By Tina Boyles Bailey

I have now been living in my new home of Austria for over seven months. Every day, I feel myself more and more grounded, but still missing my former home in Bali as well. My roots grow deep, and parts of my heart are in many places around the world. The truth is that I have never been anywhere that I did not think I could live. 
 
Over the past months I have joined a painting exhibition entitled “New Beginnings,” presented at two trainings on trauma informed practices and self-care and found community in the place I live. I do feel that my roots are growing here.  
 
In my little world there are so many backgrounds and cultures, and community and friendship is so important. I recently returned from a short vacation and meeting with my CBF team in Europe. On the way home it was so nice to receive messages from friends asking if I was back yet, because that they missed me.  

There is also Arash, a dear young man who took care of my cats while I was away who is seeking asylum. He is incredibly kind and has quickly become a dear member of our church community. He holds a special place in my heart as well. He is missing his family back home and is also growing roots here.  

I find myself balancing this newness and joy with loss because as I began my vacation I received word that my Balinese Mentor, friend and Bali Dad had died. I was gutted and heartbroken; it is a very big loss. His son is like a brother to me, kept me informed of every step from when he went to the hospital until he was cremated. This too touched my heart.  

 Deep roots are formed over time, and they live far beyond roles or work and reach deep inside our hearts and become part of our being. Yes, the risk of pain is higher when we dig in deep, but I cannot imagine any other way of living. The world is so big and so small at the same time.  

The ministry of care and presence in each other’s lives is the work of divine love, seeing the face of God in another face … truly seeing them in a way that you are forever changed by the encounter. This for me is the work of true and authentic beloved community. It is delicate, full of joy and at times it hurts so much you are not sure your heart can take in all in. But it can and it does. I am so blessed and grateful to be a part of so many wonderful people’s journeys in this ministry that continues to surprise and delight me.