Coming Home - The Reentry Transition

When you return to your passport country, it is important to get debriefed. This can be done in several ways, such as in a group, with one other person, or even by yourself. Such debriefing is valuable in bringing closure to your time overseas and integrating the experiences you had there into your life as you prepare for what is next.

This book can be used as preparation for, or during, debriefing in a group context. A group, with a facilitator as a guide, is valuable for you to see that you are not alone in your reactions to returning to your passport country after living in a host country for some time. 

This book can also be used as an aid when being debriefed by another person who understands what is involved in making the transition from cross-cultural work to life at “home.” An understanding pastor, counselor, or other cross-cultural worker may be invaluable in helping you make the change. 

Finally, if there is no group or other person available, you can use this book to debrief yourself. Although it is best to be able to talk your experience over with others whounderstand, you will still find it valuable to think about them yourself. Set aside a couple days by yourself and spend an hour or two considering the material in each of these chapters.