That title should say: "On My Mind VI". For some reason completely foreign to me, it's switching to what I believe is Hindi script (no pun intended).
These were passed on to me at my last birthday and I felt they would be helpful to review on this New Year's Eve. (You can see the full article and further questions here. Having not read or heard any of the author's other works I don't "recommend" him; however, I do appreciate his thoughtfulness in these particular questions.) And so without further ado...
Ten Questions to Ask at the Start of a New Year or On Your Birthday
Once, when the people of God had become careless in their relationship with Him, the Lord rebuked them through the prophet Haggai. "Consider your ways!" (Haggai 1:5) he declared, urging them to reflect on some of the things happening to them, and to evaluate their slipshod spirituality in light of what God had told them.
Even those most faithful to God occasionally need to pause and think about the direction of their lives. It's so easy to bump along from one busy week to another without ever stopping to ponder where we're going and where we should be going.
The beginning of a new year is an ideal time to stop, look up, and get our bearings. To that end, here are some questions to ask prayerfully in the presence of God.
1. What's one thing you could do this year to increase your enjoyment of God?
2. What's the most humanly impossible thing you will ask God to do this year?
3. What's the single most important thing you could do to improve the quality of your family life this year?
4. In which spiritual discipline do you most want to make progress this year, and what will you do about it?
5. What is the single biggest time-waster in your life, and what will you do about it this year?
6. What is the most helpful new way you could strengthen your church?
7. For whose salvation will you pray most fervently this year?
8. What's the most important way you will, by God's grace, try to make this year different from last year?
9. What one thing could you do to improve your prayer life this year?
10. What single thing that you plan to do this year will matter most in ten years? In eternity?
In addition to these ten questions, here are twenty-one more to help you "Consider your ways." Think on the entire list at one sitting, or answer one question each day for a month.
11. What's the most important decision you need to make this year?
12. What area of your life most needs simplifying, and what's one way you could simplify in that area?
13. What's the most important need you feel burdened to meet this year?
14. What habit would you most like to establish this year?
15. Who do you most want to encourage this year?
16. What is your most important financial goal this year, and what is the most important step you can take toward achieving it?
17. What's the single most important thing you could do to improve the quality of your work life this year?
18. What's one new way you could be a blessing to your pastor (or to another who ministers to you) this year?
19. What's one thing you could do this year to enrich the spiritual legacy you will leave to your children and grandchildren?
20. What book, in addition to the Bible, do you most want to read this year?
21. What one thing do you most regret about last year, and what will you do about it this year?
22. What single blessing from God do you want to seek most earnestly this year?
23. In what area of your life do you most need growth, and what will you do about it this year?
24. What's the most important trip you want to take this year?
25. What skill do you most want to learn or improve this year?
26. To what need or ministry will you try to give an unprecedented amount this year?
27. What's the single most important thing you could do to improve the quality of your commute this year?
28. What one biblical doctrine do you most want to understand better this year, and what will you do about it?
29. If those who know you best gave you one piece of advice, what would they say? Would they be right? What will you do about it?
30. What's the most important new item you want to buy this year?
31. In what area of your life do you most need change, and what will you do about it this year?
The value of many of these questions is not in their profundity, but in the simple fact that they bring an issue or commitment into focus. For example, just by articulating which person you most want to encourage this year is more likely to help you remember to encourage that person than if you hadn't considered the question.
If you've found these questions helpful, you might want to put them someplace—in a day planner, PDA, calendar, bulletin board, etc.—where you can review them more frequently than once a year.
So let's evaluate our lives, make plans and goals, and live this new year with biblical diligence, remembering that, "The plans of the diligent lead surely to advantage" (Proverbs 21:5). But in all things let's also remember our dependence on our King who said, "Apart from Me you can do nothing" (John 15:5).
- end of article -
Monday, December 31, 2007
Thursday, November 08, 2007
It's Thursday
I have new pictures posted, friends! The Mollet wedding/ roommate reunion, my triathlon, and our Grace Group retreat are the newest photos on display! Click HERE.
I just finished reading the blog entries of a beautiful, courageous, suffering family who just lost their dear little 2-year-old boy, JUD. I was "introduced" to the family by fellow church members who asked for prayer on their behalf. Their honestly, pleading, hope-filled, trusting hearts were an encouragement and conviction to me as I read their faith working itself out in such heart-wrenching ways. My heart is full of praise for our glorious God... strength will come as we wait upon the Lord, our hope and strong deliverer!
I just finished reading the blog entries of a beautiful, courageous, suffering family who just lost their dear little 2-year-old boy, JUD. I was "introduced" to the family by fellow church members who asked for prayer on their behalf. Their honestly, pleading, hope-filled, trusting hearts were an encouragement and conviction to me as I read their faith working itself out in such heart-wrenching ways. My heart is full of praise for our glorious God... strength will come as we wait upon the Lord, our hope and strong deliverer!
Saturday, October 27, 2007
Pass Me My Specs...
My purpose will stand,
and I will do all that I please...
What I have said, that will I bring about;
what I have planned, that will I do.
Isaiah 46:10b, 11b
Read that and rejoice! This evening I've been preparing a Sunday school lesson for my precious 2nd & 3rd graders. In a humbling and wonderful way, preparing for Sunday school is always a convicting and growing experience. Tomorrow's lesson is on faith in God's sovereign plan as exemplified in the life of Abraham. I love how teaching something makes you savor it - as a result of tonight's preparation I am enjoying the results of savoring the sweet reminder of God's faithfulness, purposefulness, and sovereignty. The difficult circumstances that sometimes threaten to overwhelm me with their seeming impassibility can be readily entrusted to God's purposes.
