I have a new item to add to my resume....
Lauren Rudat
Baked apple crisp for 60 people in a convection oven the size of a microwave and on a stove with propane and sand with only 3 hours worth of power in one day.
It tasted very good, considering. I'm pretty proud. AND....my team, the Super Power Titans, won the Gladiator Games!!! Go Titans!
It was a good week. Crazy, but good.
And today we got a new puppy. And a free lunch, coffees, and dessert at a brand new coffee cafe in Bangalore. Christmas miracles DO exist!
It was a good day.
More details later. Love!
Monday, December 21, 2009
Monday, December 7, 2009
Stripping away the cushioning fat layer...this sounds a lot more disgusting than I mean it to be
As my pants have gradually become looser and looser, and all my continuous hoisting has absolutely NO effect, I have realized, that God is stripping me down to the very skin and bones of who I am in more ways than one. Seriously, though, I am going to need to buy a belt really fast! Sometimes I think it is just the fact that I have no drier to shrink my clothes after I wash them, but either way, I have a very big problem on my hands! It’s okay, though, Indian pants are the most amazing thing ever, they come equipped with a drawstring that cinches you up as tight as you need to go! They are lovely, and so handy! If you so happen to eat too many chapati at dinner, you can simply head to the ladies room, where you can easily loosen the strings of your pants to a comfortable level once more.
That’s enough about pants…what I was saying is how my Creator has been pulling away my layers, all of the cushioning that I line my life with. I can put it in no better terms than to quote Paul, “For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body of sin might be done away with,” (Romans 6:6) and “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me.” If I could try to explain to you, my friends, the change in me in these past weeks, it could best be described by saying that Christ is stripping me of everything I cling to other than Himself. All of my hopes for my future, all that I find security in, all that I take joy in apart from Christ. It is so freakin scary. But I know that it is ultimately for my good, even when it doesn’t feel so great in the moment. Being refined is another way you could put it, I suppose. Things have improved incredibly in the past weeks, I think my heart has finally (FINALLY!) settled here in India, prepared to be at rest here, for a little while. And maybe a little while longer…
I have a Milka advent calendar. And….I will be in India to open the final delicious chocolate on December 24th. I am partially aghast at myself….CHOOSING to spend a Christmas away from home, without my family, without gifts, in 30 degree weather, with people I have only known for three months. But for some crazy reason, my soul is at peace with this decision. I just….know, that God wants me here for Christmas. I am so glad for the amazing people who supported me coming here, making it possible that I could stay longer than originally planned! This is truly a Christmas gift in itself. My parents have taken the news amazingly, were it not for their absolute support, giving hearts, and the cheer in their voices (that, I must admit, still makes me choked up for a moment when I call them), there is no way I could dream of doing this. I apologize to all those who are expecting me home, my faithful friends who have stayed by my side (in spirit, of course!) for a year and a half now, of being away from home. I am excited for a third-world Christmas, and I expect that God has a lot more work planned to be done upon my dynamic (to use a term from English class…) character. Let me give you a glimpse of what the season will look like for me…
This weekend, Allison and I plan to create our own Indian version of an advent calendar for the girl students, to share with them the joy we have in opening ours every morning (I must confess, it is sometimes the only reason I leave my bed). Next week I will base all of my English classes on the topic of Christmas (!!!), using vocabulary like reindeer and carolling. Sunday or Monday we want to start our advent celebration, something instilled in me from my Catholic High School, and we will try to manufacture a candle-lighting celebration. The week after is gladiator week, where instead of classes, the students have a week of games and activities, and learning, all related to the Roman games (minus the violence, opulence, and persecution). We will plan and lead most of that week. Fanny, my German prayer-buddy, will head home December 18th, and after that we will be free from the normal schedule here at Green Valley, to celebrate like crazy! Hopefully, I will have gotten my act together and taught some choir classes by then, so we can head out carolling into the nearby villages. On the 19th is the Christmas celebration at Green Valley, where they have what Papau calls an “in-reach,” where we get the people to come to us to hear about Jesus, instead of going to them! We will have something like 200 kids and parents from the neighbourhood come to the school for games, dramas, singing, and a meal the likes of which they would never be able to afford in their homes. I have heard it is a great treat for them, and I can’t wait to see some of my little friends enjoy the bounty of the season. Us interns are dying to do some Christmas baking, however there are no ovens here, (how can you have an oven, when you don’t have power for 15 hours a day!?) so we are going to improvise, and possibly ‘borrow’ the oven at George and Ruth's (the directors) house. A trip to Bangalore is essential, as we prepare for the gift exchange, and we are planning to do the sweetest photo shoot of our little stable here, of the Nativity Scene! The cows and sheep are here already, we just need to cast the human roles. There is the cutest little tree beside the stable that actually looks somewhat similar to a pine, so we plan to decorate it! We’ll string popcorn and do the traditional paper-chains. If that is not enough, we will be planning an evening of celebration with all of the students, staff, and friends of the school, where there will be a gift exchange and talent show, and we are trying to be creative with making it special (I might be going back to my waitressing days...)
My biggest prayer is that God will use us interns that are staying here to make this Christmas the best it can be for the students. Barely any of them have the money to go home for Christmas (even though it probably only costs around 50 dollars Canadian), and most plan to spend the holidays here. I want this to be a Christmas that they can remember, that they will look back on and have great joy in all that God taught them, in all that was celebrated, and the richness of relationships shared. I know that it will be an unforgettable lesson for me, to experience our remembrance of Christ’s birth without the materialism, without the comforts of luxury, without the tradition. To see Christmas as it really is, and hopefully in the simplicity of this place, the true value and light of Christ’s birth will be impressed upon me as it could never be in the flashy, commercialized version we so cherish in North America. It is a lesson I hope will stay with me for all the future years God grants me.
I am feeling all the more happy to be here at Green Valley now, because we just returned from our journey to Kerela! It was a week and a half experience I will never forget, from cockroaches, to elephants, the Arabian ocean (which is WARM, by the way!) and tapioca (the real version is QUITE different from what you would suspect, a tree root that tastes something like a potatoe when boiled) made at the top of a mountain. Our trip took us into two different Indian states, Kerela, and Tamil Nadu, both in the Southern tip of the country. The scenery was stunning as we traversed into a state very different from Karnataka, where Green Valley is located. Kerela is the only democratically elected communist state, and you can tell by the friendly hammer and sickle symbols sprayed onto road signs, cement walls, and flags. Known by Kerelites alone as “God’s own country,” the state speaks a language called Malayalam, which is probably the most ridiculous, hilarious, confusing language in the world, where to listen to a conversation is the equivalent of two three-year-olds talking gibberish as fast as they can, with their mouths full. I doubt if there is such a thing as a syllable or a comma in this language. Thankfully, we had our English speaking friends to show us around, as we travelled to Kannoor, Kochi, Angamaly, and Coimbator. Some of the things that stick out for me are….travelling in a tiny van, with six other people, over the bumpiest roads ever, up mountain roads where we had to get out and climb. The wife of a pastor of a 15-person church at the top of a mountain, who served us the best of their humble fare, and apologized that there were no lights for us to see by as we used the bathroom, because they have no power on the mountain. Feeling like I was in “Slumdog Millionaire” as I stood on the edge of a moving train, leaning out the open door, watching the countryside speed by, just one step away (no seatbelts in India!) Riding on an elephant with Fanny, as the sun set over the mountains behind us….completely romantic until the elephant stopped and decided it was time to relieve its bladder. Elephants pee for a long time. Finding a cockroach nestled in my underwear that I had laid out to dry after hand-washing them in the hotel bathroom. Visiting an India Zoo that would have PETA members tearing their hair out if they were to witness the miniscule cages, jam-packed enclosures, and mentally insane animals that have resorted to uncharacteristic behaviour because of their environment. A street vendor trying to sell us a reed flute, thinking it would be enticing if he gave us a sample of its music in the form of the Titanic theme song, as we walked away laughing. Children begging on the train. Teaching impromptu classes at a school of 1100 students all dressed in matching uniforms, and so well disciplined that they all stood at ‘attention’, and ‘at ease’ during the school assembly. Praying over Dinesh, our ever gracious driver, (who constantly asked if we were “okay?!” “happy?!”) and his family, including his father, who although could speak no English, exuded the warmth of Christ.
It was an exciting, adventure-filled trip, that I will never forget. On it, it felt like us interns grew as a team, an answer to many prayers of us girls. There are still many bumps and clashes as we continue to live nestled right into each other's lives, sometimes as unwelcome as the bugs that insist on flying directly down the neck of my shirt in the middle of Sunday night service. We are looking forward to spending Christmas together, though, and I hope it will bond us together in such a way that all future Christmases will merit a remembrance of the joy we shared in.
