TCK Voices: My Battle with TCK Arrogance

Today we have Elisha here. Welcome, Elisha!

Please tell us a little about yourself and the different cultures you are a part of. 

My name is Elisha McFarland. I was a missionary kid in Uganda for almost 17 years. I now live in Louisville, Kentucky. 

What is your biggest TCK struggle, and when did you discover this? 

My biggest TCK struggle by far has been arrogance. Over time, I have discovered that my time as a TCK has provided me with a unique worldview, one that has shaped and guided my lifestyle and skill set. My worldview and character are different, and uniquely so. I stick out in a crowd, and people recognize this. 

The challenge, then, has been destroying this root of pride that is so quick to attack me. I struggle with pride on a daily basis, and thinking that I am uniquely different and “special” does not provide much help in that area. 

What situations in life are influenced by this struggle? 

My interactions with friends on a day-to-day basis are heavily influenced by this struggle. They are very aware of my pride and have been gracious to confront me on it. They remind me that my life experiences do not give me cause to look down on others. I am no more special or gifted than the next man. The challenge is remembering this on days when my “TCK moments” come out. 

How does TCK Arrogance impact your relationship with God? 

If anything, it has drawn me closer to God. I know that I cannot fix anything on my own; it is only by the grace and mercy of my Savior that I am able to draw closer to His Son, that I might walk like Him. Sanctification is a slow process, but a process nonetheless. It takes months, years even, to grow past things, and yet this is a beautiful gift from the Lord. It is in this time that we see His work the clearest. 

What is one way you fight TCK Arrogance? 

I have fought this struggle by relying on the Lord and my friends. The Lord, of course, knows my heart entirely. Throwing myself on Him and His mercy has to be a daily routine; else I fall into the pit of arrogance. My friends, too, know my heart, and so I rely on them to keep me accountable and remind me when I am at my most arrogant. 

How has this struggle also been a strength in your life? 

It has been a strength because it has reminded me that I am not perfect. Far too often, we give in to the temptation to grow complacent or lax in our daily lives. We fail to recognize the true sinful nature of our hearts, and so we do not devote time to growing in Christ. The constant nature of arrogance has shown me the depths of depravity and pride in my heart. 

Is there anything else you would like to share with other TCKs who struggle with Arrogance? 

You are not better than anyone else! You are special, yes, but so are your friends. Non-TCKs are special in their own regard. They have unique talents, skill sets, and experiences, just like you. Usually, theirs just aren’t quite as noticeable. Practice humility, be patient before the Lord, and ask your friends to hold you accountable.

Thank you so much for sharing with us, Elisha!

What is your TCK struggle? Find out here!