I'm sitting on my parents' couch as their Christmas tree behind me creates a soft and warming glow, gently lighting the room. Outside the snow and threatening chill are enough to keep me inside. So, I am forcing myself to sit and write this blog as I have had to force myself to do many tasks the past week- unpack my bag (a task that is still only half done), upload my pictures (followed by a lot of crying), get up and go to church knowing I'll encounter the same question "How was your 'trip'?" and feel the need to somehow give an in depth response in the 30 seconds the individual asking lingers, and now writing my follow-up blog in an attempt to contain and order the thousands of memories that are bouncing around my mind trying to force themselves out in tearful, incoherent, "watch out I might throw up words on you" form.
I can't sum up everything; I hardly even know where to begin. And as much as I attempted to convey life and experiences from B.A throughout the course of my time there through this blog it still only skims the surface of what is held so deep in my heart. So suffice it to say, I will not attempt to convey the loads of memories that penetrate into my thoughts as I go about daily life and you can expect that the next few blogs will most likely contain some snipet of Buenos Aires life, a life that is not easily forgotten.
What I know so well now is the heartache of letting go. Adjusting back to life in the states has proved difficult. Here life has gone on without me, my family and friends are going about life uninterrupted, plunging into the holidays and the array of activities and demands that are ushered in by this busy season. I have changed, my perceptions have changed. This is what I've encountered upon my return.
I have my moments of paralysis, heartache, desperate needs for reflection that yield introverted introspection. There are certain things that do not feel natural anymore and I encounter expected and some unexpected longings for certain aspects of life from the past four months. Sitting on a dirty train station floor, dodging cockroaches in the kitchen, loading onto packed and stuffy subte trains, hearing incomprehensible Spanish, walking... everywhere, empanadas, squeezing in between the toilet and the sink to take a shower, speaking SPANGLISH, trying to figure out what we can make for dinner for under 60 pesos, late night card games until 2, 3 or 4 a.m, the intentionality of greeting everyone with a kiss on the cheek, singing in Spanish, sharing mate.
More than anything I miss the people; the little pockets of community that overlap each other in daily life; the little family formed over the course of 4 months of doing life together; individual quirks, laughs, talents, expressions, inside jokes.
The same tears that were common in our last few days now burn in my eyes; tears that signify goodbye. I have never been one that cries much but I allow myself the freedom to cry right now as I reflect on the last few days in Buenos Aires where tears were unavoidable all the same. Lots of "lasts" to be accounted for. Perhaps I can attempt to convey those last few days in Buenos Aires.
Our last Sunday at church was full or tearful embraces as the congregation gathered around us to pray and bestowed sentimental gifts on us.
Our last day at Retiro we passed time with our new friends sharing ham sandwiches and mate, all the while anticipating the showdown of eggs and flour, the typical farewell "gift"; tears flowed uncontrollably from my eyes not only because I got hammered in the eye by one of those "goodbye gifts" but because I was so overwhelmed with saying goodbye to these beautiful souls, my new friends.
My last night in Buenos Aires, my final excursion in the city could hardly have been better spent. After dinner at the Deans' we- Matt, our friend "John" who lived with us at the church, and I- carried out a 4 month-long dream of going ice-blocking. The night before we started the process of freezing a massive chunk of ice in the Dean's freezer. We carried this block of ice on our bus ride and walk to Costanera Sur to a park with steep hills, perfect for sliding down atop a block of ice. We took turns speeding down the hill, balancing on the ice with nothing to hold on to but cold wet ice. When the ice chunk was reduced to small pieces that had split off(barely big enough for two cheeks to sit on) we took our turns throwing the chunks at the ground and watching them crash into even smaller pieces. We walked around the park enjoying the pre-summer night air, the city skyline view, and the company of good friends. We raced across a large rope structure called "la arana- spider" and walked on the strip along the ecological reserve eating chori's and ice cream bought from one of the many food stands lining the sidewalk strip. We decided to tackle the 45 minute walk through the city back to the church instead of taking a bus, in order to enjoy our last sights of the city. We walked quietly, pensively, and, at one point, barefoot through Puerto Madero, San Telmo, past Parque Lezama, and finally ending up in Barracas. John who is usually a jokster and exudes excitment was more quiet than usual perhaps anticipating the goodbye that lay ahead. I asked John and Matt to write something about the night in my notebook along with myself, a way to capture the cherished moments we spent together. This is what I wrote:
Esta noche parece perfecto para mi ultima noche en Buenos Aires. Hay dos hombres conmigo que son divertidos y unicos. Uno habla castellano y el otro habla como yo pero no importa porque podemos compatir juntos todovia. Eso esta un regalo.
It truly was a gift.
Our last day was hot and surreal. We spent much of the morning packing and cleaning and shared some time with John drinking mate terere before heading over to the Dean's, our last walk through Barracas and La Boca, for our final celebration together where we started saying our goodbyes to some of the WMF team.
It wasn't just saying goodbye, having to break away from living life with these dear friends, that instigated tears but the overwhelming sense of love that came crashing down on me in our final moments.
During our celebration at the Deans' that afternoon as we shared our last moments together as a team I felt that love as the staff gathered around us and prayed their blessing on us.
On the way to the airport as we left the city behind I tried to hold back tears but found them breaking through whenever Jordan, the Dean's oldest son, would occasionally hold my hand or talk about how he failed to lock me up in a cage so I wouldn't be able to leave.
At the airport we were met by Pablo and Sara, a Korean couple that pastor a church where we taught English to youth once a week. Their hospitality and the extension of their love in their actions was reiterrated in their coming to see us off, carrying gifts and momentos for us.
And I saw this deep expression of love stream down faces as we parted with tears and desperate hugs.
And I still have the ability to cling onto this deep love that I sensed in this unique experience of community, brokenness, and joy.
Where do I go from here? And I don't mean right now in my thought process. But what do I do as I deal with this heartache mixed with joy? Well, I allow those tears to come as I tell others about my new friends. I keep seeking the meaning of developing friendship at the margins. I keep speaking spanish even if no one around me understands. I drink mate, if only by myself. And I let this beautiful experience push me forward into the big picture that God has created for my life.
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Uruguay
Oh, the beauty of simplicity.
We came to Argentina on 3 month/ 90 day visas and in order to renew a visa all you have to do is leave the country. So last week Jen took us (STMs) to Uruguay which is right across from Argentina on the Rio de Plata. We spent 3 nights in the city of Colonia for a retreat taking time and making space to rejuvinate ourselves and spending some quality team time together outside of the city. You may recall my retellings of our last retreat when we went to Mendoza with Jer. It's interesting how different this retreat was- no mountains to climb, no precarious railroad bridges to cross, no hitch-hiking- and yet this second retreat, with it's stark differences, was just as revitalizing, exciting, and bonding. The weather was perfect, our aparment was quant, the town was simple and old enough to feel its extensive history, the people, that is the people I spent time with, are stellar, and it was freaking Uruguay! Perhaps going into detail about each day would bore you so I'll just list highly remembered moments and I am hopeful that you can at least experience a ting of the simplistic beauty that I felt in full force.
A campfire on the beach at night; sleeping in; dinners in the apartment; guitar on the balcony; playing Settlers of Catan (highlight!)or cards late into the night/ morning; bikeride around Colonia to the beach and through a park; watching the sunset's ascent into the water ; skipping rocks; dinner and live flamenco music; swing dancing and deep conversation on the roof, watching the moon set and falling stars make grand streaks across the night sky; beach time swimming in slightly less than comfortably frigid water (¨this is a river?!¨), conversations lounging in the sand; walking through town; and getting stamp number 2 in my passport.
Friday after returning from Uruguay and resting a bit Matt and I borrowed the Dean's bike and biked to the Ecological Reserve in Costanera Sur but not before getting some of the best Empanadas I've had here yet (I didn't think I'd miss empanadas until I ate these). We tried to go to the reserve earlier in the term when we took a bike ride on a rainy day but the park was closed, so I was excited to be able to finally go and ride through the reserve and sit by the river water. It's definitely a place I want to hit up again before we leave.
On Saturday, after spending a majority of the day sitting in the middle of the Feria at Recoleta getting my long awaited dreads started, we trekked all over the city for the annual La Noche de los Museos where all the museums in the city are open free to the public from 9pm-2am. It was a rare occasion to hang out with both Jen and Jer outside of their home while Jen's parents who were visiting watched the Dean kids. We first went to the Tango Museum and heard a couple guitarists play, then attempted to go to the congress house only to be let down b a long line to enter. So we headed to Palermo to see a Tango show. Buenos Aires if known for any one thing, is know for it's Tango, so this was an important experience for us to have. And was it! I was in awe to see such passion and talent taking place on stage. It is a riveting style of dance. We again were let down by the long line at the science museum (sorry, Jason) so we made our last stop at the Museum of Latin American Art.
As I wrap up this post I should maybe insert some deep thought reflecting on these past couple weeks. But all I have to say is
oh, the beauty of simplicity.
We came to Argentina on 3 month/ 90 day visas and in order to renew a visa all you have to do is leave the country. So last week Jen took us (STMs) to Uruguay which is right across from Argentina on the Rio de Plata. We spent 3 nights in the city of Colonia for a retreat taking time and making space to rejuvinate ourselves and spending some quality team time together outside of the city. You may recall my retellings of our last retreat when we went to Mendoza with Jer. It's interesting how different this retreat was- no mountains to climb, no precarious railroad bridges to cross, no hitch-hiking- and yet this second retreat, with it's stark differences, was just as revitalizing, exciting, and bonding. The weather was perfect, our aparment was quant, the town was simple and old enough to feel its extensive history, the people, that is the people I spent time with, are stellar, and it was freaking Uruguay! Perhaps going into detail about each day would bore you so I'll just list highly remembered moments and I am hopeful that you can at least experience a ting of the simplistic beauty that I felt in full force.
A campfire on the beach at night; sleeping in; dinners in the apartment; guitar on the balcony; playing Settlers of Catan (highlight!)or cards late into the night/ morning; bikeride around Colonia to the beach and through a park; watching the sunset's ascent into the water ; skipping rocks; dinner and live flamenco music; swing dancing and deep conversation on the roof, watching the moon set and falling stars make grand streaks across the night sky; beach time swimming in slightly less than comfortably frigid water (¨this is a river?!¨), conversations lounging in the sand; walking through town; and getting stamp number 2 in my passport.
Friday after returning from Uruguay and resting a bit Matt and I borrowed the Dean's bike and biked to the Ecological Reserve in Costanera Sur but not before getting some of the best Empanadas I've had here yet (I didn't think I'd miss empanadas until I ate these). We tried to go to the reserve earlier in the term when we took a bike ride on a rainy day but the park was closed, so I was excited to be able to finally go and ride through the reserve and sit by the river water. It's definitely a place I want to hit up again before we leave.
On Saturday, after spending a majority of the day sitting in the middle of the Feria at Recoleta getting my long awaited dreads started, we trekked all over the city for the annual La Noche de los Museos where all the museums in the city are open free to the public from 9pm-2am. It was a rare occasion to hang out with both Jen and Jer outside of their home while Jen's parents who were visiting watched the Dean kids. We first went to the Tango Museum and heard a couple guitarists play, then attempted to go to the congress house only to be let down b a long line to enter. So we headed to Palermo to see a Tango show. Buenos Aires if known for any one thing, is know for it's Tango, so this was an important experience for us to have. And was it! I was in awe to see such passion and talent taking place on stage. It is a riveting style of dance. We again were let down by the long line at the science museum (sorry, Jason) so we made our last stop at the Museum of Latin American Art.