I am wishing desperately that we had the power and internet to write on here more often, there is so much more I would share with you! The Indian wedding we got to attend (and be treated like celebrities at), the baby squirrels that "Ebby" found and showed to us, the love letter we received a few weeks ago from one of the male students...*sigh. Life is always lively!
As I hum to myself the ever-familiar Christmas tunes...."chestnuts roasting, on an open fire...." sweet thoughts of my loved ones come to mind, and my heart slips into daydream mode of baking cookies and going sledding, unwrapping the nativity scene and settling onto the couch, snuggled with mom and dad, to watch White Christmas. But it's okay, for as my favorite christmas caroller, Mr. Crosby croons: "I'll be home for Christmas....if only in my dreams..."
Merry Indian Christmas, my loves...
That’s enough about pants…what I was saying is how my Creator has been pulling away my layers, all of the cushioning that I line my life with. I can put it in no better terms than to quote Paul, “For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body of sin might be done away with,” (Romans 6:6) and “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me.” If I could try to explain to you, my friends, the change in me in these past weeks, it could best be described by saying that Christ is stripping me of everything I cling to other than Himself. All of my hopes for my future, all that I find security in, all that I take joy in apart from Christ. It is so freakin scary. But I know that it is ultimately for my good, even when it doesn’t feel so great in the moment. Being refined is another way you could put it, I suppose. Things have improved incredibly in the past weeks, I think my heart has finally (FINALLY!) settled here in India, prepared to be at rest here, for a little while. And maybe a little while longer…
I have a Milka advent calendar. And….I will be in India to open the final delicious chocolate on December 24th. I am partially aghast at myself….CHOOSING to spend a Christmas away from home, without my family, without gifts, in 30 degree weather, with people I have only known for three months. But for some crazy reason, my soul is at peace with this decision. I just….know, that God wants me here for Christmas. I am so glad for the amazing people who supported me coming here, making it possible that I could stay longer than originally planned! This is truly a Christmas gift in itself. My parents have taken the news amazingly, were it not for their absolute support, giving hearts, and the cheer in their voices (that, I must admit, still makes me choked up for a moment when I call them), there is no way I could dream of doing this. I apologize to all those who are expecting me home, my faithful friends who have stayed by my side (in spirit, of course!) for a year and a half now, of being away from home. I am excited for a third-world Christmas, and I expect that God has a lot more work planned to be done upon my dynamic (to use a term from English class…) character. Let me give you a glimpse of what the season will look like for me…
This weekend, Allison and I plan to create our own Indian version of an advent calendar for the girl students, to share with them the joy we have in opening ours every morning (I must confess, it is sometimes the only reason I leave my bed). Next week I will base all of my English classes on the topic of Christmas (!!!), using vocabulary like reindeer and carolling. Sunday or Monday we want to start our advent celebration, something instilled in me from my Catholic High School, and we will try to manufacture a candle-lighting celebration. The week after is gladiator week, where instead of classes, the students have a week of games and activities, and learning, all related to the Roman games (minus the violence, opulence, and persecution). We will plan and lead most of that week. Fanny, my German prayer-buddy, will head home December 18th, and after that we will be free from the normal schedule here at Green Valley, to celebrate like crazy! Hopefully, I will have gotten my act together and taught some choir classes by then, so we can head out carolling into the nearby villages. On the 19th is the Christmas celebration at Green Valley, where they have what Papau calls an “in-reach,” where we get the people to come to us to hear about Jesus, instead of going to them! We will have something like 200 kids and parents from the neighbourhood come to the school for games, dramas, singing, and a meal the likes of which they would never be able to afford in their homes. I have heard it is a great treat for them, and I can’t wait to see some of my little friends enjoy the bounty of the season. Us interns are dying to do some Christmas baking, however there are no ovens here, (how can you have an oven, when you don’t have power for 15 hours a day!?) so we are going to improvise, and possibly ‘borrow’ the oven at George and Ruth's (the directors) house. A trip to Bangalore is essential, as we prepare for the gift exchange, and we are planning to do the sweetest photo shoot of our little stable here, of the Nativity Scene! The cows and sheep are here already, we just need to cast the human roles. There is the cutest little tree beside the stable that actually looks somewhat similar to a pine, so we plan to decorate it! We’ll string popcorn and do the traditional paper-chains. If that is not enough, we will be planning an evening of celebration with all of the students, staff, and friends of the school, where there will be a gift exchange and talent show, and we are trying to be creative with making it special (I might be going back to my waitressing days...)
My biggest prayer is that God will use us interns that are staying here to make this Christmas the best it can be for the students. Barely any of them have the money to go home for Christmas (even though it probably only costs around 50 dollars Canadian), and most plan to spend the holidays here. I want this to be a Christmas that they can remember, that they will look back on and have great joy in all that God taught them, in all that was celebrated, and the richness of relationships shared. I know that it will be an unforgettable lesson for me, to experience our remembrance of Christ’s birth without the materialism, without the comforts of luxury, without the tradition. To see Christmas as it really is, and hopefully in the simplicity of this place, the true value and light of Christ’s birth will be impressed upon me as it could never be in the flashy, commercialized version we so cherish in North America. It is a lesson I hope will stay with me for all the future years God grants me.
I am feeling all the more happy to be here at Green Valley now, because we just returned from our journey to Kerela! It was a week and a half experience I will never forget, from cockroaches, to elephants, the Arabian ocean (which is WARM, by the way!) and tapioca (the real version is QUITE different from what you would suspect, a tree root that tastes something like a potatoe when boiled) made at the top of a mountain. Our trip took us into two different Indian states, Kerela, and Tamil Nadu, both in the Southern tip of the country. The scenery was stunning as we traversed into a state very different from Karnataka, where Green Valley is located. Kerela is the only democratically elected communist state, and you can tell by the friendly hammer and sickle symbols sprayed onto road signs, cement walls, and flags. Known by Kerelites alone as “God’s own country,” the state speaks a language called Malayalam, which is probably the most ridiculous, hilarious, confusing language in the world, where to listen to a conversation is the equivalent of two three-year-olds talking gibberish as fast as they can, with their mouths full. I doubt if there is such a thing as a syllable or a comma in this language. Thankfully, we had our English speaking friends to show us around, as we travelled to Kannoor, Kochi, Angamaly, and Coimbator. Some of the things that stick out for me are….travelling in a tiny van, with six other people, over the bumpiest roads ever, up mountain roads where we had to get out and climb. The wife of a pastor of a 15-person church at the top of a mountain, who served us the best of their humble fare, and apologized that there were no lights for us to see by as we used the bathroom, because they have no power on the mountain. Feeling like I was in “Slumdog Millionaire” as I stood on the edge of a moving train, leaning out the open door, watching the countryside speed by, just one step away (no seatbelts in India!) Riding on an elephant with Fanny, as the sun set over the mountains behind us….completely romantic until the elephant stopped and decided it was time to relieve its bladder. Elephants pee for a long time. Finding a cockroach nestled in my underwear that I had laid out to dry after hand-washing them in the hotel bathroom. Visiting an India Zoo that would have PETA members tearing their hair out if they were to witness the miniscule cages, jam-packed enclosures, and mentally insane animals that have resorted to uncharacteristic behaviour because of their environment. A street vendor trying to sell us a reed flute, thinking it would be enticing if he gave us a sample of its music in the form of the Titanic theme song, as we walked away laughing. Children begging on the train. Teaching impromptu classes at a school of 1100 students all dressed in matching uniforms, and so well disciplined that they all stood at ‘attention’, and ‘at ease’ during the school assembly. Praying over Dinesh, our ever gracious driver, (who constantly asked if we were “okay?!” “happy?!”) and his family, including his father, who although could speak no English, exuded the warmth of Christ.
It was an exciting, adventure-filled trip, that I will never forget. On it, it felt like us interns grew as a team, an answer to many prayers of us girls. There are still many bumps and clashes as we continue to live nestled right into each other's lives, sometimes as unwelcome as the bugs that insist on flying directly down the neck of my shirt in the middle of Sunday night service. We are looking forward to spending Christmas together, though, and I hope it will bond us together in such a way that all future Christmases will merit a remembrance of the joy we shared in.
I am wishing desperately that we had the power and internet to write on here more often, there is so much more I would share with you! The Indian wedding we got to attend (and be treated like celebrities at), the baby squirrels that "Ebby" found and showed to us, the love letter we received a few weeks ago from one of the male students...*sigh. Life is always lively!