Late September I completed my second triathlon. It was cold and difficult, but also wonderful and worshipful. Yes, worshipful. There is something satisfying in working my body that hard. There is a peculiar joy I feel at realizing that every foot forward is a beautiful testimony to God's intricate design. The deep breath of life-giving air is never more obvious than when I'm sucking it after coming out of the water at the swim. There is also a sweet joy experienced throughout the race as you are receiving the encouragement of community. Not only are there hundreds of people cheering, it's also not unusual for someone to offer words of encouragement as they run alongside (or past, as the case may be). When that person is a friend the result is a tangible surge of adrenalin and emotion - spurring one another on exemplified. My mind becomes, in a triathlon, a sermon illustration mill. Truly, I feel like there are an endless number of "oh, goodness, I understand Philippians better right at this moment" moments, and, as a result, I usually end the race feeling encouraged and convicted. Of course, those semi-intelligent moments come fewer and farther between towards the end of the race. The foremost motivating factor in me putting one foot in front of the other during the bits were the rhythmic strains of "Great is Thy Faithfulness" in my head. I love that I'm unable to think of anything else but that over and over and over as I plod along...and often look back and wish that my daily life was that clearly focused: pain, fatigue? Great is Thy Faithfulness!
My one-year anniversary of leaving for India came and went. Its passing has spurred a host of "this day last year I was...(insert random, adventurous, challenging, wonderful time/lesson here)". I needed that milestone reminder. As a result I've been reading my India journal and memorializing what God was doing/has done in my life. How disappointing it is to see how quickly I forget the lessons learned; how wonderful it is to see how God worked. This time last year I went to one of the WINN village centers for a computer graduation program. I was lonely and my journal was filled with frustration and sadness. At the end I wrote: "A dear girl, whose name I never got, but who was my age – 23 or 24 -- and was Christopher’s sister came and sat beside me. Her English was limited, but I felt instantly connected with her – I wanted to love her and pray for her and laugh with her and share with her – but she had to leave quickly. I am praying for an opportunity to meet her again: when she left she said “sister, please see me soon”. Father, could this be my friend? Even if I don’t see her on a daily (or weekly, or monthly) basis, I pray that the connection I made will spur me on to love her through prayer, be compassionate to her through thought, be encouraging to her through words." I did get chances, though very few, to spend time with her. God answered that prayer. It also marked a change in my heart toward loving people even though I felt isolated. It was a hard time, but reading that portion of my journal I remember that God not only answered my prayer, he increased my ability to love people through prayer, deepening my trust of him as I entrusted them (and myself in my need for fellowship) to him.
Also in October I started my new, full time job. The position, which had been something I'd considered before I left for India, opened up again at the exact time I began my job search. The interview process - though difficult - was affirming, and I got to see God hand me a job that was beautifully fitted to both my gifts and my areas of desired growth, that paid me more than I could have made if I'd stayed the whole year previous and gotten incremental raises (someone, a wise person, thought India experience constituted some serious "job experience"), and that provided me with a stable, wholesome working environment alongside dear friends. How graciously - and clearly - God has provided for me.
When I started this post I had tentatively listed the title as "Eclectic". It had been so long since I'd posted that I assumed this could be nothing more than a collection of random tid-bits and updates. It's turned out to be a much needed reminder for myself that I need to press on in faith. Should the above have sounded uber-rosy, I wish I could pass you my (figurative) glasses. They're not rose colored -- people hurt and disappoint; I am weak and prone to wander; and, ashamedly, the praise of my Savior that should so obviously rise from my lips is sometimes held back in frustration and fatigue. And yet, as I read back through this "eclectic" collection of my last two months, how can I do anything but recognize God's perfect plan there...and be reassured to continue to hope, trust, and rejoice?
My purpose will stand,
and I will do all that I please...
What I have said, that will I bring about;
what I have planned, that will I do.
Isaiah 46:10b, 11b
and I will do all that I please...
What I have said, that will I bring about;
what I have planned, that will I do.
Isaiah 46:10b, 11b
Read that and rejoice! This evening I've been preparing a Sunday school lesson for my precious 2nd & 3rd graders. In a humbling and wonderful way, preparing for Sunday school is always a convicting and growing experience. Tomorrow's lesson is on faith in God's sovereign plan as exemplified in the life of Abraham. I love how teaching something makes you savor it - as a result of tonight's preparation I am enjoying the results of savoring the sweet reminder of God's faithfulness, purposefulness, and sovereignty. The difficult circumstances that sometimes threaten to overwhelm me with their seeming impassibility can be readily entrusted to God's purposes.
Late September I completed my second triathlon. It was cold and difficult, but also wonderful and worshipful. Yes, worshipful. There is something satisfying in working my body that hard. There is a peculiar joy I feel at realizing that every foot forward is a beautiful testimony to God's intricate design. The deep breath of life-giving air is never more obvious than when I'm sucking it after coming out of the water at the swim. There is also a sweet joy experienced throughout the race as you are receiving the encouragement of community. Not only are there hundreds of people cheering, it's also not unusual for someone to offer words of encouragement as they run alongside (or past, as the case may be). When that person is a friend the result is a tangible surge of adrenalin and emotion - spurring one another on exemplified. My mind becomes, in a triathlon, a sermon illustration mill. Truly, I feel like there are an endless number of "oh, goodness, I understand Philippians better right at this moment" moments, and, as a result, I usually end the race feeling encouraged and convicted. Of course, those semi-intelligent moments come fewer and farther between towards the end of the race. The foremost motivating factor in me putting one foot in front of the other during the bits were the rhythmic strains of "Great is Thy Faithfulness" in my head. I love that I'm unable to think of anything else but that over and over and over as I plod along...and often look back and wish that my daily life was that clearly focused: pain, fatigue? Great is Thy Faithfulness!