As I wrap up this post I should maybe insert some deep thought reflecting on these past couple weeks. But all I have to say is
oh, the beauty of simplicity.
Monday, November 8, 2010
tres meses pasado
Almost three months ago I first walked the streets of Buenos Aires on a chilly grey day. I observed the many foreign signs marking stores, restaurants, street ads, and bus stops and wondered how I would navigate the city for the next four months with my little knowledge of the language. I began meeting people, first my fellow STMs Matt and Amanda, then Jen and Jer at the Aeropuerto in Buenos Aires, others living at the church- our new home, then the Forcattos, Jason, Dave, church goers, all who have become a part of my community and life here over the course of time.
I remember going to Retiro for the first time meeting Word Made Flesh friends and sitting on the station floor or outside with those selling papers sharing Mate (timidly for myself) for the first time. I remember meeting Mary and her family of 5 for the first time, she was timid as were her children as they interacted with me. Now when I see Mary at various gatherings she is not reluctant to hand off her one year old son to me, which I beleive reveals a closer and more bonded level of friendships, she trusts me with her children, and her children call me by name when they want me to play with them.
I can look back and vividly remember first helping with tutoring at the chuch for Apoyo Escolar and our first time teaching english to kids in Bajo Flores at the Methodist church. "How am I going to relate to these people? How will I pass two hours sitting here while conversation in spanish flies above my head? How am I going to teach these kids english?" are frequent thoughts that ran through my head.
We're more than half way through our time here and time is only flying rapidly by as December approaches. The streets have their familiarity to them, even the signs scattered about have become the norm for me to look at. I can navigate the subte and colectivos (transportation here) with ease- though often with the help of the Guia (guide booklet).People who were just acquantances have become friends and have brought a sense of familial community, especially within our Word Made Flesh community.
Community has been a major and quite influential aspect of life here. And my previous perception and romanticized outlook on community has been rocked, for the better mind you. It presents its many frustrations, frustrations that I have had to take to God and in turn ask for strength and love, I have had to choose love. We bare our naked inner selves even when we don't mean to. But community, I have experienced, always reveals in the forefront a redemptive beauty, beauty of individuals coming together, learning from one another, and doing life together.
The other day we ran into a friend who frequently attends Sunday service and afterwards enjoys a free meal with other men in the Comedor, an escape from life on the streets. We joined him as he sat on Montes De Oca Ave. and shared mate and conversation with him. While sitting with him one of the girls who usually comes to Apoyo Escolar for after-school tutoring passed by and ran up to us for a brief greeting. Other times I have run into kids from Apoyo Escolar when going to the store or walking the streets in Barracas. These are experienced when being a part of community.
Today when at Retiro I found that time went by too quickly. I enjoyed playing Uno and jacks using rocks, drinking mate (voluntarily), and attempting at conversation with the mother of the 5-month old baby I was holding. I don't mind so much sitting on a dirty train station floor sharing mate with friends with conversations in spanish buzzing by above my head. I don't mind so much exhausting myself playing with little kids; dirty hands grabbing for my attention, soiled bottoms sitting on my lap, taking hits from uncontrolled play. I don't mind dancing with my new, and in that moment smiling and laughing, friends in the train station to the music being played from a nearby kiosco. While the community at Retiro is often chaotic and brings the unexpected it brings also an unmatched beauty, being in relationship with these differing individuals. I came here to give of myself, to desperately hope to be God's light in ministry, and I'm finding that these individuals are giving to me more than they might know.
Many aspects of life here, some that I have already mentioned and some unmentioned ones that grind me daily, could deter me from having an enjoyable experience, the spoiled westerner that I am. And certainly many things have taken practice in getting used to. I have been stretched and challenged, pulled out of my comfort zone and adapted to a different way of life. But the more I experience the absence of luxuries and comforts the more I am able to bear, the more perspective I gain, the more I am able to see God, find beauty, learn tolerance, and experience growth as I kick my pride to the curb.
I remember going to Retiro for the first time meeting Word Made Flesh friends and sitting on the station floor or outside with those selling papers sharing Mate (timidly for myself) for the first time. I remember meeting Mary and her family of 5 for the first time, she was timid as were her children as they interacted with me. Now when I see Mary at various gatherings she is not reluctant to hand off her one year old son to me, which I beleive reveals a closer and more bonded level of friendships, she trusts me with her children, and her children call me by name when they want me to play with them.
I can look back and vividly remember first helping with tutoring at the chuch for Apoyo Escolar and our first time teaching english to kids in Bajo Flores at the Methodist church. "How am I going to relate to these people? How will I pass two hours sitting here while conversation in spanish flies above my head? How am I going to teach these kids english?" are frequent thoughts that ran through my head.
We're more than half way through our time here and time is only flying rapidly by as December approaches. The streets have their familiarity to them, even the signs scattered about have become the norm for me to look at. I can navigate the subte and colectivos (transportation here) with ease- though often with the help of the Guia (guide booklet).People who were just acquantances have become friends and have brought a sense of familial community, especially within our Word Made Flesh community.
Community has been a major and quite influential aspect of life here. And my previous perception and romanticized outlook on community has been rocked, for the better mind you. It presents its many frustrations, frustrations that I have had to take to God and in turn ask for strength and love, I have had to choose love. We bare our naked inner selves even when we don't mean to. But community, I have experienced, always reveals in the forefront a redemptive beauty, beauty of individuals coming together, learning from one another, and doing life together.
The other day we ran into a friend who frequently attends Sunday service and afterwards enjoys a free meal with other men in the Comedor, an escape from life on the streets. We joined him as he sat on Montes De Oca Ave. and shared mate and conversation with him. While sitting with him one of the girls who usually comes to Apoyo Escolar for after-school tutoring passed by and ran up to us for a brief greeting. Other times I have run into kids from Apoyo Escolar when going to the store or walking the streets in Barracas. These are experienced when being a part of community.
Today when at Retiro I found that time went by too quickly. I enjoyed playing Uno and jacks using rocks, drinking mate (voluntarily), and attempting at conversation with the mother of the 5-month old baby I was holding. I don't mind so much sitting on a dirty train station floor sharing mate with friends with conversations in spanish buzzing by above my head. I don't mind so much exhausting myself playing with little kids; dirty hands grabbing for my attention, soiled bottoms sitting on my lap, taking hits from uncontrolled play. I don't mind dancing with my new, and in that moment smiling and laughing, friends in the train station to the music being played from a nearby kiosco. While the community at Retiro is often chaotic and brings the unexpected it brings also an unmatched beauty, being in relationship with these differing individuals. I came here to give of myself, to desperately hope to be God's light in ministry, and I'm finding that these individuals are giving to me more than they might know.
Many aspects of life here, some that I have already mentioned and some unmentioned ones that grind me daily, could deter me from having an enjoyable experience, the spoiled westerner that I am. And certainly many things have taken practice in getting used to. I have been stretched and challenged, pulled out of my comfort zone and adapted to a different way of life. But the more I experience the absence of luxuries and comforts the more I am able to bear, the more perspective I gain, the more I am able to see God, find beauty, learn tolerance, and experience growth as I kick my pride to the curb.
Friday, October 15, 2010
Celebration
Over the past few weeks there have been a number of celebratory occasions that have added life to the weekly routines.
The Sunday after returning from Mendoza we had a birthday party for our friends' youngest child who turned 1. I've previously mentioned Mary (whose actual name I have chosen not use) who has three children and works most days, many hours a day asking for money at a local train station. Mary had been working extra hours in order to save up for the occassion- she has been a beautiful example of humility and sacrifice.
We traveled by train, a good two hour trip, to their home. Though their home is quite small (the size of a small room) it was very homey, filled with pictures, a newly received stove, a few trinkets and toys, one large bed that all sleep on, and a towering , though neatly folded, stack of clothes. Out front is a small a yard where tables were set up for the occassion and an asado grille was made from a spring rack. Many of Brandon's (Mary's ¨husband¨ whose name I am not using for his privacy) family came along with all of the WMF staff. We played soccer in the street with the kids, including some half naked neighbor kids, ate choripan (like a big sausage) from the grille and empanadas, drank lots of soda, and danced salsa- some of us being put on the spot to dance (I found my out from pure embarassment by dancing with the birthday boy or his 3 year old sister). The kids enjoyed a piñata that not only produced candy but flour as well when opened.
After a long day of traveling and partying, many of us fell asleep on the train ride back. It put into perspective the task that they go through often daily when traveling either to work or an event that WMF hosts. A few days later when I saw Mary again she asked what I thought about the party. I was able to honestly tell her that it was fun and I wanted to visit her home again.
Less than a week later we celebrated the Deans' daughter Selah's birthday. We helped the night before with some preparations, including, and quite importantly, cheering on Jen and Jer as they stressed over creating the skirt of a dress out of a cupcake for the princess cake topper. They succeeded in throwing a grand party with plenty of food- Jer's barbecue chicken empanadas, and confetti cake topped by princess cupcake dress- a blow-up castle that got plenty of play time by the kids... OK and some of us adults, a piñata, and an improv carnival activity by STM Mateo.
And as a perfect segue, Monday we celebrated Mateo's birthday. We went over to the Dean's in the evening for a thai meal of curry and coconut milk rice and enjoyed a once in a lifetime unique, unlike no other experienced hot tub on the terrace of the Dean's house created by a blow up pool and hose hooked up to the hot water. What it actually turned out to be was a luke warm tub in which we played random water sports, thought up by no one other than Jen Dean who is always looking for fun and randomness. Leave it to the Deans to come up with some ingenius and completely random activity. Amanda helped the situation of the lukewarm water by pouring boilied hot water into the pool. We ended the night with a team favorite activity of playing cards.
Last week was a busy one for me, with alot of preparations for Wednesday's celebration. This past Sunday was mother's day in Argentina so we chose to celebrate with our friends from Retiro who are mothers on Wednesday in a local park. Amanda and I were in charge of a lot of the details and spent the past couple weeks planning and buying little gifts to put together in gift bags. Jen, Adriana Amanda, and I met the girls at the park and passed the kids off to the guys- Mateo, Jason, and David- to keep occupied on the playground while we hung out with the women. We started by singing a few songs on the guitar, which many of the girls have been anxious to do since they found out that many of us can play the guitar. Then we had a time sharing mate and showing off our tattoos before moving on to a time of foot washing and manicures and pedicures. Many of the girls were insistent on washing either Amanda's or my feet and/or painting our fingernails or toenails before we were even able to offer our services to them. We then handed out their gift bags which contained, with other little gifts, a notebook we thought useful for writing down thoughts. They spent their time decorating their notebooks with some crafts we provided for them while we all ate brownies, strawberries, and chips. Certainly we had to make a lot of improvisations with such a group of eager women and jealous dads, who we had to chase off a few times, but more than anything I remember most lots of laughter, smiles, sharing, and the eagerness to serve.
In all of these events I experienced the various aspects of community. Community has been an idea that I had romanticized in the past. Since living here I have seen that while community is a good thing it is also very hard. And yet in the midst of its hardships it reveals itself to be a beautiful lifestyle practice. I share in life with those who have children, with those whose interests are starkly different from mine, with those who have enormously less materially than I have. This community yields celebration as itself is a celebration!
