Who would have thought I would feel “home” in this eastern most province of the country. Having to spend less than two months in this part, I adapted very quickly and felt like I already knew some of the nook and crannies of the districts and cities. I even conversed with other passengers inside the plane about unique churches around and areas around Waena and Sentani, just a few km away from the main airport that only locals would know about it. See, it's interesting how I got to know a lot trivia in just a few weeks staying here.

*“Are you from GKI too, which one?” *asked an elderly man next to me on the plane. He was referring to one of denomination of churches in the country and in Papua, I said yes since it’s the church I went to and is one with the highest followers and churches around the area.

As I landed, I texted one of my acquaintances in the region and notified him about my whereabouts as he was the one picking me up. As soon as I exited the baggage claim, I saw a familiar face and heard, “Welcome home, you’re back!” who would have thought, right? He said enthusiastically, welcoming me.

Mr Jacob and our team got to know each other because we lived in the same boarding house. It’s a two-story house where the owner rented some of its rooms on the upper level. Our team happened to rent 2 rooms at the time and Mr. Jacob lived next door to our area. Because we’re from different cultures, he liked to explain to us about his village, customs, and traditions. From there, the whole house already felt like a family. I got to know the owner quite well and I also went to the church that she is a member of.

While the other day I felt a bit of pressure as well as feeling a bit distressed with the whole trip, after having to meet all the familiar faces, I felt home. I was welcomed and felt more familiar. This place far away from my physical home made me feel “home”.

I am not always comfortable in a city or a country. Strangely, I had that comfort and familiarity with this region, just the same feeling I had with cities like Yogyakarta, Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok where I just felt I was a part of everyone and wasn’t really a stranger. How could I explain that? I was a stranger but also not a stranger. Maybe in my previous lives I used to live there? Who knows.

The big thing is, my worries, woes, and turbulation fade as I was welcomed. Whatever lies ahead of me, I am not that worried anymore. I will face it and work through it. I am reminded once again that it’s life there’s always turbulations it’s all about how we face it and grow from it.

As soon as I also reached the boarding house, I was greeted by Mrs Yuli and her cute daughter. She was happy to see me again and invited me to explore more places in Jayapura and around. Last time I asked her about a swimming pool and that place might be where we’re headed to or maybe some other cool places because she knows all the good spots.

I am excited to spend a few days on this island. It’s that easy to turn what seemingly an unfortunate day.