My one-year anniversary of leaving for India came and went. Its passing has spurred a host of "this day last year I was...(insert random, adventurous, challenging, wonderful time/lesson here)". I needed that milestone reminder. As a result I've been reading my India journal and memorializing what God was doing/has done in my life. How disappointing it is to see how quickly I forget the lessons learned; how wonderful it is to see how God worked. This time last year I went to one of the WINN village centers for a computer graduation program. I was lonely and my journal was filled with frustration and sadness. At the end I wrote: "A dear girl, whose name I never got, but who was my age – 23 or 24 -- and was Christopher’s sister came and sat beside me. Her English was limited, but I felt instantly connected with her – I wanted to love her and pray for her and laugh with her and share with her – but she had to leave quickly. I am praying for an opportunity to meet her again: when she left she said “sister, please see me soon”. Father, could this be my friend? Even if I don’t see her on a daily (or weekly, or monthly) basis, I pray that the connection I made will spur me on to love her through prayer, be compassionate to her through thought, be encouraging to her through words." I did get chances, though very few, to spend time with her. God answered that prayer. It also marked a change in my heart toward loving people even though I felt isolated. It was a hard time, but reading that portion of my journal I remember that God not only answered my prayer, he increased my ability to love people through prayer, deepening my trust of him as I entrusted them (and myself in my need for fellowship) to him.
Also in October I started my new, full time job. The position, which had been something I'd considered before I left for India, opened up again at the exact time I began my job search. The interview process - though difficult - was affirming, and I got to see God hand me a job that was beautifully fitted to both my gifts and my areas of desired growth, that paid me more than I could have made if I'd stayed the whole year previous and gotten incremental raises (someone, a wise person, thought India experience constituted some serious "job experience"), and that provided me with a stable, wholesome working environment alongside dear friends. How graciously - and clearly - God has provided for me.
When I started this post I had tentatively listed the title as "Eclectic". It had been so long since I'd posted that I assumed this could be nothing more than a collection of random tid-bits and updates. It's turned out to be a much needed reminder for myself that I need to press on in faith. Should the above have sounded uber-rosy, I wish I could pass you my (figurative) glasses. They're not rose colored -- people hurt and disappoint; I am weak and prone to wander; and, ashamedly, the praise of my Savior that should so obviously rise from my lips is sometimes held back in frustration and fatigue. And yet, as I read back through this "eclectic" collection of my last two months, how can I do anything but recognize God's perfect plan there...and be reassured to continue to hope, trust, and rejoice?
My purpose will stand,
and I will do all that I please...
What I have said, that will I bring about;
what I have planned, that will I do.
Isaiah 46:10b, 11b
Saturday, September 01, 2007
Beauty is...
... seeing the prickly, caustic desert warm to wondrous purples, blues, and oranges in the wake of the setting sun:
Which reminds me, delightfully and gratefully, of the natural dryness of my own soul and the overwhelming beauty and satisfaction found in God alone.
Psalm 63.
... an orphan becoming a daughter:
Watching the joyful preparation, reveling in the sweetness of Romans 8 being exemplified, and expectantly waiting for a toothless-7-year-old grin to, one day, smile with the joy of her salvation.
... worshipping with the body:
During corporate worship, hearing a five-year-old answer the question, “What’s heaven like?” with: “Be(ing) with God. And we won’t want to do things we wanted to do on earth.”
Being reminded via the sermon that the promise of eternal life is this: fellowship with God. That our greatest, trial-enduring, joy and righteousness-producing HOPE now is that sweet promise of eternal life.
Being pulled along by my fellow believers. One dear, faithful servant displaying his longing, yearning desire for heaven and it spurring me on to plead that my heart might become more disengaged from this world and, like this believer, inclined toward the hope of heaven…unadulterated fellowship with God alone. Felling inadaqute and stumped in my prayer life, only to be rushed along in the Spirit’s work during a prayer meeting. To experience the joy of prayer and have my heart stimulated in worship, adoration, and wisdom by the heartfelt, Spirit-induced, Word-based, God-centered cries of the body. To be able to then join in prayer with renewed hope, joy, and eager trust in God’s sovereign work because of the dear saints praying around me.
Beautiful!
Which reminds me, delightfully and gratefully, of the natural dryness of my own soul and the overwhelming beauty and satisfaction found in God alone.
Psalm 63.
... an orphan becoming a daughter:
Watching the joyful preparation, reveling in the sweetness of Romans 8 being exemplified, and expectantly waiting for a toothless-7-year-old grin to, one day, smile with the joy of her salvation.
... worshipping with the body:
During corporate worship, hearing a five-year-old answer the question, “What’s heaven like?” with: “Be(ing) with God. And we won’t want to do things we wanted to do on earth.”
Being reminded via the sermon that the promise of eternal life is this: fellowship with God. That our greatest, trial-enduring, joy and righteousness-producing HOPE now is that sweet promise of eternal life.
Being pulled along by my fellow believers. One dear, faithful servant displaying his longing, yearning desire for heaven and it spurring me on to plead that my heart might become more disengaged from this world and, like this believer, inclined toward the hope of heaven…unadulterated fellowship with God alone. Felling inadaqute and stumped in my prayer life, only to be rushed along in the Spirit’s work during a prayer meeting. To experience the joy of prayer and have my heart stimulated in worship, adoration, and wisdom by the heartfelt, Spirit-induced, Word-based, God-centered cries of the body. To be able to then join in prayer with renewed hope, joy, and eager trust in God’s sovereign work because of the dear saints praying around me.