The Sunday after returning from Mendoza we had a birthday party for our friends' youngest child who turned 1. I've previously mentioned Mary (whose actual name I have chosen not use) who has three children and works most days, many hours a day asking for money at a local train station. Mary had been working extra hours in order to save up for the occassion- she has been a beautiful example of humility and sacrifice.
We traveled by train, a good two hour trip, to their home. Though their home is quite small (the size of a small room) it was very homey, filled with pictures, a newly received stove, a few trinkets and toys, one large bed that all sleep on, and a towering , though neatly folded, stack of clothes. Out front is a small a yard where tables were set up for the occassion and an asado grille was made from a spring rack. Many of Brandon's (Mary's ¨husband¨ whose name I am not using for his privacy) family came along with all of the WMF staff. We played soccer in the street with the kids, including some half naked neighbor kids, ate choripan (like a big sausage) from the grille and empanadas, drank lots of soda, and danced salsa- some of us being put on the spot to dance (I found my out from pure embarassment by dancing with the birthday boy or his 3 year old sister). The kids enjoyed a piñata that not only produced candy but flour as well when opened.
After a long day of traveling and partying, many of us fell asleep on the train ride back. It put into perspective the task that they go through often daily when traveling either to work or an event that WMF hosts. A few days later when I saw Mary again she asked what I thought about the party. I was able to honestly tell her that it was fun and I wanted to visit her home again.
Less than a week later we celebrated the Deans' daughter Selah's birthday. We helped the night before with some preparations, including, and quite importantly, cheering on Jen and Jer as they stressed over creating the skirt of a dress out of a cupcake for the princess cake topper. They succeeded in throwing a grand party with plenty of food- Jer's barbecue chicken empanadas, and confetti cake topped by princess cupcake dress- a blow-up castle that got plenty of play time by the kids... OK and some of us adults, a piñata, and an improv carnival activity by STM Mateo.
And as a perfect segue, Monday we celebrated Mateo's birthday. We went over to the Dean's in the evening for a thai meal of curry and coconut milk rice and enjoyed a once in a lifetime unique, unlike no other experienced hot tub on the terrace of the Dean's house created by a blow up pool and hose hooked up to the hot water. What it actually turned out to be was a luke warm tub in which we played random water sports, thought up by no one other than Jen Dean who is always looking for fun and randomness. Leave it to the Deans to come up with some ingenius and completely random activity. Amanda helped the situation of the lukewarm water by pouring boilied hot water into the pool. We ended the night with a team favorite activity of playing cards.
Last week was a busy one for me, with alot of preparations for Wednesday's celebration. This past Sunday was mother's day in Argentina so we chose to celebrate with our friends from Retiro who are mothers on Wednesday in a local park. Amanda and I were in charge of a lot of the details and spent the past couple weeks planning and buying little gifts to put together in gift bags. Jen, Adriana Amanda, and I met the girls at the park and passed the kids off to the guys- Mateo, Jason, and David- to keep occupied on the playground while we hung out with the women. We started by singing a few songs on the guitar, which many of the girls have been anxious to do since they found out that many of us can play the guitar. Then we had a time sharing mate and showing off our tattoos before moving on to a time of foot washing and manicures and pedicures. Many of the girls were insistent on washing either Amanda's or my feet and/or painting our fingernails or toenails before we were even able to offer our services to them. We then handed out their gift bags which contained, with other little gifts, a notebook we thought useful for writing down thoughts. They spent their time decorating their notebooks with some crafts we provided for them while we all ate brownies, strawberries, and chips. Certainly we had to make a lot of improvisations with such a group of eager women and jealous dads, who we had to chase off a few times, but more than anything I remember most lots of laughter, smiles, sharing, and the eagerness to serve.
In all of these events I experienced the various aspects of community. Community has been an idea that I had romanticized in the past. Since living here I have seen that while community is a good thing it is also very hard. And yet in the midst of its hardships it reveals itself to be a beautiful lifestyle practice. I share in life with those who have children, with those whose interests are starkly different from mine, with those who have enormously less materially than I have. This community yields celebration as itself is a celebration!
Saturday, October 2, 2010
What spring brings
It has been an exciting week, brought on by the onset of spring. September 21st was the first day of spring here (fall for those back in the states) which brings much celebration to the city. It is not uncommon to find people dressed in costumes and partying at parks around the city.
In celebration for spring the church we attend and stay at here in the city had their annual primavera difras fiesta (costume party). Having seen pictures from the previous years we knew we were in for an exciting event with much dancing, food, and some intense costumes. I decided to do a repeat costume that I had done in college and went with a Braveheart/ William Wallace look. I was unable to find a working scotting skirt/ kilt so I made do with fellow STM Matt's green and black checkered shirt- it actually turned out to be a really good looking kilt! Also donning a plaid scarf as a sash, sword, random ¨war jewelry¨, and the best parts blue face paint and messy/ attempted dreadlocked hair. Most everyone enjoyed my get-up especially when I would run around yelling ¨¡¡Libertad!!¨ (FREEDOM!) Jason dressed up as Chino-bot, a robot made out of duct tape and juice boxes (he´s of Chinese descent, hence the chino title) and he ended up winning best original costume. Amanda dressed up as the yerba mate brand ¨Amanda¨. And Matt went as Chuck Norris Walker Texas Ranger which he pulled off well and looked hilarious in his self-made cowboy hat and gun.
Some WMF friends came, the couple that I have mentioned before with 3 children, and it was good to be able to spend more time with them and celebrate with them. I can recall a moment holding their middle child as she fell asleep in my arms, even with the music blaring around us. It was a precious moment. We danced and partied til a little after 4 in the morning (the party started at 9pm)! I even tried some salsa dancing. It was a lot of fun, probably one of the best parties I have been to!
We were able to sleep in the next morning, Sunday- church was rescheduled for the evening- before we began our travels for our retreat to Mendoza.
Sunday evening we left on our 14 hour bus ride through the night to Mendoza, a city near Chile and the beautiful Andes Mountains. Since I was a little girl traveling on family vacations, I´ve loved road trips. So even though we would be traveling through the night having to sleep on the bus, I was excited about the travels. We played alot of cards on the bus.
We arrived to Mendoza the next morning and took another bus ride to our cabin, Cabañas Andinas in El Salto. We spent the day searching for food and relaxing at the cabin. After lunch Matt, Jer, and I did slack lining, which has become a new hobby of the team´s. (If you´ve never seen slacklining or are utterly clueless about what I´m talking about let me explain. Basically you hook a slack line, a long nylon rope, between two trees and try walking across the line. Not very easy but fun to do nonetheless.)
It had rained and hailed during lunch, brought on by the snow that capped the mountains in view from our cabin, but the evening was beautiful blue sky and sun which yielded good walking weather as Matt, Jer, and I headed to Potrerillos to find a supermarket to buy the bulk of our food for the week. Not knowing exactly how far it was, guessing 7 km one way, or how long it would take us Jer suggested we try to hitch a ride. So anytime a car came by from behind us we stuck our thumbs out in an attempt to flag down a compassionate driver. After a while of walking a truck stopped to let us jump in the bed of the truck and took us to our destination. After getting our groceries and walking a little ways up hill we were able to hitch another ride with a guy in his VW staion wagon. In the front seat was his sleeping daughter and in the back seat next to a car seat and our groceries the 3 of us stuffed in, me sitting on Matt´s lap. It was my first time hitch hiking and I did it twice in one day. It wasn´t the last time on the trip though.
We made dinner that night and had some spiritual formation time and worship before we enjoyed some time outside. I decided to teach them box frisbee which we played in the dark with a light up frisbee; Jer and I (winners) against Matt and Jason. And of course a day is not complete without a few games of cards.
We slept in the next morning and took our time making brunch and having some spiritual formation time discussing the topic of Obedience (we have been going through WMF ¨lifestyle celebrations¨ each week. Last week was intimacy then Obedience and next week we talk on Humilty) Later in the afternoon we set out on a hiking expedition. We had our sights set on hiking upa nearby peak that had been taunting us since our arrival. Jer was especially anticipating flying his kite where the wind seemed more promising. We were led by a resident to a path that led us down through a maze of thorn bushes and brush to a river no deeper or more forceful than a brook. We made our way along the bottom of the rocky hills, crossing the river many times, before ascending up, hill upon hill, peak after peak assessing our next steps along the way. With each higher ascent we grabbed a better view of the surrounding mountains and lake, which made the tiring effort it took to climb all the more worth it. With clouds threatening our way and evening approaching sooner than later we decided to go to the top of our initial goal- the peak we later found out ot be called El Cerro de las cabras (the peak of the goats). We quickened our steps as we headed up, challenging me physically in an ironically exciting way. With a great sense of accomplishment we arrived to the top Matt and Jer prepared the kite (to clarify, as Matt says ¨this aint your Franklin flying a key kind of kite¨). After a few attempts with less than promising wind Jer was able to get the kite up. Ver entertaining watching it whip around under Jer´s direction.
We made it down the peak in less than half the time it took us to get up. We retraced our steps down to a trail that would lead us slightly farther away from the cabins but to a road that would be more direct. We had a hearty dinner and some more worship time before heading to bed. Our arise time was set early for the next morning as we planned to head to a national park at Aconcagua, the highest peak in the Americas.
We caught a bus at 6:45 the next morning that took us down to Potrerillos where we would catch another bus to the park. The second bus ride was to be 2 hours long so I was looking forward to some ZZs to make up for the lack of sleep gotten the night before. BUt with the constant view of new mountains around us, more being revealed with the sun´s rise and grander ones coming into view the further west we went , it was hard to shut my eyes. But my tiredness overcame me and I did nap. We arrived to Aconcagua park only to find out that the park had recently closed due to a chemical spill. So though we weren´t able to enter the actual park we did find a path that took us around the edge of the park for at least a better view of the mountains surrounding us, specifically Aconcagua. The wind was fierce as it whipped around us, forcing a struggle at times as we walked against it. To try and recreate the grandness of the view with words would be short of impossible. Even to bring up the image in my mind falls short of actually standing and looking at the sight of the snow laden mountains. Though it was chilly and windy we did not rush our gazing time. But we did want to get back to the nearest town where we could catch the bus back. We decided to walk along some abanonded railroad tracks that ran along the road towards the town. We came to a point where we were forbidden to cross the road bridge and so instead of taking a course that would lead us down to the river bank only to have to cross the river and climb up the bank to the other side we decided to cross the railroad bridge set more than 30 feet above the water. There were spaces where we could walk along the bridge structure and other spaces where planks of wood were laid across caps in the bridge. We held onto the side railing all the while to steady ourselves across. But there came an a point where we were challenged to cross a plank of wood no wider than 6 inches or walk across the piping that edged along the bridge or shimming along the middle structure section of the bridge. We all chose different paths but made it safely across. It was one of those adrenaline rushing experiences that take your heart a few minutes to slow. So in short, it was awesome!
We made it to the town where they had a little fair set up selling various ¨tourist¨ items. We walked around there for a little while but spent the remainder of our time in a little bar waiting for the bus. We arrived back to Potrerillos by dinner time where we were expecting to go to a little restaurant, only to discover that it was closed (we have great luck with that). So we bought some groceries and hitch hiked our way back to the cabins. We left the next day for Mendoza to begin our travels back to the city. We had a few hours to relax in Mendoza before our bus left. We walked through the city a little stopping for lunch and spending the rest of our time in a park drinking Mate, getting dreads, and slacklining. Wait? What was that about getting dreads?! :) Yes, I ran into a guy who did dreads in the park and got 4 dreads (or what are called Rastas here) for 10 pesos each. I would have gotten more but did not have enough time or money at that point. But it is a porject I intend to finish. Matt also go to dreads.
