi somewhere you haven’t been. Let life surprise you.

5 Finally, leave all your expectations. Pack your clothes, pack your shoes, your personal belongings, etc., but unpack your preconceived ideas. Unpack your expectations. Go with an open mind, an open heart, and embrace the call back home.

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