One of the highlights of the vacation was the sight seeing that I would get to do. Switzerland is a very old country, and I was looking forward to learning a little about it's history.
As I was going to Interlaken, I took the time to go to Luzern, a train stop along the way. It was recommended to me that if I had 30 minutes to go and see the foot bridge there and take in the art work on the bridge. So I planned to do that. I actually met an American woman who was doing the same thing, and together we enjoyed the winter market, the foot bridge, and the view of the lake there. We had a great conversation for the 2 hours, talking about our careers and talking about Switzerland. The foot bridge was cool. It had over 150 different mural paintings overhead which told stories of kings, battles, and the history of the town.
On my free day in Interlaken, I had an interesting barefoot language learning opportunity. As I was finishing up a nice lunch, a family with young children were sitting in front of me. The daughter, 6, was drawing on the back of the paper place mat while the son, 3, was running around the restaurant. As the mom chased her son, I went up to the girl to see what she was doing. She had drawn her family, the sun, a flower, and trees. So I asked her what each of these were, and she told me. Then I drew a similar picture of my family in the town, and from that picture she told me the German words for mountain, cloud, sun, train, river, mom, and dad. Of course some things are tough to communicate, as barefoot language learning will teach anyone, but I thought this was a good start. Roger Haun would be proud of me for taking this initive on my vacation. :) I did want to learn to greet people in German while on the trip, and I was able to after several days.
Of course while I was in Interlaken I was skiing. I did find an animal park up a mountain, and saw some cute mountain goats and a beautiful overlook of the city. I also saw the downtown district-which had some old catholic churches, one methodist church, a courthouse, and a lot of old buildings. They had some nice shopping areas and restaurants, which I explored in the evenings. And, George, they even had a real casino in the town.
In Zurich I took my time to explore various places. Saturday when I arrived I was tired and wanted to rest a bit. So I checked into my hotel and after a light nap decided to go exploring. My exploring led me to an adventure. I found news of a winter market in a nearby town that I could get to by train. I decided this would be my evening entertainment, and went there for 3 hours to look around. These markets are like any holiday fair-winter crafts, food, etc. In Switzerland you'll find the fondue as well. By the way, I'm obviously not European-I do not like the smell of that cheese. But I couldn't help but to think of my cousin Kriss, knowing she loves cheese and thinking she'd be in heaven there. A highlight at this market was finding a beautiful rug of a hand stitched angel. I didn't see the price for the rug, but I'd bet anything it was > $1500. I asked if I could take a picture of it, but my batteries were too cold to get the camera to work.
My Sunday exploring took me into the heart of Zurich. I went to a church service at 10, and then hit a few museums in the afternoon. They had a 1/3 marathon during the day, which made getting around the town difficult. I was able to see all I wanted to see, and had a good time touring the city. I wanted to get the chance to catch a guided tour, but found out that in december they go every other weekend. I happened to be there at the off weekend.
I'll write a note about the church service. It was a light service. As it was in German, i didn't understand anything, but I observed. They started promptly at 10 with the usher locking the main door at that time. Late guests could come in by using a side door entrace and sit in the balcony. The service opened with a liturgy reading, 2 hymns, what seemed like announcements, which I was surprised by, and then the first prayer of the service 30 minutes into the service. After the prayer they had the children's christmas program, which was cute. The kids were wooded creatures who seem to notice something going on. Two of them played instruments, and played them very well for their ages. I did find myself laughing at their hyperness, noone could sit still and several waved at their parents during the play. But it was cute. As the play ended, the leader stood up again, led in 2 verses of the last hymn, and dismissed us with no prayer. An offering was collected as we walked out the doors.
On Monday I took the day to go to the zoo. The zoo was a fun time, though some of the animals were missing in action. Even my cold weather friendly otters were cuddled close together. The lions were huddled together, the tiger I was hoping to see was gone. It was sorta funny seeing the elephants slip on the ice as they walked in their pen. They had a lot of penguins who were enjoying the weather and the swimming conditions. I did get to see some shy sea lions, flamingos, dart frogs, and a few birds. There were some elk, sheep, goats, cows, and various other farm animals there, too. The highlight of the zoo, though, was the climate controlled rainforest they had on display. The rainforest was basically an enclosed greenhouse which regulated its temperature. It wanted to be about 90 degrees F, but this day it was closer to 75. That's a lot of heat when outside it's 30, so I wasn't surprised 75 was all they could do. I saw some monkeys in the rainforest. There was a nice waterfall, lots of plants and vegetation, and quite a few birds. I was looking hard for a lizard or two, but never saw one. It was a good trip.
And I was hoping my new friend, Jennifer, could come with me to the zoo. She was packing to go back to the states later in the week, but we did meet for breakfast that morning. Our conversation was a great highlight and closing to the trip, as I got to debrief a bit about my adventures. We also talked greatly about our world view understanding and how to possibly contribute to the human needs that are so rampant in the world today.
These were my adventures in Zurich. So much to share, as you can tell. I hope this whetted your appetite to know how the trip was. If you have any questions or want more details, please email me and let me know.
Sunday, December 21, 2008
Vacation news-skiing!
My purpose for this vacation was a skiing get-away. I was really excited to get the chance to ski the Alps, and not sure that I quite understood how unique a chance this was until I got on the mountains. The scenery and conditions were unbelievable, and any pictures that I show do not do Grindelwald justice. I'll mention a few of the highlights.
I took my time Tuesday to scout the area, learn how the transportation system works, and get acclimated to the cold weather by staying outside for most of the day. By Wednesday I was ready to go. I heard on the news the weather was going to be pretty bad Wednesday, so I didn't rush to get up the mountain. I was finally on the slopes around 10 I think, and found my way up to a top at 11. There I found that I couldn't see at all! I had no idea where I was going. I couldn't even see the quad lift that I had just gotten off of, which was probably 30 feet above my head. Unlike mountains in NC which have some visible vegetation on the edge of the ski slope, these mountains were covered with the same layer of snow-so you couldn't tell the difference between the path and what wasn't the path. But I braved myself and began. As I started down the slope, I said, ok, I just have to stay between the markers. Then I realized my dilemma: I can't see the markers! The only thing left for me to do was to ski toward the right until I saw the right marker, then steer left looking for the one on the left, and do that as I traversed down the mountain. I got off the trail once not realizing the path turned. And then I caught up with a group of beginners, and we helped each other down the mountain. I braved the trip a second time before going home feeling somewhat defeated by the thick snowcloud from the day. It certainly isn't fun skiing in a cloud when you can't see 50 feet in front of you.
The next day was a bit better day. It was still snowing, but visibility was maybe 300 feet. I could see 3-4 markers ahead of me, but I still had to stop oftentimes to judge what I had to do next, where turns were in the path, and how steep the hill was. I battled this problem by staying on the same 2 paths all day, basically memorizing the turns and traverses until I was comfortable skiing them.
Friday was a perfect day for skiing. You could see the horizon, so seeing was not a problem. And I tore it up this day! I had such a good time. I had my ski legs, I knew some trails and had an idea where some were higher up the mountain. And I used that to tie trails together. After doing that, I started making my own trails down the mountain, connecting trails, skiing in fresh snow and just skiing the entire mountain. It was a great day for skiing. The only complaint I had from the day was the grooming. For some strange reason they wanted to groom fresh powder. The grooming leaves a light layer of water on the top of the snow, which turns to ice. Ice is never fun to ski on, and the more it is skied on the thicker it gets. At the base of the mountain and at a sharp turn in 2 trails it was especially rough. It was a good time for skiing, though, and I got my fill. I was exhausted Friday evening. But I was so glad that I got to ski.
I took my time Tuesday to scout the area, learn how the transportation system works, and get acclimated to the cold weather by staying outside for most of the day. By Wednesday I was ready to go. I heard on the news the weather was going to be pretty bad Wednesday, so I didn't rush to get up the mountain. I was finally on the slopes around 10 I think, and found my way up to a top at 11. There I found that I couldn't see at all! I had no idea where I was going. I couldn't even see the quad lift that I had just gotten off of, which was probably 30 feet above my head. Unlike mountains in NC which have some visible vegetation on the edge of the ski slope, these mountains were covered with the same layer of snow-so you couldn't tell the difference between the path and what wasn't the path. But I braved myself and began. As I started down the slope, I said, ok, I just have to stay between the markers. Then I realized my dilemma: I can't see the markers! The only thing left for me to do was to ski toward the right until I saw the right marker, then steer left looking for the one on the left, and do that as I traversed down the mountain. I got off the trail once not realizing the path turned. And then I caught up with a group of beginners, and we helped each other down the mountain. I braved the trip a second time before going home feeling somewhat defeated by the thick snowcloud from the day. It certainly isn't fun skiing in a cloud when you can't see 50 feet in front of you.
The next day was a bit better day. It was still snowing, but visibility was maybe 300 feet. I could see 3-4 markers ahead of me, but I still had to stop oftentimes to judge what I had to do next, where turns were in the path, and how steep the hill was. I battled this problem by staying on the same 2 paths all day, basically memorizing the turns and traverses until I was comfortable skiing them.
Friday was a perfect day for skiing. You could see the horizon, so seeing was not a problem. And I tore it up this day! I had such a good time. I had my ski legs, I knew some trails and had an idea where some were higher up the mountain. And I used that to tie trails together. After doing that, I started making my own trails down the mountain, connecting trails, skiing in fresh snow and just skiing the entire mountain. It was a great day for skiing. The only complaint I had from the day was the grooming. For some strange reason they wanted to groom fresh powder. The grooming leaves a light layer of water on the top of the snow, which turns to ice. Ice is never fun to ski on, and the more it is skied on the thicker it gets. At the base of the mountain and at a sharp turn in 2 trails it was especially rough. It was a good time for skiing, though, and I got my fill. I was exhausted Friday evening. But I was so glad that I got to ski.
Vacation News-transportation
I had a great time vacationing in Switzerland, and hope to tell a little about it with you. I'll start with the travel arrangements. I asked a travel agency in Florida to help with the trip, and planned the trip with their assistance. I was going to arrive in Zurich at lunchtime on Monday and then have the afternoon to get to Interlaken where my hotel was. Well, this day was a fun travel day. I didn't sleep much the previous night from being so excited, and the flights were during the morning hours when I sleep light. Between connecting flights, I had one hour to get from one plane to the next. Knowing that, I half expected my luggage not to make it all the way, so I packed extra clothes in my carry on to tie me over. I'm glad I did that, because I didn't see my clothes until Wednesday night. It worked out, though.
I'll tell you a little about public transport in Switzerland. I took trains everywhere I went, basically. To get to Interlaken, I had to take 3 separate trains to get there. I had a pass which allowed me to get from the airport to any destination and back within a month, so I was able to use this pass to come to Interlaken and then get back to the city. I can read maps pretty well no matter where I'm at, so figuring out the right train and the time schedule didn't take much studying. And I actually gave myself some time to visit a town along the way.
Transportation while I was skiing was interesting as well. My lift ticket included transportation to the lift, which I didn't realize at first. But here's what I had to do. I had to walk from my hotel to a bus stop to catch a bus to take me to the train depot. From there I'd take from 1-3 trains, depending on where I wanted to go, to get to the lift. These lifts would take you to the base of the mountain where you could ski to a quad lift to begin skiing. So maybe I'm painting an adequate picture that I'd catch a bus to catch a train to catch a train to get on a bus to catch a lift to catch another lift to get on a lift to start skiing. This process usually took 2 hours, so I had to remember that as I was coming down, too. I didn't want to get caught out there after dark (4:30) when the schedules would change. So I timed it that I could ski from about 9:30 until 4 comfortably. And I ate a good breakfast, usually skipped lunch, and then had a big supper while skiing to utilize all the time I could with skiing.
What is some other transportation news? Oh! Here's a good one. I saw a sign coming in on the train that anyone caught without a validated ticket would be fined, and then if it happened a 2nd time they would be fined more and possibly given a trial. But I never saw people inside of Zurich (the large town) be asked for their tickets. I wondered if they did check tickets. I found out on Monday that they do! There was a random stop that our tram was at. Five ticket agents boarded the tram to ask passengers for their tickets. I proudly showed mine and watched as I counted 6 people escourted off the tram to pay a fine through their computer scanner, which scanned credit cards. People using public transportation without paying for tickets is a problem in Zurich. There weren't 15 people on the tram, and for 33% of our population to be traveling without a ticket spells a problem.
I was overall very impressed with the transportation in Switzerland. If I lived there I would not own a car. You can go anywhere you want to go in high class comfort on the trains, trams, and buses. This is what I would wish the States would be able to adopt. It would take years and billions of dollars to grow, but once it was established, there would be minimal problems. The trains are electric, so there are no pollutants coming from them. Also, it's very relaxing to read a book, talk with a neighbor, or look at scenery while you're riding.
I'll tell you a little about public transport in Switzerland. I took trains everywhere I went, basically. To get to Interlaken, I had to take 3 separate trains to get there. I had a pass which allowed me to get from the airport to any destination and back within a month, so I was able to use this pass to come to Interlaken and then get back to the city. I can read maps pretty well no matter where I'm at, so figuring out the right train and the time schedule didn't take much studying. And I actually gave myself some time to visit a town along the way.
Transportation while I was skiing was interesting as well. My lift ticket included transportation to the lift, which I didn't realize at first. But here's what I had to do. I had to walk from my hotel to a bus stop to catch a bus to take me to the train depot. From there I'd take from 1-3 trains, depending on where I wanted to go, to get to the lift. These lifts would take you to the base of the mountain where you could ski to a quad lift to begin skiing. So maybe I'm painting an adequate picture that I'd catch a bus to catch a train to catch a train to get on a bus to catch a lift to catch another lift to get on a lift to start skiing. This process usually took 2 hours, so I had to remember that as I was coming down, too. I didn't want to get caught out there after dark (4:30) when the schedules would change. So I timed it that I could ski from about 9:30 until 4 comfortably. And I ate a good breakfast, usually skipped lunch, and then had a big supper while skiing to utilize all the time I could with skiing.
What is some other transportation news? Oh! Here's a good one. I saw a sign coming in on the train that anyone caught without a validated ticket would be fined, and then if it happened a 2nd time they would be fined more and possibly given a trial. But I never saw people inside of Zurich (the large town) be asked for their tickets. I wondered if they did check tickets. I found out on Monday that they do! There was a random stop that our tram was at. Five ticket agents boarded the tram to ask passengers for their tickets. I proudly showed mine and watched as I counted 6 people escourted off the tram to pay a fine through their computer scanner, which scanned credit cards. People using public transportation without paying for tickets is a problem in Zurich. There weren't 15 people on the tram, and for 33% of our population to be traveling without a ticket spells a problem.
I was overall very impressed with the transportation in Switzerland. If I lived there I would not own a car. You can go anywhere you want to go in high class comfort on the trains, trams, and buses. This is what I would wish the States would be able to adopt. It would take years and billions of dollars to grow, but once it was established, there would be minimal problems. The trains are electric, so there are no pollutants coming from them. Also, it's very relaxing to read a book, talk with a neighbor, or look at scenery while you're riding.