We arrived back to the city yesterday and have been able to relax the rest of this weekend before we plunge into a new week. It was a beautifully refreshing week and allowed for some great oppourtunities for spiritual and team growth, renewal, and new traveling experiences.
Sometimes It´s hard to believe that I get to experience this beautiful country. Its hard to beleive it´s already October. The weeks go by so fast which causes a sense of desperation to cling to all my experiences and cherish every moment and pursue all opportunites. Even with the hardships of language struggle and the brokenness I experience I fall more and more in love with this place and the people I am in daily interaction with. As I sit and think about the people who I´am in relationship with here I am realizing how evidently present Christ is in these relationships; I am able to see His character more clearly. Not only His beauty in gentleness and love but also His brokennes and His heart´s longings.
What a beautiful opportunity this is. What a beautiful Creator He is!
Until next time- May you see His beauty in the faces and plaes around you. Much love!
In celebration for spring the church we attend and stay at here in the city had their annual primavera difras fiesta (costume party). Having seen pictures from the previous years we knew we were in for an exciting event with much dancing, food, and some intense costumes. I decided to do a repeat costume that I had done in college and went with a Braveheart/ William Wallace look. I was unable to find a working scotting skirt/ kilt so I made do with fellow STM Matt's green and black checkered shirt- it actually turned out to be a really good looking kilt! Also donning a plaid scarf as a sash, sword, random ¨war jewelry¨, and the best parts blue face paint and messy/ attempted dreadlocked hair. Most everyone enjoyed my get-up especially when I would run around yelling ¨¡¡Libertad!!¨ (FREEDOM!) Jason dressed up as Chino-bot, a robot made out of duct tape and juice boxes (he´s of Chinese descent, hence the chino title) and he ended up winning best original costume. Amanda dressed up as the yerba mate brand ¨Amanda¨. And Matt went as Chuck Norris Walker Texas Ranger which he pulled off well and looked hilarious in his self-made cowboy hat and gun.
Some WMF friends came, the couple that I have mentioned before with 3 children, and it was good to be able to spend more time with them and celebrate with them. I can recall a moment holding their middle child as she fell asleep in my arms, even with the music blaring around us. It was a precious moment. We danced and partied til a little after 4 in the morning (the party started at 9pm)! I even tried some salsa dancing. It was a lot of fun, probably one of the best parties I have been to!
We were able to sleep in the next morning, Sunday- church was rescheduled for the evening- before we began our travels for our retreat to Mendoza.
Sunday evening we left on our 14 hour bus ride through the night to Mendoza, a city near Chile and the beautiful Andes Mountains. Since I was a little girl traveling on family vacations, I´ve loved road trips. So even though we would be traveling through the night having to sleep on the bus, I was excited about the travels. We played alot of cards on the bus.
We arrived to Mendoza the next morning and took another bus ride to our cabin, Cabañas Andinas in El Salto. We spent the day searching for food and relaxing at the cabin. After lunch Matt, Jer, and I did slack lining, which has become a new hobby of the team´s. (If you´ve never seen slacklining or are utterly clueless about what I´m talking about let me explain. Basically you hook a slack line, a long nylon rope, between two trees and try walking across the line. Not very easy but fun to do nonetheless.)
It had rained and hailed during lunch, brought on by the snow that capped the mountains in view from our cabin, but the evening was beautiful blue sky and sun which yielded good walking weather as Matt, Jer, and I headed to Potrerillos to find a supermarket to buy the bulk of our food for the week. Not knowing exactly how far it was, guessing 7 km one way, or how long it would take us Jer suggested we try to hitch a ride. So anytime a car came by from behind us we stuck our thumbs out in an attempt to flag down a compassionate driver. After a while of walking a truck stopped to let us jump in the bed of the truck and took us to our destination. After getting our groceries and walking a little ways up hill we were able to hitch another ride with a guy in his VW staion wagon. In the front seat was his sleeping daughter and in the back seat next to a car seat and our groceries the 3 of us stuffed in, me sitting on Matt´s lap. It was my first time hitch hiking and I did it twice in one day. It wasn´t the last time on the trip though.
We made dinner that night and had some spiritual formation time and worship before we enjoyed some time outside. I decided to teach them box frisbee which we played in the dark with a light up frisbee; Jer and I (winners) against Matt and Jason. And of course a day is not complete without a few games of cards.
We slept in the next morning and took our time making brunch and having some spiritual formation time discussing the topic of Obedience (we have been going through WMF ¨lifestyle celebrations¨ each week. Last week was intimacy then Obedience and next week we talk on Humilty) Later in the afternoon we set out on a hiking expedition. We had our sights set on hiking upa nearby peak that had been taunting us since our arrival. Jer was especially anticipating flying his kite where the wind seemed more promising. We were led by a resident to a path that led us down through a maze of thorn bushes and brush to a river no deeper or more forceful than a brook. We made our way along the bottom of the rocky hills, crossing the river many times, before ascending up, hill upon hill, peak after peak assessing our next steps along the way. With each higher ascent we grabbed a better view of the surrounding mountains and lake, which made the tiring effort it took to climb all the more worth it. With clouds threatening our way and evening approaching sooner than later we decided to go to the top of our initial goal- the peak we later found out ot be called El Cerro de las cabras (the peak of the goats). We quickened our steps as we headed up, challenging me physically in an ironically exciting way. With a great sense of accomplishment we arrived to the top Matt and Jer prepared the kite (to clarify, as Matt says ¨this aint your Franklin flying a key kind of kite¨). After a few attempts with less than promising wind Jer was able to get the kite up. Ver entertaining watching it whip around under Jer´s direction.
We made it down the peak in less than half the time it took us to get up. We retraced our steps down to a trail that would lead us slightly farther away from the cabins but to a road that would be more direct. We had a hearty dinner and some more worship time before heading to bed. Our arise time was set early for the next morning as we planned to head to a national park at Aconcagua, the highest peak in the Americas.
We caught a bus at 6:45 the next morning that took us down to Potrerillos where we would catch another bus to the park. The second bus ride was to be 2 hours long so I was looking forward to some ZZs to make up for the lack of sleep gotten the night before. BUt with the constant view of new mountains around us, more being revealed with the sun´s rise and grander ones coming into view the further west we went , it was hard to shut my eyes. But my tiredness overcame me and I did nap. We arrived to Aconcagua park only to find out that the park had recently closed due to a chemical spill. So though we weren´t able to enter the actual park we did find a path that took us around the edge of the park for at least a better view of the mountains surrounding us, specifically Aconcagua. The wind was fierce as it whipped around us, forcing a struggle at times as we walked against it. To try and recreate the grandness of the view with words would be short of impossible. Even to bring up the image in my mind falls short of actually standing and looking at the sight of the snow laden mountains. Though it was chilly and windy we did not rush our gazing time. But we did want to get back to the nearest town where we could catch the bus back. We decided to walk along some abanonded railroad tracks that ran along the road towards the town. We came to a point where we were forbidden to cross the road bridge and so instead of taking a course that would lead us down to the river bank only to have to cross the river and climb up the bank to the other side we decided to cross the railroad bridge set more than 30 feet above the water. There were spaces where we could walk along the bridge structure and other spaces where planks of wood were laid across caps in the bridge. We held onto the side railing all the while to steady ourselves across. But there came an a point where we were challenged to cross a plank of wood no wider than 6 inches or walk across the piping that edged along the bridge or shimming along the middle structure section of the bridge. We all chose different paths but made it safely across. It was one of those adrenaline rushing experiences that take your heart a few minutes to slow. So in short, it was awesome!
We made it to the town where they had a little fair set up selling various ¨tourist¨ items. We walked around there for a little while but spent the remainder of our time in a little bar waiting for the bus. We arrived back to Potrerillos by dinner time where we were expecting to go to a little restaurant, only to discover that it was closed (we have great luck with that). So we bought some groceries and hitch hiked our way back to the cabins. We left the next day for Mendoza to begin our travels back to the city. We had a few hours to relax in Mendoza before our bus left. We walked through the city a little stopping for lunch and spending the rest of our time in a park drinking Mate, getting dreads, and slacklining. Wait? What was that about getting dreads?! :) Yes, I ran into a guy who did dreads in the park and got 4 dreads (or what are called Rastas here) for 10 pesos each. I would have gotten more but did not have enough time or money at that point. But it is a porject I intend to finish. Matt also go to dreads.
We arrived back to the city yesterday and have been able to relax the rest of this weekend before we plunge into a new week. It was a beautifully refreshing week and allowed for some great oppourtunities for spiritual and team growth, renewal, and new traveling experiences.
Sometimes It´s hard to believe that I get to experience this beautiful country. Its hard to beleive it´s already October. The weeks go by so fast which causes a sense of desperation to cling to all my experiences and cherish every moment and pursue all opportunites. Even with the hardships of language struggle and the brokenness I experience I fall more and more in love with this place and the people I am in daily interaction with. As I sit and think about the people who I´am in relationship with here I am realizing how evidently present Christ is in these relationships; I am able to see His character more clearly. Not only His beauty in gentleness and love but also His brokennes and His heart´s longings.
What a beautiful opportunity this is. What a beautiful Creator He is!
Until next time- May you see His beauty in the faces and plaes around you. Much love!
Monday, September 20, 2010
language, peanut butter and jelly, and cards
I have not written in my journal in a while nor have I blogged recently, so I feel a bit overwhelmed trying to catch up with my thoughts, processes, and experiences from the past couple of weeks. Our weekly routine has been pretty much the same with a few variances. So, instead of laying out piece by piece what we have done each day I would simply like to highlight specific events that have stuck with me as well as other continuities that persist afte a month of living in the city.
Most recently is my memory of this past weekend. Thr four of us STMs were able to go on a retreat with the jovenes (young adult) group from church. We went to a retreat center outside of the city leaving Saturday morning and returning Sunday night. We've had opportunities to spend time with the jovenes over the past few weeks so it was good to be able to build on those relationships. They have been very accepting of us foreigners and patient with the language barrier. We had beautiful weather so we were able to play outside alot, which yielded good opportunities for bonding. While the weekend was relaxing and fun it has some taxing aspects about it, too, mostly having to do with the language. There were a few teaching sessions where I basically stared off in space or directed my own study time because I had no idea what was being said. And by the end of each day I was so worn out that attempting to communicate in spanish was beyond my ability.
Here raises a continuous struggle. Language has consistently been a stressful and frustrating struggle. There have been many times where I just want to give up and consider it a loss, that I won't learn the language and am tired of trying. I am learning alot in our tutoring sessions and yet it feels as if using this information in daily communication is impossible. I can't understand more than half of what people ask me. At times the struggle has nearly brought me to tears and makes me feel useless. Yet while in no way does it replace the frustration God continues to remind me that He is using me beyond my ability to communicate. He has continually reminded me that He is able to use me with my presence.
A couple that have been good friends of WMF were able to come on the retreat with their three kids. Mary is only 24 with three kids, works all day at a train station begging, and they struggle by going without in everyday life. I want to be able to give so much to them, especially Mary, even to just talk with her. But this weekend I found I was able to really connect with Mary outside of being able to talk with her- throwing a frisbee with her, putting my arm around her, or her putting her head on my shoulder or getting me a slice of pizza. And I absolutely love playing with her kids. In this God shows how He communicates through me, how He is able to create intimacy outside of words, how He is showing me my capability to love outside of speaking it. It is not always obvious, which adds to the struggle of feeling useless, but it is knowing that God is able to work outside of the norm that holds my faith in Him and what is is doing in and through me.
