Introducing Aaron Moss – New Addition to CC Writing Staff

The Moss family has loved living in Cappadocia since 2004.
“Romania? Isn’t that like over the ocean?” said the middle-aged farmhand known as Clem, while graciously offering me a drink out of his 2 lt. jug of Mountain Dew, clasping it like a 20 oz. bottle purchased at a convenience store. “Heck, I’ve never been outside of Kidder County!”

I ran into good-natured Clem years ago while helping my father, the local large-animal veterinarian for our small county in central North Dakota (and surrounding counties), tranquilize and capture a first-calf heifer, who was suffering from a uterine prolapse after recently giving birth. My wife and I were living in Romania at the time and we were back visiting family in the United States for the summer. Obviously, this farmhand had not traveled much in his life, but he lived a simple and fulfilling life, surrounded by his friends and family who were generous and hard-working.

This is the culture in which my parents raised me, and I have been one of the few from Kidder County who have been privileged to bring tales and experiences gained from living amongst other beautiful and diverse cultures, that I believe God has made in order to teach us more about Himself, back to my friends in Kidder County. My family has traveled extensively throughout Europe over the years, but there is only one place we call home outside of America – Cappadocia!

Currently, I have been living in Turkey along with my wife and six children since 2002. The agricultural background of Central Anatolia has welcomed us to our second home through the incredibly generous people of Cappadocia. Turkish culture has taught me many lessons especially in the area of hospitality where it is said, “Dört gözle bekleriz!” (“We are waiting with four eyes!”) This social expression embodies the Turkish character that desires to honor the guest through excited anticipation and lavish service, and it is one of the sentiments that captivated our hearts years ago.

It is my pleasure to contribute, hopefully in some small way, to your hearts being captivated by the beauty of the people and culture of Cappadocia as well.