I have been trying to find a way to explain or process my two year hiatus from travel writing. And, all I can think of is how absolutely crippling living with depression can truly be. Yes, therapy, faith, family, and hobbies are spectacular but the true reason behind why I stopped writing was getting in my own way and being not myself. It began with returning to the US because of visa drama, rebuilding and reconnecting at home. Being destroyed and God rebuilding me. My faith, confidence, and self esteem all took a blow when I learned from the headmaster at my school in Tanzania that I wouldn’t be able to finish the two year contract because of changing visa processes.
In hindsight, I realise God was shaping me and preparing me for a calling far more stable than what I could have imagined. Upon accepting a new position in the States, I also accepted a new reality. That now, my life would be split 60/40 between the US and East Africa. My interests, family, worship, healthy lifestyle all divided 7000 miles apart. Difficult to accept, sure, but conquering difficult things are what I am known to do. So, I assume a new outlook and am boldly walking into the light that is adjusting, healing, and continuing to be patient with myself in the process. I re-open mariahgoesabroad with a new spirit committed to embracing all the tumultuous things life throws at us. With God and family, there is nothing impossible to me.
I hope to keep writing & that you’ll keep reading,
Mariah
mariahgoesabroad 