Friday, December 19, 2008
i'm back
Hey Everyone!
I just wanted to write a note to say that I have returned from my vacation. Since I've been back, the adjustment has been somewhat difficult. Tuesday there was no power at my house. Wed-Thurs there was no water, and Thursday and today I've had flu-like symptoms. All of that makes for a tough transition. But thankfully I am getting a little more energy and slowly getting my house back in order.
I'll post a few stories about my adventure later this weekend, so please keep checking in. Thanks for your prayers for my ministry and for the vacation. I love each of you!
I just wanted to write a note to say that I have returned from my vacation. Since I've been back, the adjustment has been somewhat difficult. Tuesday there was no power at my house. Wed-Thurs there was no water, and Thursday and today I've had flu-like symptoms. All of that makes for a tough transition. But thankfully I am getting a little more energy and slowly getting my house back in order.
I'll post a few stories about my adventure later this weekend, so please keep checking in. Thanks for your prayers for my ministry and for the vacation. I love each of you!
Friday, December 5, 2008
paper trail of trip
As many of you know, I am taking a ski vacation to Europe next week. I am very excited about going, though I will be going by myself. So I wanted to let you know my agenda, and as a wise person reminded me, "it is always good to leave an agenda when you go on an overseas trip."
So here's some of the details.
flight schedule:
1 TP 210 08DEC DKR to LIS SS1 255A 650A
2 TP 920 08DEC LIS to ZRH SS1 750A 1140A
3 TP 927 15DEC ZRH to LIS SS1 655P 845P
4 TP 209 15DEC LIS to DKR SS1 945P 155A
I will arrive in Zurich on Dec. 8th at 11:30 and take the Golden Pass train to Interlaken, where I will stay monday-friday night. I'll be skiing wed-fri in Interlaken. In interlaken I will be staying at the Chalet Hotel.
Saturday I plan to take the same Golden Pass train back to Zurich and spend the remaining 2 nights sight seeing around Zurich before coming back to Dakar Monday evening. I have reservations for the Fly Away hotel in Zurich.
So that's the specifics of the trip. It looks like I'll get some really good weather. Snow is forecasted for the ski days, and sunshine is forecasted for the days in Zurich. I'll be sure to take lots of pictures and share them.
Please pray for safe and timely travel. This will be my first time catching a train by myself, and although I have it figured out, I do hope that it is running smooth. They are changing the train times next weekend, so hopefully the schedules haven't changed much.
So here's some of the details.
flight schedule:
1 TP 210 08DEC DKR to LIS SS1 255A 650A
2 TP 920 08DEC LIS to ZRH SS1 750A 1140A
3 TP 927 15DEC ZRH to LIS SS1 655P 845P
4 TP 209 15DEC LIS to DKR SS1 945P 155A
I will arrive in Zurich on Dec. 8th at 11:30 and take the Golden Pass train to Interlaken, where I will stay monday-friday night. I'll be skiing wed-fri in Interlaken. In interlaken I will be staying at the Chalet Hotel.
Saturday I plan to take the same Golden Pass train back to Zurich and spend the remaining 2 nights sight seeing around Zurich before coming back to Dakar Monday evening. I have reservations for the Fly Away hotel in Zurich.
So that's the specifics of the trip. It looks like I'll get some really good weather. Snow is forecasted for the ski days, and sunshine is forecasted for the days in Zurich. I'll be sure to take lots of pictures and share them.
Please pray for safe and timely travel. This will be my first time catching a train by myself, and although I have it figured out, I do hope that it is running smooth. They are changing the train times next weekend, so hopefully the schedules haven't changed much.
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
opps! forgot a story!
In writing my prayer update, I realized that I forgot to include a story from last month. Since I'm suggesting that details of all the stories I mention are in the blog, it'd be good to include this one!
One Saturday in November, my supervisor Elliott and I both went out into our surrounding community to do what he termed a 'prayer drive.' I'll give him credit for that, but I like that term. We were and will continue to drive the community with the purpose of mapping some of the nearby Wolof villages and hope to one day begin reaching into these villages. We'll probably try to do this 2x each month.
During this drive in November, we decided to take a turn off the road we were on to do some exploring. The road dead ended into a village. Seeing some men sitting together on mats under a tree, we got out and greeted them. After a few minutes they introduced the village chief to us, and he and Elliott had a nice conversation together. It turns out the village chief speaks very good English. He had been to NYC for 7 years and drove a taxi.
We talked briefly about the life they live in the village-school, work, farming, family. We also indicated to him that we would like to return and visit-even share stories and bring more friends to help assist them, if possible. He said that would be good and would look forward to talking again. So I am sure that Elliott and I will continue to work in this village. Please lift them up in your prayers. There is no doubt that God led us to this village as we would never expect to randomly find one village in the middle of nowhere on our first visit to have an English-speaking Wolof village chief who would be willing to work with Christian Americans in his village. Praise God for opening this door!
One Saturday in November, my supervisor Elliott and I both went out into our surrounding community to do what he termed a 'prayer drive.' I'll give him credit for that, but I like that term. We were and will continue to drive the community with the purpose of mapping some of the nearby Wolof villages and hope to one day begin reaching into these villages. We'll probably try to do this 2x each month.
During this drive in November, we decided to take a turn off the road we were on to do some exploring. The road dead ended into a village. Seeing some men sitting together on mats under a tree, we got out and greeted them. After a few minutes they introduced the village chief to us, and he and Elliott had a nice conversation together. It turns out the village chief speaks very good English. He had been to NYC for 7 years and drove a taxi.
We talked briefly about the life they live in the village-school, work, farming, family. We also indicated to him that we would like to return and visit-even share stories and bring more friends to help assist them, if possible. He said that would be good and would look forward to talking again. So I am sure that Elliott and I will continue to work in this village. Please lift them up in your prayers. There is no doubt that God led us to this village as we would never expect to randomly find one village in the middle of nowhere on our first visit to have an English-speaking Wolof village chief who would be willing to work with Christian Americans in his village. Praise God for opening this door!
ReNew Conference
Our region allows for a time that first term workers can get together to discuss areas in ministry that we have struggled with as well as areas we found were successful. This conference met this week. We discussed:
-the importance of covenants with supervisors, having them, how to stay accountable to them, now to make them more relevant to our ministry
-relationships with believers, non-believers, team mates, those in authority over us, and even relationships with family and with ourselves.
-exit strategy, such as how to prepare for when the time is right to move on from a setting as well as how to finish strong.
-cpm, which is a church planting movement. We are beginning to try and adopt a method of church planting that worked very well in Asia. This was presented in a very nice overview and gave us a good model for thinking about how to do effective entry, presentation, discipleship, church formation, and leadership training.
I felt this conference was good for me. It gave me a chance to listen as others talked through their struggles that I could relate with. They could put into words what I was unable to express at various times. Because of this, I see some ways that I can grow as an individual and a team member in my ministry. I also realized some areas that I can improve on. One is communication or being able to express myself. I would like to express to others when I am struggling and why. Maybe I need to even learn how to realize this within myself. I have often been a loner but I usually have a friend that I can talk to from time to time at church in which I bounce ideas off of. Here I have missed a relationship like that.
I’m grateful for this conference and for being able to draw close to those that came this week. I’ll miss our fellowship time we had, but always have email to keep in touch with them when I need to. We were very open during this time together, which helps draw out these areas that I can continue to develop in my personal life.
-the importance of covenants with supervisors, having them, how to stay accountable to them, now to make them more relevant to our ministry
-relationships with believers, non-believers, team mates, those in authority over us, and even relationships with family and with ourselves.
-exit strategy, such as how to prepare for when the time is right to move on from a setting as well as how to finish strong.
-cpm, which is a church planting movement. We are beginning to try and adopt a method of church planting that worked very well in Asia. This was presented in a very nice overview and gave us a good model for thinking about how to do effective entry, presentation, discipleship, church formation, and leadership training.
I felt this conference was good for me. It gave me a chance to listen as others talked through their struggles that I could relate with. They could put into words what I was unable to express at various times. Because of this, I see some ways that I can grow as an individual and a team member in my ministry. I also realized some areas that I can improve on. One is communication or being able to express myself. I would like to express to others when I am struggling and why. Maybe I need to even learn how to realize this within myself. I have often been a loner but I usually have a friend that I can talk to from time to time at church in which I bounce ideas off of. Here I have missed a relationship like that.
I’m grateful for this conference and for being able to draw close to those that came this week. I’ll miss our fellowship time we had, but always have email to keep in touch with them when I need to. We were very open during this time together, which helps draw out these areas that I can continue to develop in my personal life.
Thanksgiving Meal
I came to Dakar for my thanksgiving day celebration. Here in Dakar there are a lot of Missionaries, so we had a good gathering of people. I think we had about 50 who came. Most everyone either brought a covered dish, dessert, or drinks. I made my family’s now world famous corn pudding casserole. It turned out pretty good, if I say so myself-and I heard this remark from others. My favorite dish-sweet potato casserole-was there. And we had plenty of turkey and ham which was donated by Cracker Barrel. Thank you, Cracker Barrel. I’ll make it up to you when I’m in the states!
After the meal we had a devotion time as well as time for singing. Then we fellowshipped by talking in groups, playing card games, and watching college football from earlier this season. The kids played outside or watched a movie themselves. So we had a great afternoon together.
After the meal we had a devotion time as well as time for singing. Then we fellowshipped by talking in groups, playing card games, and watching college football from earlier this season. The kids played outside or watched a movie themselves. So we had a great afternoon together.
Thanksgiving sharing
During my quiet time before the week of thanksgiving I had the idea to share my thanksgiving tradition with my close friends in Mekhe. So I took the morning to write personal notes that said, “God has given us a lot to be thankful for. He has given us health, life, love, and family. I thank God for you, my friend.” Along with that I wrote out John 3:16. All of this was on the simple note that I would plan to give each of my close friends.
I was able to share with many. There were some that I shared with one-on-one. There were some that I shared with as a group setting. And there were some that I had just met that day that wanted to know what I was doing. So these three dynamics I was able to experience as I shared.
Not only that, but as I shared, I used the opportunity to introduce the Gospel. Through each of these conversations I talked about God’s love for each of us. I could tell them that we have sinned and because of our sin we cannot have a relationship with God. But God comes to us to start the relationship over, and he came to us as Jesus. Jesus wants us to have faith in him so that we will always have a relationship with him. And this was my elementary gospel presentation.
It had some victories. I had one woman who heard this as I shared with her family. She said she wanted to become a Christian! So I will follow up with that when I return to town. I was able to see a few friends that I have not seen in awhile, and because of this letter and these words our friendship became more positive/was restored.
I also had some defeats. I felt that in a few situations I could have visited longer, and wished for more time. I shared a lot. I gave out 20 notes in 2 days. I also did not get the chance to see everyone that I wanted to see. And I had the chance to see a big defeat. In sharing with one of my friends in the market, he asked me to leave his shop. He did not want to hear the message of Jesus because he was a Muslim.
In spite of the defeats I was grateful for the sharing opportunities. This was very successful in organizing something to say, and gave me an idea of what volunteer teams can come and do in Mekhe. They can easily write a prayer letter and go to various shops or gatherings of people to talk about prayer, then offer to pray for those people. Or if the group comes at a particular holiday such as Easter or Christmas could discuss the significance of that season with others.
I was able to share with many. There were some that I shared with one-on-one. There were some that I shared with as a group setting. And there were some that I had just met that day that wanted to know what I was doing. So these three dynamics I was able to experience as I shared.
Not only that, but as I shared, I used the opportunity to introduce the Gospel. Through each of these conversations I talked about God’s love for each of us. I could tell them that we have sinned and because of our sin we cannot have a relationship with God. But God comes to us to start the relationship over, and he came to us as Jesus. Jesus wants us to have faith in him so that we will always have a relationship with him. And this was my elementary gospel presentation.
It had some victories. I had one woman who heard this as I shared with her family. She said she wanted to become a Christian! So I will follow up with that when I return to town. I was able to see a few friends that I have not seen in awhile, and because of this letter and these words our friendship became more positive/was restored.
I also had some defeats. I felt that in a few situations I could have visited longer, and wished for more time. I shared a lot. I gave out 20 notes in 2 days. I also did not get the chance to see everyone that I wanted to see. And I had the chance to see a big defeat. In sharing with one of my friends in the market, he asked me to leave his shop. He did not want to hear the message of Jesus because he was a Muslim.
In spite of the defeats I was grateful for the sharing opportunities. This was very successful in organizing something to say, and gave me an idea of what volunteer teams can come and do in Mekhe. They can easily write a prayer letter and go to various shops or gatherings of people to talk about prayer, then offer to pray for those people. Or if the group comes at a particular holiday such as Easter or Christmas could discuss the significance of that season with others.
Monday, November 17, 2008
burnt out
A hard blog to write because of my independent nature. But I have been quite burnt out and apathetic lately. I am thinking it's a bit of many things. I have heard various news at home that has been discouraging and makes me want to be home. I many times wish that I had a hobby to do here and not happy with the lack of things to do here. And I miss friends and miss working with my hands. Those things I've struggled with since I have been here, and they simply aren't going away. For that reason I am still having my reservations about my calling to be a missionary. I think today wasn't necessarily a 'ticket' day (a day that I wish I could go home), but it was a day that I would choose to be a 2 year missionary than a 3 year missionary. Days like this I need to hold tighter to what God is doing here than the things that have me unhappy. But just a word of my struggles.
Thursday, November 13, 2008
definitely a God-thing
Since my language class completed, I have been anxious to get into the sharing process of my ministry. For awhile I have been sharing with neighbors and friends in town, but I am mostly looking forward to riding the street a bit and visiting neighboring villages. Now I am beginning to do that on my own.
Today I chose a town on the road just north of here that I would go and visit. I planned to walk around and visit some sellers and introduce myself to the people in town. I was also going to see where the conversations led and just talk briefly about myself, my family, and Jesus.
Well, along the drive, I saw a person asking for a ride. So i stopped and told him to get in. When he did, I told him that I was only going to Kelle, and he said that was where he lived. I was like, wow! And then told him what I wanted to do there, where i lived, and what I did for my work. He then said that I could visit at his house and see his friends. So I was blown away. I had a way into the village! This was certainly a God-thing!
And we had a good chat for an hour or so with his friends. His family was out in the fields farming, but he invited me back to talk more on Sunday. So I will go again to meet with him, and prepare to share a story with him as well as questions to ask. Please be in prayer for this new contact. I am truly blown away at the chance of this happening, and look forward to where it may go. This person actually knew that Jesus is God's Son. Noone states that when I ask if they know of Jesus.
Today I chose a town on the road just north of here that I would go and visit. I planned to walk around and visit some sellers and introduce myself to the people in town. I was also going to see where the conversations led and just talk briefly about myself, my family, and Jesus.