As I hum to myself the ever-familiar Christmas tunes...."chestnuts roasting, on an open fire...." sweet thoughts of my loved ones come to mind, and my heart slips into daydream mode of baking cookies and going sledding, unwrapping the nativity scene and settling onto the couch, snuggled with mom and dad, to watch White Christmas. But it's okay, for as my favorite christmas caroller, Mr. Crosby croons: "I'll be home for Christmas....if only in my dreams..."
Merry Indian Christmas, my loves...
Saturday, November 14, 2009
Sunburnt in the name of the LORD
I am sunburnt.
But don’t worry, it isn’t serious. :) After about 5 days of rain, cloud, and chilly weather that made me wish I brought long-johns, I was so ecstatic that the sun had finally burst through with some strength, that I took full advantage of it and spent the entire morning doing my marking and prep in it. My knees are suffering the worst, being one of the parts of me that never usually sees the sun. Give it two days and it will be a beautiful tan that I will be able to show friends at home to make them jealous. That is, until they see that the tan stops abruptly halfway up my legs and does not come near my shoulders. I beg the forgiveness of anyone I ever laughed at for having embarrassing tan lines.
Besides tan lines, and my ever-present emotional rollercoaster over being in/staying in/leaving India, things here are great! I am suffering a minor digestive setback, my stomach has decided that it doesn’t like something I ate yesterday, so today has been….interesting….on the ‘comfort room’ side of things. (see previous blog if that makes no sense to you!) Otherwise, I am feeling good. I look forward to work day tomorrow, when I can do some physical, rather than intellectual, work. Last week we planted some flowers around the property, worked on our compost bin, spread ash over our garden, and shovelled yet more poop onto those stinkin banana trees that are refusing to grow! (Dang you Erin and Carissa….did you curse them or something?!) I love coming to the end of a work day and seeing the progress that was made. It is something tangible that gives such satisfaction. However, there is an entirely different satisfaction that comes from the students here, one that I don’t know if I’ve ever experienced. How to put it in words…..
I suppose it is best to describe by example. Today after lunch, I wandered over to take a look at our garden, and Ebenezer, a younger student from India (one of like 5… :) the rest are Burmese!) followed me. In his shy, accented, way, he asked me what my plans for Christmas are. I gave him what has become my usual, roll-the-eyes-shrug-the-shoulders-and-say-I’m-praying-about-it, and asked what he was thinking for Christmas. He replied, that if me, Allison, Jeff, and the other interns are staying here, he will stay as well. But if we go somewhere else, he will go home with his family.
Hugs and pinches from Zakim, little “good morning, sister!” notes from the boys in their journals, “Auntie” (Ebenezer’s mom who is also a student here) coming and pinning a flower in my hair in the morning…they are precious. We may not be able to communicate with one another very well, but love is not barred by language.
This place has a funny side-effect of toying with one’s perceptions of people. Maybe it’s the language barrier, but even just seeing the way the boy students are so loving with one another, holding hands and walking arm in arm (which is entirely normal for all boys in India!), it makes me see them as sweet young boys, not older than 15 or so. The reality is, that many of them are at least 22, are running from the political and societal situation in Burma, and have pasts that they really don’t feel comfortable sharing. And yet they have such dreams, many of them wanting to be in ministry, to return to their people and share Christ. They have left mother, father, brothers, sisters, and friends to come here, and most are committed to being here for at least 2 years, and will not be able to visit home in this time. What an insane reality.
India has a way of decomposing what you always thought of as your life. All of the things that were important to me, that I considered necessities have tilted, and seeing them from an angle of being halfway around the world, they don’t seem so necessary anymore. I begin to wonder what life is really about. Talk to a family that lives on 6000 RPs a month (roughly, $150 Canadian), but who, with peace in their eyes can explain to me the importance of complete trust in Christ, and money becomes unimportant. Not just unimportant, but a hindrance to living in utter dependence on God. Be informed that a little boy,who most likely had never heard of Jesus, who was pooping on the side of the road (not an uncommon occurrence here) not more than 2 km away, was hit by a bus and died, and thoughts of career security are stopped dead in their tracks. Life for the people here is so simple! Wake up. Walk the cow. Work in the fields. Drink chai. Listen to the radio at a tiny shop on the side of the street with 10 other people crowded on 2 benches. Walk home. Sleep. There is no change. There is no…striving, for change. This is life. Why do I think that all of my gizmos and gadgets, my shower and down blanket, my stovetop and couches, cushion my existence to give me purpose? Am I really different from these people? I am reminded of 1 Thessalonians 4:11, “make it your ambition to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business and to work with your hands, just as we told you”. No need to strive. And yet I feel the need for more than just to exist, to let life happen to me as I plod along. The other day I read Psalm 19, how “the law of the LORD is perfect, reviving the soul,”…. “the commands of the LORD are radiant, giving light to the eyes” and it made me think, what is the Lord’s command? Mark 12:28-31, essentially, Love God with all of who you are, and love your neighbour. Well, if doing this will revive my soul, giving me light, my purpose will be to live simply, loving my Creator, loving His Creation, wherever on Earth He places me.
Now, reading the Irresistible Revolution has me convinced that as straightforward as this sounds on paper, (or in this case, email…) in living it, things get more complicated. But I’m okay with a little complication. Otherwise, what would keep it interesting!?
Is this enough, is learning this, all that I am supposed to glean from India? I think it could be enough. It could be sufficient to return home and live with this different perspective. But maybe there is yet more I am to learn, to chew through. I am open to it.
And that is how I will leave you, dear friends, at least for a little while. All of me (including my sunburnt knees) wishes you the sweetest of days, and a cheering reminder of my utmost admiration and love for you.
But don’t worry, it isn’t serious. :) After about 5 days of rain, cloud, and chilly weather that made me wish I brought long-johns, I was so ecstatic that the sun had finally burst through with some strength, that I took full advantage of it and spent the entire morning doing my marking and prep in it. My knees are suffering the worst, being one of the parts of me that never usually sees the sun. Give it two days and it will be a beautiful tan that I will be able to show friends at home to make them jealous. That is, until they see that the tan stops abruptly halfway up my legs and does not come near my shoulders. I beg the forgiveness of anyone I ever laughed at for having embarrassing tan lines.
Besides tan lines, and my ever-present emotional rollercoaster over being in/staying in/leaving India, things here are great! I am suffering a minor digestive setback, my stomach has decided that it doesn’t like something I ate yesterday, so today has been….interesting….on the ‘comfort room’ side of things. (see previous blog if that makes no sense to you!) Otherwise, I am feeling good. I look forward to work day tomorrow, when I can do some physical, rather than intellectual, work. Last week we planted some flowers around the property, worked on our compost bin, spread ash over our garden, and shovelled yet more poop onto those stinkin banana trees that are refusing to grow! (Dang you Erin and Carissa….did you curse them or something?!) I love coming to the end of a work day and seeing the progress that was made. It is something tangible that gives such satisfaction. However, there is an entirely different satisfaction that comes from the students here, one that I don’t know if I’ve ever experienced. How to put it in words…..
I suppose it is best to describe by example. Today after lunch, I wandered over to take a look at our garden, and Ebenezer, a younger student from India (one of like 5… :) the rest are Burmese!) followed me. In his shy, accented, way, he asked me what my plans for Christmas are. I gave him what has become my usual, roll-the-eyes-shrug-the-shoulders-and-say-I’m-praying-about-it, and asked what he was thinking for Christmas. He replied, that if me, Allison, Jeff, and the other interns are staying here, he will stay as well. But if we go somewhere else, he will go home with his family.
Hugs and pinches from Zakim, little “good morning, sister!” notes from the boys in their journals, “Auntie” (Ebenezer’s mom who is also a student here) coming and pinning a flower in my hair in the morning…they are precious. We may not be able to communicate with one another very well, but love is not barred by language.
This place has a funny side-effect of toying with one’s perceptions of people. Maybe it’s the language barrier, but even just seeing the way the boy students are so loving with one another, holding hands and walking arm in arm (which is entirely normal for all boys in India!), it makes me see them as sweet young boys, not older than 15 or so. The reality is, that many of them are at least 22, are running from the political and societal situation in Burma, and have pasts that they really don’t feel comfortable sharing. And yet they have such dreams, many of them wanting to be in ministry, to return to their people and share Christ. They have left mother, father, brothers, sisters, and friends to come here, and most are committed to being here for at least 2 years, and will not be able to visit home in this time. What an insane reality.