Beautiful!
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Loving (and Leaving) India
My heart and mind have been ruminating on this post for a while. In fact, I've had the body of it written since April -- almost 3 months before I left India. I started writing it at a time in India when things clicked... when I realized that, despite some hard things, many frustrating things, lots of sweat, and general confusion, I loved India. I wouldn't say that before that time I didn't love India... I just hadn't experienced that un-doing, heart-produced compassion for India that I'd been longing for.
I got busy with my visiting brother and saying goodbye and before I knew it was busy back here in the states. But the last three weeks the services at church have been reinforcing the lessons learned and "ah ha!" moments I experienced towards the end of my India time that led me to leave in love. I thought it was worth revisiting and sharing with you as a type of wrap-up on my time there.
"One of the most important things the Holy Spirit prompted me to do as I came to India was to read through His Word – in it’s entirety – while I am here. I’ve been obedient in that; it’s been one of my biggest sources of blessing, comfort, and strength.
Using D.A. Carson’s For the Love of God as a guide and built in thought provoker, I’ve learned much – and been reminded of much – simply by tracing God’s sovereign plan. But one thing has particularly stood out; namely, God is holy, and the only, God. Put another way, my awe for God – His worthiness as the only and most holy God, worthy to be worshipped – has increased.
As this has happened my awareness of the profound weight of the gospel of grace in my life has deepened. My recognition of my need of God’s mercy has grown as my absolute astonishment of His sheer greatness has grown.
And this has freed me to love India.
To be heartbroken at poverty and abuse because it demonstrates injustice and sin, both contrary to God’s nature. To be enchanted by the unique beauty of the people and the culture, because it displays God’s creativity and image. To desire to worship God boldly and confidently, encouraging others to do the same, because he is worthy. To earnestly proclaim and defend God as the only true God, while weeping at the rampant and bonding creation and service of idols. To love self-sacrificially, even when it’s not received, because He did.
My growing understanding of His holiness is so freeing. My hatred of sin displayed here and my broken heart and care are not feelings setting me apart or above from everyone else. Freedom comes in the compassion I have in light of my own comparable state. I’m more concerned that the gospel should be joyfully and freely offered… because that display of God’s merciful, faithful, redemptive work in view of His holiness and our sin is ultimately glorifying. And this is all freeing and produces love for India because my growing understanding of his holiness is increasing my awareness of my own sin, God’s right wrath and fearsomeness conjoined with his sweet mercy and loving grace. I want that for India, for His namesake.
As I’ve thought about this, I’ve realized that I probably haven’t loved America rightly. It’s comfortable and known so I like it. But now I want to love it like God’s taught me to love India. How, in fact, God loves the whole world.
I’ve left India and returned to America worshiping God for His holiness. I’m deeply grateful for my time in India, namely that the experience led to these reminders and awakenings in my heart toward loving God rightly and, in turn, loving people – even nations."
”For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only son, that whosoever should believe in Him will not perish but have everlasting life.”
I got busy with my visiting brother and saying goodbye and before I knew it was busy back here in the states. But the last three weeks the services at church have been reinforcing the lessons learned and "ah ha!" moments I experienced towards the end of my India time that led me to leave in love. I thought it was worth revisiting and sharing with you as a type of wrap-up on my time there.
"One of the most important things the Holy Spirit prompted me to do as I came to India was to read through His Word – in it’s entirety – while I am here. I’ve been obedient in that; it’s been one of my biggest sources of blessing, comfort, and strength.
Using D.A. Carson’s For the Love of God as a guide and built in thought provoker, I’ve learned much – and been reminded of much – simply by tracing God’s sovereign plan. But one thing has particularly stood out; namely, God is holy, and the only, God. Put another way, my awe for God – His worthiness as the only and most holy God, worthy to be worshipped – has increased.
As this has happened my awareness of the profound weight of the gospel of grace in my life has deepened. My recognition of my need of God’s mercy has grown as my absolute astonishment of His sheer greatness has grown.
And this has freed me to love India.
To be heartbroken at poverty and abuse because it demonstrates injustice and sin, both contrary to God’s nature. To be enchanted by the unique beauty of the people and the culture, because it displays God’s creativity and image. To desire to worship God boldly and confidently, encouraging others to do the same, because he is worthy. To earnestly proclaim and defend God as the only true God, while weeping at the rampant and bonding creation and service of idols. To love self-sacrificially, even when it’s not received, because He did.
My growing understanding of His holiness is so freeing. My hatred of sin displayed here and my broken heart and care are not feelings setting me apart or above from everyone else. Freedom comes in the compassion I have in light of my own comparable state. I’m more concerned that the gospel should be joyfully and freely offered… because that display of God’s merciful, faithful, redemptive work in view of His holiness and our sin is ultimately glorifying. And this is all freeing and produces love for India because my growing understanding of his holiness is increasing my awareness of my own sin, God’s right wrath and fearsomeness conjoined with his sweet mercy and loving grace. I want that for India, for His namesake.
As I’ve thought about this, I’ve realized that I probably haven’t loved America rightly. It’s comfortable and known so I like it. But now I want to love it like God’s taught me to love India. How, in fact, God loves the whole world.
I’ve left India and returned to America worshiping God for His holiness. I’m deeply grateful for my time in India, namely that the experience led to these reminders and awakenings in my heart toward loving God rightly and, in turn, loving people – even nations."
”For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only son, that whosoever should believe in Him will not perish but have everlasting life.”
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
On My Mind V
God, be merciful to me,
On Thy grace I rest my plea;
Plenteous in compassion Thou,
Blot out my transgressions now;
Wash me, make me pure within,
Cleanse, O cleanse me from my sin.