Well, along the drive, I saw a person asking for a ride. So i stopped and told him to get in. When he did, I told him that I was only going to Kelle, and he said that was where he lived. I was like, wow! And then told him what I wanted to do there, where i lived, and what I did for my work. He then said that I could visit at his house and see his friends. So I was blown away. I had a way into the village! This was certainly a God-thing!
And we had a good chat for an hour or so with his friends. His family was out in the fields farming, but he invited me back to talk more on Sunday. So I will go again to meet with him, and prepare to share a story with him as well as questions to ask. Please be in prayer for this new contact. I am truly blown away at the chance of this happening, and look forward to where it may go. This person actually knew that Jesus is God's Son. Noone states that when I ask if they know of Jesus.
late language update
I failed to write much in my blog before my trip to Dakar. So you're getting lots of updates this week!
I wanted to write and tell you how my language evaluation went. It went ok, as ok can be expected. I was up the entire night before following the election, and that may have had a bit to do with my speech. I talked fine and used words well. But one thing I have been trying to practice is slowing my speech down, which I can do when I am fully alert. However, for just talkng in general, I talk fast and I don't concentrate on slowing my tongue down.
I received the same evaluation that I received in June, a level 2. A level 2 is what i am required to get. Yea, I, too, wonder why I kept going. Now I have evidence that this last 3 months was not effective, and I was pleading that for awhile. In ways it was hurtful, and in ways it was helpful for me in my language growth. I was able to review and use my language with an instructor. I do wish that he had told me when I was making mistakes.
My teacher critiqued me on the evaluation about some mistakes in pronoun usage that I had no idea I was making. And he told me that I was talking too fast-first time he has said that, but I have heard it from others. He talks fast too, so I was surprised he wrote that. The evaluation did show some good things. Teacher was impressed with my vocab, that was something I was most concerned about. The evaluation also showed me some things about my personality that I can still change and work toward improving. And I'm always up to being critiqued so that I can become a better person for everyone. Yes, I felt that the evaluation was low and a bit unfair. But I'm no longer thinking about that. It is what it is.
So that's the update. Language class is over! I have been asked to continue reviewing my notes as well as a learners book I have. So I will continue doing that. But thanks so much for the prayers that you have offered for my language.
I wanted to write and tell you how my language evaluation went. It went ok, as ok can be expected. I was up the entire night before following the election, and that may have had a bit to do with my speech. I talked fine and used words well. But one thing I have been trying to practice is slowing my speech down, which I can do when I am fully alert. However, for just talkng in general, I talk fast and I don't concentrate on slowing my tongue down.
I received the same evaluation that I received in June, a level 2. A level 2 is what i am required to get. Yea, I, too, wonder why I kept going. Now I have evidence that this last 3 months was not effective, and I was pleading that for awhile. In ways it was hurtful, and in ways it was helpful for me in my language growth. I was able to review and use my language with an instructor. I do wish that he had told me when I was making mistakes.
My teacher critiqued me on the evaluation about some mistakes in pronoun usage that I had no idea I was making. And he told me that I was talking too fast-first time he has said that, but I have heard it from others. He talks fast too, so I was surprised he wrote that. The evaluation did show some good things. Teacher was impressed with my vocab, that was something I was most concerned about. The evaluation also showed me some things about my personality that I can still change and work toward improving. And I'm always up to being critiqued so that I can become a better person for everyone. Yes, I felt that the evaluation was low and a bit unfair. But I'm no longer thinking about that. It is what it is.
So that's the update. Language class is over! I have been asked to continue reviewing my notes as well as a learners book I have. So I will continue doing that. But thanks so much for the prayers that you have offered for my language.
Why is a fire truck red?
A fire truck has 4 wheels and 8 people riding.
four plus 8 equals 12
a ruler has 12 inches
queen elizabeth is a ruler
queen elizabeth sailed the 7 seas
the 7 seas have fish
fish have fins
the finnish hate russians
Russians are red
a fire engine is always rushin
therefore, a fire engine is RED.
Glad I could clear that up :)
four plus 8 equals 12
a ruler has 12 inches
queen elizabeth is a ruler
queen elizabeth sailed the 7 seas
the 7 seas have fish
fish have fins
the finnish hate russians
Russians are red
a fire engine is always rushin
therefore, a fire engine is RED.
Glad I could clear that up :)
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
stepping into America
One thing that I haven't been able to express well enough is the changes one can see when they come to Africa. Close your eyes (ok, hard to do that AND read-so close one eye!) and imagine a world without Walmart. Then imagine a world with no major grocery stores or department stores. Take away multiple roads leading to the same place, and you have an idea of what it's like here to drive and shop.
We do have stores, but they are much smaller than you would imagine. In Mekhe I have tons of boutiques. However, a boutique has in stock about what your own pantry would contain. Anything frozen, you can't find it in Mekhe. Cheese, milk, you can't find. So I go to supermarkets 2x a month to do most of my major grocery shopping. There's a good supermarket in Theis that has cereal, snack items such as cookies, chips, crackers, and candy bars. It has frozen foods, canned foods, sliced bread (I can get french bread in Mekhe), milk and cheese. So I have found a way to get the things I want, I just have to drive 30 miles to do so.
Well, in Dakar they have some stores that are a little nicer. The supermarket in Theis is maybe half of Carrols IGA in Stedman for those of you familiar with that store. Stores in Dakar that I shop at would be compariable to Carrols. Keep that in your mind as you read what I found...
When I was in Dakar earlier this week, my business facilitator told me there was a new grocery store that opened up. Knowing the direction he was saying, I took 2 others with me who needed to do some shopping. When I walked into the store, I felt like I was walking in America! The store is huge! It would be a superwalmart, I'm not kidding! Maybe half the size of superwalmart, but all the same items. A toy aisle! A candy isle! An isle devoted completely to baby needs, toiletries and such. An entire butcher section that really would be similar to any major grocery store. Many, many choices of the same item. And it seemed like they were still stocking things. I was utterly shocked! I'd be ok seeing that in the states, I think. But seeing that here really amazed me. It was a very nice place. And the prices weren't bad, which was surprising.
So I wanted to share my American experience. Senegal is really developing before my eyes. I can't imagine what the next 5 years will entail.
We do have stores, but they are much smaller than you would imagine. In Mekhe I have tons of boutiques. However, a boutique has in stock about what your own pantry would contain. Anything frozen, you can't find it in Mekhe. Cheese, milk, you can't find. So I go to supermarkets 2x a month to do most of my major grocery shopping. There's a good supermarket in Theis that has cereal, snack items such as cookies, chips, crackers, and candy bars. It has frozen foods, canned foods, sliced bread (I can get french bread in Mekhe), milk and cheese. So I have found a way to get the things I want, I just have to drive 30 miles to do so.
Well, in Dakar they have some stores that are a little nicer. The supermarket in Theis is maybe half of Carrols IGA in Stedman for those of you familiar with that store. Stores in Dakar that I shop at would be compariable to Carrols. Keep that in your mind as you read what I found...
When I was in Dakar earlier this week, my business facilitator told me there was a new grocery store that opened up. Knowing the direction he was saying, I took 2 others with me who needed to do some shopping. When I walked into the store, I felt like I was walking in America! The store is huge! It would be a superwalmart, I'm not kidding! Maybe half the size of superwalmart, but all the same items. A toy aisle! A candy isle! An isle devoted completely to baby needs, toiletries and such. An entire butcher section that really would be similar to any major grocery store. Many, many choices of the same item. And it seemed like they were still stocking things. I was utterly shocked! I'd be ok seeing that in the states, I think. But seeing that here really amazed me. It was a very nice place. And the prices weren't bad, which was surprising.
So I wanted to share my American experience. Senegal is really developing before my eyes. I can't imagine what the next 5 years will entail.
International Baptist Church of Dakar
The IBC church of Dakar, an English-speaking congregation, celebrated its 25 year anniversary service this weekend. I was happy to be able to go and participate in the service, and wanted to write briefly what it was like.
First, know that there are not many churches in Senegal. There are several catholic churches, but very few protestant churches. I think they mentioned 6-7 other church bodies which were invited to attend the celebration. These other churches, I believe, speak French.
So we had the service. It began at 4pm and lasted awhile. I think we left shortly after 8. They had a typical service, but with alloted time to celebrate and read the history of the church, letters from people congratulating them on the occasion, and several people who spoke about their testimony from being members of the church. The pastor recognized many of the staff, workers, former pastor, guest pastors, missionaries, and other lay people who have helped shape the church to be what it is today.
We had a guest speaker come and lead in worship as he spoke on Ps 23 and God being our Shepherd. And we had some time for special music and praise and worship as well. Then toward the end of the service there was a collection offering for the building fund. They have outgrown their facilities and are planning to purchase and build a new sanctuary.
One specific thing that I remember now was that at the end of the message, the pastor prophecized that the church would grow two-fold by the time he is able to come again. That hit me rather strangely, but then I felt myself praying with him that his prophecy would come about. I see the potential for the church to reach out to the community in many ways. There are people in the congregation who do not speak local languages and could use assistance in getting work, education, and resources to live and grow in Dakar. I can see the church beginning to reach into the community with evangelism and teaching workshops, music, food, games, etc. I continue to pray that the church and its members will be a light for Jesus to the community.
First, know that there are not many churches in Senegal. There are several catholic churches, but very few protestant churches. I think they mentioned 6-7 other church bodies which were invited to attend the celebration. These other churches, I believe, speak French.
So we had the service. It began at 4pm and lasted awhile. I think we left shortly after 8. They had a typical service, but with alloted time to celebrate and read the history of the church, letters from people congratulating them on the occasion, and several people who spoke about their testimony from being members of the church. The pastor recognized many of the staff, workers, former pastor, guest pastors, missionaries, and other lay people who have helped shape the church to be what it is today.
We had a guest speaker come and lead in worship as he spoke on Ps 23 and God being our Shepherd. And we had some time for special music and praise and worship as well. Then toward the end of the service there was a collection offering for the building fund. They have outgrown their facilities and are planning to purchase and build a new sanctuary.
One specific thing that I remember now was that at the end of the message, the pastor prophecized that the church would grow two-fold by the time he is able to come again. That hit me rather strangely, but then I felt myself praying with him that his prophecy would come about. I see the potential for the church to reach out to the community in many ways. There are people in the congregation who do not speak local languages and could use assistance in getting work, education, and resources to live and grow in Dakar. I can see the church beginning to reach into the community with evangelism and teaching workshops, music, food, games, etc. I continue to pray that the church and its members will be a light for Jesus to the community.
more sharing news
I had one of those WOW moments last week when I was sharing. I have gotten to know my home owner and his family quite well, and go over to their house 2x a week to talk. Well, last week I was just beginning to learn creation to cross in Wolof, and we were talking about my language class being completed, my stories I am learning, and about Jesus. So as we were eating, one of the guys asked me point blank, "so how do you become a Christian?"
I'll let that sink in for a bit. It took me 2 days for that to really sink in. When he first said it, I honestly had that numb reaction, like, oh, this is just another question for him to understand me and understand the Christian religion. Also know that I ask them questions like this all the time, such as "what do you pray, why do you pray 5 times a day, when you die, do you know that you will go to heaven?" I want to understand Islam through their eyes. And I was guessing at first that this was where he was headed.
But to be honest, I have thought for awhile that this man may be a seeker. We usually have good conversations and if I stumble on words, he will say my sentence more clearly for me. So this family and this particular person certainly has potential! Please please pray with me as I continue to share with him. After we ate, I shared with him the creation story and the fall of Adam and Eve. Then I used that to introduce Jesus as the perfect sacrifice of all our sins. Then we talked briefly about that. It will take more time and more sharing, and I am going to take this slow. However, this was a great victory for Jesus, and I give him the praise for this story!
I'll let that sink in for a bit. It took me 2 days for that to really sink in. When he first said it, I honestly had that numb reaction, like, oh, this is just another question for him to understand me and understand the Christian religion. Also know that I ask them questions like this all the time, such as "what do you pray, why do you pray 5 times a day, when you die, do you know that you will go to heaven?" I want to understand Islam through their eyes. And I was guessing at first that this was where he was headed.
But to be honest, I have thought for awhile that this man may be a seeker. We usually have good conversations and if I stumble on words, he will say my sentence more clearly for me. So this family and this particular person certainly has potential! Please please pray with me as I continue to share with him. After we ate, I shared with him the creation story and the fall of Adam and Eve. Then I used that to introduce Jesus as the perfect sacrifice of all our sins. Then we talked briefly about that. It will take more time and more sharing, and I am going to take this slow. However, this was a great victory for Jesus, and I give him the praise for this story!
Friday, October 31, 2008
2 house guests
My Wolof team was hosting a couple for 2 weeks, Brian and Kara Cloud. They are residents of Oklahoma and are considering becoming missionaries one day. With this in mind, they wanted to see what life was like in Senegal and with our Wolof team. So they came and saw a lot of what we do in our ministry. After seeing what the life is like in the city (Dakar), they wanted to see what life was like in a village environment.
I agreed to host them for the 2 days. There were here for 48 hours from Monday-Wednesday. Knowing they were coming, I set up my schedule to host them and show them a bit of what I normally do during my time.
When they first came, we met in town and drove over to my house. It's not a long drive, but having never been here, Jeff and Risa (Wolof team members) wouldn't know how to get here. We got their bags in the house and chatted while I finished cooking lunch. Lunch was good-I did a chicken casserole, green beans, and homemade mac & cheese. After lunch we continued talking until Jeff and Risa had to go. They were staying in a town 2 hours north to do some scouting for houses.
I let Brian and Kara rest in the early afternoon before we went to the market. On the way to the market we met several of my friends and talked briefly to them. We observed some of the buying and selling in the market, and I explained a little of how the market works. It's a weekly market full of people who come from villages near by to buy and sell what they have. Some women will spend all week sewing in order to sell at the market. I always enjoy visiting the market to see how many people are coming and to see the action of buying and selling. There's not much else to do in Mekhe, so this is my window shopping!
After spending the evening in the market, we returned home to cook and eat supper. We had spaghetti, sauce, and a medley of peas, carrots, and potatoes. I should have done bread, too, wasn't thinking about bread. Then I chatted with my guard and introduced Kara and Brian to him. I continued chatting while they went to sleep.
Tuesday morning I had planned for the early morning to be free for quiet time while my maid cleaned the house. When she finished, we went out together to see the junior high school and my neighborhood. I had hoped to do some more visits with my neighbors, but Brian wasn't feeling well from the heat. So we did walk around and walked over to the school. The school headmaster had misunderstood me. I told him last week I had guests coming who wanted to see the school to compare it to schools in America. He was thinking they may be here to help out with finances, as they explained a lot of the difficulties the school was having in starting up. I know that it's tough having 80 kids in one classroom, that the desks and windows are broken, and the classrooms are in a bit of a mess. But they do have resources and could easily do something about the conditions. There are men who would come and clean the grounds for 5 dollars a day, which is half a child's registration cost. They could even ask the kids to do it, and I'm sure the kids would do it for free. I would have cleaned for 30 minutes with my friends when I was 12 if asked. We were asked to help and I wasn't expecting that. So I explained again that we were just curious to see the school and thanked him for his time. Classes should have started last week, but they're still trying to improve the school. The teachers are meeting and throwing ideas around, but I would be surprised if anything is done about the conditions.