Outside of our daily experiences we've been learning through book studies. Right now we've been going through ¨Friendship at the Margins¨ by Chris Huertz (Exec Director of WMF) and Christine Pohl (from Asbury Seminary). The book lays out the idea of doing missions with friendships as the focus, specifically relationships with the poor. My eyes are being opened more to the potential in ministry and am looking forward to finding more insight in the topics we will read about.
Each week we also have a spiritual formation time focused on varying spiritual practices and disciplines. This past we focused on intimacy, how we experience intimacy with God through solitude and by being with others and in turn how we create intimacy with others. This next week we focus on obedience.
Peanut butter and jelly has also been a constant. While the peanut butter here is hard to find and not the peanut butter like in the states it makes for a simple and consistent meal. I've also grown quite fond of oreos.
Our team likes to play cards and it tends to be a frequent activity in our down time and get togethers. I have yet to teach the team double deck bid euchre, which is the game frequently played in my family, but they won't last long until they are exposed to the best card game ever!
Forgive me for ending abruptly but I need to end my internet session. before my next blog I will attempt to do more journaling in order to keep better trakc of my thoughts and experiences. Until then feel free to post any question you may have about my experience or Argentine culture and I will tend to those in my next blog. I am doing well and growing well. Your continued prayers are appreciated.
much love and blessings
Most recently is my memory of this past weekend. Thr four of us STMs were able to go on a retreat with the jovenes (young adult) group from church. We went to a retreat center outside of the city leaving Saturday morning and returning Sunday night. We've had opportunities to spend time with the jovenes over the past few weeks so it was good to be able to build on those relationships. They have been very accepting of us foreigners and patient with the language barrier. We had beautiful weather so we were able to play outside alot, which yielded good opportunities for bonding. While the weekend was relaxing and fun it has some taxing aspects about it, too, mostly having to do with the language. There were a few teaching sessions where I basically stared off in space or directed my own study time because I had no idea what was being said. And by the end of each day I was so worn out that attempting to communicate in spanish was beyond my ability.
Here raises a continuous struggle. Language has consistently been a stressful and frustrating struggle. There have been many times where I just want to give up and consider it a loss, that I won't learn the language and am tired of trying. I am learning alot in our tutoring sessions and yet it feels as if using this information in daily communication is impossible. I can't understand more than half of what people ask me. At times the struggle has nearly brought me to tears and makes me feel useless. Yet while in no way does it replace the frustration God continues to remind me that He is using me beyond my ability to communicate. He has continually reminded me that He is able to use me with my presence.
A couple that have been good friends of WMF were able to come on the retreat with their three kids. Mary is only 24 with three kids, works all day at a train station begging, and they struggle by going without in everyday life. I want to be able to give so much to them, especially Mary, even to just talk with her. But this weekend I found I was able to really connect with Mary outside of being able to talk with her- throwing a frisbee with her, putting my arm around her, or her putting her head on my shoulder or getting me a slice of pizza. And I absolutely love playing with her kids. In this God shows how He communicates through me, how He is able to create intimacy outside of words, how He is showing me my capability to love outside of speaking it. It is not always obvious, which adds to the struggle of feeling useless, but it is knowing that God is able to work outside of the norm that holds my faith in Him and what is is doing in and through me.
Outside of our daily experiences we've been learning through book studies. Right now we've been going through ¨Friendship at the Margins¨ by Chris Huertz (Exec Director of WMF) and Christine Pohl (from Asbury Seminary). The book lays out the idea of doing missions with friendships as the focus, specifically relationships with the poor. My eyes are being opened more to the potential in ministry and am looking forward to finding more insight in the topics we will read about.
Each week we also have a spiritual formation time focused on varying spiritual practices and disciplines. This past we focused on intimacy, how we experience intimacy with God through solitude and by being with others and in turn how we create intimacy with others. This next week we focus on obedience.
Peanut butter and jelly has also been a constant. While the peanut butter here is hard to find and not the peanut butter like in the states it makes for a simple and consistent meal. I've also grown quite fond of oreos.
Our team likes to play cards and it tends to be a frequent activity in our down time and get togethers. I have yet to teach the team double deck bid euchre, which is the game frequently played in my family, but they won't last long until they are exposed to the best card game ever!
Forgive me for ending abruptly but I need to end my internet session. before my next blog I will attempt to do more journaling in order to keep better trakc of my thoughts and experiences. Until then feel free to post any question you may have about my experience or Argentine culture and I will tend to those in my next blog. I am doing well and growing well. Your continued prayers are appreciated.
much love and blessings
Saturday, September 4, 2010
a week in a glimpse
Thanks for the comments, friends. It is uplifting to see your responses to my blogs as I am unsure how well I can convey the totality of my experiences. Feel free to ask any questions and continue leaving comments.
The last day of August commences what the Argentines refer to as La Tormenta (storm) de la Santa Rosa; it has been wet and cold since Tuesday. Though it hasn't been technically storming it has been very wet, in the 40s (ferenheit), and a gray layer of clouds has been hanging over us all week long. Today the sun is finally showing for the first time in what seems like eons, a perfect gift for today's sabbath rest. I spent some time at Parque Lezama after buying some overpriced coffee for the size that I was given. I went to the coffee shop in order to sit down and write in my journal but in a misunderstanding of language I accidentally ordered to go. But it turned out for the better as I rather appreciated being outside among the city life.
The sun felt extra warm as I reflected on the previous very chilly and wet week. Of course we continued our daily ministry tasks in spite of the miserable weather. MOnday was a day with few obligations for me. We had breakfast and spiritual formation time at the Deans (Jen and Jer our servant team leaders)and came back later that evening to babysit so they could go on a date. Tuesday began with our Spanish tutoring, still mostly review for me but good nonetheless. Later Matt (fellow STM) and I helped with Apoyo Escolar- tutoring at the church for local kids. The girl I worked with was working on English, score! I have been unsure how helpful I would be with working on school work with the kids but they are surprisingly patient with the language barrier and love our presence. After tutoring the 4 of us STMs along with Jer went to Retiro with hot chocolate and ham sandwiches. The sandwiches were consumed in minutes and cups were constantly being refilled with the rich and very sweet chocolaty goodness. I spent most of my time and energy playing with the toddlers. They sat on my lap, pushing for a spot, and crawling on me like a jungle gym, their dirt covered hands grabbing and sometimes clawing at me. Despite their grungy appearance I loved being able to kiss on them and tromp around the station as one clung to my back laughing, fearless, and greedy to do it again. Love.
On Wednesday we walked in the cold to the Deans to have lunch with the now full WMF Argentina staff (we met David who returned from the States only the day before). From there we went to Retiro to see our friends. We met or rather encountered new faces of Retiro dwellers. We shared Mate, played with the kids of course, Matt took a turn at selling newspapers ("Voluntar 'La Razon'!"), and played hacky sack and tanto en la media (monkey in the middle).
Thursday was a very interesting day. Again cold and wet, so we assumed that our plans to ride bikes to a nearby ecological reserve park was canceled. But Jer showed up to the church in an attempt to convince us to go, "it's not so bad!", he says. His enthusiam was contagious. I felt as if my brother-in-law Danny was talking me into some crazy idea of his.
As we prepared the bikes, ourselves, and the Deans' three kids I wasn't totally convinced that this wasn't a crazy idea. But I'm only in B.A once (maybe) I told myself. Though it wasn't raining before we left or course it started as we began our ride. We rode to the park, which was closed due to the weather, in the rain, stopped for lunch (attempting to dry a little and warm up with little success), and rode back to the Deans in the rain. I was very wet and cold (wearing enough layers and a rain jacket of Jen's on top but a pair of jeans and running shoes on the bottom). I told myself that later when I was dry and warm I would look back and appreciate the expereince. And it's true. It was an unforgetable experience and I have to say one that caused me to admire the Deans all the more (you guys are crazy awesome!) In my attempt to warm up before going to Baja Flores for our English-teaching session that night, once back at the church I drained three cups of coffe and read by the heater in the Comedor (dining room).
I had been anxiously and nervously awaiting our first English-teaching session to some of the kids in the villa in Baja Flores (referred to in my previous blog). Not knowing the english levels of the kids or how to "teach" in broken spanish we had no idea how to prepare for our first session. But it ended being a laid back time where we got to know names, introduce ourselves, and do some basic pronunciation work with the lyrics to a hymn they are learning. Now we have somewhat of an idea of the structure of the time and how to go about future activities.
Friday we had Spanish tutoring again and then Matt and I went to Retiro later in the afternoon. It's still difficult being unable to understand or communicate without needing translation which is why I tend to gravitate towards the younger kids who urge me to color with them or enjoy sitting on my lap. God reminds me that my failed attempts to communicate, playtime with the kids, and simply my presence is showing HIs love. As a little boy was sitting on my lap fascinated with popping bubble wrap (who doesnt enjoy that?!) I repeated to him "Jesus te ama" (Jesus loves you). If that is all I can convey, I am satisfied with that.
Later we went to the Deans for dinner and games which led into the early morning hours.
Today is the sabbath rest for us. While I am looking forward to chilling out for the rest of today, I can honestly say that I am also looking forward to another week. May God continue to reveal Himself, His simple love, His omnipresent beauty to me and through me in the week ahead. That is my prayer. Tengo que ir.
Mucho amor!
The last day of August commences what the Argentines refer to as La Tormenta (storm) de la Santa Rosa; it has been wet and cold since Tuesday. Though it hasn't been technically storming it has been very wet, in the 40s (ferenheit), and a gray layer of clouds has been hanging over us all week long. Today the sun is finally showing for the first time in what seems like eons, a perfect gift for today's sabbath rest. I spent some time at Parque Lezama after buying some overpriced coffee for the size that I was given. I went to the coffee shop in order to sit down and write in my journal but in a misunderstanding of language I accidentally ordered to go. But it turned out for the better as I rather appreciated being outside among the city life.
The sun felt extra warm as I reflected on the previous very chilly and wet week. Of course we continued our daily ministry tasks in spite of the miserable weather. MOnday was a day with few obligations for me. We had breakfast and spiritual formation time at the Deans (Jen and Jer our servant team leaders)and came back later that evening to babysit so they could go on a date. Tuesday began with our Spanish tutoring, still mostly review for me but good nonetheless. Later Matt (fellow STM) and I helped with Apoyo Escolar- tutoring at the church for local kids. The girl I worked with was working on English, score! I have been unsure how helpful I would be with working on school work with the kids but they are surprisingly patient with the language barrier and love our presence. After tutoring the 4 of us STMs along with Jer went to Retiro with hot chocolate and ham sandwiches. The sandwiches were consumed in minutes and cups were constantly being refilled with the rich and very sweet chocolaty goodness. I spent most of my time and energy playing with the toddlers. They sat on my lap, pushing for a spot, and crawling on me like a jungle gym, their dirt covered hands grabbing and sometimes clawing at me. Despite their grungy appearance I loved being able to kiss on them and tromp around the station as one clung to my back laughing, fearless, and greedy to do it again. Love.