My transgressions I confess,
Grief and guilt my soul oppress;
I have sinned against Thy grace
And provoked Thee to Thy face;
I confess Thy judgment just,
Speechless, I Thy mercy trust.
I am evil, born in sin;
Thou desirest truth within.
Thou alone my Savior art,
Teach Thy wisdom to my heart;
Make me pure, Thy grace bestow,
Wash me whiter than the snow.
Broken, humbled to the dust
By Thy wrath and judgment just,
Let my contrite heart rejoice
And in gladness hear Thy voice;
From my sins O hide Thy face,
Blot them out in boundless grace.
Gracious God, my heart renew,
Make my spirit right and true;
Cast me not away from Thee,
Let Thy Spirit dwell in me;
Thy salvation’s joy impart,
Steadfast make my willing heart.
Sinners then shall learn from me
And return, O God, to Thee;
Savior, all my guilt remove,
And my tongue shall sing Thy love;
Touch my silent lips, O Lord,
And my mouth shall praise accord.
Is. 57:15
For thus says the One who is high and lifted up, who inhabits eternity, whose name is Holy: “I dwell in the high and holy place, and also with him who is of a contrite and lowly spirit, to revive the spirit of the lowly, and to revive the heart of the contrite.
Two SERMONS: The Terrible God of Mercy (Daniel 10) and The Gracious Condescension of the Glorious One (Daniel 10)
On Thy grace I rest my plea;
Plenteous in compassion Thou,
Blot out my transgressions now;
Wash me, make me pure within,
Cleanse, O cleanse me from my sin.
My transgressions I confess,
Grief and guilt my soul oppress;
I have sinned against Thy grace
And provoked Thee to Thy face;
I confess Thy judgment just,
Speechless, I Thy mercy trust.
I am evil, born in sin;
Thou desirest truth within.
Thou alone my Savior art,
Teach Thy wisdom to my heart;
Make me pure, Thy grace bestow,
Wash me whiter than the snow.
Broken, humbled to the dust
By Thy wrath and judgment just,
Let my contrite heart rejoice
And in gladness hear Thy voice;
From my sins O hide Thy face,
Blot them out in boundless grace.
Gracious God, my heart renew,
Make my spirit right and true;
Cast me not away from Thee,
Let Thy Spirit dwell in me;
Thy salvation’s joy impart,
Steadfast make my willing heart.
Sinners then shall learn from me
And return, O God, to Thee;
Savior, all my guilt remove,
And my tongue shall sing Thy love;
Touch my silent lips, O Lord,
And my mouth shall praise accord.
Is. 57:15
For thus says the One who is high and lifted up, who inhabits eternity, whose name is Holy: “I dwell in the high and holy place, and also with him who is of a contrite and lowly spirit, to revive the spirit of the lowly, and to revive the heart of the contrite.
Two SERMONS: The Terrible God of Mercy (Daniel 10) and The Gracious Condescension of the Glorious One (Daniel 10)
Friday, August 17, 2007
Better Late Than Never
Though the last blog post would make you think I've been back for the past 28 days, don't let the calendar fool you. I've actually been here, there, and everywhere. Certainly I've been most every place possible without feeling really "back". But, two weddings, two road trips, one fantastic hike, some family time, and lots lunches and coffee times later, and I'm finally settling down. I'm back.
Almost. Trying, at least.
Nice side effect of my "I'm back" feeling week is that I've finally (hence the post title) updated my pictures site. Not only do I have my last weeks in India duly documented, but I've also posted photo evidence of Ry and I's remaining India time and Russian jaunt. Plus, I've added my photos of the recent California/Idaho shin digs, outdoor adventures, etc.
I do have some "leaving India" thoughts I'll be posting (hopefully) in the not-to-distant future. For now it's working in my favor that a picture's worth a thousand words. Saves me a lot of typing.
As usual, just click on my pictures link on the right of this page.
With love,
Duffy
Almost. Trying, at least.
Nice side effect of my "I'm back" feeling week is that I've finally (hence the post title) updated my pictures site. Not only do I have my last weeks in India duly documented, but I've also posted photo evidence of Ry and I's remaining India time and Russian jaunt. Plus, I've added my photos of the recent California/Idaho shin digs, outdoor adventures, etc.
I do have some "leaving India" thoughts I'll be posting (hopefully) in the not-to-distant future. For now it's working in my favor that a picture's worth a thousand words. Saves me a lot of typing.
As usual, just click on my pictures link on the right of this page.
With love,
Duffy
Saturday, July 21, 2007
Monday, July 16, 2007
I'll Fly Away
Many of you have written to ask the details on my arrival to Cali... if you'd like flight info, location, timing, etc for Ry and I's July 21st arrival, contact Anna.
Thanks, friends!
Thanks, friends!
Saturday, July 14, 2007
The Times They Are A Changing
Time flies.
How cliche. But what else to say? I'm entering my last week in India and the, albiet cliche, thought seems most appropriate.
Time flies when you're having fun.
Cliche again. But again, what else to say? Ryan and I have been having incredible fun tipping, tripping, and trekking about Nepal and India the last two weeks. During his first week here I gave him a two day introduction to Indian culture via a trip to Delhi and Agra. Agra was a highlight, as we saw God provide three traveling companions -- Jonathan, Jamie, and Hudson. They were our ages, believers, and they had just come from an interior village in south India where they had been doing medical relief, English lessons, and a host of other activities. Besides the blessing of good company, the dynamic weather and aggressive clouds provided near perfect pictures of the Taj, which made picture happy Ryan nearly giddy. The Taj, by the way, was recently confirmed as one of the new Seven Wonders of the World.