We had lunch at my neighbor's house. They cooked rice, onion sauce, and fish for us. It was delicious, it's one of my favorite dishes here. After lunch I brought them back here to rest before going out to the village. At the village we were able to observe the slower paced life of Senegal. There the women were entertaining the kids and talking amongst each other. They also were gathering in the fields and brought home the millet that they had harvested for the animals to eat.
That evening we came back and talked for awhile with Elliott and my guard. Then I offered them sandwiches and leftovers for supper and we went to bed.
I did enjoy my time with Brian and Kara. We had good conversations and I learned a lot about what they hope to do in future ministry. I'm glad they are seeking and hope God will direct their lives from here on out. I'm especially grateful to all of you who prayed for our time together. My language seemed to grow this week tremendously. The food was good, and the visits went well. I enjoy hosting guests and will look forward to more opportuities in the future to host people here.
I agreed to host them for the 2 days. There were here for 48 hours from Monday-Wednesday. Knowing they were coming, I set up my schedule to host them and show them a bit of what I normally do during my time.
When they first came, we met in town and drove over to my house. It's not a long drive, but having never been here, Jeff and Risa (Wolof team members) wouldn't know how to get here. We got their bags in the house and chatted while I finished cooking lunch. Lunch was good-I did a chicken casserole, green beans, and homemade mac & cheese. After lunch we continued talking until Jeff and Risa had to go. They were staying in a town 2 hours north to do some scouting for houses.
I let Brian and Kara rest in the early afternoon before we went to the market. On the way to the market we met several of my friends and talked briefly to them. We observed some of the buying and selling in the market, and I explained a little of how the market works. It's a weekly market full of people who come from villages near by to buy and sell what they have. Some women will spend all week sewing in order to sell at the market. I always enjoy visiting the market to see how many people are coming and to see the action of buying and selling. There's not much else to do in Mekhe, so this is my window shopping!
After spending the evening in the market, we returned home to cook and eat supper. We had spaghetti, sauce, and a medley of peas, carrots, and potatoes. I should have done bread, too, wasn't thinking about bread. Then I chatted with my guard and introduced Kara and Brian to him. I continued chatting while they went to sleep.
Tuesday morning I had planned for the early morning to be free for quiet time while my maid cleaned the house. When she finished, we went out together to see the junior high school and my neighborhood. I had hoped to do some more visits with my neighbors, but Brian wasn't feeling well from the heat. So we did walk around and walked over to the school. The school headmaster had misunderstood me. I told him last week I had guests coming who wanted to see the school to compare it to schools in America. He was thinking they may be here to help out with finances, as they explained a lot of the difficulties the school was having in starting up. I know that it's tough having 80 kids in one classroom, that the desks and windows are broken, and the classrooms are in a bit of a mess. But they do have resources and could easily do something about the conditions. There are men who would come and clean the grounds for 5 dollars a day, which is half a child's registration cost. They could even ask the kids to do it, and I'm sure the kids would do it for free. I would have cleaned for 30 minutes with my friends when I was 12 if asked. We were asked to help and I wasn't expecting that. So I explained again that we were just curious to see the school and thanked him for his time. Classes should have started last week, but they're still trying to improve the school. The teachers are meeting and throwing ideas around, but I would be surprised if anything is done about the conditions.
We had lunch at my neighbor's house. They cooked rice, onion sauce, and fish for us. It was delicious, it's one of my favorite dishes here. After lunch I brought them back here to rest before going out to the village. At the village we were able to observe the slower paced life of Senegal. There the women were entertaining the kids and talking amongst each other. They also were gathering in the fields and brought home the millet that they had harvested for the animals to eat.
That evening we came back and talked for awhile with Elliott and my guard. Then I offered them sandwiches and leftovers for supper and we went to bed.
I did enjoy my time with Brian and Kara. We had good conversations and I learned a lot about what they hope to do in future ministry. I'm glad they are seeking and hope God will direct their lives from here on out. I'm especially grateful to all of you who prayed for our time together. My language seemed to grow this week tremendously. The food was good, and the visits went well. I enjoy hosting guests and will look forward to more opportuities in the future to host people here.
There's a mouse in the house!
Anyone who has seen a mouse in their house in the country knows that it's tough to get them out. Try catching one without a trap! These critters are fast! Well, I knew I had one in the house and that he was staying in my kitchen. The droppings were a sure sign, and try as I might, I couldn't find where he was hiding.
Well, yesterday he came out of hiding and ran under my feet. And I thought, yay, he's out of the kitchen. So I immediately closed the kitchen door so he couldn't go back in there. And then I set a trap to help catch him. He was behind my book case, so after getting the books out and got the bookcase closer to a corner, I had my broom in hand and was ready to get him in a box. Well, wouldn't you know he escaped from the box and ran into my bedroom!
Why I didn't close my bedroom door I don't know. Call me stupid, I should have! Now I'll get 20 comments from people saying, "nice story, Stupid!" hehe, all for love, I'm sure. So, at least I have him confined to one room now. The next trick is to get him in the open so I can catch or kill him. After about 2 hours and 100 sneezes (dust is rough on my allergies) I had him. I killed him and put him in my burn pile where the neighborhood tom cat enjoyed a nice late supper. Then I spent the evening spring cleaning my house from the mess I made. Well, at least I spent my Thursday doing 2 things that needed to be done. It's good to spring clean everything at least once a year. My house is so small and the dust is worse here than Fay, NC, so I should probably do this more often. But my kitchen is good as new, my living room is spotless again, and my bedroom is especially clean. In a way it felt like a wasted day, I had several things I wanted to do on Thursday. However, catching the mouse and spring cleaning were things that I needed to accomplish. Thank goodness that drama is over!
Well, yesterday he came out of hiding and ran under my feet. And I thought, yay, he's out of the kitchen. So I immediately closed the kitchen door so he couldn't go back in there. And then I set a trap to help catch him. He was behind my book case, so after getting the books out and got the bookcase closer to a corner, I had my broom in hand and was ready to get him in a box. Well, wouldn't you know he escaped from the box and ran into my bedroom!
Why I didn't close my bedroom door I don't know. Call me stupid, I should have! Now I'll get 20 comments from people saying, "nice story, Stupid!" hehe, all for love, I'm sure. So, at least I have him confined to one room now. The next trick is to get him in the open so I can catch or kill him. After about 2 hours and 100 sneezes (dust is rough on my allergies) I had him. I killed him and put him in my burn pile where the neighborhood tom cat enjoyed a nice late supper. Then I spent the evening spring cleaning my house from the mess I made. Well, at least I spent my Thursday doing 2 things that needed to be done. It's good to spring clean everything at least once a year. My house is so small and the dust is worse here than Fay, NC, so I should probably do this more often. But my kitchen is good as new, my living room is spotless again, and my bedroom is especially clean. In a way it felt like a wasted day, I had several things I wanted to do on Thursday. However, catching the mouse and spring cleaning were things that I needed to accomplish. Thank goodness that drama is over!
Monday, October 20, 2008
Language update
For those of you that have been faithful to pray for my language progression, thank you! Communicating here is a daily chore, and I'm realizing now that I may never be as adequate a speaker as I would like. I thought that given 3 extra months of Wolof study would make me a much better speaker. And I know it only helped, but I am ready for a change!
After class today, I'm down to only 5 classes to go. Seems hard to believe that the time is already approaching for me to really begin my ministry here.
So I figured I'd reflect a little on what I do want to do in my ministry.
-I am still going out and saying hi to my friends. I have a welder, carpenter, farmer, and seller of goods that I would like to visit at least once a week. That sounds like a lot, but those are relationships that I want to continue working on.
-I am in the process of greeting my neighbors. I could do this for a year and not meet all my neighbors in the block. But I have a goal to sit and talk with one new neighbor a week. I'll do that until I feel that I've met with most of them.
-I do prayer walks around my neighborhood. I pray for the people, the kids, and the lives that they are living. I also pray for openness to share with them and for them to be interested in hearing stories.
-I will be sharing 2 stories a month starting in November. I'm praying for a specific place to share these stories. Maybe near the school at my house would be a good place.
-It seems Elliott and I will begin going to villages to share initially with the people of the villages. We'll be doing some survey work to get into these villages-finding out their needs, praying on their behalf, and sharing stories.
-And I want to go to my school once a week to talk with an English class for an hour. School starts next week, so I will go and find out if this is possible.
Sounds like a lot? It is. I like to have plans and I'll see how much of this I can tackle. A lot of this I can do in the same days. I am looking forward to using my Wolof. Simply talking with people is going to make my language improve dramatically. And I believe the new responsibilities in work will give me energy to accomplish most of this. Encourage me to persevere, and ask me how I'm doing with these goals. I look forward to reporting how things are going.
After class today, I'm down to only 5 classes to go. Seems hard to believe that the time is already approaching for me to really begin my ministry here.
So I figured I'd reflect a little on what I do want to do in my ministry.
-I am still going out and saying hi to my friends. I have a welder, carpenter, farmer, and seller of goods that I would like to visit at least once a week. That sounds like a lot, but those are relationships that I want to continue working on.
-I am in the process of greeting my neighbors. I could do this for a year and not meet all my neighbors in the block. But I have a goal to sit and talk with one new neighbor a week. I'll do that until I feel that I've met with most of them.
-I do prayer walks around my neighborhood. I pray for the people, the kids, and the lives that they are living. I also pray for openness to share with them and for them to be interested in hearing stories.
-I will be sharing 2 stories a month starting in November. I'm praying for a specific place to share these stories. Maybe near the school at my house would be a good place.
-It seems Elliott and I will begin going to villages to share initially with the people of the villages. We'll be doing some survey work to get into these villages-finding out their needs, praying on their behalf, and sharing stories.
-And I want to go to my school once a week to talk with an English class for an hour. School starts next week, so I will go and find out if this is possible.
Sounds like a lot? It is. I like to have plans and I'll see how much of this I can tackle. A lot of this I can do in the same days. I am looking forward to using my Wolof. Simply talking with people is going to make my language improve dramatically. And I believe the new responsibilities in work will give me energy to accomplish most of this. Encourage me to persevere, and ask me how I'm doing with these goals. I look forward to reporting how things are going.
An Ngente
I crashed a party last week! It was a baby naming ceremony (ngente). The family are neighbors of mine, and I greet them often. When I was walking through the neighborhood I noticed the tent. The kids started calling my name, asking me to come, so I did. I did want to know more about the baby naming ceremonies.
First I went and greeted everyone, and I specifically asked for the father to greet and congratulate him. Then I made myself comfy, sitting with some other guys my age under the tent. We talked for a good while. About 2 they brought what I thought was lunch, but instead was porridge (lah). It didn't look too appetizing, but was surprisingly delicious. It's millet served with milk for a sauce, and it was fairly thick. They'd put a lot of sugar in it, too.
After the porridge we had the first cup of tea and talked for a good while. I left at 4 before the main dish was served. But I had a good time talking with people. I was even able to share what I do with a few of the men, and one man seemed especially interested in hearing more. I'd like to go back and visit with him, to see how interested he may be in hearing stories.
First I went and greeted everyone, and I specifically asked for the father to greet and congratulate him. Then I made myself comfy, sitting with some other guys my age under the tent. We talked for a good while. About 2 they brought what I thought was lunch, but instead was porridge (lah). It didn't look too appetizing, but was surprisingly delicious. It's millet served with milk for a sauce, and it was fairly thick. They'd put a lot of sugar in it, too.
After the porridge we had the first cup of tea and talked for a good while. I left at 4 before the main dish was served. But I had a good time talking with people. I was even able to share what I do with a few of the men, and one man seemed especially interested in hearing more. I'd like to go back and visit with him, to see how interested he may be in hearing stories.
Thursday, October 9, 2008
Balance??
At Camp Caraway they have a ropes course off in the woods. This course helps build team togetherness, helping teenage boys learn to work together to accomplish goals. I remember one specific balancing bridge that was pretty difficult. The way this bridge works is this: it is basically a raft on air attached by a central axis point. I think the axis runs the length of the raft at the center. The goal is for all the boys on the team to stand on the raft at the same time without it touching the ground. It's a challenge because the boys have to distribute their weight evenly, moving forward or backwards to accomplish this. It's pretty complicated, but they enjoy the challenge.
That's sort of the trick that I'm learning here in Senegal. I tell you, some days this life is simply not for me. I love working with my hands and feet. I love giving of myself to others. And I love my family and friends. These are all things that I gave up in order to come here. Being here for close to a year now I'm starting to see how I miss those things by the feelings I go through on particular days. Some days I'm lonely. Some days I'm bored to death. And other days I'm not sure what I am. But having thought about why I struggle in balancing things here, this has been my conclusion. It is apparent to me that I have yet to learn how to give God these things in my life. I'm open to suggestions!
Typically what I find that works for me is that if I make myself go out and visit with people, the self worry and doubt go away. Maybe not completely, but the visits do help. Today I went to a carpenter friend and got to help build these bread boxes for 3 hours. That's a love of mine and I truly enjoyed doing that. I'll have to see if I can maybe help him a few days a week now and begin a close relationship with him.
But please continue to pray for me and balance. I do want to make a difference here, and I want this to be a successful 3 year journey for me. After 3 years who knows where God will have me. I want to be able to give him my all while I am here, and I want him to mold me to be the man he has in mind for me to be.
That's sort of the trick that I'm learning here in Senegal. I tell you, some days this life is simply not for me. I love working with my hands and feet. I love giving of myself to others. And I love my family and friends. These are all things that I gave up in order to come here. Being here for close to a year now I'm starting to see how I miss those things by the feelings I go through on particular days. Some days I'm lonely. Some days I'm bored to death. And other days I'm not sure what I am. But having thought about why I struggle in balancing things here, this has been my conclusion. It is apparent to me that I have yet to learn how to give God these things in my life. I'm open to suggestions!
Typically what I find that works for me is that if I make myself go out and visit with people, the self worry and doubt go away. Maybe not completely, but the visits do help. Today I went to a carpenter friend and got to help build these bread boxes for 3 hours. That's a love of mine and I truly enjoyed doing that. I'll have to see if I can maybe help him a few days a week now and begin a close relationship with him.
But please continue to pray for me and balance. I do want to make a difference here, and I want this to be a successful 3 year journey for me. After 3 years who knows where God will have me. I want to be able to give him my all while I am here, and I want him to mold me to be the man he has in mind for me to be.
Job shadowed
Something pretty cool happened this week for me. I was asked by my business office if I could be job shadowed for a day by our short term mobilizer. Now initially I'm thinking, woah, they specifically want to job shadow me??? I remember in high school going to engineering firms asking to shadow their workers to see what they do during the day. So I'm thinking to myself, who am I that I have the experience to show someone what I do during the day-I'm still learning what I do during the day!
But we set up the time to meet together. I was going to entertain him, Alan Garnett, from 10-3. And I had nothing planned in stone! That's our life, we live by the seat of our pants. I had ideas, and prayed that God work work them out.