India has a way of decomposing what you always thought of as your life. All of the things that were important to me, that I considered necessities have tilted, and seeing them from an angle of being halfway around the world, they don’t seem so necessary anymore. I begin to wonder what life is really about. Talk to a family that lives on 6000 RPs a month (roughly, $150 Canadian), but who, with peace in their eyes can explain to me the importance of complete trust in Christ, and money becomes unimportant. Not just unimportant, but a hindrance to living in utter dependence on God. Be informed that a little boy,who most likely had never heard of Jesus, who was pooping on the side of the road (not an uncommon occurrence here) not more than 2 km away, was hit by a bus and died, and thoughts of career security are stopped dead in their tracks. Life for the people here is so simple! Wake up. Walk the cow. Work in the fields. Drink chai. Listen to the radio at a tiny shop on the side of the street with 10 other people crowded on 2 benches. Walk home. Sleep. There is no change. There is no…striving, for change. This is life. Why do I think that all of my gizmos and gadgets, my shower and down blanket, my stovetop and couches, cushion my existence to give me purpose? Am I really different from these people? I am reminded of 1 Thessalonians 4:11, “make it your ambition to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business and to work with your hands, just as we told you”. No need to strive. And yet I feel the need for more than just to exist, to let life happen to me as I plod along. The other day I read Psalm 19, how “the law of the LORD is perfect, reviving the soul,”…. “the commands of the LORD are radiant, giving light to the eyes” and it made me think, what is the Lord’s command? Mark 12:28-31, essentially, Love God with all of who you are, and love your neighbour. Well, if doing this will revive my soul, giving me light, my purpose will be to live simply, loving my Creator, loving His Creation, wherever on Earth He places me.
Now, reading the Irresistible Revolution has me convinced that as straightforward as this sounds on paper, (or in this case, email…) in living it, things get more complicated. But I’m okay with a little complication. Otherwise, what would keep it interesting!?
Is this enough, is learning this, all that I am supposed to glean from India? I think it could be enough. It could be sufficient to return home and live with this different perspective. But maybe there is yet more I am to learn, to chew through. I am open to it.
And that is how I will leave you, dear friends, at least for a little while. All of me (including my sunburnt knees) wishes you the sweetest of days, and a cheering reminder of my utmost admiration and love for you.
Sunday, November 1, 2009
Like the Potter's Hand is Pressing on my Heart
Dear friends,
Please congratulate me….I have been away from home for over five weeks now. I can hardly believe it has been that long...the adventures have been numerous, yet it all seems a bit foggy now that we have landed and planted here at Green Valley. Time moves at its own pace here, the schedule is…flexible. Yesterday, on a lovely walk with my roommates, we got a little lost in between Bommenahalli, Muchenahalli and Shampura….resulting in the English classes that we were supposed to be teaching, being a little late. But it was no problem. …Indian time rules state that no deadline is a set deadline…and I think this is a VERY good thing for my obsessive compulsive, STICK-to-the-schedule, personality.
Instead of writing this, I should be going to pick out the songs we will sing for Chapel this morning. Jay has appointed me “music head” when it comes to Chapel and Sunday service, so I have the task of trying to determine which song the students know, and will robustly shout out during service, entirely drowning out my voice, AND the guitar, and which songs they do NOT know, and therefore will stand there awkwardly looking at their pages, looking at me, with puppy-dog eyes that say “why are you ruining my worship time by picking songs I don’t know?” Forgive me….for I think I exaggerate a bit here….however, I feel license to, in my insecurity in being “music head.” Especially when Paupu (one of the older men on Staff, his wife is my surrogate ‘maamie’ ) specifically asks a group of us to meet ahead of time and make sure we practice. I mean, come on! It’s India for goodness’ sake, it’s not like we are going to look like the polished performances of Beulah Alliance. Ok, so maybe we might actually see if we know the tempo of a song before we sing it. That might be helpful. Chapel is just one part of the routine that exemplifies how I feel here. On one hand, it is a routine that makes me feel content, something I can depend on. On the other, I never know what I am going to get, and I face it with a mixture of apprehension and uncertainty. In spite of my insecurities, still the day trickles by, sort of like a creek runs…you cannot comprehend how much water is passing in the few minutes time that you spare it a glance. In between marking journals, preparing to teach English, doing devotions, hanging out with the students, and trying to decide if I should come home at Christmas or brave another three months in India….or the Philippines…..or Malaysia…..or…...
Hey…did you know what the ‘dot-dot-dot’ in writing is called? Well, you’re in luck, because you are reading the notes of Miss.I Am A Totally Incompetent English Teacher So I Have To Read English Textbooks, and therefore I have discovered that they are called “Ellipses points.” And as such, I have realized that I use them far too much in my writing. I’m sure that if this was in speech, they would be replacing many ‘ums’ and ‘hmms.’ Teaching English has come to be my fall-back for when my teetering emotional stability leans too far to the side of “Why am I here?!” which, unfortunately happens more than I had hoped. So when the unsettled feelings come, I revert to the need for me to teach! It is actually pretty crucial that the students here learn English, considering that some of them know barely more than “hello, my name is…” and yet are having five lecture sessions per day on the Bible, which are ALL in English. I pray that God will enable me to assist them in any way, incompetent teacher that I am, and I feel like so far we have been making progress, I have even given them a test, and most of them performed decently well! (Don’t be lured into thinking by this statement that my classes are all strict and boring….most of the time my classroom resembles more of a Kindergarten-style of teaching….games, songs, and BIG hand gestures and facial expressions. This week we were focussing on manners and dining room….it is a bit of a pain, now I am constantly aware when I have my elbows on the table :).
On an entirely different track, if you would like some wonderful India soundtracks….and no, I don’t mean like the soundtrack of the Hindi movie that we went and saw in Bangalore this past weekend (couldn’t understand a word, but the dancing and over-dramatization was hilarious-it was called “Blue” if you’re interested) but a soundtrack that has been on our playlist here, is Share the Well by Caedmon’s Call. It is a compilation of songs that they wrote when travelling around India, and for the most part, perfectly describes our experience! I’d definitely recommend the title track….although, when we were in Ooti, we were singing “Share the warmth” rather than “Well” because we were so freezing. Who knew India gets cold?!
Hmm…what else can I report? I suppose that I could ask for prayer. My spirit is in turmoil as I try to determine if I am supposed to come home at Christmas or if I should stay here and face whatever adventures come. Things would be tight financially if I do stay until March (when school here is finished), but if I go home for Christmas, then I would be able to spend a little more on a possible trip up to Delhi one of these weekends to see the Taj Mahal and Agra. The biggest worry in my mind is, if I go home, will I regret that I didn’t take every opportunity open to me for further travel and adventure? My heart is crying to be home for Christmas, to see my family and friends again, and start planning the whatever-comes-next after one goes to India. It feels like my life will have to be radically different now that I’ve lived half-way across the world. But how will I keep it from being just the same-old? So if you receive any divine revelations concerning my future, PLEASE tell me. It would be most appreciated.
My greatest love to all of you, I lift my mug of precious coffee to you (I know, I know, I’m in India, I’m supposed to be drinking Chai, but today we splurged and made some good ole ‘joe’) and wish you a bright day, may you have a surplus of the contentment and certainty in your life that seems to be lacking in mine. I remain…clinging to Psalm 143, in my words “Oh completer, finisher of all, in order to glorify Yourself, grasp my heart and continue its beating; be all that I could hope and rescue me from distress. Make our opposers impotent, unable even to speak, get rid of their offending presence entirely, because Your love is full of eternal passion, for I am Your servant.” (the last couple of verses.) This sustains me...this and the promise that Shardhamma, our cook, will give me a lesson in Indian cooking today….
P.S. I have to share this quote with you, my roommate gave it to me for when I am frustrated with certain people….
“Don’t be angry because an ass is annoying you…………………Be happy that you are not an ass”
Praise God for the little joys…
<3
Please congratulate me….I have been away from home for over five weeks now. I can hardly believe it has been that long...the adventures have been numerous, yet it all seems a bit foggy now that we have landed and planted here at Green Valley. Time moves at its own pace here, the schedule is…flexible. Yesterday, on a lovely walk with my roommates, we got a little lost in between Bommenahalli, Muchenahalli and Shampura….resulting in the English classes that we were supposed to be teaching, being a little late. But it was no problem. …Indian time rules state that no deadline is a set deadline…and I think this is a VERY good thing for my obsessive compulsive, STICK-to-the-schedule, personality.