On Wednesday we walked in the cold to the Deans to have lunch with the now full WMF Argentina staff (we met David who returned from the States only the day before). From there we went to Retiro to see our friends. We met or rather encountered new faces of Retiro dwellers. We shared Mate, played with the kids of course, Matt took a turn at selling newspapers ("Voluntar 'La Razon'!"), and played hacky sack and tanto en la media (monkey in the middle).
Thursday was a very interesting day. Again cold and wet, so we assumed that our plans to ride bikes to a nearby ecological reserve park was canceled. But Jer showed up to the church in an attempt to convince us to go, "it's not so bad!", he says. His enthusiam was contagious. I felt as if my brother-in-law Danny was talking me into some crazy idea of his.
As we prepared the bikes, ourselves, and the Deans' three kids I wasn't totally convinced that this wasn't a crazy idea. But I'm only in B.A once (maybe) I told myself. Though it wasn't raining before we left or course it started as we began our ride. We rode to the park, which was closed due to the weather, in the rain, stopped for lunch (attempting to dry a little and warm up with little success), and rode back to the Deans in the rain. I was very wet and cold (wearing enough layers and a rain jacket of Jen's on top but a pair of jeans and running shoes on the bottom). I told myself that later when I was dry and warm I would look back and appreciate the expereince. And it's true. It was an unforgetable experience and I have to say one that caused me to admire the Deans all the more (you guys are crazy awesome!) In my attempt to warm up before going to Baja Flores for our English-teaching session that night, once back at the church I drained three cups of coffe and read by the heater in the Comedor (dining room).
I had been anxiously and nervously awaiting our first English-teaching session to some of the kids in the villa in Baja Flores (referred to in my previous blog). Not knowing the english levels of the kids or how to "teach" in broken spanish we had no idea how to prepare for our first session. But it ended being a laid back time where we got to know names, introduce ourselves, and do some basic pronunciation work with the lyrics to a hymn they are learning. Now we have somewhat of an idea of the structure of the time and how to go about future activities.
Friday we had Spanish tutoring again and then Matt and I went to Retiro later in the afternoon. It's still difficult being unable to understand or communicate without needing translation which is why I tend to gravitate towards the younger kids who urge me to color with them or enjoy sitting on my lap. God reminds me that my failed attempts to communicate, playtime with the kids, and simply my presence is showing HIs love. As a little boy was sitting on my lap fascinated with popping bubble wrap (who doesnt enjoy that?!) I repeated to him "Jesus te ama" (Jesus loves you). If that is all I can convey, I am satisfied with that.
Later we went to the Deans for dinner and games which led into the early morning hours.
Today is the sabbath rest for us. While I am looking forward to chilling out for the rest of today, I can honestly say that I am also looking forward to another week. May God continue to reveal Himself, His simple love, His omnipresent beauty to me and through me in the week ahead. That is my prayer. Tengo que ir.
Mucho amor!
Saturday, August 28, 2010
la gente
With so much still to process I wanted to dedicate some time to at least give you all as much of a glimpse as I can of the people I have been in interaction with in Buenos Aires. We have met a lot of people in just these past couple weeks, strangers turned into friends. I have been amazed with such warm welcomings we have received. The church community has been excited to meet those of us on the servant team and quickly include us in activities. After church last Sunday we had lunch with the jovenes (young adult) group. Though many of us could not communicate with each other because of the language barrier we were still able to interact well together. I walked to the store with a couple guys to get drinks and while they tried to ask me questions the only thing I was able to clearly say was how difficult it is NOT to be able to communicate because I so want to get to know people. But with a few translators conversation was present even if only minimal. We had a beautiful time sharing a meal of hamburgers and talents through song.
Of course we´ve spent alot of time with the WMF staff here. We are so blessed to have such dedicated and caring staff. I am truly blessed to witness their hearts for the people of Buenos Aires, especially those who are overlooked by the rest of society. I am so looking forward to spending more time with them in the next four months. And there will be more time to write about these individuals later, thoguh I could already share so much.
I really want to talk about our new friends from the street. Unfortunately but understandably we are unable to post pictures of these individuals on the internet so for now I will do my best to convey my initial interactions with these amazing individuals. WMF Argentina has been befriending street youth/ young adults from the transportation hub of Retiro, a barrio of Buenos Aires, for many years now. The servant team went to Retiro for the first time on Monday to meet friends. Most of the time was spent sitting around sharing mate (a popular hot drink consisting of very strong and somewhat bitter earthy leaves. it has taken a while to get used to and is better dulce- sweet)outside of the train/ subway station where some of our friends sell used newspapers. I am surprised at how open the Argentines are to helping the poor. There were many regulars, young and old, who buy the papers or give spare change to our friends that find their profession in begging at the station. On Wednesday we saw many of those we had met on Monday that came for Encuentros, an event where friends from Retiro come to the church to participate in a Bible study, eat lunch, play video games, and simply spend time together. Many of them have young children with whom I enjoyed playing with, a simple action such as kicking a ping pong ball on the terrace outside while the little girl laughed with glee.
On Thursday we went to Bajo Flores where pastor Pablo and his wife Sarah (WMF friends) minister. After eating a lunch of empanadas and discussing possiblities with helping them they walked us around the villa. The villa is basically a community, a little more than primitive, where families throw together places to live among concrete slabs, making walls out of metals and cardboard and sometimes more sturdy materials. The spaces are not very big and they live with very little. I can´t remember exactly the number of people that was said to be living there but it aws in the thousands. We walked through the maze of homes, stacked story upon story, dodging stray dogs and hearing the chatter of family life . We stopped into a few homes of people the pastor knew; everyone was so gracious and anxious to few us or offer us a drnk and place to sit down. At one home we all sat around the table drinking Coca Cola and sat with a lady who told us of her loneliness and worries about her son. One of her sons had died and her other had been in the hospital and was now missing. I had no idea what she was saying exactly but the sadness was so evident on her face and in her voice that my heart was so burdened for her and still is. I gave her a warm embrace when leaving.
Yesterday we went back to Retiro. The boys played soccer in a plaza (park) outside of the station and I along with Jen and Amanda (with WMF) sat with the women and played with the kids. It broke my heart to see some of the people there sniffing glue out of plastic bags. We also sat in the station with ¨the girls¨, a number of girls who are sisters, most with children of their own.
Beyond the hindrance of the language barrier, I am trying to figure out what my role is in being in relationship with these individuals. Alot of the time when being there I am constantly trying to figure out how to relate with these individuals with them and simply offer up my prayers to the God of love for His strength and guidance. And He has responded by placing this overwhelming since of love for each one of them, a love that I cannot explain but only hope that I might be able to convey (as I type with tears in my eyes). That is what I will hang onto day by day.
I have been so amazed by the strength of the poor around us. Many of them have come such a long way from where they were before being in relationship with the Word Made Flesh friends. They live their lives couped up in small places or on the street working as beggars, collecting recyclable trash, or selling used newspapers, raising children, and eatin and bathing when they can.
I´m learning to put aside the reactions of my senses to sight, smell, taste, hunger, sleep, etc and allowing my heart and mind to experience sensations more.
Jason from our team has created a website that has links to other team members´blogs (that include pictures):
argentinaservantteam.org
Hopefully I will bust out my camera soon so you can see my Buenos Aires from my point of view.
Your continued prayers are appreciated. Your support is a blessing to my weary soul.
Of course we´ve spent alot of time with the WMF staff here. We are so blessed to have such dedicated and caring staff. I am truly blessed to witness their hearts for the people of Buenos Aires, especially those who are overlooked by the rest of society. I am so looking forward to spending more time with them in the next four months. And there will be more time to write about these individuals later, thoguh I could already share so much.
I really want to talk about our new friends from the street. Unfortunately but understandably we are unable to post pictures of these individuals on the internet so for now I will do my best to convey my initial interactions with these amazing individuals. WMF Argentina has been befriending street youth/ young adults from the transportation hub of Retiro, a barrio of Buenos Aires, for many years now. The servant team went to Retiro for the first time on Monday to meet friends. Most of the time was spent sitting around sharing mate (a popular hot drink consisting of very strong and somewhat bitter earthy leaves. it has taken a while to get used to and is better dulce- sweet)outside of the train/ subway station where some of our friends sell used newspapers. I am surprised at how open the Argentines are to helping the poor. There were many regulars, young and old, who buy the papers or give spare change to our friends that find their profession in begging at the station. On Wednesday we saw many of those we had met on Monday that came for Encuentros, an event where friends from Retiro come to the church to participate in a Bible study, eat lunch, play video games, and simply spend time together. Many of them have young children with whom I enjoyed playing with, a simple action such as kicking a ping pong ball on the terrace outside while the little girl laughed with glee.
On Thursday we went to Bajo Flores where pastor Pablo and his wife Sarah (WMF friends) minister. After eating a lunch of empanadas and discussing possiblities with helping them they walked us around the villa. The villa is basically a community, a little more than primitive, where families throw together places to live among concrete slabs, making walls out of metals and cardboard and sometimes more sturdy materials. The spaces are not very big and they live with very little. I can´t remember exactly the number of people that was said to be living there but it aws in the thousands. We walked through the maze of homes, stacked story upon story, dodging stray dogs and hearing the chatter of family life . We stopped into a few homes of people the pastor knew; everyone was so gracious and anxious to few us or offer us a drnk and place to sit down. At one home we all sat around the table drinking Coca Cola and sat with a lady who told us of her loneliness and worries about her son. One of her sons had died and her other had been in the hospital and was now missing. I had no idea what she was saying exactly but the sadness was so evident on her face and in her voice that my heart was so burdened for her and still is. I gave her a warm embrace when leaving.
Yesterday we went back to Retiro. The boys played soccer in a plaza (park) outside of the station and I along with Jen and Amanda (with WMF) sat with the women and played with the kids. It broke my heart to see some of the people there sniffing glue out of plastic bags. We also sat in the station with ¨the girls¨, a number of girls who are sisters, most with children of their own.
Beyond the hindrance of the language barrier, I am trying to figure out what my role is in being in relationship with these individuals. Alot of the time when being there I am constantly trying to figure out how to relate with these individuals with them and simply offer up my prayers to the God of love for His strength and guidance. And He has responded by placing this overwhelming since of love for each one of them, a love that I cannot explain but only hope that I might be able to convey (as I type with tears in my eyes). That is what I will hang onto day by day.
I have been so amazed by the strength of the poor around us. Many of them have come such a long way from where they were before being in relationship with the Word Made Flesh friends. They live their lives couped up in small places or on the street working as beggars, collecting recyclable trash, or selling used newspapers, raising children, and eatin and bathing when they can.
I´m learning to put aside the reactions of my senses to sight, smell, taste, hunger, sleep, etc and allowing my heart and mind to experience sensations more.
Jason from our team has created a website that has links to other team members´blogs (that include pictures):
argentinaservantteam.org
Hopefully I will bust out my camera soon so you can see my Buenos Aires from my point of view.
Your continued prayers are appreciated. Your support is a blessing to my weary soul.
Saturday, August 21, 2010
intitial thoughts
Estoy Aqui!
Im tucked away in a little internet cafe near our home in Buenos Aires right now. Its Saturday, which is our sabbath day so we have a lot of time to be free to do what we need to.
Ive been in Buenos Aires for 5 days now. I met up with my team at the Houston airport where we flew out together. Matt, Amanda, and I found each other pretty quickly at our concourse and so we waited for our other teammate Jason before we boarded the plane. We waited and waited and waited until we could wait no more. He never showed up. Well we found out later that he had some misinformed information about his flight date. So it was just the three of us for a couple days. But we are all together and having a grand time.