When we met, we drove over to my old neighborhood and visited with my apartment owner. He's a wonderful man and just showered me with compliments to my guest. I was humbled as I translated. I like him to, and told him how welcomed I always will feel there, that he is like a father to me, and though my home is in Mekhe, my heart lives here with his family. And along with this we had a good talk in catching up together. It had been a few months since I had seen him.
From there we walked my neighborhood together. I showed him some of the boutique stands that we buy things from, comparing them to all that we have to shop from in Mekhe. That was to give him an idea of what our town is like. We also talked a bit about the different strategies in rural ministry verses urban ministry. And I also mentioned that in the morning the visits are short because people are working. It's cooler and they're able to work more. But in the afternoon the visits are easier and longer. We can sit and talk over tea while lunch settles and people rest from the heat of the day. So typically I do most of my visits during the afternoons with my closest friends.
We also met one of my closer friends in the neighborhood, too. He heard us coming by and ran out to greet us. He speaks English as well as I speak Wolof. We talked a lot of his life and compared the life in Senegal to the life in America. He told my guest about his family, his house, and we shot the breeze about other things. These were 2 very good visits. I could not have asked for better visits.
After this I asked Alan if he would mind running errands with me. I could entertain him longer and these were things I had to get done while I was in Dakar. He was actually thankful and encouraging to me for asking. I appreciated him being flexible, but he reminded me that I have to wear many hats as a missionary. I'm not only a missionary, but a friend, a son, a cleaner, and a cook, and all of this is a part of our lives. So when he goes back to the states he can also share with future short term applicants this part of the life in Senegal as well as the sharing part of being a missionary.
So this day was a very productive day. I took the chance to specifically praise God for giving us such a great day together. I hope Alan enjoyed it as much as I did.
But we set up the time to meet together. I was going to entertain him, Alan Garnett, from 10-3. And I had nothing planned in stone! That's our life, we live by the seat of our pants. I had ideas, and prayed that God work work them out.
When we met, we drove over to my old neighborhood and visited with my apartment owner. He's a wonderful man and just showered me with compliments to my guest. I was humbled as I translated. I like him to, and told him how welcomed I always will feel there, that he is like a father to me, and though my home is in Mekhe, my heart lives here with his family. And along with this we had a good talk in catching up together. It had been a few months since I had seen him.
From there we walked my neighborhood together. I showed him some of the boutique stands that we buy things from, comparing them to all that we have to shop from in Mekhe. That was to give him an idea of what our town is like. We also talked a bit about the different strategies in rural ministry verses urban ministry. And I also mentioned that in the morning the visits are short because people are working. It's cooler and they're able to work more. But in the afternoon the visits are easier and longer. We can sit and talk over tea while lunch settles and people rest from the heat of the day. So typically I do most of my visits during the afternoons with my closest friends.
We also met one of my closer friends in the neighborhood, too. He heard us coming by and ran out to greet us. He speaks English as well as I speak Wolof. We talked a lot of his life and compared the life in Senegal to the life in America. He told my guest about his family, his house, and we shot the breeze about other things. These were 2 very good visits. I could not have asked for better visits.
After this I asked Alan if he would mind running errands with me. I could entertain him longer and these were things I had to get done while I was in Dakar. He was actually thankful and encouraging to me for asking. I appreciated him being flexible, but he reminded me that I have to wear many hats as a missionary. I'm not only a missionary, but a friend, a son, a cleaner, and a cook, and all of this is a part of our lives. So when he goes back to the states he can also share with future short term applicants this part of the life in Senegal as well as the sharing part of being a missionary.
So this day was a very productive day. I took the chance to specifically praise God for giving us such a great day together. I hope Alan enjoyed it as much as I did.
Friday, September 26, 2008
mis communication
Don't you hate to be mis-quoted? This happens to me on occasion, and I sometimes wonder how things can be so distorted. Maybe I do have a tendancy to miss communicate what I want to say, but I can't imagine it's this bad.
One thing that happened this week was that my teacher spoke about our class sessions with my supervisor. He spoke that I don't accept criticism well to the point that I will make up my own rules in the language. This could not be further from the truth. He speaks quickly and will often correct my sentence structure or choice of words before I finish my sentence, which frustrates me to no end! So I had asked him not to correct me, that I want to be able to correct myself. He speaks very good English and I thought I had communicated that sufficiently to him in Wolof. Since we have spoken about it in English and he has a better understanding of where I stand.
Another thing that was mis-communicated was a conversation I had with a family I have befriended here. They are national missionaries and I'll go to visit them occasionally. One such occasion the husband wasn't there, but the daughter and child were, and we had a good discussion for maybe 2 hours over tea.
Later, Elliott dropped by himself, and heard from her that I had visited. Taking the time to ask about my progress in the language, he asked for her input. She reported that when we were talking about besap trees, she asked if there were fruit trees in America. She said I then started talking about McCain's children. Well this wasn't true. I didn't understand the question she posed to me, and maybe after a brief pause asked what she thought of McCain's running mate? Each time I've visited they bring up politics, and at the time I was interested in what she had to say.
So I've communicated that these are problems with Elliott. He thinks I need to slow down, take my time in speaking. I on the other hand think these are vocabulary issues, and would be normal in anyone's beginning of a foreign language study. Hopefully they are simply misunderstandings and do not happen much in the future. It did, however, make for a rough week. Thanks be to God that it has been resolved.
One thing that happened this week was that my teacher spoke about our class sessions with my supervisor. He spoke that I don't accept criticism well to the point that I will make up my own rules in the language. This could not be further from the truth. He speaks quickly and will often correct my sentence structure or choice of words before I finish my sentence, which frustrates me to no end! So I had asked him not to correct me, that I want to be able to correct myself. He speaks very good English and I thought I had communicated that sufficiently to him in Wolof. Since we have spoken about it in English and he has a better understanding of where I stand.
Another thing that was mis-communicated was a conversation I had with a family I have befriended here. They are national missionaries and I'll go to visit them occasionally. One such occasion the husband wasn't there, but the daughter and child were, and we had a good discussion for maybe 2 hours over tea.
Later, Elliott dropped by himself, and heard from her that I had visited. Taking the time to ask about my progress in the language, he asked for her input. She reported that when we were talking about besap trees, she asked if there were fruit trees in America. She said I then started talking about McCain's children. Well this wasn't true. I didn't understand the question she posed to me, and maybe after a brief pause asked what she thought of McCain's running mate? Each time I've visited they bring up politics, and at the time I was interested in what she had to say.
So I've communicated that these are problems with Elliott. He thinks I need to slow down, take my time in speaking. I on the other hand think these are vocabulary issues, and would be normal in anyone's beginning of a foreign language study. Hopefully they are simply misunderstandings and do not happen much in the future. It did, however, make for a rough week. Thanks be to God that it has been resolved.
Tisbaar Prayer
Today I took the chance to do some cultural learning. I wasn't sure how well I would be received, but I wanted to take the chance to observe the Friday afternoon (Tisbaar) prayer.
Each day, at precicely 2pm, a call to prayer is uttered and people will flock to the mosque to pray. Men line up side by side in rows within the mosque, women and children pray behind the men. All the people are facing east and will do a series of bows while they pray. There is a person who utters the "call to prayer" and then the Iman will lead the prayer time as each person mimics him. For awhile now I have wanted to observe this in action, and finally got up the nerve to try.
Here's the thing. I've been a part of this service before in America. There's a large mosque near NC State campus that I have visited at least 3 times. No, I'm not thinking of converting, I'm just curious, and 2 of those were for a class assignment. We had a lab class on the other side of the road from this mosque so I was there for several different classes. So I have seen this before, but in a different culture knowing that I was accepted as an outsider. Here in Mekhe, the culture is obviously different and I did want to be respectful of their worship time.
I went early so I would be able to observe beforehand. I saw a group of kids at the well selling water, and started a conversation with them. I figured they would be able to tell me if it would be ok to sit and observe, and they seemed to indicate it would be. So I stayed.
Here's the reason the Friday prayer is a little different from all the others. I'm not sure why Friday is their day, but they feel that if more people can come together and pray at the same time, God will hear one of those prayers uttered because that person has done enough good works to gain God's favor. How heart wretching! How hopeless! And like many small villages, all the small businesses shut down for the Friday afternoon prayer time. Everyone in the city goes to the larger mosques to pray as one.
So I did get to see this in practice. People came in flocks. Some early, some later than I thought they would. But as the 2pm call was uttered many people came at once. There were probably 150 people there at this mosque. I was expecting a thousand. I was actually surprised to see people taking naps when I walked home from the mosque, but I believed those people to be women and out of towners who were traveling and were away from their home.
I didn't have a problem sitting and staying near the mosque. The people seemed to accept that I want to understand the culture here, and no harsh eye glares or words were uttered. In fact I was greeted before and after the prayer time by men, so I do not think they thought negatively of this.
So this was my weekly cultural lesson. I enjoyed it, though it shows the vast lostness of the people here and the work we have to do.
Each day, at precicely 2pm, a call to prayer is uttered and people will flock to the mosque to pray. Men line up side by side in rows within the mosque, women and children pray behind the men. All the people are facing east and will do a series of bows while they pray. There is a person who utters the "call to prayer" and then the Iman will lead the prayer time as each person mimics him. For awhile now I have wanted to observe this in action, and finally got up the nerve to try.
Here's the thing. I've been a part of this service before in America. There's a large mosque near NC State campus that I have visited at least 3 times. No, I'm not thinking of converting, I'm just curious, and 2 of those were for a class assignment. We had a lab class on the other side of the road from this mosque so I was there for several different classes. So I have seen this before, but in a different culture knowing that I was accepted as an outsider. Here in Mekhe, the culture is obviously different and I did want to be respectful of their worship time.
I went early so I would be able to observe beforehand. I saw a group of kids at the well selling water, and started a conversation with them. I figured they would be able to tell me if it would be ok to sit and observe, and they seemed to indicate it would be. So I stayed.
Here's the reason the Friday prayer is a little different from all the others. I'm not sure why Friday is their day, but they feel that if more people can come together and pray at the same time, God will hear one of those prayers uttered because that person has done enough good works to gain God's favor. How heart wretching! How hopeless! And like many small villages, all the small businesses shut down for the Friday afternoon prayer time. Everyone in the city goes to the larger mosques to pray as one.
So I did get to see this in practice. People came in flocks. Some early, some later than I thought they would. But as the 2pm call was uttered many people came at once. There were probably 150 people there at this mosque. I was expecting a thousand. I was actually surprised to see people taking naps when I walked home from the mosque, but I believed those people to be women and out of towners who were traveling and were away from their home.
I didn't have a problem sitting and staying near the mosque. The people seemed to accept that I want to understand the culture here, and no harsh eye glares or words were uttered. In fact I was greeted before and after the prayer time by men, so I do not think they thought negatively of this.
So this was my weekly cultural lesson. I enjoyed it, though it shows the vast lostness of the people here and the work we have to do.
Friday, September 19, 2008
who are you named for?
In America we really don't think much about who we are named for. Most parents pick names from a book that sounds unique or has a particular meaning, or maybe they give a child the name of a close friend. Some parents do give the honor of the firstborn son the name of his father. I was named for my father, and while I like my name and the honor of the comparison to Dad, I never really cared for being called "little Roy" as a child! Try telling a 12 year old boy that he's 'little,' he doesn't want to hear it!
Well, here in Senegal, the person you are named for is very important. When a baby is born, there is a celebration on the 8th day of it's life to celebrate the child's birth. At this ceremony (ngente), gifts are brought for the family. Mothers give the mother clothes, cloth, food, milk or various other items she can use, while fathers and men give the father money. The family serves a big lunch for everyone that comes, and after lunch there is the ceremony. I want to go to one to see all that is involved. I hear it is at the ceremony that the person the child will be named for (turandoo) has the highest seat of honor. S/he will be served first, s/he will present the child to the family, and will become a person of great influence to the child, much like we would consider a G0d-parent to be, I think. During the life of the child, the turandoo and child will exchange gifts and mentor/be mentored. So the turandoo is an important person to the person.
Unfortunately I never had the opportunity to meet my turandoo. Some missionary friends introduced me to the owner of their house, who asked me for my Senegalese name. When I told him I didn't have one, he gave me the name of one of his friends. If I had met this person, I could have formed a close relationship with him.
So this is an example of culture here in Senegal that I wanted you to be aware of. Just a bit of random information. Hope you enjoyed!
Well, here in Senegal, the person you are named for is very important. When a baby is born, there is a celebration on the 8th day of it's life to celebrate the child's birth. At this ceremony (ngente), gifts are brought for the family. Mothers give the mother clothes, cloth, food, milk or various other items she can use, while fathers and men give the father money. The family serves a big lunch for everyone that comes, and after lunch there is the ceremony. I want to go to one to see all that is involved. I hear it is at the ceremony that the person the child will be named for (turandoo) has the highest seat of honor. S/he will be served first, s/he will present the child to the family, and will become a person of great influence to the child, much like we would consider a G0d-parent to be, I think. During the life of the child, the turandoo and child will exchange gifts and mentor/be mentored. So the turandoo is an important person to the person.
Unfortunately I never had the opportunity to meet my turandoo. Some missionary friends introduced me to the owner of their house, who asked me for my Senegalese name. When I told him I didn't have one, he gave me the name of one of his friends. If I had met this person, I could have formed a close relationship with him.
So this is an example of culture here in Senegal that I wanted you to be aware of. Just a bit of random information. Hope you enjoyed!
some struggles
I do enjoy the work that I do here in Senegal, and in Mekhe. Lately the weather has been nice. Some days it has been hot, other days fairly mild. It is like a summer in NC during August, and when I was coming I expected much hotter, more extreme conditions. So I really can't complain about the life here.
But what I have been struggling with lately is putting my passionate foot forward. It took so long for language classes to get started, so it seems like I have been learning Wolof for a year now since I have lived here nearly 10 months and worked as a missionary for a year. But I've only had 5 months of classes. They weren't kidding when they told me I would be a life learner as a missionary.
But I'm ready to share with people. Yet after Wolof class, I sometimes feel so tired that I just want to rest. So a struggle at times has been to even go and visit with my neighbors and friends. This is the season of Ramadan, and I'm always greeted with the question "how is the fasting?" When I answer that question, I tell them that I'm not a Muslim, that I am a follower of Christ, so I am not fasting during this season. Earlier this month I was struggling just to say this. But I have noticed the more I say it the easier it comes. I think that is true with most things that I have learned. I simply have to practice it repeatedly in order to learn it. This was a struggle, but now it's coming around.
But my struggle lately has been my passion. It's here, but it's tired! Lately I have been reading a lot about the politics that are going on in America. Deep down I have always wanted to work in conservation, and now that conservation seems to be the wave of the future in career choices, I'm itching to find a job that will pave the way for the future. It would be something I know I would enjoy. I don't get to work with my hands here, and since I see my hands as one of God's greatest gifts to me, often times I wonder how I can use them here. Maybe I am supposed to be doing something else? When I think this way, I realize that satan is reminding me of what I love, but I should be focusing more on who I love.