Instead of writing this, I should be going to pick out the songs we will sing for Chapel this morning. Jay has appointed me “music head” when it comes to Chapel and Sunday service, so I have the task of trying to determine which song the students know, and will robustly shout out during service, entirely drowning out my voice, AND the guitar, and which songs they do NOT know, and therefore will stand there awkwardly looking at their pages, looking at me, with puppy-dog eyes that say “why are you ruining my worship time by picking songs I don’t know?” Forgive me….for I think I exaggerate a bit here….however, I feel license to, in my insecurity in being “music head.” Especially when Paupu (one of the older men on Staff, his wife is my surrogate ‘maamie’ ) specifically asks a group of us to meet ahead of time and make sure we practice. I mean, come on! It’s India for goodness’ sake, it’s not like we are going to look like the polished performances of Beulah Alliance. Ok, so maybe we might actually see if we know the tempo of a song before we sing it. That might be helpful. Chapel is just one part of the routine that exemplifies how I feel here. On one hand, it is a routine that makes me feel content, something I can depend on. On the other, I never know what I am going to get, and I face it with a mixture of apprehension and uncertainty. In spite of my insecurities, still the day trickles by, sort of like a creek runs…you cannot comprehend how much water is passing in the few minutes time that you spare it a glance. In between marking journals, preparing to teach English, doing devotions, hanging out with the students, and trying to decide if I should come home at Christmas or brave another three months in India….or the Philippines…..or Malaysia…..or…...
Hey…did you know what the ‘dot-dot-dot’ in writing is called? Well, you’re in luck, because you are reading the notes of Miss.I Am A Totally Incompetent English Teacher So I Have To Read English Textbooks, and therefore I have discovered that they are called “Ellipses points.” And as such, I have realized that I use them far too much in my writing. I’m sure that if this was in speech, they would be replacing many ‘ums’ and ‘hmms.’ Teaching English has come to be my fall-back for when my teetering emotional stability leans too far to the side of “Why am I here?!” which, unfortunately happens more than I had hoped. So when the unsettled feelings come, I revert to the need for me to teach! It is actually pretty crucial that the students here learn English, considering that some of them know barely more than “hello, my name is…” and yet are having five lecture sessions per day on the Bible, which are ALL in English. I pray that God will enable me to assist them in any way, incompetent teacher that I am, and I feel like so far we have been making progress, I have even given them a test, and most of them performed decently well! (Don’t be lured into thinking by this statement that my classes are all strict and boring….most of the time my classroom resembles more of a Kindergarten-style of teaching….games, songs, and BIG hand gestures and facial expressions. This week we were focussing on manners and dining room….it is a bit of a pain, now I am constantly aware when I have my elbows on the table :).
On an entirely different track, if you would like some wonderful India soundtracks….and no, I don’t mean like the soundtrack of the Hindi movie that we went and saw in Bangalore this past weekend (couldn’t understand a word, but the dancing and over-dramatization was hilarious-it was called “Blue” if you’re interested) but a soundtrack that has been on our playlist here, is Share the Well by Caedmon’s Call. It is a compilation of songs that they wrote when travelling around India, and for the most part, perfectly describes our experience! I’d definitely recommend the title track….although, when we were in Ooti, we were singing “Share the warmth” rather than “Well” because we were so freezing. Who knew India gets cold?!
Hmm…what else can I report? I suppose that I could ask for prayer. My spirit is in turmoil as I try to determine if I am supposed to come home at Christmas or if I should stay here and face whatever adventures come. Things would be tight financially if I do stay until March (when school here is finished), but if I go home for Christmas, then I would be able to spend a little more on a possible trip up to Delhi one of these weekends to see the Taj Mahal and Agra. The biggest worry in my mind is, if I go home, will I regret that I didn’t take every opportunity open to me for further travel and adventure? My heart is crying to be home for Christmas, to see my family and friends again, and start planning the whatever-comes-next after one goes to India. It feels like my life will have to be radically different now that I’ve lived half-way across the world. But how will I keep it from being just the same-old? So if you receive any divine revelations concerning my future, PLEASE tell me. It would be most appreciated.
My greatest love to all of you, I lift my mug of precious coffee to you (I know, I know, I’m in India, I’m supposed to be drinking Chai, but today we splurged and made some good ole ‘joe’) and wish you a bright day, may you have a surplus of the contentment and certainty in your life that seems to be lacking in mine. I remain…clinging to Psalm 143, in my words “Oh completer, finisher of all, in order to glorify Yourself, grasp my heart and continue its beating; be all that I could hope and rescue me from distress. Make our opposers impotent, unable even to speak, get rid of their offending presence entirely, because Your love is full of eternal passion, for I am Your servant.” (the last couple of verses.) This sustains me...this and the promise that Shardhamma, our cook, will give me a lesson in Indian cooking today….
P.S. I have to share this quote with you, my roommate gave it to me for when I am frustrated with certain people….
“Don’t be angry because an ass is annoying you…………………Be happy that you are not an ass”
Praise God for the little joys…
<3
Sunday, October 11, 2009
From my heart to yours
Hello Friends....
My heart is a bit torn today as I sit here in a little cyber-cafe in chikballipor, the small town closest to Green Valley, my stomping grounds for the next two months. The past couple of days have been a struggle, if I could describe it I would say it feels like growth....my soul is stretching.
To start, I must say that I realized recently the possible effect that the beautiful pictures I had the privilege of taking, and the wonderful things I got to do in the two weeks of our orientation, is to make all those wonderful, gracious friends who supported me wonder if they were contributing to missions, or my holiday! :) I feel as though this is something to be addressed, as it has plagued me a bit, as well. For some time, well, until I got settled at Green Valley, I have wondered at the purpose of my being in Asia. I SO desire it to be for a lasting, fruit-producing, time of growth and sharing of God's love with these people so far away and so in need of support. The orientation weeks really didn't look like that, they were a time of preparation, though. I don't know if it can be understood, all that I gained in that time. My mind was broadened, my perspective altered, as I learned about all of these different cultures I would need to embrace, as I introduced a new diet, new activity, a new purpose, to my life. Our orientation was a team-building time as we got to know each other, and a great way to ease into the lifestyle of most Asian countries. I worry that this sounds as though I am trying to convince you, when it is true. Although at the time, I had to convince myself. Looking back, however, I see it for the valuable time it was. Now, however, we get down to business!
Green Valley is my temporary home, it is about an hour north of Bangalore, in these stunning hills which remind me of the scenery around Jerusalem. I am sharing a room with Allison, the only other female intern, and, praise God, we have our own bathroom :). You have no idea the joy it brings me to walk into the 'CR' as a beloved Philippino friend calls it (Comfort Room) and see our little shelves of cosmetics sitting there, all ready to be used. It makes having no shower or bathtub almost worth it :). Sponge baths are the order of the day, and thankfully we have a water heater-coil which, although sketchy (I was slightly electrocuted upon primary usage), gives us a bucketful of hot water in about ten minutes! Much better than the previous routine of boiling water in the mornings to bath. I sleep in a bunk bed, with a mattress about 1 1/2 inches thick, and thankfully we have a fan in our room, but no climate control otherwise. These silly little comfort things are so unimportant, and yet they are some of the biggest differences from our culture in North America. Here, you just deal with the bugs, with the heat, with the bouncing busses and beaping horns. My mind starst to muddle into the common attitude of, 'why bother?' when I consider making improvements. This is just how things are. And why shouldn't they be? Why does our world need to adapt to us, instead of us having to adapt to the world? We are living in Babylon, are we not?!
Although my bags are unpacked, I feel that for some reason, it is a much more painstaking process to emotionally unpack being here. It isn't the place, and it isn't even the people, for some reason I feel as though I, myself, am the problem. Do not mistake me, this moroseness is fleeting, and I am easily distracted by praising with the students, most of whom I can barely pronounce their names, most of which whom can barely speak enough English to understand when I ask them their names.... English class preparation is another wonderful distraction! :) It took me until this morning, or maybe yesterday as well, to open my heart to embrace this place. I was questioning my purpose in being here, when I decided to play piano and was joined by two students who have already become precious to me, Comb and Melody, calling to me 'sister!' (every girl's Indian name), so excited that I play piano and sing. In God's love, I heard them tell me that they had prayed that God would send someone who loved music and would help teach them. Sister Lauren, Answer to Prayer! What an awesome reminder that this trip is GOD'S work, not mine, He will provide me with purpose, with joy, with contentment. I am so grateful also for the message this morning from Jay, as he spoke of simply following Christ, of letting Him lead me into the goodness of what He has planned, and not worrying about the future.
Another answer to prayer, through the sobs and muffled voice of talking with Ma Mere, I was blessed to hear how she had asked for prayer for me, from two lovely ladies at a church, and how they had prayed for a mother-figure for me during this time. Well, I think I've found her :) Her name is Chingluan, although the girls call her "mammie," and she is this wonderful lady from Myanmar who helps on staff at the school. She does the gardening, overseas housework, and is a counselor for the girl-students. What a beautiful lady she is, and already a great comfort to me. Although simple, and barred by language, I feel as though wisdom and comfort pour from her spirit.