I have so much that I could talk about regarding the first few days so it is hard to know where to start. Forgive me for scattered thoughts.
The language: this has been the hardest aspect of being here. I so want to be able to connunicate with the people around me who speak little to no english. I cannot communicate in stores and even when I try funble around with the few spanish words I know and sound very much like a foreigner. I know that it will take time to learn, time and patience, but for the time being it feels very much like a hindrance. Por la noche I am having trouble thinking in English let alone Spanish.I am looking forward to our twice a week spanish classes. Here is a little Argentine language lesson for you- the double L "ll" in most spanish makes a "Y" sound; eg. pollo= poyo (chicken). But in argentina the double L makes a "sh" sound so pollo sounds like poysho y ella sounds like asia. The same with Y and J at the beginning of a word. In case you were interested.
Our "home": we are staying in a baptist church in Barracas, which is a barrio of Buenos Aires. A couple of the girls from the last servant team stayed there and the church loved having them so much so that they wanted to host the group again. They even went as far as to build us rooms (one for the guys to share y one for the girls to share)! A few people from the community also live in the church and we have enjoyed getting to know them and "talking" to them. (I forgot to mention that Amanda is fluent in Spanish so she is a GREAT help!) We ate dinner with the pastor Juan Jose and his wife Lorena last night. Their home is attached to the church. Juan Jose speaks english very well but his wife only knows a few words. They are wonderful people who are very gracious and helpful. We had a good time in community with them. The church has a very good relationship with the Word Made Flesh team here and have been partnering with them in ministry for years now.
Unfortunately I am at a stopping point with much more to say. So please allow me to finish my thoughts sometime in the next week.
In the meantime please keep my team and me in your prayers. And pray especially that God would grant me a quick mind to pick up the language.
God bless and much love!
Im tucked away in a little internet cafe near our home in Buenos Aires right now. Its Saturday, which is our sabbath day so we have a lot of time to be free to do what we need to.
Ive been in Buenos Aires for 5 days now. I met up with my team at the Houston airport where we flew out together. Matt, Amanda, and I found each other pretty quickly at our concourse and so we waited for our other teammate Jason before we boarded the plane. We waited and waited and waited until we could wait no more. He never showed up. Well we found out later that he had some misinformed information about his flight date. So it was just the three of us for a couple days. But we are all together and having a grand time.
I have so much that I could talk about regarding the first few days so it is hard to know where to start. Forgive me for scattered thoughts.
The language: this has been the hardest aspect of being here. I so want to be able to connunicate with the people around me who speak little to no english. I cannot communicate in stores and even when I try funble around with the few spanish words I know and sound very much like a foreigner. I know that it will take time to learn, time and patience, but for the time being it feels very much like a hindrance. Por la noche I am having trouble thinking in English let alone Spanish.I am looking forward to our twice a week spanish classes. Here is a little Argentine language lesson for you- the double L "ll" in most spanish makes a "Y" sound; eg. pollo= poyo (chicken). But in argentina the double L makes a "sh" sound so pollo sounds like poysho y ella sounds like asia. The same with Y and J at the beginning of a word. In case you were interested.
Our "home": we are staying in a baptist church in Barracas, which is a barrio of Buenos Aires. A couple of the girls from the last servant team stayed there and the church loved having them so much so that they wanted to host the group again. They even went as far as to build us rooms (one for the guys to share y one for the girls to share)! A few people from the community also live in the church and we have enjoyed getting to know them and "talking" to them. (I forgot to mention that Amanda is fluent in Spanish so she is a GREAT help!) We ate dinner with the pastor Juan Jose and his wife Lorena last night. Their home is attached to the church. Juan Jose speaks english very well but his wife only knows a few words. They are wonderful people who are very gracious and helpful. We had a good time in community with them. The church has a very good relationship with the Word Made Flesh team here and have been partnering with them in ministry for years now.
Unfortunately I am at a stopping point with much more to say. So please allow me to finish my thoughts sometime in the next week.
In the meantime please keep my team and me in your prayers. And pray especially that God would grant me a quick mind to pick up the language.
God bless and much love!
Friday, August 6, 2010
Waiting
People have been asking me alot if I'm getting excited about Argentina and depending on the moment I might say 'yes' or just tell them that I was the day before when I wasn't freaking out. This time of waiting is somewhat unbearable, especially with a still long list of things to check off my to-do list. I think a couple weeks ago I was ready to just forego all the preparations and this waiting process and jump on a plane.
This past week has been a roller coaster of emotions- it's been filled with a lot of changes and goodbyes. I left Cincinnati where I have been living since April to come back to Indiana to spend time with my family before leaving. I left sooner than planned in order to come back for a funeral of a dear family friend, my adopted grandma Barb. So in one weekend I helped my roommates move to their new house as much as I could, stuffed my car with my own things, said goodbye to newly made friends and my roommates, saw two friends get married, and said another goodbye to my dear friend and her husband who were heading off to Bolivia. I then met up with two other dear friends saying goodbye to them less than 24 hours after greeting them. In order to get to the said funeral on time I woke at 4 in the morning and drove six hours to northern Indiana. Yet another goodbye, to Barb. After hearing the news of her death I picked up a busy schedule, as you can see, so at her funeral I was finally able to mourn and at the same time rejoice that she has been ushered into the arms of Jesus.
I'm home in Indiana now and looking forward to spending some time with my family. Yet now knowing that there are still more goodbyes to come.
In the meantime I am frantically and ironically at the same time sluggishly trying to get things in order, with less than a week left to go. And to be honest I've hardly thought about packing. (My sister Nichole would be mentally packing as of a month ago!)
All this waiting has done two very different things, again depending on the moment. It has made me so excited about this upcoming adventure that I have been awaiting for 4, rather 8 months when I first had the desire to go overseas. And on the other hand this wait has made me anxious about the arrival of what has been still 4, 3, 2, 1 month(s) away.
A few days ago, in one of the latter anxious moments, I was telling God that I didn't want to go simply because I didn't want to exchange my comfort for... well, I guess, what will be uncomfortable. He didn't say anything in response to that. He let me sit in that thought because one, He knows, and He's known that all along... my whole life, in fact. He is good at stirring His children in the comfortable lapses in life. And, two, He's already made Himself very clear with this whole arrangement. He's prepared it. He's benn preparing me for it. He's been revealing bits and pieces of His plan for me these past few months. So I reminded myself of that and let myself sink into a moment of trust.
I'm just asking God to teach me and prepare me in this next week of waiting. Which I can confess hasn't been easy. The enemy counteracts my trust and peace in God with feelings of unrest and lethargy. But God is persistent. It may not be until I'm actually in Argentina when I see how God was working in these months, weeks, days leading up to my departure. Which is just typical with me. Just like it won't sink in that I'm going across the globe, to a different country, to Argentina until I'm standing on South American soil.
Waiting. I have to go through it. But the waiting pays off.
This past week has been a roller coaster of emotions- it's been filled with a lot of changes and goodbyes. I left Cincinnati where I have been living since April to come back to Indiana to spend time with my family before leaving. I left sooner than planned in order to come back for a funeral of a dear family friend, my adopted grandma Barb. So in one weekend I helped my roommates move to their new house as much as I could, stuffed my car with my own things, said goodbye to newly made friends and my roommates, saw two friends get married, and said another goodbye to my dear friend and her husband who were heading off to Bolivia. I then met up with two other dear friends saying goodbye to them less than 24 hours after greeting them. In order to get to the said funeral on time I woke at 4 in the morning and drove six hours to northern Indiana. Yet another goodbye, to Barb. After hearing the news of her death I picked up a busy schedule, as you can see, so at her funeral I was finally able to mourn and at the same time rejoice that she has been ushered into the arms of Jesus.
I'm home in Indiana now and looking forward to spending some time with my family. Yet now knowing that there are still more goodbyes to come.
In the meantime I am frantically and ironically at the same time sluggishly trying to get things in order, with less than a week left to go. And to be honest I've hardly thought about packing. (My sister Nichole would be mentally packing as of a month ago!)
All this waiting has done two very different things, again depending on the moment. It has made me so excited about this upcoming adventure that I have been awaiting for 4, rather 8 months when I first had the desire to go overseas. And on the other hand this wait has made me anxious about the arrival of what has been still 4, 3, 2, 1 month(s) away.
A few days ago, in one of the latter anxious moments, I was telling God that I didn't want to go simply because I didn't want to exchange my comfort for... well, I guess, what will be uncomfortable. He didn't say anything in response to that. He let me sit in that thought because one, He knows, and He's known that all along... my whole life, in fact. He is good at stirring His children in the comfortable lapses in life. And, two, He's already made Himself very clear with this whole arrangement. He's prepared it. He's benn preparing me for it. He's been revealing bits and pieces of His plan for me these past few months. So I reminded myself of that and let myself sink into a moment of trust.
I'm just asking God to teach me and prepare me in this next week of waiting. Which I can confess hasn't been easy. The enemy counteracts my trust and peace in God with feelings of unrest and lethargy. But God is persistent. It may not be until I'm actually in Argentina when I see how God was working in these months, weeks, days leading up to my departure. Which is just typical with me. Just like it won't sink in that I'm going across the globe, to a different country, to Argentina until I'm standing on South American soil.
Waiting. I have to go through it. But the waiting pays off.
Friday, July 23, 2010
what i was reminded of on a run
Today is hot. H-O-T. So I waited until tonight to go running. I was very much in the mood to run, so though it was still quite warm at 8:30 I strapped on my running shoes, carefully on my bandaged left foot. I have a recovering blister on my left foot so I was prepared to deal with a little sting while I ran. However, not long into the run the pain became uncomfortable but I was not prepared to stop. I felt compelled to continue. I had to come up with an improvisation if I did not want to cause myself too much pain. I ran to a nearby park, took off my shoes, and ran in the grassy areas around the park barefoot. My bandage came undone during the course of my run and occasionally blades of grass would brush the raw skin, but nonetheless my foot felt little pain. Even while running barefoot isn't the best on your feet or muscles, which I will be feeling tomorrow, it was liberating and satisfying, which I will also feel tomorrow. While I ran I listened to the music from the Elizabethtown soundtrack. One of my favorite songs from the soundtrack is "Same in Any Language" by I Nine. "It's the same in any language wherever you go."
Language. Language will present itself to be a barrier in Argentina. While English is a widely spoken language in most countries, we will be working with many uneducated who have not had the opportunity to learn English. And my Spanish-speaking skills are much less than fluent or even conversational. But I was reminded while running free listening to this song that love has the capability to be expressed beyond the confines of language. Love is the same in any language, wherever you go because love does not need language to be expressed. Love is action; feeling put into action or choice put into action. Actions vary whether by word or deed. And this I do think about love, too; love breaks through barriers.
And it was not too long ago that God seemed to be telling me that love would break through my own barriers with this experience. And I anticipate that I will have to open myself up to be broken. I will be honest that a lot of times I feel that my expressions of love fall short from what I intend or what God intends. I am constantly yearning for a love that is more a reflection of His, longing that He would break through me with His love.
I was driving around town about 2 months ago, thinking about this next journey, when I had a God moment. Very vividly I felt God saying to me that He was going to use this experience to teach me a new idea of love, a new way to love. This may seem simple to you, but it was profound in that moment and is something that God keeps bringing to my heart.
As I was running I felt the intensity of this idea reiterated.