Another minor battle has been these blisters on my feet. They aren't healing because as I walk I keep breaking the scabs. This is keeping me from exercising like I wish I could, and I do miss the exercises that I grew into the habit of doing.
So I have been battling a little this month with my interests and things that I want to do. I still wish that I could find a balance between these. I enjoy the time I have to talk with friends and neighbors, but gee, if I could work in a lab developing methods of conservation as well, I'd be more satisfied with my work. Maybe this is where God is teaching me that it's not about me, and it's all about his will for my life. I still have a lot to learn. I know that I am stubborn at times. But I know that God is faithful and he will bring me through these struggles. I pray that my joy will remain complete despite them.
But what I have been struggling with lately is putting my passionate foot forward. It took so long for language classes to get started, so it seems like I have been learning Wolof for a year now since I have lived here nearly 10 months and worked as a missionary for a year. But I've only had 5 months of classes. They weren't kidding when they told me I would be a life learner as a missionary.
But I'm ready to share with people. Yet after Wolof class, I sometimes feel so tired that I just want to rest. So a struggle at times has been to even go and visit with my neighbors and friends. This is the season of Ramadan, and I'm always greeted with the question "how is the fasting?" When I answer that question, I tell them that I'm not a Muslim, that I am a follower of Christ, so I am not fasting during this season. Earlier this month I was struggling just to say this. But I have noticed the more I say it the easier it comes. I think that is true with most things that I have learned. I simply have to practice it repeatedly in order to learn it. This was a struggle, but now it's coming around.
But my struggle lately has been my passion. It's here, but it's tired! Lately I have been reading a lot about the politics that are going on in America. Deep down I have always wanted to work in conservation, and now that conservation seems to be the wave of the future in career choices, I'm itching to find a job that will pave the way for the future. It would be something I know I would enjoy. I don't get to work with my hands here, and since I see my hands as one of God's greatest gifts to me, often times I wonder how I can use them here. Maybe I am supposed to be doing something else? When I think this way, I realize that satan is reminding me of what I love, but I should be focusing more on who I love.
Another minor battle has been these blisters on my feet. They aren't healing because as I walk I keep breaking the scabs. This is keeping me from exercising like I wish I could, and I do miss the exercises that I grew into the habit of doing.
So I have been battling a little this month with my interests and things that I want to do. I still wish that I could find a balance between these. I enjoy the time I have to talk with friends and neighbors, but gee, if I could work in a lab developing methods of conservation as well, I'd be more satisfied with my work. Maybe this is where God is teaching me that it's not about me, and it's all about his will for my life. I still have a lot to learn. I know that I am stubborn at times. But I know that God is faithful and he will bring me through these struggles. I pray that my joy will remain complete despite them.
Friday, September 12, 2008
Team Meeting
This week was a slightly different week for me. Our Wolof team meets periodically to discuss events, keep our tasks up to date, and relate ministry items with each other. Usually we meet 4 times a year.
This meeting lasted 2 days and we mostly discussed strategies for reaching the Wolof people. We talked about volunteer groups, partnering churches, current things that we are all involved in, as well as other things less exciting. It was an effective 2 day meeting, though I think we were all exhausted at the end of it.
Whenever I am in Dakar, I try to see a few of my many friends. I was able to enjoy time with the Reynolds and the Foremans, and I got to spend time each night I was there with the 2 evening guards whom I made friends with while I was in language learning several months ago. I was hoping to go by and see my 'dad' PJ but after not sleeping well the night before, I missed that opportunity. I'll be in town for a day next week, and maybe I can get there early enough to catch him before he goes off to work. I'll try. I want to update him with things and hear how he is doing.
While writing this post, I'll ask for a prayer request. Please pray for my feet to begin to heal. Since June there has been blister after blister on them which limit my mobility. I've wanted to play soccer, walk the streets, and enjoy my neighborhood. But when I don't sleep well for my feet throbbing, when I'm getting ingrown toenails that I've never gotten before, or when I can barely walk around my house I am beginning to realize that this is probably spiritual warfare that I am dealing with. Please pray with me that this will go away quickly so I can feel more effective in my ministry.
Thanks so much for reading and for your prayers.
This meeting lasted 2 days and we mostly discussed strategies for reaching the Wolof people. We talked about volunteer groups, partnering churches, current things that we are all involved in, as well as other things less exciting. It was an effective 2 day meeting, though I think we were all exhausted at the end of it.
Whenever I am in Dakar, I try to see a few of my many friends. I was able to enjoy time with the Reynolds and the Foremans, and I got to spend time each night I was there with the 2 evening guards whom I made friends with while I was in language learning several months ago. I was hoping to go by and see my 'dad' PJ but after not sleeping well the night before, I missed that opportunity. I'll be in town for a day next week, and maybe I can get there early enough to catch him before he goes off to work. I'll try. I want to update him with things and hear how he is doing.
While writing this post, I'll ask for a prayer request. Please pray for my feet to begin to heal. Since June there has been blister after blister on them which limit my mobility. I've wanted to play soccer, walk the streets, and enjoy my neighborhood. But when I don't sleep well for my feet throbbing, when I'm getting ingrown toenails that I've never gotten before, or when I can barely walk around my house I am beginning to realize that this is probably spiritual warfare that I am dealing with. Please pray with me that this will go away quickly so I can feel more effective in my ministry.
Thanks so much for reading and for your prayers.
Sunday, September 7, 2008
the latest sharing news
These are my latest opportunities of sharing with my friends. These stories feature:
-me!
-my weekly guard
-Mr. T, my welding friend
-and the adult children of my home owner.
and ACTION:
I've had some good conversations with my guard, with the youth at the house of my homeowner, and with the metal worker and his helpers on their relationship with God. I'll start with my guard. He's seen a More than Dreams DVD testimony-a true story about a Muslim who converted to Christianity, and he was asking questions after the dvd. They put a lot of emphasis on dreams here, and if Jesus speaks to them in a dream, they do seek him from others. I've shared with him some. I have asked him about his prayer beeds. He says he has to pray 1947 times a day! And I asked him what he's praying that much. He's saying 'forgive me' that many times...that's his prayer. His pastor (sereen) told him to do that. I'm working with him, and we'll continue to talk.
The homeowner and his family I have had some success with them. A month or so ago I was eating lunch with them, and went with one of the boys to his bedroom to have tea. While he was making tea and waiting for the water to boil he said his afternoon prayers. He read them aloud, but I noticed how fast he was reading. And I asked him why he rushed through the prayers? Was he praying what was on his heart? I was honestly curious. And he showed me his prayer book and that he's to pray through it daily, reading in Arabic. I asked him what it read, and he said he didn't know, just that he was to pray through it. So I shared that when I pray to God I pray what is on my heart, and I pray from my heart. Written prayers are ok, but I know that God loves me enough to want to hear from my heart. And when I pray, I talk to God with importance.
He seemed to understand that. We've talked since, and he's been with me when I've talked with others in his family, and he seems to be echoing what I try to say to his brothers and sisters. When they were asking questions and I would try to explain my answers, he'd speak more eloquently than I was able to. I'm going to have to start telling them stories, and maybe I have found someone that can be a helper.
The welder and his helpers have been much the same as the homeowner's kids. The welder wants to hear stories, and I am trying to build my relationship with him as well as simply tell truth now when I get the chance. He's helped me by asking his helpers not to talk so firm when they talk with me. I don't mind the firmness as much as they speak so fast and are so close to me when they talk (6 inches from my nose) that he helps me to tell them that we can learn from each other, and to have a conversation about our faith in God.
So that's where I am with those relationships. Please keep us in your prayers. Some days I feel like I'm close in getting them to understand, and other days it's as if I have to start over. I do care a lot about these individuals, and would love to see their hearts change.
-me!
-my weekly guard
-Mr. T, my welding friend
-and the adult children of my home owner.
and ACTION:
I've had some good conversations with my guard, with the youth at the house of my homeowner, and with the metal worker and his helpers on their relationship with God. I'll start with my guard. He's seen a More than Dreams DVD testimony-a true story about a Muslim who converted to Christianity, and he was asking questions after the dvd. They put a lot of emphasis on dreams here, and if Jesus speaks to them in a dream, they do seek him from others. I've shared with him some. I have asked him about his prayer beeds. He says he has to pray 1947 times a day! And I asked him what he's praying that much. He's saying 'forgive me' that many times...that's his prayer. His pastor (sereen) told him to do that. I'm working with him, and we'll continue to talk.
The homeowner and his family I have had some success with them. A month or so ago I was eating lunch with them, and went with one of the boys to his bedroom to have tea. While he was making tea and waiting for the water to boil he said his afternoon prayers. He read them aloud, but I noticed how fast he was reading. And I asked him why he rushed through the prayers? Was he praying what was on his heart? I was honestly curious. And he showed me his prayer book and that he's to pray through it daily, reading in Arabic. I asked him what it read, and he said he didn't know, just that he was to pray through it. So I shared that when I pray to God I pray what is on my heart, and I pray from my heart. Written prayers are ok, but I know that God loves me enough to want to hear from my heart. And when I pray, I talk to God with importance.
He seemed to understand that. We've talked since, and he's been with me when I've talked with others in his family, and he seems to be echoing what I try to say to his brothers and sisters. When they were asking questions and I would try to explain my answers, he'd speak more eloquently than I was able to. I'm going to have to start telling them stories, and maybe I have found someone that can be a helper.
The welder and his helpers have been much the same as the homeowner's kids. The welder wants to hear stories, and I am trying to build my relationship with him as well as simply tell truth now when I get the chance. He's helped me by asking his helpers not to talk so firm when they talk with me. I don't mind the firmness as much as they speak so fast and are so close to me when they talk (6 inches from my nose) that he helps me to tell them that we can learn from each other, and to have a conversation about our faith in God.
So that's where I am with those relationships. Please keep us in your prayers. Some days I feel like I'm close in getting them to understand, and other days it's as if I have to start over. I do care a lot about these individuals, and would love to see their hearts change.
An adventurous day...sometimes a typical day.
I'll tell you about my adventerous day this week. It was a thursday, like any typical thursday (ok, I'll stop with the Dragnet cameo). After studying Wolof I went out to work in the yard. I have a lamp that I wanted to replace, and some weeds I was going to get up. So after pulling the weeds I worked on the lamp. The lamp was too high for me to reach standing on a chair, and since I don't have a ladder I decided it was best to stand on the tailgate of my truck to hang the light. But when I went to start my truck, it wouldn't start.
I noticed when I turned the key to warm the glow plug I notice the gas needle didn't move-it stayed on empty. It didn't even move up to empty. First time it has not registered, it registered 3/4 of a tank last time I drove it on Sunday. But I wasn't concerned, needles go bad all the time. The truck fired up when I first cranked it, then stalled out. Old truck, been sitting for a week, I wasn't concerned about the stall. And cranked it again. This time, it wouldn't turn over. So I'm thinking the battery, and call my supervisor over to jump me with his truck. Well he comes over and says "you're not getting any gas" and I tell him again about the gas needle. He says, wow, somebody got you. But you can't cyphen every drop of gas from a tank, surely it will register something. And it did turn over, I have to think it's something else. But he suggested we fill a gas tank and put some gas in. After doing that, and pumping the fuel pump, it cranked. So now I'm thinking, yes, somebody did steal my gas and I'll need to go and get some more. My tank holds 40 liters and I was going to buy 20. However (this is the weird part), the tank only held 10 liters, 1/4 of the tank. So there was gas in the truck the whole time. It's never gone bad like that before, never even had a problem cranking. Anyway, got it running again and drove for 30 minutes to warm up the engine. I haven't driven it out of Mekhe since my trip to go shopping 2 or 3 weeks ago. Anyway, now I'll have to keep a close eye on my trip odometer to fill up with gas regularly. And I'm guessing I'll be driving my truck a little more regularly so this doesn't happen again. Least I know how to fix it now.
After that, I did use the truck to fix the lamp. I'll tell you about houses here. Everything is cement-cement walls, cement foundation, cement roofs. Typically they'll put rebarb in the walls as they pour the concrete to make the walls firm. However, the cement on my house is very soft. The last light I hung was very easy to hang. This one, I found the concrete to be quite firm. I was hanging it outside my guard's room-he has a separate building from my house but in my yard. I had some of the neighborhood kids hanging around with me and we talked while I worked on my truck and while I fixed the lamp. 2 of them were saying that I needed to buy some nails to punch into the cement. So I went with them to a hardware store to buy some. And we came back and I was able to hang the lamp, no problems. That was fun working with the kids. I gave them candy for helping.
Then with the work around the house finished, I went for a walk in the market. I saw my welder friend, my shop keeper friend, picked up my shirt I had made, and got a haircut. I had never met the man who cut my hair before. He is Nigerian-didn't know we had any Nigerians in town-and wanted to speak English with me. So I was ok with that. The haircut is a little short-I'd been letting my hair grow out for the last 5 months. My hair grows really slow, and the top is thinner than the sides. I don't like long hair on the side of my head, but don't mind combing the top. I have a military haircut now :) And that's ok with me, this is the way I always cut my hair in college.
So after my adventurous day, I came home, talked with my guard-we also watched XMen. I ate supper, exercised, and went to bed. And that's been a typical day for me this week...I'll study in the mornings, go out after lunch time and visit. I am trying to be respectful of the people during their fast and not even buy food during the day here. Everyone is fasting, in fact it's the first thing they'll ask me when they greet me. I'm having to say that as my testimony quite a lot this week, and I'm grateful for the opportunities to share my faith in Jesus as the only way to gain salvation. Of course they put their faith in the works they do. It's sad how they are caught up in the religion.
I noticed when I turned the key to warm the glow plug I notice the gas needle didn't move-it stayed on empty. It didn't even move up to empty. First time it has not registered, it registered 3/4 of a tank last time I drove it on Sunday. But I wasn't concerned, needles go bad all the time. The truck fired up when I first cranked it, then stalled out. Old truck, been sitting for a week, I wasn't concerned about the stall. And cranked it again. This time, it wouldn't turn over. So I'm thinking the battery, and call my supervisor over to jump me with his truck. Well he comes over and says "you're not getting any gas" and I tell him again about the gas needle. He says, wow, somebody got you. But you can't cyphen every drop of gas from a tank, surely it will register something. And it did turn over, I have to think it's something else. But he suggested we fill a gas tank and put some gas in. After doing that, and pumping the fuel pump, it cranked. So now I'm thinking, yes, somebody did steal my gas and I'll need to go and get some more. My tank holds 40 liters and I was going to buy 20. However (this is the weird part), the tank only held 10 liters, 1/4 of the tank. So there was gas in the truck the whole time. It's never gone bad like that before, never even had a problem cranking. Anyway, got it running again and drove for 30 minutes to warm up the engine. I haven't driven it out of Mekhe since my trip to go shopping 2 or 3 weeks ago. Anyway, now I'll have to keep a close eye on my trip odometer to fill up with gas regularly. And I'm guessing I'll be driving my truck a little more regularly so this doesn't happen again. Least I know how to fix it now.