My heart still yearns for those at home, and I will admit to some tears at the thought of their sweet care, and yet....so much to do! English class will start tomorrow, Allison and I will split the class into beginners and Intermediates, I will probably take the beginners (Oh, I have so much understanding and appreciation for Louis, when I see closer the difficulty of coming into a school where you don't know the language!) and teach an hour and a half class every weekday. I have the privilege of marking their journals, a reflection on what they are doing in devotions. I will also be doing some piano and singing classes. Last night we had a games night, and lo and behold, musical chairs, duck-duck-goose, and musical statues were the biggest of hits! The students are quick to laugh, to goof off, and ever-so-gracious in their appreciation of our presence. And beyond all of this?! Endless projects of gardens and painting and girl's-nights....
How, you ask, did I ever feel purposeless? Oh, just the mystery of me, I suppose! :)
Some extra tid-bits......did you know that in India they have a type of mint called 'tit-bits'? And at Green Valley they cut the grass by hand, with garden-shears/scythes and sweep it up with mini-brooms. Curry is the flavor of the month, year, decade, millenium, and thankfully, they have mastered enough ways to make it, that I have yet to become tired of it :) Everyday my spice-level is challenged and increased....In India we have huge beetles that sound like helicopters as they fly around, they are probably about the size of a loonie, and an inch tall. THankfully we are in the cool season right now, so at night it is a perfect temperature to sleep with just a sheet on the bed, although being out during the afternoon is still entirely foreign to the culture.
I feel good here, my body is doing amazingly well. Although I have been laughed at for this comment, I will repeat it, "I'm proud of my little immune system." I have a sniffle, but it isn't too bad, and everything else is working 'smoothly' :). But I will save the rest of the bathroom stories for a more personal correspondence.
Soon we will have internet directly from the school, and updating this will become much easier and more convenient!
How to end this.....this post takes the cake for most involved......I suppose I can only end with my deepest apologies for taking so much of your time to have to read this! Although, if your heart is as fond of mine as mine is of yours, any time, no matter length, to hear from you, is valued greater than gold (or should I say rupees....)
My heart is a bit torn today as I sit here in a little cyber-cafe in chikballipor, the small town closest to Green Valley, my stomping grounds for the next two months. The past couple of days have been a struggle, if I could describe it I would say it feels like growth....my soul is stretching.
To start, I must say that I realized recently the possible effect that the beautiful pictures I had the privilege of taking, and the wonderful things I got to do in the two weeks of our orientation, is to make all those wonderful, gracious friends who supported me wonder if they were contributing to missions, or my holiday! :) I feel as though this is something to be addressed, as it has plagued me a bit, as well. For some time, well, until I got settled at Green Valley, I have wondered at the purpose of my being in Asia. I SO desire it to be for a lasting, fruit-producing, time of growth and sharing of God's love with these people so far away and so in need of support. The orientation weeks really didn't look like that, they were a time of preparation, though. I don't know if it can be understood, all that I gained in that time. My mind was broadened, my perspective altered, as I learned about all of these different cultures I would need to embrace, as I introduced a new diet, new activity, a new purpose, to my life. Our orientation was a team-building time as we got to know each other, and a great way to ease into the lifestyle of most Asian countries. I worry that this sounds as though I am trying to convince you, when it is true. Although at the time, I had to convince myself. Looking back, however, I see it for the valuable time it was. Now, however, we get down to business!
Green Valley is my temporary home, it is about an hour north of Bangalore, in these stunning hills which remind me of the scenery around Jerusalem. I am sharing a room with Allison, the only other female intern, and, praise God, we have our own bathroom :). You have no idea the joy it brings me to walk into the 'CR' as a beloved Philippino friend calls it (Comfort Room) and see our little shelves of cosmetics sitting there, all ready to be used. It makes having no shower or bathtub almost worth it :). Sponge baths are the order of the day, and thankfully we have a water heater-coil which, although sketchy (I was slightly electrocuted upon primary usage), gives us a bucketful of hot water in about ten minutes! Much better than the previous routine of boiling water in the mornings to bath. I sleep in a bunk bed, with a mattress about 1 1/2 inches thick, and thankfully we have a fan in our room, but no climate control otherwise. These silly little comfort things are so unimportant, and yet they are some of the biggest differences from our culture in North America. Here, you just deal with the bugs, with the heat, with the bouncing busses and beaping horns. My mind starst to muddle into the common attitude of, 'why bother?' when I consider making improvements. This is just how things are. And why shouldn't they be? Why does our world need to adapt to us, instead of us having to adapt to the world? We are living in Babylon, are we not?!
Although my bags are unpacked, I feel that for some reason, it is a much more painstaking process to emotionally unpack being here. It isn't the place, and it isn't even the people, for some reason I feel as though I, myself, am the problem. Do not mistake me, this moroseness is fleeting, and I am easily distracted by praising with the students, most of whom I can barely pronounce their names, most of which whom can barely speak enough English to understand when I ask them their names.... English class preparation is another wonderful distraction! :) It took me until this morning, or maybe yesterday as well, to open my heart to embrace this place. I was questioning my purpose in being here, when I decided to play piano and was joined by two students who have already become precious to me, Comb and Melody, calling to me 'sister!' (every girl's Indian name), so excited that I play piano and sing. In God's love, I heard them tell me that they had prayed that God would send someone who loved music and would help teach them. Sister Lauren, Answer to Prayer! What an awesome reminder that this trip is GOD'S work, not mine, He will provide me with purpose, with joy, with contentment. I am so grateful also for the message this morning from Jay, as he spoke of simply following Christ, of letting Him lead me into the goodness of what He has planned, and not worrying about the future.
Another answer to prayer, through the sobs and muffled voice of talking with Ma Mere, I was blessed to hear how she had asked for prayer for me, from two lovely ladies at a church, and how they had prayed for a mother-figure for me during this time. Well, I think I've found her :) Her name is Chingluan, although the girls call her "mammie," and she is this wonderful lady from Myanmar who helps on staff at the school. She does the gardening, overseas housework, and is a counselor for the girl-students. What a beautiful lady she is, and already a great comfort to me. Although simple, and barred by language, I feel as though wisdom and comfort pour from her spirit.
My heart still yearns for those at home, and I will admit to some tears at the thought of their sweet care, and yet....so much to do! English class will start tomorrow, Allison and I will split the class into beginners and Intermediates, I will probably take the beginners (Oh, I have so much understanding and appreciation for Louis, when I see closer the difficulty of coming into a school where you don't know the language!) and teach an hour and a half class every weekday. I have the privilege of marking their journals, a reflection on what they are doing in devotions. I will also be doing some piano and singing classes. Last night we had a games night, and lo and behold, musical chairs, duck-duck-goose, and musical statues were the biggest of hits! The students are quick to laugh, to goof off, and ever-so-gracious in their appreciation of our presence. And beyond all of this?! Endless projects of gardens and painting and girl's-nights....
How, you ask, did I ever feel purposeless? Oh, just the mystery of me, I suppose! :)
Some extra tid-bits......did you know that in India they have a type of mint called 'tit-bits'? And at Green Valley they cut the grass by hand, with garden-shears/scythes and sweep it up with mini-brooms. Curry is the flavor of the month, year, decade, millenium, and thankfully, they have mastered enough ways to make it, that I have yet to become tired of it :) Everyday my spice-level is challenged and increased....In India we have huge beetles that sound like helicopters as they fly around, they are probably about the size of a loonie, and an inch tall. THankfully we are in the cool season right now, so at night it is a perfect temperature to sleep with just a sheet on the bed, although being out during the afternoon is still entirely foreign to the culture.
I feel good here, my body is doing amazingly well. Although I have been laughed at for this comment, I will repeat it, "I'm proud of my little immune system." I have a sniffle, but it isn't too bad, and everything else is working 'smoothly' :). But I will save the rest of the bathroom stories for a more personal correspondence.
Soon we will have internet directly from the school, and updating this will become much easier and more convenient!
How to end this.....this post takes the cake for most involved......I suppose I can only end with my deepest apologies for taking so much of your time to have to read this! Although, if your heart is as fond of mine as mine is of yours, any time, no matter length, to hear from you, is valued greater than gold (or should I say rupees....)
Sunday, September 27, 2009
Ok, from the top we have me on the beach here in Penang, in Batu Ferrenghi, as we walked through the surf at sunset. The second is me coming in from an exhilarating parasailing ride. Next down is Allison and I, exploring a little garden as we waited to go caving. The poolside picture is actually the view out of the window beside my bed at Harvest Haven, the Capernwray in Malaysia. And finally, our first accomodations in Malaysia, in Kuala Lumpur, the Renaissance Hotel, relaxing by the pool. Yes yes, I know, you are all wishing YOU could be on missions trips right now.... :) Don't worry, soon these pictures will turn to dirt roads and beggars the have captured my heart. Until then, it remains fragile, but whole, still recovering from leaving home....