One of our major Delhi site-seeing ventures was a foray into crowded Old Delhi. Ryan's comment: "I think this might be the onlky place the term 'mass humanity' technically applies'". After climbing a windy, spindly tower at the largest mosque in Delhi, we got some amazing ariel views (and more pictures) of the crammed Capital.
The youth group has been planning to have a summer retreat for some time, but I'd opted out as their return date conflicted with Ryan and I's departure for Nepal. At the last minute we were "convinced" that we could both enjoy and participate in camp and make it back in time for our flight. So off we went to Sattal, a small mountain getaway an overnight train ride from Delhi. There were about 30 in all from our group and in the end both Ryan and I were thankful we went. I was especially thankful for some sweet time with the girls I've come to know and love and for the chance to participate in amazing worship. It was also a joy for me to watch Ryan minister through his kind and friendly personality. I have loved and been encouraged, as a big sister, by his easy way with people. It's made it seem quite effortless to introduce him to my life and friends here. I'm thankful for God's gifting and maturing him in this way. The point being -- it was fun to have him a long and fun for him to be along. It gave him a heart for the local church here, something I'd been praying for. Secretly though, I think Ry's favorite part of camp was the rap that he preformed for his team. I have it on video. I do accept bribes. :)
Time at camp was too short (there's that pesky time again!) and after only two days we were back on an overnight train and directly to the airport for our July 8th morning flight to Kathmandu, Nepal. I think it took only the flight in for Ryan and I to look at each other and declare our love for Nepal. It's beautiful. Gorgeous. Amazing! Kathmandu itself, though we were only there for a day, was a refreshing, free city, with much to do and see. We spent most of our time seeing the sites and shopping in and around the Tamil section (read: tourist section). It was an artsy, alive place with great culture, food, and music. After our afternoon and evening there, complete with a meal at the "famous with trekkers" Rum Doodle, we met up the next morning with our trekking guide and porter -- the funny, knowledgable, and sweet duo of Dorje and Bam. Our flight in a tiny, rickity plane into the Himalaya's was breathtaking and would have, in and of itself, made the trip worth it. I got choked up viewing the spread -- including Mt. Everest -- as I recognized and praised God for the awesome display of his beauty, power, and majesty. God is beautiful!
I'll let Ry describe our trek:
"In terms of trekking, Karisa and I have both found our ideal vacation. Flying into a cloudy mass in the sky we suddenly dip and drop nose sniffing for the runway. Then a mountain appeared right in and we settled into the small village of Lukla, Nepal. Our guide Dorje quickly assembled our porter Bam and us and a few minutes after touchdown we were officially trekking in the Himilayan region. The first day we an easy trek filled with beautiful waterfalls and vast crevases the were crossed by rickety bridges. Words fail in describing the vast expanse of God's handywork. The second day was quite the adventure. Karisa had become a bit ill from the day before's helping of Dhal Bhat (rice, lintle stew, and veggies) and a trek directly up the side of a mountain with only clouds for a finishline became quite a labor. Even still we made good time and reached our final destination of Namche Bazar, a small villiage pearched on the side of the mountian we had just ascended. As we arrived the storm that had followed us up the mountain settled in as well. Though the cloud cover was too much for us to see the Himalaya's from the village or trails the cloud cover allowed us to appreciate the beauty around rather than just focusing on the jutting peaks above. The next morning - after a restfull relaxing time of reading and talking with Dorje, Bam, and a few Sherpa - we headed back down the mountain dissapointed that our time in one of God's most beautiful patches of creation would be leaving us soon. Too bad we can't make time stand still! Our time in Nepal was a short and sweet little oasis from the hustle and bustle of India. Words don't describe what its like waking up among the clouds but we'll be home soon and maybe some pictures will."
Time didn't stand still and we're back in Delhi, something we're both thankful for even though we left the beauty and simplicity of Nepal with more than a twinge of desire to stay forever. Anyone want to hike to Everest Base Camp with us in a year or so?
I had prayed that these last couple weeks away from my normal life here in India would be my "debrief" time. I truly have been able to spend so much time thinking and praying and processing. It's also been an unexpected blessing to have Ry here. Of course, I knew it would be fun and in many ways a blessing, but what I hadn't expected was that his fresh eyes on India would help me process and pray through what I've learned. I've been able to see so many areas of growth in my life as I've looked back on what it was like when I first came. God has been, and continues to be, good and patient with me through this incredible growth process. Please continue to pray for both Ry and I as we enter this next, final week of our time in India. I have a lot of goodbye's to say, a lot to still process, and a lot to do before I leave. I'm feeling a bit overwhelmed today about all that will happen in these next 4 days. Poor Sibu and Tannu especially have already been privy to my buckets of tears as I'm trying to grab some precious last times with them.
Time to go... (I couldn't resist).
With love,
Duffy
Pictures from our travels the past two weeks are up! Just click on the link on the right (as usual) and check out the new tab: O Brother!
How cliche. But what else to say? I'm entering my last week in India and the, albiet cliche, thought seems most appropriate.
Time flies when you're having fun.
Cliche again. But again, what else to say? Ryan and I have been having incredible fun tipping, tripping, and trekking about Nepal and India the last two weeks. During his first week here I gave him a two day introduction to Indian culture via a trip to Delhi and Agra. Agra was a highlight, as we saw God provide three traveling companions -- Jonathan, Jamie, and Hudson. They were our ages, believers, and they had just come from an interior village in south India where they had been doing medical relief, English lessons, and a host of other activities. Besides the blessing of good company, the dynamic weather and aggressive clouds provided near perfect pictures of the Taj, which made picture happy Ryan nearly giddy. The Taj, by the way, was recently confirmed as one of the new Seven Wonders of the World.