After that, I did use the truck to fix the lamp. I'll tell you about houses here. Everything is cement-cement walls, cement foundation, cement roofs. Typically they'll put rebarb in the walls as they pour the concrete to make the walls firm. However, the cement on my house is very soft. The last light I hung was very easy to hang. This one, I found the concrete to be quite firm. I was hanging it outside my guard's room-he has a separate building from my house but in my yard. I had some of the neighborhood kids hanging around with me and we talked while I worked on my truck and while I fixed the lamp. 2 of them were saying that I needed to buy some nails to punch into the cement. So I went with them to a hardware store to buy some. And we came back and I was able to hang the lamp, no problems. That was fun working with the kids. I gave them candy for helping.
Then with the work around the house finished, I went for a walk in the market. I saw my welder friend, my shop keeper friend, picked up my shirt I had made, and got a haircut. I had never met the man who cut my hair before. He is Nigerian-didn't know we had any Nigerians in town-and wanted to speak English with me. So I was ok with that. The haircut is a little short-I'd been letting my hair grow out for the last 5 months. My hair grows really slow, and the top is thinner than the sides. I don't like long hair on the side of my head, but don't mind combing the top. I have a military haircut now :) And that's ok with me, this is the way I always cut my hair in college.
So after my adventurous day, I came home, talked with my guard-we also watched XMen. I ate supper, exercised, and went to bed. And that's been a typical day for me this week...I'll study in the mornings, go out after lunch time and visit. I am trying to be respectful of the people during their fast and not even buy food during the day here. Everyone is fasting, in fact it's the first thing they'll ask me when they greet me. I'm having to say that as my testimony quite a lot this week, and I'm grateful for the opportunities to share my faith in Jesus as the only way to gain salvation. Of course they put their faith in the works they do. It's sad how they are caught up in the religion.
Saturday, September 6, 2008
West African Cardboard Testimonies
these are testimonies of fellow missionaries here in West Africa. The signs relate to the lives the missionaries left behind to serve in West Africa. Take a look, I hope they touch your heart.
Thursday, September 4, 2008
The cat...didn't come back (warning, sad story)
I've told a few of you that I had a cat living in the yard lately. The mom cat had her litter in a brush pile I had in the side of the yard. Later in the month I noticed one kitten and the mom still hanging around the yard. They began to spend a lot of time here. I was ok with it, but told myself, "just don't feed the cat." The kitten began to grow. I enjoyed watching it play with crickets at night in the yard, and try to climb the tree. I'd shew it away when it tried climbing my front porch screen.
Well one day I was cleaning around the yard and walked up close to the cats. The mom hissed (wild cat, she always does that), and immediately started coughing. And I thought, oh no, she's sick while she's nursing. So my heavy heart decided to put some milk out for her. After an hour or so she was curious enough to try it, and drank probably 4 ounces-quite a bit. And as I put out the milk I was telling myself, 'now I'm attached.'
The next day, I'm driving my vehicle to Elliott's for church, and as I pack my things in the truck, the cats are on the truck. So I shooed them away. Then I start my vehicle and begin to back out of the garage. Keep in mind that this is a diesel truck with a loud engine. Well, the kitten came back, and yep, went right to the curious spot of the moving tire. Only the wrong side apparently. As I looked over the hood of my truck I could see it struggle for it's last breath-I'm not even sure what I ran over, maybe it's head. I wanted to cry, and I wanted to say some inappropriate words-I was mad and sad at the same time. So I buried the kitten. Mom cat saw the whole thing. After the burial she was looking all over for her kitten. Her kitten never came back. She was very sad for 3 days.
So that's the story of the cat. I'm not a cat fan, never have been. But I do have a soft spot for all animals (except snakes). I won't attach myself to cats because if I do I feed the neighborhood. It's the same reason I don't give money or loan money to anyone. I figured I would nurse the cat to health, and then no longer feed it, but I did get attached. I miss the kitten.
Well one day I was cleaning around the yard and walked up close to the cats. The mom hissed (wild cat, she always does that), and immediately started coughing. And I thought, oh no, she's sick while she's nursing. So my heavy heart decided to put some milk out for her. After an hour or so she was curious enough to try it, and drank probably 4 ounces-quite a bit. And as I put out the milk I was telling myself, 'now I'm attached.'
The next day, I'm driving my vehicle to Elliott's for church, and as I pack my things in the truck, the cats are on the truck. So I shooed them away. Then I start my vehicle and begin to back out of the garage. Keep in mind that this is a diesel truck with a loud engine. Well, the kitten came back, and yep, went right to the curious spot of the moving tire. Only the wrong side apparently. As I looked over the hood of my truck I could see it struggle for it's last breath-I'm not even sure what I ran over, maybe it's head. I wanted to cry, and I wanted to say some inappropriate words-I was mad and sad at the same time. So I buried the kitten. Mom cat saw the whole thing. After the burial she was looking all over for her kitten. Her kitten never came back. She was very sad for 3 days.
So that's the story of the cat. I'm not a cat fan, never have been. But I do have a soft spot for all animals (except snakes). I won't attach myself to cats because if I do I feed the neighborhood. It's the same reason I don't give money or loan money to anyone. I figured I would nurse the cat to health, and then no longer feed it, but I did get attached. I miss the kitten.
Ramadan
Starting September 2nd Muslims here and around the world begin Ramadan, a month long fast where each person will not eat or drink during daylight hours. This is a chance for them to try and please their God by giving up food and water. The people will go about their normal routine during the day, and then at the end of the day have a big meal with family. During the day they are typically somber and typically on edge in their conversations. By the end of the day many are complaining of being hungry and tired.
-please pray for times to share during this month. Each day as I venture out the first thing people will ask is, "are you fasting?" I am able to share that as a follower of Jesus I do fast, but I am not fasting for this month. Pray for me to be bold as I continue to find other words to say about my faith relating to fasting.
-pray for the hearts of the people. When they are asking each person daily "are you fasting" they are going against Jesus' teaching of fasting in secret and only letting God know. They are trying to do good works rather than serving God with their hearts.
-pray for the health of the people. It is hot this month, and it is still raining. Besides the germs that are predominant this time of year, also remember the people as they go without food and water during the day, yet still work in the fields and in their mechanic shops. Hard labor is especially tough when you are dehydrated. Pray that they will rest when they can, and they will be smart about taking their time as they work.
-please pray for times to share during this month. Each day as I venture out the first thing people will ask is, "are you fasting?" I am able to share that as a follower of Jesus I do fast, but I am not fasting for this month. Pray for me to be bold as I continue to find other words to say about my faith relating to fasting.
-pray for the hearts of the people. When they are asking each person daily "are you fasting" they are going against Jesus' teaching of fasting in secret and only letting God know. They are trying to do good works rather than serving God with their hearts.
-pray for the health of the people. It is hot this month, and it is still raining. Besides the germs that are predominant this time of year, also remember the people as they go without food and water during the day, yet still work in the fields and in their mechanic shops. Hard labor is especially tough when you are dehydrated. Pray that they will rest when they can, and they will be smart about taking their time as they work.
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Trip to Abidjan
We recently had our annual meeting in Abidjan, Ivory Coast. There all the missionaries in West Africa got together to discuss various strategies for effective entry, effective discipleship and church planting. We had time for worship and time to get together as teams to discuss other matters of ministry. Overall it was a great time to be encouraged by meeting other missionaries, hearing their stories, and sharing a little about my work with others.
Some highlights of the week include getting to meet many of the other journeymen. There are various teams of journey girls who live in remote parts of West Africa and work together to tell stories. These ladies are my heroes. They live in extreme conditions for several weeks at the time, teaching lessons in the native tongue of the people. I live in a village, but the living conditions are nothing like what these ladies deal with every day. And it was great to get to hear how they are making the stories come to life to their people.
I also enjoyed time with Erik, my other fellow journeyman. Erik's quite the character, and being around him always lifts my spirits. We got to talk about his classes and we discussed most nights what we talked about in large group that day.
One day all the single journey guys and girls went to the beach. I really enjoyed the trip to the beach-to wade in the dirty water, to throw frisbee, and collect sand dollars. We also had a nice lunch and had a good day together to rest. The only problem was that after the day in the sun I was so exhausted that I missed the next morning's session.
Another highlight was playing pool with Elliot, my supervisor. We have been talking about playing pool for awhile now. Finally we found a table to play on-although it was not a good table at all. The cushions were falling apart, the sticks did not have good tips, and the pockets were falling apart. But despite the conditions we were competitive and had a good time. Yea, I beat him bad one day. The next day he beat me. We're going to have to find another place to play here in Senegal.
I really enjoyed meeting all the missionaries that I came across in Abidjan. I made some friends that will last a liftetime and look forward to renewing those relationships when it is possible. My prayers are with you all!
Some highlights of the week include getting to meet many of the other journeymen. There are various teams of journey girls who live in remote parts of West Africa and work together to tell stories. These ladies are my heroes. They live in extreme conditions for several weeks at the time, teaching lessons in the native tongue of the people. I live in a village, but the living conditions are nothing like what these ladies deal with every day. And it was great to get to hear how they are making the stories come to life to their people.
I also enjoyed time with Erik, my other fellow journeyman. Erik's quite the character, and being around him always lifts my spirits. We got to talk about his classes and we discussed most nights what we talked about in large group that day.
One day all the single journey guys and girls went to the beach. I really enjoyed the trip to the beach-to wade in the dirty water, to throw frisbee, and collect sand dollars. We also had a nice lunch and had a good day together to rest. The only problem was that after the day in the sun I was so exhausted that I missed the next morning's session.
Another highlight was playing pool with Elliot, my supervisor. We have been talking about playing pool for awhile now. Finally we found a table to play on-although it was not a good table at all. The cushions were falling apart, the sticks did not have good tips, and the pockets were falling apart. But despite the conditions we were competitive and had a good time. Yea, I beat him bad one day. The next day he beat me. We're going to have to find another place to play here in Senegal.
I really enjoyed meeting all the missionaries that I came across in Abidjan. I made some friends that will last a liftetime and look forward to renewing those relationships when it is possible. My prayers are with you all!
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Prayer Answered!
I had a huge prayer answered a few weeks ago. A friend of mine here in Mekhe who is a Wolof welder was talking with me as I introduced to him my guests. He met Justin, a youth pastor, and asked him what he did for work. I translated that he taught the Bible to youth. And my friend excitedly proclaimed, “can you teach me? I want to learn.” I was absolutely floored! So eagerly we set up a time to meet and tell stories.
The day we met, I translated the story of creation as well as the story of Adam and Eve and their sin. We talked specifically on the idea that Adam and Eve sinned just like everyone sins, we mentioned that God required a sacrifice from a living animal to pay for that sin-an innocent animal had to die. And we discussed that our relationship with God was broken because of that sin since Adam and Eve could not go back to the garden. It was a good lesson, and I will share more with my friend.
This was a great start into sharing with my friend. I look forward to going to his house and continuing to build this relationship with him. He has been given a Wolof New Testament Bible to have and read when he can. And although he has pushed aside the Word when his friends are around (which is what any Muslim would do culturally), privately he is eager to hear more stories. He knew these stories well, and was saying them to us in Wolof better than I could say them in Wolof. I do pray that together we may continue to share the truth about Jesus.
The day we met, I translated the story of creation as well as the story of Adam and Eve and their sin. We talked specifically on the idea that Adam and Eve sinned just like everyone sins, we mentioned that God required a sacrifice from a living animal to pay for that sin-an innocent animal had to die. And we discussed that our relationship with God was broken because of that sin since Adam and Eve could not go back to the garden. It was a good lesson, and I will share more with my friend.
This was a great start into sharing with my friend. I look forward to going to his house and continuing to build this relationship with him. He has been given a Wolof New Testament Bible to have and read when he can. And although he has pushed aside the Word when his friends are around (which is what any Muslim would do culturally), privately he is eager to hear more stories. He knew these stories well, and was saying them to us in Wolof better than I could say them in Wolof. I do pray that together we may continue to share the truth about Jesus.
New Happenings
Now that we are done with the volunteer teams here for the summer, you may be wondering just what I am going to be doing with the time I have. Well, I’ll try to give you a little summary of what I would like to do with my time here in Mekhe. But before I do, here’s the plans for the next few weeks.
-We have a regional workshop to attend in Abidjan, Cote D’Ivoire at the end of the month. I will be attending this to gain insight on effective entry and effective presentation of the gospel. I’ll also get to meet other missionaries from West Africa and begin to hear their stories.
-I have highspeed internet! So I will hope to keep in touch better with family and friends once I catch up on the work that I have been missing here. With the internet maybe I’ll even catch a cubs game on the radio. And I look forward to exercising to Adventures in Odyssey, and hearing a few sermons as well.
-After the regional workshop, I will begin Wolof classes again. These classes will be 3 days a week for 3 hours each day. This will give me time to not only grow in my Wolof, but I will have off days to begin working on telling stories and doing ministry in Mekhe. So I’m very excited about continuing language study, and for the chance that it will give me to ask questions as I go.
I know that seems like a lot, but I do like to stay busy. I don’t think this is too much to chew on, and once I get into a rhythm I should be able to get this done each day. I believe this will also make me look forward to resting on the weekends. I’ll keep you updated how the schedule is working.
-We have a regional workshop to attend in Abidjan, Cote D’Ivoire at the end of the month. I will be attending this to gain insight on effective entry and effective presentation of the gospel. I’ll also get to meet other missionaries from West Africa and begin to hear their stories.
-I have highspeed internet! So I will hope to keep in touch better with family and friends once I catch up on the work that I have been missing here. With the internet maybe I’ll even catch a cubs game on the radio. And I look forward to exercising to Adventures in Odyssey, and hearing a few sermons as well.
-After the regional workshop, I will begin Wolof classes again. These classes will be 3 days a week for 3 hours each day. This will give me time to not only grow in my Wolof, but I will have off days to begin working on telling stories and doing ministry in Mekhe. So I’m very excited about continuing language study, and for the chance that it will give me to ask questions as I go.
I know that seems like a lot, but I do like to stay busy. I don’t think this is too much to chew on, and once I get into a rhythm I should be able to get this done each day. I believe this will also make me look forward to resting on the weekends. I’ll keep you updated how the schedule is working.
a day of rest!
I was awful tired one day, and I didn’t realize it. With the work that we had all been doing the last few weeks, I was getting 5-6 hours of sleep each night. Usually when I am tired and I’m not active I can fall asleep no problem. And I started taking light naps in the afternoons. Elliott would even pick on me for taking naps, which I didn’t mind but I did try to stay away so that he wouldn’t have anything to say to me. But one day, I took a nap for 2 hours before lunch. After the nap I felt even worse, so I thought to myself, “Oh no! I’m getting sick.” So after lunch I took a nap to see if it would make me feel better. After that nap I went with 2 of the boys to visit a friend of ours, and I couldn’t hold my head up during the visit. After bringing them back to Elliott’s house, I went home to go to bed, and slept for 12 hours. I felt much better after the rest and was back to my old self. So after sleeping for 17 hours in one day, I was caught up with the sleep I needed. I guess my body will shut itself down to catch up on much needed sleep.