Hey Folks!
Whew....our last full day in Penang, well, to be more specific, Batu Ferrenghi, a beautiful beach-town sector of Penang. My days are full of.....adventure! I DID end up doing the fish exfoliation therapy done, it was awesome, VERY ticklish, although I didn't really notice that much of a difference to my feet. I went parasailing! Could there be a more stunning, awe-inspiring thing in the world? I could only close my eyes and sing out my praises to God as I flew through the air with my arms raised in exultation! What joy! Beautiful doesn't begin to describe it. My days are spent exploring and chatting with a friendly German fellow who has become a regular companion and part of my day. I think I will be a bit lonely when he takes off to the Philippines....but India awaits! Today was full of surprises and blessings....we attended the international church of Penang, and go figure....I found myself walking up to Bob Pagee and his family, who are missionaries from my home church of Beulah Alliance and know my parents. At a time when I felt as though God was a little bit far away, and I was lonely here in Asia, He surprises me with the finding of a familiar face, and a service filled with righteous teaching and singing. My heart was lifted.
The afternoon was filled with exploring Georgetown, the colonial area of Penang, taking a tour of a mosque, and talking with a gentleman there, and attempting to search out a chocolate factory where they gave out free samples. Alas....it remains a mystery, as the heat and promise of a cool pool at our hotel tempted us away from the treasure hunt. After a quick dip I decided to update this, and on my way, walking down the bustling street, past street stalls and little mini-marts, not able to resist a chocolate ice cream on my way (1.50 RM, the equivalent of about 46 cents Canadian...). The melting heat made me lose some of the chocolate on the way, but I suppose my stained dress, (and my waist-line) will survive the loss. The Thai food we ate today was scrumptious, and I am once again tempted to get some blended mango drink at the market tonight.....so many choices, it is impossible to choose what food you'd like, but all of them are greasy and rich, and I find myself, in the midst of such abundance, wishing for one of mom's refreshing, delicious, salads. :)
Although I feel like this part of the trip isn't exactly what I signed up for, I am utterly grateful for the easing of this transition, into a different country, a different culture, a different world.
I wish you all could be here...
Whew....our last full day in Penang, well, to be more specific, Batu Ferrenghi, a beautiful beach-town sector of Penang. My days are full of.....adventure! I DID end up doing the fish exfoliation therapy done, it was awesome, VERY ticklish, although I didn't really notice that much of a difference to my feet. I went parasailing! Could there be a more stunning, awe-inspiring thing in the world? I could only close my eyes and sing out my praises to God as I flew through the air with my arms raised in exultation! What joy! Beautiful doesn't begin to describe it. My days are spent exploring and chatting with a friendly German fellow who has become a regular companion and part of my day. I think I will be a bit lonely when he takes off to the Philippines....but India awaits! Today was full of surprises and blessings....we attended the international church of Penang, and go figure....I found myself walking up to Bob Pagee and his family, who are missionaries from my home church of Beulah Alliance and know my parents. At a time when I felt as though God was a little bit far away, and I was lonely here in Asia, He surprises me with the finding of a familiar face, and a service filled with righteous teaching and singing. My heart was lifted.
The afternoon was filled with exploring Georgetown, the colonial area of Penang, taking a tour of a mosque, and talking with a gentleman there, and attempting to search out a chocolate factory where they gave out free samples. Alas....it remains a mystery, as the heat and promise of a cool pool at our hotel tempted us away from the treasure hunt. After a quick dip I decided to update this, and on my way, walking down the bustling street, past street stalls and little mini-marts, not able to resist a chocolate ice cream on my way (1.50 RM, the equivalent of about 46 cents Canadian...). The melting heat made me lose some of the chocolate on the way, but I suppose my stained dress, (and my waist-line) will survive the loss. The Thai food we ate today was scrumptious, and I am once again tempted to get some blended mango drink at the market tonight.....so many choices, it is impossible to choose what food you'd like, but all of them are greasy and rich, and I find myself, in the midst of such abundance, wishing for one of mom's refreshing, delicious, salads. :)
Although I feel like this part of the trip isn't exactly what I signed up for, I am utterly grateful for the easing of this transition, into a different country, a different culture, a different world.
I wish you all could be here...
Friday, September 25, 2009
Ate a Durian fruit-check
Walked in the surf of the ocean-check
Caught a miniature gecko-check
Got sand EVERYWHERE in our bedroom-check
The list could go on....but I will stop there :) I wish I could post some pictures, but unfortunately I left my camera cord back in our room at the Sri Sayang hotel, and can't plug in my camera! Maybe next time.....
I am currently in Penang Malaysia, enjoying +30 heat with a wicked humidity and lots of refreshing fruit juice and ice cream! I never thought I would be spending the first couple of weeks of my missions trip in paradise, but God has blessed us with this opportunity to experience a totally different place, with totally different people, and thoroughly enjoy ourselves as we do it! The scenery here includes lots of palm trees and white sand. The water is tourqoise, (I spelled that wrong didn't I? Well....maybe it's the Malay spelling :)) and the people are any mixture from dark brown to pale white (Me). Opportunities for adventure here are endless.....should I go parasailing today? Or maybe go to a restaurant that is inside an old pirate ship? Or maybe get my feet bitten by tiny little fish, so they come out soft and clean? (apparently it's the biggest thing here in Asia!) I will let you know what I decide...maybe all of them? Sending all of my love from Penang......I will return later, and possibly with pictures......
Ciao!
Walked in the surf of the ocean-check
Caught a miniature gecko-check
Got sand EVERYWHERE in our bedroom-check
The list could go on....but I will stop there :) I wish I could post some pictures, but unfortunately I left my camera cord back in our room at the Sri Sayang hotel, and can't plug in my camera! Maybe next time.....
I am currently in Penang Malaysia, enjoying +30 heat with a wicked humidity and lots of refreshing fruit juice and ice cream! I never thought I would be spending the first couple of weeks of my missions trip in paradise, but God has blessed us with this opportunity to experience a totally different place, with totally different people, and thoroughly enjoy ourselves as we do it! The scenery here includes lots of palm trees and white sand. The water is tourqoise, (I spelled that wrong didn't I? Well....maybe it's the Malay spelling :)) and the people are any mixture from dark brown to pale white (Me). Opportunities for adventure here are endless.....should I go parasailing today? Or maybe go to a restaurant that is inside an old pirate ship? Or maybe get my feet bitten by tiny little fish, so they come out soft and clean? (apparently it's the biggest thing here in Asia!) I will let you know what I decide...maybe all of them? Sending all of my love from Penang......I will return later, and possibly with pictures......
Ciao!
Saturday, September 19, 2009
Lost but Happy at Sea
I am in Singapore. Actually! Ok, well, I'm in the airport...does that count? The adventure has begun. And how do I feel? Unsure....I suppose. I've never been this far away from home, with strangers, without any idea what my destination will look like. Saying goodbye was painful, I think I knew ahead of time that it would be, but that didn't change its difficulty.
Part of me worries.....what if this ends up being something I have to 'get through,' something just to 'survive,' until I am home again, safe, comfortable, ready to 'move on' with my life. I don't want that. Not at all. I suppose I am lacking a trusting faith......may the LORD complete his adventure that He has begun, may He finish the work He is doing in me.
It has been over 24 hours since I said goodbye to my loved ones, and already I miss them, but I am hoping that the tear in my heart will heal up soon, mended by the warm smiles and snack-sharing of my fellow-travellers; interns and future brothers and sisters. Praise God for bringing me this far, I must admit, there is an intense thrill in my Spirit at this time, to have jumped with both feet, to fall entirely without hold, into the arms of my Savior, in this new way.
Praise God <3
P.S. My love is extending over the ocean to all of you at home....be assured that you are on my heart and in my mind.
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Tomorrow, Tomorrow! I'm scared of you...tomorrow!
I leave tomorrow. I should probably be asleep and not writing this right now, but I couldn't resist the urge, since I was checking email one last time, anyway! I had my first minor freak-out today, a beloved-roommate (totally innocently :)) put it in my head that I need Malaria pills, and that I might be bored there.....and suddenly I realized......what if I hate it?!
But with some prayer and an angel in disguise (My Twigg) I was able to move past it :)
Dang.....my family is being so nice to me because I am leaving! Sometimes I wish they would just be mean and grumpy, then I wouldn't want to stay so badly. Each and every one of them are such beautiful people. They are so precious to me.
Well....like it or not, I am leaving tomorrow (God-willing) and I am ok with that. I am ok with trying something this new. With trusting God to be that big. With learning my limitations. And, possibly, with admitting defeat. I will always have a home here, and that is a comforting thought. But truly, should not my home be wherever I am at the moment, because my Lord and Savior is always with me?