One of our major Delhi site-seeing ventures was a foray into crowded Old Delhi. Ryan's comment: "I think this might be the onlky place the term 'mass humanity' technically applies'". After climbing a windy, spindly tower at the largest mosque in Delhi, we got some amazing ariel views (and more pictures) of the crammed Capital.
The youth group has been planning to have a summer retreat for some time, but I'd opted out as their return date conflicted with Ryan and I's departure for Nepal. At the last minute we were "convinced" that we could both enjoy and participate in camp and make it back in time for our flight. So off we went to Sattal, a small mountain getaway an overnight train ride from Delhi. There were about 30 in all from our group and in the end both Ryan and I were thankful we went. I was especially thankful for some sweet time with the girls I've come to know and love and for the chance to participate in amazing worship. It was also a joy for me to watch Ryan minister through his kind and friendly personality. I have loved and been encouraged, as a big sister, by his easy way with people. It's made it seem quite effortless to introduce him to my life and friends here. I'm thankful for God's gifting and maturing him in this way. The point being -- it was fun to have him a long and fun for him to be along. It gave him a heart for the local church here, something I'd been praying for. Secretly though, I think Ry's favorite part of camp was the rap that he preformed for his team. I have it on video. I do accept bribes. :)
Time at camp was too short (there's that pesky time again!) and after only two days we were back on an overnight train and directly to the airport for our July 8th morning flight to Kathmandu, Nepal. I think it took only the flight in for Ryan and I to look at each other and declare our love for Nepal. It's beautiful. Gorgeous. Amazing! Kathmandu itself, though we were only there for a day, was a refreshing, free city, with much to do and see. We spent most of our time seeing the sites and shopping in and around the Tamil section (read: tourist section). It was an artsy, alive place with great culture, food, and music. After our afternoon and evening there, complete with a meal at the "famous with trekkers" Rum Doodle, we met up the next morning with our trekking guide and porter -- the funny, knowledgable, and sweet duo of Dorje and Bam. Our flight in a tiny, rickity plane into the Himalaya's was breathtaking and would have, in and of itself, made the trip worth it. I got choked up viewing the spread -- including Mt. Everest -- as I recognized and praised God for the awesome display of his beauty, power, and majesty. God is beautiful!
I'll let Ry describe our trek:
"In terms of trekking, Karisa and I have both found our ideal vacation. Flying into a cloudy mass in the sky we suddenly dip and drop nose sniffing for the runway. Then a mountain appeared right in and we settled into the small village of Lukla, Nepal. Our guide Dorje quickly assembled our porter Bam and us and a few minutes after touchdown we were officially trekking in the Himilayan region. The first day we an easy trek filled with beautiful waterfalls and vast crevases the were crossed by rickety bridges. Words fail in describing the vast expanse of God's handywork. The second day was quite the adventure. Karisa had become a bit ill from the day before's helping of Dhal Bhat (rice, lintle stew, and veggies) and a trek directly up the side of a mountain with only clouds for a finishline became quite a labor. Even still we made good time and reached our final destination of Namche Bazar, a small villiage pearched on the side of the mountian we had just ascended. As we arrived the storm that had followed us up the mountain settled in as well. Though the cloud cover was too much for us to see the Himalaya's from the village or trails the cloud cover allowed us to appreciate the beauty around rather than just focusing on the jutting peaks above. The next morning - after a restfull relaxing time of reading and talking with Dorje, Bam, and a few Sherpa - we headed back down the mountain dissapointed that our time in one of God's most beautiful patches of creation would be leaving us soon. Too bad we can't make time stand still! Our time in Nepal was a short and sweet little oasis from the hustle and bustle of India. Words don't describe what its like waking up among the clouds but we'll be home soon and maybe some pictures will."
Time didn't stand still and we're back in Delhi, something we're both thankful for even though we left the beauty and simplicity of Nepal with more than a twinge of desire to stay forever. Anyone want to hike to Everest Base Camp with us in a year or so?
I had prayed that these last couple weeks away from my normal life here in India would be my "debrief" time. I truly have been able to spend so much time thinking and praying and processing. It's also been an unexpected blessing to have Ry here. Of course, I knew it would be fun and in many ways a blessing, but what I hadn't expected was that his fresh eyes on India would help me process and pray through what I've learned. I've been able to see so many areas of growth in my life as I've looked back on what it was like when I first came. God has been, and continues to be, good and patient with me through this incredible growth process. Please continue to pray for both Ry and I as we enter this next, final week of our time in India. I have a lot of goodbye's to say, a lot to still process, and a lot to do before I leave. I'm feeling a bit overwhelmed today about all that will happen in these next 4 days. Poor Sibu and Tannu especially have already been privy to my buckets of tears as I'm trying to grab some precious last times with them.
Time to go... (I couldn't resist).
With love,
Duffy
Pictures from our travels the past two weeks are up! Just click on the link on the right (as usual) and check out the new tab: O Brother!
Monday, July 02, 2007
Sunday, July 01, 2007
My brother is coming! My brother is coming!
From Russia, ironically enough.
Ok, perhaps it is only the McDuff family who will get the ingenious irony of the post title, but...
My brother IS coming. In less than 4 hours I'll be giving him a big (no doubt sweaty) hug and helping him lug his enormous suitcases (filled with all odd items, from curtains to Cinnamon Crunch) back home. That is, to my India home.
I'm excited; I just thought I'd share.
Please continue to keep us in your prayers as we travel around, encourage one another, and encourage my dear brothers and sisters here. I hope and pray Ry will walk away with a heart and burden for my dear India!