The Second Group
The second group that we had here working with us as volunteers came all the way from Poquoson Baptist Church in Virginia. Like the first group, this group had the chance to work with the high school students here in Mekhe. They played games-usually basketball-and taught the Senegalese students a few American games—such as Uno, football (American style), and some other card games. They also shared dances that each prepared. There was a group of 3 boys here in Mekhe that dance together and performed for us, and the Poquoson group prepared dances to share as well. It turned out to be quite a fun time for all involved.
With this second group we also learned to laugh at ourselves. Many days we said things that seemed to come out wrong-me included! Some of those sayings that you just had to be there to see the humor. And we learned a lot about ourselves and what makes us different from others. We realized that we all have gifts we can take to the throne, and God can use them in a special way. I am glad that even as I am 28 I am still learning things about myself so that I may work better with others.
With this second group we also learned to laugh at ourselves. Many days we said things that seemed to come out wrong-me included! Some of those sayings that you just had to be there to see the humor. And we learned a lot about ourselves and what makes us different from others. We realized that we all have gifts we can take to the throne, and God can use them in a special way. I am glad that even as I am 28 I am still learning things about myself so that I may work better with others.
Saturday, June 28, 2008
Which would you rather have??
Over the last week the guys at my house created a number of games. One game we came up with was “you know you’ve been in Africa too long when…” and we’d complete the sentence. One way we were reminded of being in Africa was the water cutting off each day. Fortunately it would come on at night so we could get showers, but in the morning we wouldn’t have any water. When I realized the pattern, I stayed up filling water bottles with the filter so we would have drinking water for the next day. And I’d be the last to take a shower and go to bed. But the lack of water got me to think-what would I rather have, water or power?
In Dakar there has been terrible power outages lately. I am not sure if it is from the change in temperature and more people are running fans, or if there is a shortage of power available. At any rate, when the power is cut off, people here cannot work. Seamstresses cannot sew, factories cannot produce goods, computers cannot work-in short, life is at a stand still for the 5-6 hours that there is no power. The water just this week has become an issue as well. I understand that there was a main water line cut in Dakar, and apparently all the water in various cities is being sent to Dakar to alleviate the shortage. But it doesn’t help us in the other cities. We sacrifice all our water so they may have some. Just a reminder of being in Africa.
Now, to answer the question-which would I rather have? Without a doubt, I’d rather have water than power. I can do everything I need to do at my house without power. I can cook on my gas stove, I can flush and shower (the water powers itself when it is on), and I can read during the day or go out and talk to friends. No power at night makes for a boring evening, but I can still talk to my guard until I’m sleepy enough to lay down. But if I don’t have water, I cannot shower, I cannot cook (unless I use bottled water-which I will keep on hand), and I can’t refresh myself. I do have a reserve tank of water that I can store and run through my lines in my house, but it is a weaker pressure and does not make it to the kitchen. Also, I used to really enjoy the power outages that we had at home during a thunder storm. But if I’m without one or the other for an extended time, I’d rather not have power than not have water.
In Dakar there has been terrible power outages lately. I am not sure if it is from the change in temperature and more people are running fans, or if there is a shortage of power available. At any rate, when the power is cut off, people here cannot work. Seamstresses cannot sew, factories cannot produce goods, computers cannot work-in short, life is at a stand still for the 5-6 hours that there is no power. The water just this week has become an issue as well. I understand that there was a main water line cut in Dakar, and apparently all the water in various cities is being sent to Dakar to alleviate the shortage. But it doesn’t help us in the other cities. We sacrifice all our water so they may have some. Just a reminder of being in Africa.
Now, to answer the question-which would I rather have? Without a doubt, I’d rather have water than power. I can do everything I need to do at my house without power. I can cook on my gas stove, I can flush and shower (the water powers itself when it is on), and I can read during the day or go out and talk to friends. No power at night makes for a boring evening, but I can still talk to my guard until I’m sleepy enough to lay down. But if I don’t have water, I cannot shower, I cannot cook (unless I use bottled water-which I will keep on hand), and I can’t refresh myself. I do have a reserve tank of water that I can store and run through my lines in my house, but it is a weaker pressure and does not make it to the kitchen. Also, I used to really enjoy the power outages that we had at home during a thunder storm. But if I’m without one or the other for an extended time, I’d rather not have power than not have water.
No Rest for the Weary
Anyone who has small kids, or who has ever been a youth minister can relate to being tired after a camp, or being tired in general from caring for children. And this is not to say that I am complaining about being tired, I am just surprised at how tired I was. While the Hickory Grove group was here, I slept most nights for 5 hours-1:30-6:30. Occasionally I would get a few more winks, but some nights I also got less. I’m one of those people that can handle 5 hours of sleep, as long as I’m active and working. If I’m idle, that makes it tough.
Anyway, this week I was able to get some much needed rest. All I had on my agenda was to clean my house, cook for myself, visit 2 friends, order my internet for my house, and rest, rest, rest. Although it was a very hot week, I was surprised that even though I would sleep in til 8am, I could still get a 3 hour nap in the afternoon, and yet still fall asleep at night. A few days I was extremely tired-maybe I slept too much! But some days I could not keep my eyes opened when I was reading. It’s been awhile since I have been that exhausted. I was grateful for this week to recuperate, and now I am ready for the next group to come.
Anyway, this week I was able to get some much needed rest. All I had on my agenda was to clean my house, cook for myself, visit 2 friends, order my internet for my house, and rest, rest, rest. Although it was a very hot week, I was surprised that even though I would sleep in til 8am, I could still get a 3 hour nap in the afternoon, and yet still fall asleep at night. A few days I was extremely tired-maybe I slept too much! But some days I could not keep my eyes opened when I was reading. It’s been awhile since I have been that exhausted. I was grateful for this week to recuperate, and now I am ready for the next group to come.
The Hickory Grove Group
This group was a church youth group from Charlotte, NC, who came to do ministry work with the youth at the highschool in Mekhe. They were a large group for Mekhe, 15 people came! But what an amazing and outgoing group. Not only did they learn greetings, they took initiative during each day of the week to speak with friends they were making, or even strangers on the road.
This group also braved the elements of Mekhe. Each day we had to battle for running water, which is not fun in a house of 7 guys. And they braved the 110 degree heat of Senegal. I was very pleased with their work.
They even came up with a new nickname for me, Biv or Bivster. It comes from the acronym for learning the colors of the rainbow. It’s still growing on me, but this group earned the right to call me bivster. It was/is cute.
What was their schedule like during the day? Well, they would get up, shower, and eat breakfast, and be ready to go by 9am. From 9-1 we usually did whatever we could, whether prayer walking, visiting friends, or for a couple of days we visited the school and spoke in the classroom with the kids. After lunch we would rest until 4 or 5, when we would really get going with visiting friends at the school. We would play soccer or basketball until dark, then eat supper and have debrief time until 10:30. And after the dust settled, the guys would go back to my place and we’d turn in for bed around 12.
I think that this group got to share with 12-15 different students, which is amazing! We did a really big outreach in showing the chronicles of narnia on a projector outside my house. Several of the Senegalese students were able to ask questions after the movie, and from the responses they did seem to get the message behind the story.
My take home message from this group is to never think that I have to work before sharing the gospel message with those around me. This group took it upon themselves to go straight for the gospel message with the students-sharing their faith, sharing who they believe Jesus is and what it means to be a Christian. I have been waiting to share—waiting to be more comfortable in Wolof, waiting to share the right stories before going to the Cross. Now I know that I don’t necessarily have to wait. I can share right away, and let God’s Spirit do the work.
This group also braved the elements of Mekhe. Each day we had to battle for running water, which is not fun in a house of 7 guys. And they braved the 110 degree heat of Senegal. I was very pleased with their work.
They even came up with a new nickname for me, Biv or Bivster. It comes from the acronym for learning the colors of the rainbow. It’s still growing on me, but this group earned the right to call me bivster. It was/is cute.
What was their schedule like during the day? Well, they would get up, shower, and eat breakfast, and be ready to go by 9am. From 9-1 we usually did whatever we could, whether prayer walking, visiting friends, or for a couple of days we visited the school and spoke in the classroom with the kids. After lunch we would rest until 4 or 5, when we would really get going with visiting friends at the school. We would play soccer or basketball until dark, then eat supper and have debrief time until 10:30. And after the dust settled, the guys would go back to my place and we’d turn in for bed around 12.
I think that this group got to share with 12-15 different students, which is amazing! We did a really big outreach in showing the chronicles of narnia on a projector outside my house. Several of the Senegalese students were able to ask questions after the movie, and from the responses they did seem to get the message behind the story.
My take home message from this group is to never think that I have to work before sharing the gospel message with those around me. This group took it upon themselves to go straight for the gospel message with the students-sharing their faith, sharing who they believe Jesus is and what it means to be a Christian. I have been waiting to share—waiting to be more comfortable in Wolof, waiting to share the right stories before going to the Cross. Now I know that I don’t necessarily have to wait. I can share right away, and let God’s Spirit do the work.
Language Learning
It was a fast 3 months of language learning in Dakar. I didn’t think that I would ever get a chance to start learning Wolof for all the struggles that I had in finding a teacher, and then even when I came here to Dakar the teacher missed 3 days in 2 weeks-and this is a teacher who has the reputation to never miss a class. But thankfully it worked out and I received a strong 2 for my language evaluation. I believe I still need to work on improving my Wolof, but I wanted so desperately to stay in Mekhe to begin my ministry there. It is hard to minister in 2 places at once, and with time already ticking away, I was not happy about the thought of having to come back to Dakar after our volunteer groups leave in July.
Well, praise God, he answered both of those requests. Not only do I get to stay in Mekhe, I get to continue learning Wolof while living there and working in ministry. Here’s the schedule. For 3 days a week I will have class 9-12. For the afternoons I will study and cook and rest, as well as visit when I have the time. And for 2 days a week I will have the chance to begin ministry in Mekhe. I have set a goal to actually do ministry for one day a week, and the other day I will be working on learning one story a week in Wolof. I’ll probably translate it on paper and begin reading it aloud to myself to learn the vocabulary words. I don’t have to say it the same each time, but I do want to hit the main points in each story I share.
God is good and I am go grateful that he answered this request. I admit to being angry when I thought I would have to come back to Dakar in August. Then I had an amazing peace about the situation shortly after. This week, as Elliott and I had a chance to discuss the future, he told me this was available and I jumped for joy. Praise God for answering prayer.
Well, praise God, he answered both of those requests. Not only do I get to stay in Mekhe, I get to continue learning Wolof while living there and working in ministry. Here’s the schedule. For 3 days a week I will have class 9-12. For the afternoons I will study and cook and rest, as well as visit when I have the time. And for 2 days a week I will have the chance to begin ministry in Mekhe. I have set a goal to actually do ministry for one day a week, and the other day I will be working on learning one story a week in Wolof. I’ll probably translate it on paper and begin reading it aloud to myself to learn the vocabulary words. I don’t have to say it the same each time, but I do want to hit the main points in each story I share.
God is good and I am go grateful that he answered this request. I admit to being angry when I thought I would have to come back to Dakar in August. Then I had an amazing peace about the situation shortly after. This week, as Elliott and I had a chance to discuss the future, he told me this was available and I jumped for joy. Praise God for answering prayer.
Monday, June 2, 2008
Giving a Bible
I had the chance to meet with a friend last week. It was a follow up visit from a few weeks past. This family is Pulaar, and although they speak Wolof, their heart language is Pulaar, a very different African language. I was given a Pulaar New Testament to give to this family, so I went to present this gift to them. Immediately after arriving and greeting the family, they asked about my gift. So I explained that it was a New Testament, and was written stories about Jesus-who he is and how he loves people. And so she began to read, and smile, and read and smile even more. She was laughing as she read, never once stopping although her family was not as thrilled as she was. I promised her that I would return in a week to talk about what she had read. And I will plan to go to share creation to the cross stories as well. I hope that I am able to find her again to talk. It would be great for this woman to tell her neighborhood about the exciting stories of Jesus and who he really is. I pray that eventually God will reveal himself to her, and she will believe.
Thursday, May 22, 2008
Soccer game
I have been wanting to start a blog for some time to help tell stories as they occur. So with no further ado, let's start this blog off with a bang.
Yesterday was the epic champions league match up between Chelsea and Man U. For anyone not in America, time stood still while this game was played. I have been talking about this game for weeks with my teacher, and with him being a big Chelsea fan, me more of a Man U. fan (who hasn't heard of them-right? So I've rooted for them in soccer for several years).
Well, before the game started, I needed to find a place to watch it. And after running into some new friends who are neighbors here, I was able to go back to their house and watch the game. A good story to share, before the game started, I was telling them about myself, and said that I was a missionary here to tell stories about God. One guy spoke up, tell us a story! So I began by sharing my testimony, and that I believe Jesus to be God's Son, and that I trust in him. Well this set him off, as Muslims do not believe God can have a Son. But they did invite me back to share more stories, and I plan to next week. I hope to prepare some stories from the Old Testament that will introduce them to God's love and power over all things.
The game was great, absolutely wonderful soccer. I don't like when championships come down to penalty kicks. Any Chelsea fan should be proud, because they played better than Manchester did. And that's coming from a Man U. fan, albeit I am unbiased. In all sports I call it as I see it, even if it were my Cubs.
I was thrilled to make some friends with this family, and I hope to continue this relationship for the next 3 weeks. It is always going to be hard to say goodbye to friends in Dakar once I do leave shortly, but I have still got to have friends. And I am glad that I am received by them.
Yesterday was the epic champions league match up between Chelsea and Man U. For anyone not in America, time stood still while this game was played. I have been talking about this game for weeks with my teacher, and with him being a big Chelsea fan, me more of a Man U. fan (who hasn't heard of them-right? So I've rooted for them in soccer for several years).
Well, before the game started, I needed to find a place to watch it. And after running into some new friends who are neighbors here, I was able to go back to their house and watch the game. A good story to share, before the game started, I was telling them about myself, and said that I was a missionary here to tell stories about God. One guy spoke up, tell us a story! So I began by sharing my testimony, and that I believe Jesus to be God's Son, and that I trust in him. Well this set him off, as Muslims do not believe God can have a Son. But they did invite me back to share more stories, and I plan to next week. I hope to prepare some stories from the Old Testament that will introduce them to God's love and power over all things.
The game was great, absolutely wonderful soccer. I don't like when championships come down to penalty kicks. Any Chelsea fan should be proud, because they played better than Manchester did. And that's coming from a Man U. fan, albeit I am unbiased. In all sports I call it as I see it, even if it were my Cubs.
I was thrilled to make some friends with this family, and I hope to continue this relationship for the next 3 weeks. It is always going to be hard to say goodbye to friends in Dakar once I do leave shortly, but I have still got to have friends. And I am glad that I am received by them.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