Running isn't easy. The hard part is when you hit the wall in the run- physically or mentally. But I've learned in my running that if I push myself and keep running I can break through the wall and in fact in doing this I regain my energy and a boost of confidence. And it only take a couple minutes after a good run to feel the adrenaline rushing through me, the endorphins energizing me- the runner high. No matter how hard or light the run, I typically always feel good and motivated afterward. I am able to appreciate the run and its challenges.
This growing experience will be hard. Letting go and letting God go and break me, break my ideas in order to replenish His will be challenging, I know that full well. But I know, too, that it will give me a new spirit and strength that more resembles His. Argentina will be a beautiful and challenging run that I will be able to look back and appreciate with all the God taught me. I believe that. And I think that's what I got out of my run tonight.
Oh that His love may be more evident; that His love might speak in any language wherever you go, breaking through the barriers.
Corredora de Dios
Language. Language will present itself to be a barrier in Argentina. While English is a widely spoken language in most countries, we will be working with many uneducated who have not had the opportunity to learn English. And my Spanish-speaking skills are much less than fluent or even conversational. But I was reminded while running free listening to this song that love has the capability to be expressed beyond the confines of language. Love is the same in any language, wherever you go because love does not need language to be expressed. Love is action; feeling put into action or choice put into action. Actions vary whether by word or deed. And this I do think about love, too; love breaks through barriers.
And it was not too long ago that God seemed to be telling me that love would break through my own barriers with this experience. And I anticipate that I will have to open myself up to be broken. I will be honest that a lot of times I feel that my expressions of love fall short from what I intend or what God intends. I am constantly yearning for a love that is more a reflection of His, longing that He would break through me with His love.
I was driving around town about 2 months ago, thinking about this next journey, when I had a God moment. Very vividly I felt God saying to me that He was going to use this experience to teach me a new idea of love, a new way to love. This may seem simple to you, but it was profound in that moment and is something that God keeps bringing to my heart.
As I was running I felt the intensity of this idea reiterated.
Running isn't easy. The hard part is when you hit the wall in the run- physically or mentally. But I've learned in my running that if I push myself and keep running I can break through the wall and in fact in doing this I regain my energy and a boost of confidence. And it only take a couple minutes after a good run to feel the adrenaline rushing through me, the endorphins energizing me- the runner high. No matter how hard or light the run, I typically always feel good and motivated afterward. I am able to appreciate the run and its challenges.
This growing experience will be hard. Letting go and letting God go and break me, break my ideas in order to replenish His will be challenging, I know that full well. But I know, too, that it will give me a new spirit and strength that more resembles His. Argentina will be a beautiful and challenging run that I will be able to look back and appreciate with all the God taught me. I believe that. And I think that's what I got out of my run tonight.
Oh that His love may be more evident; that His love might speak in any language wherever you go, breaking through the barriers.
Corredora de Dios
Thursday, July 15, 2010
1/2 check for support
Today I got my physical done. Since I don't have insurance right now it was a hefty amount of dollars out of my pocket. And for what? To have the doctor poke and prod at me and challenge me to arm wrestling. I feel stolen from! The nerve.
But at least it's one other thing to check off my list.
So going down the list (in my head, I've never been a list taker-- hence the non-planner aspect in my life):
vaccines- check. ow, it cost me two arms... literally and figuratively.
Insurance- 1/2 check. I've made contact and started filling out forms.
Readings- 1/2 check. I'm making headway, but I can't rush the mind-blowing info I'm taking in.
Plane tickets- check, thanks to Word Made Flesh organizing that one.
Contact with team members- check.
Support Letters- check
Support Raised- 1/2 check. A good two thousand dollars is hanging over my head, lingering. It's somewhere out there beyond the pale moonlight.
I've sent out a handful of support letters. Into the first month or so of support raising I would get so excited to see my support funds rising steadily. And while support has continued to come in as I've continued to send support letters, my account has lingered in the 2,000 area at what seems like a comatose rate.
It wasn't until recently that I made a list in my head of contacts outside of church family, family friends, family members, etc. that may in fact be interested in supporting me. My list reached about 40 people, friends-friends from college, friends from my experiences after college, friends from the early days, that I would like to think would show interest in my upcoming experience. If 40 of these people gave 10 dollars that's 400 dollars. But, wait, my math gets better. If 40 people gave 20 dollars, that's..... 800 dollars! That's fantastic!
So if you're reading this and have not received a support letter from me know that it's not because I don't think you're important or I think you're poor as dirt, but most likely because I don't have your address (snail mail is the thing of the past). But if you close down your computer or wake up in the morning and feel Jesus prodding you to give for my support I encourage you to do so. Pass on by chipotle and put aside the 8 dollars from the could-have-been burrito bowl and know that I understand the sacrifice you're making! I crave the luscious mexican style grille often!
Even if you just want to go down as a prayer supporter that is awesome.
You can send the funds directly to Word Made Flesh- Make the check out to Word Made Flesh and then pull out an index card write your name, address, email and indicate if you would like to be a prayer supporter and/or how much you are giving. Write my name as the Servant Team Member. Then toss them in an enveloped addressed "Word Made Flesh P.O Box 70, Omaha, NE 68101".
If you feel so led to send me money directly know that it will be used toward my preparation funds that unfortunately are not covered by my funding through Word Made Flesh. My address at my parent's is 30200 Wyndtree Blvd. Elkhart, IN 46516.
Money is always a touchy issue but at the same time it is a frequent issue in life. I do not want to sound like a beggar or sound like I'm making a plug, but I have a need and I also have a network of wonderful people that can help me fill that need. I am so grateful for those that have given. And even if someone feels like they can't give but wants to be a prayer supporter I am grateful for their support, in however they feel they can best give.
maybe I can turn that 1/2 check into a big boy check mark.
God bless you as you give of yourself,
La una que Dios ve (or something like that)
But at least it's one other thing to check off my list.
So going down the list (in my head, I've never been a list taker-- hence the non-planner aspect in my life):
vaccines- check. ow, it cost me two arms... literally and figuratively.
Insurance- 1/2 check. I've made contact and started filling out forms.
Readings- 1/2 check. I'm making headway, but I can't rush the mind-blowing info I'm taking in.
Plane tickets- check, thanks to Word Made Flesh organizing that one.
Contact with team members- check.
Support Letters- check
Support Raised- 1/2 check. A good two thousand dollars is hanging over my head, lingering. It's somewhere out there beyond the pale moonlight.
I've sent out a handful of support letters. Into the first month or so of support raising I would get so excited to see my support funds rising steadily. And while support has continued to come in as I've continued to send support letters, my account has lingered in the 2,000 area at what seems like a comatose rate.
It wasn't until recently that I made a list in my head of contacts outside of church family, family friends, family members, etc. that may in fact be interested in supporting me. My list reached about 40 people, friends-friends from college, friends from my experiences after college, friends from the early days, that I would like to think would show interest in my upcoming experience. If 40 of these people gave 10 dollars that's 400 dollars. But, wait, my math gets better. If 40 people gave 20 dollars, that's..... 800 dollars! That's fantastic!
So if you're reading this and have not received a support letter from me know that it's not because I don't think you're important or I think you're poor as dirt, but most likely because I don't have your address (snail mail is the thing of the past). But if you close down your computer or wake up in the morning and feel Jesus prodding you to give for my support I encourage you to do so. Pass on by chipotle and put aside the 8 dollars from the could-have-been burrito bowl and know that I understand the sacrifice you're making! I crave the luscious mexican style grille often!
Even if you just want to go down as a prayer supporter that is awesome.
You can send the funds directly to Word Made Flesh- Make the check out to Word Made Flesh and then pull out an index card write your name, address, email and indicate if you would like to be a prayer supporter and/or how much you are giving. Write my name as the Servant Team Member. Then toss them in an enveloped addressed "Word Made Flesh P.O Box 70, Omaha, NE 68101".
If you feel so led to send me money directly know that it will be used toward my preparation funds that unfortunately are not covered by my funding through Word Made Flesh. My address at my parent's is 30200 Wyndtree Blvd. Elkhart, IN 46516.
Money is always a touchy issue but at the same time it is a frequent issue in life. I do not want to sound like a beggar or sound like I'm making a plug, but I have a need and I also have a network of wonderful people that can help me fill that need. I am so grateful for those that have given. And even if someone feels like they can't give but wants to be a prayer supporter I am grateful for their support, in however they feel they can best give.
maybe I can turn that 1/2 check into a big boy check mark.
God bless you as you give of yourself,
La una que Dios ve (or something like that)
Friday, July 2, 2010
preparar
I actually set this up a month ago but am just now taking the first step as a blogger. I've been putting this off because 1) my computer is deadly slow; I feel as if sometimes it and I are having a staring match and 2) I have no idea how to take the first step as a blogger with writing the first blog. So skipping the whole process of writing a captivating intro I want to lay out my purpose for this blog, plain and simple.
I am going to Buenos Aires, Argentina. About 8 months ago I felt a very strong desire to seek out an overseas experience. In a very real way I experienced the Lord placing this desire on my heart as a way to challenge my complacent world view and challenge me with a growing experience. Thus I applied to go as a participant on a Servant Team with the organization Word Made Flesh (wordmadeflesh.org). Word Made Flesh is an organization that seeks to take the love of Jesus to the poorest areas around the world. A Servant Team is one means by which they do that. For 4 months I, along with 3 other servant team participants and a team of 5 staff permanently stationed in the city, will be ministering to street youth in the city of Buenos Aires.
No doubt this will be an experience that will make a mark on the map of my life... I feel that confirmed almost daily as I make my preparations for this journey. These past couple months I have spent, not only moving and adjusting from living with my sister's family in Indiana to living with friends in the Cincinnati area but also, embarking on the journey of prepartaion. I am, by nature, not a planner so all these preparations tend to be overwhelming. But even now I am learning through this process; learning how to manage my time and resources and most importantly learning the reoccuring lesson of trusting God. My purpose in beginning this blog now, before I arrive in Buenos Aires, is to highlight the trek I am on in preparing for the big step ahead of me. I intend to focus the next month's blog entries on what I am experiencing as I prepare for my trip.
So, more to come.
El una que Dios ve
I am going to Buenos Aires, Argentina. About 8 months ago I felt a very strong desire to seek out an overseas experience. In a very real way I experienced the Lord placing this desire on my heart as a way to challenge my complacent world view and challenge me with a growing experience. Thus I applied to go as a participant on a Servant Team with the organization Word Made Flesh (wordmadeflesh.org). Word Made Flesh is an organization that seeks to take the love of Jesus to the poorest areas around the world. A Servant Team is one means by which they do that. For 4 months I, along with 3 other servant team participants and a team of 5 staff permanently stationed in the city, will be ministering to street youth in the city of Buenos Aires.
No doubt this will be an experience that will make a mark on the map of my life... I feel that confirmed almost daily as I make my preparations for this journey. These past couple months I have spent, not only moving and adjusting from living with my sister's family in Indiana to living with friends in the Cincinnati area but also, embarking on the journey of prepartaion. I am, by nature, not a planner so all these preparations tend to be overwhelming. But even now I am learning through this process; learning how to manage my time and resources and most importantly learning the reoccuring lesson of trusting God. My purpose in beginning this blog now, before I arrive in Buenos Aires, is to highlight the trek I am on in preparing for the big step ahead of me. I intend to focus the next month's blog entries on what I am experiencing as I prepare for my trip.
So, more to come.
El una que Dios ve
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