Praise God.....may He give me strength <3
But with some prayer and an angel in disguise (My Twigg) I was able to move past it :)
Dang.....my family is being so nice to me because I am leaving! Sometimes I wish they would just be mean and grumpy, then I wouldn't want to stay so badly. Each and every one of them are such beautiful people. They are so precious to me.
Well....like it or not, I am leaving tomorrow (God-willing) and I am ok with that. I am ok with trying something this new. With trusting God to be that big. With learning my limitations. And, possibly, with admitting defeat. I will always have a home here, and that is a comforting thought. But truly, should not my home be wherever I am at the moment, because my Lord and Savior is always with me?
Praise God.....may He give me strength <3
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Getting Ready
Whew! I suppose that most members of the female species would really enjoy a full day of shopping, but I, on the other hand, find it exhausting! However, the increased feeling of preparedness is a bonus. I have officially bought all the things I need for India. I am currently up to my ears in hand sanitizer, mini kleenex, vitamins (including fibre supplements :)), and wet wipes. It makes me really excited (especially the fibre supplements. Just kidding.....although I probably won't be once I'm there and actually need them.)
My to-do list is down to something like 3 items....which, coincidently is the number of sleeps I have left in my own bed. Do you remember being little and counting everything by "how many sleeps!?!" Christmas, vacation, birthdays.....it all came down to sleeps. And now that I am beyond that, I find myself wishing I could sleep....I am so excited I often wake up at about 7 o clock with my eyes wide open and my nerves saying "get up! You're leaving soon! So much to do!!!" and I drowsily turn over and wish I could turn off the excitement for a couple more hours. Oh well, all part of the experience, I suppose!
I am thinking that the one item I will miss the most, yet can't bring, is going to be difficult to leave behind. Can you guess? Yes....you're right. It's chocolate :) unfortunately I believe that the average temp of 29 degrees C will melt my lovely chocolate into a perfectly delicious puddle, and I will be left bereft, and therefore have opted not to bring any (well.....I do have some for the airplane....but nothing for once I arrive....). I guess that when I return home to the abundance of chocolate in my house at Christmas time, I will be duly rewarded for my abstinence.
Two and a half days......time is flying, it will be difficult to determine the best use of the little time left....but I suppose the Grace of God will suffice for all that I cannot do.
My to-do list is down to something like 3 items....which, coincidently is the number of sleeps I have left in my own bed. Do you remember being little and counting everything by "how many sleeps!?!" Christmas, vacation, birthdays.....it all came down to sleeps. And now that I am beyond that, I find myself wishing I could sleep....I am so excited I often wake up at about 7 o clock with my eyes wide open and my nerves saying "get up! You're leaving soon! So much to do!!!" and I drowsily turn over and wish I could turn off the excitement for a couple more hours. Oh well, all part of the experience, I suppose!
I am thinking that the one item I will miss the most, yet can't bring, is going to be difficult to leave behind. Can you guess? Yes....you're right. It's chocolate :) unfortunately I believe that the average temp of 29 degrees C will melt my lovely chocolate into a perfectly delicious puddle, and I will be left bereft, and therefore have opted not to bring any (well.....I do have some for the airplane....but nothing for once I arrive....). I guess that when I return home to the abundance of chocolate in my house at Christmas time, I will be duly rewarded for my abstinence.
Two and a half days......time is flying, it will be difficult to determine the best use of the little time left....but I suppose the Grace of God will suffice for all that I cannot do.
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Scared
Tonight I am coming back to this blog in the middle of WAY too many things! :) It feels like I never have enough time to do everything, and yet I find myself bored and taking on more things. It's the procrastinator in me. So now that I am down to 9 (I say 8, I can't count the day I leave!) days, I find myself with a rather large list of things still needed to be addressed. Things like.....acquiring some Indian Rupees (is that even how you spell it?!), wrapping gifts for friends/family who will have birthdays while I am gone, and putting leather protector on the new walking sandals I bought. (Ok, well....mom bought them for me :)) I also have to stack my ipod with all the songs I am sure I will miss listening to while there.....who knows!? I might need an extra hit of Elton John one day, and Regina Spektor the next!
I said goodbye today to the family I have been nannying for.... I will miss them a lot. All those sticky fingers and screams of "I have to go potty" have endeared themselves to my heart to the point where I know I will miss them like phantom pains when one loses a limb. I'll miss the dimpled smiles.......the half-hearted attempts at the alphabet, ending with "j,k,l....I love you!!!!"........reading some of my childhood favorites and keeping them spellbound....
*Sigh. :) But it is a good goodbye. Maybe that's why they call it "GOODbye," because if you are taking the time and making the effort to say it, it is good. Good for your soul.
The next chapter awaits....only a few more sentences to finish this one off, and I can apprehensively turn the next page.....
I said goodbye today to the family I have been nannying for.... I will miss them a lot. All those sticky fingers and screams of "I have to go potty" have endeared themselves to my heart to the point where I know I will miss them like phantom pains when one loses a limb. I'll miss the dimpled smiles.......the half-hearted attempts at the alphabet, ending with "j,k,l....I love you!!!!"........reading some of my childhood favorites and keeping them spellbound....
*Sigh. :) But it is a good goodbye. Maybe that's why they call it "GOODbye," because if you are taking the time and making the effort to say it, it is good. Good for your soul.
The next chapter awaits....only a few more sentences to finish this one off, and I can apprehensively turn the next page.....
Saturday, September 5, 2009
I've made a map!
With much success thanks to Google Maps, I've created a map of my travels....it's quite exhausting just to look at, but I think it will be cool for everyone at home to see the actual starts and stops I will be making (and be able to appreciate how completely exhausted I will be when I arrive). If you would like to take a look, here's the link,
View Rise on the wings of the dawn.... in a larger map
Ok, so I know it's really long. It's really complicated, though! :) You can also just search it on Google maps, it's called "Rise on the wings of the dawn" (thanks, Psalm 139)
View Rise on the wings of the dawn.... in a larger map
Ok, so I know it's really long. It's really complicated, though! :) You can also just search it on Google maps, it's called "Rise on the wings of the dawn" (thanks, Psalm 139)
Thursday, September 3, 2009
The beginning
Today, right now, comfortable at home, I begin my blog. This is for everyone who I will fail to email while I am in India, and lack the monetary assistance to call from such a distance. This is also for me, as selfish as that sounds. So in later years, when I am surrounded by mounting piles of books and work, I can read back and see that once, I was an adventurer. Once, I was brave. Once, I followed Christ to a totally different side of the World, and learned from Him there.
Thank you for reading my blog, I am quite honestly, flattered. I hope it brings you some joy, and some insight into my life, and the crazy twists and turns it shall take in the next three months.
So why, you ask, do I start today? Because until now I have been busying myself with working two jobs, and running around the place trying to organize things. I start today, because in 15 days I will be flying from the Edmonton International Airport at 12:30 in the afternoon, to (eventually) India. I am taking part in the Asia Practicum Program through Torchbearers International, and living at a small bible college for Indian students and teaching, working, and hopefully furthering God's Kingdom, there for three months. I am very excited. And very scared.
So what is the plan for the next 14 days? Pack. Buy the stuff I'll need (sleeping pills.... :)). Say goodbye. All of which I'm sure I will make more difficult and complicated than need be. But nothing can stop this from being, entirely, Christ's trip. I could not, would not, do this on my own. But in His name, by His power, I am leaping off this cliff, and can't wait to see how He'll catch me.
Stay tuned for more updates.....(I promise it will be more interesting as the time goes on.......)
Thank you for reading my blog, I am quite honestly, flattered. I hope it brings you some joy, and some insight into my life, and the crazy twists and turns it shall take in the next three months.
So why, you ask, do I start today? Because until now I have been busying myself with working two jobs, and running around the place trying to organize things. I start today, because in 15 days I will be flying from the Edmonton International Airport at 12:30 in the afternoon, to (eventually) India. I am taking part in the Asia Practicum Program through Torchbearers International, and living at a small bible college for Indian students and teaching, working, and hopefully furthering God's Kingdom, there for three months. I am very excited. And very scared.
So what is the plan for the next 14 days? Pack. Buy the stuff I'll need (sleeping pills.... :)). Say goodbye. All of which I'm sure I will make more difficult and complicated than need be. But nothing can stop this from being, entirely, Christ's trip. I could not, would not, do this on my own. But in His name, by His power, I am leaping off this cliff, and can't wait to see how He'll catch me.
Stay tuned for more updates.....(I promise it will be more interesting as the time goes on.......)
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