... Duffy
Update, July 2nd: Poor Ryan got stuck in Russia for an additional 24 hours. He'll be making his appearance on July 3rd instead.
Ok, perhaps it is only the McDuff family who will get the ingenious irony of the post title, but...
My brother IS coming. In less than 4 hours I'll be giving him a big (no doubt sweaty) hug and helping him lug his enormous suitcases (filled with all odd items, from curtains to Cinnamon Crunch) back home. That is, to my India home.
I'm excited; I just thought I'd share.
Please continue to keep us in your prayers as we travel around, encourage one another, and encourage my dear brothers and sisters here. I hope and pray Ry will walk away with a heart and burden for my dear India!
... Duffy
Update, July 2nd: Poor Ryan got stuck in Russia for an additional 24 hours. He'll be making his appearance on July 3rd instead.
Friday, June 29, 2007
Like Elivs and His Mom
I did two things yesterday. Two and only two.
I sat in front of my computer furiously editing, transcribing interview notes, and going through page after page of reports and meeting notes from the inception of Aunty's Jowai ministry in 1990 until now. I also went through old journals, prayer letters, and e-mails. It was a productive, work-ahohlic day.
But it means that I'm done with my information gathering and rough (rough, rough, rough) draft editing of Aunty's memories. I've done what I can and should on it while here in India! (Before you get too excited, it's nowhere near book form. Sparing you the details of what's left, I'll just say that the rest is slated to be accomplished when I'm in California and Aunty is settled in Faridabad -- giving us both some time to think, process, and remember.)
I'm just so thankful for yesterday especially and all that I was able to extract from the piles of information I was going through. I'm thankful for God's faithfulness through the process... I've gotten to see the clear evidence of his long-term faithfulness and miraculous working in Aunty's life; I've also gotten to experience it myself in new and unique ways as I've waded through this process. One of the things that's been impressed upon me is the necessity and value of making memorials/reminders/records of God's work in my life so that I can regularly look back, see what He's done, and praise Him for His character and the outworkings of the gospel in my life. Praise the Lord for his work and for the ability to remember and record his faithfulness!
Thing number two I did today was eat mangos; or, to be more precise, variations of Magnifera Indica L.,. There are 24 different kinds of mangos here in India and I think in eating 10 specimins today I was tapping into 4 of those varieties. So little time left; so many varieties to go!
Believe it or not, I'd never eaten a fresh mango before coming to India. Was I ever missing out! Mangos are, for lack of a better, more descriptive word... yummy! And ooey and gooey and sweet and cool and tangy and refreshing. They are also a fixture in our daily, mandatory, after-meal fruit eating sprees.
I haven't often posted on my "day". But I was rejoicing so in the accomplishment on the book that I wanted to share with you all. I know many of you have prayed earnestly for me in that area -- thank you! And mangos... well... just trying to give you a taste of my life in India.
With love,
Your Duffy
I sat in front of my computer furiously editing, transcribing interview notes, and going through page after page of reports and meeting notes from the inception of Aunty's Jowai ministry in 1990 until now. I also went through old journals, prayer letters, and e-mails. It was a productive, work-ahohlic day.
But it means that I'm done with my information gathering and rough (rough, rough, rough) draft editing of Aunty's memories. I've done what I can and should on it while here in India! (Before you get too excited, it's nowhere near book form. Sparing you the details of what's left, I'll just say that the rest is slated to be accomplished when I'm in California and Aunty is settled in Faridabad -- giving us both some time to think, process, and remember.)
I'm just so thankful for yesterday especially and all that I was able to extract from the piles of information I was going through. I'm thankful for God's faithfulness through the process... I've gotten to see the clear evidence of his long-term faithfulness and miraculous working in Aunty's life; I've also gotten to experience it myself in new and unique ways as I've waded through this process. One of the things that's been impressed upon me is the necessity and value of making memorials/reminders/records of God's work in my life so that I can regularly look back, see what He's done, and praise Him for His character and the outworkings of the gospel in my life. Praise the Lord for his work and for the ability to remember and record his faithfulness!
Thing number two I did today was eat mangos; or, to be more precise, variations of Magnifera Indica L.,. There are 24 different kinds of mangos here in India and I think in eating 10 specimins today I was tapping into 4 of those varieties. So little time left; so many varieties to go!
Believe it or not, I'd never eaten a fresh mango before coming to India. Was I ever missing out! Mangos are, for lack of a better, more descriptive word... yummy! And ooey and gooey and sweet and cool and tangy and refreshing. They are also a fixture in our daily, mandatory, after-meal fruit eating sprees.
I haven't often posted on my "day". But I was rejoicing so in the accomplishment on the book that I wanted to share with you all. I know many of you have prayed earnestly for me in that area -- thank you! And mangos... well... just trying to give you a taste of my life in India.
With love,
Your Duffy
Thursday, June 28, 2007
On My Mind IV
We Choose to Bow
Walt Harrah
Though a million voices choose to deny You,
We choose to bow
Though a thousand thoughts seek to rise above You,
We choose to bow.
Though they deny that we all are sinful,
Though they proclaim God is in us all,
Though we are told we don't need a Savior,
Humbly now at Your feet we fall.
We choose to bow,
We choose to sing,
We choose to crown You the King of Kings.
We are not God,
We say out loud,
Only to You to we choose to bow
Do we choose to bow.
Though the powers of darkness rage all around us,
We choose to bow.
Though trials come and temptations surround us,
We choose to bow.
Though we may stumble or we may falter,
Though we have wandered and gone astray
Mercy is given to all who call You,
Mercy is given to all who say:
We choose to bow,
We choose to sing,
We choose to crown You the King of Kings.
We are not God,
We say out loud,
Only to You to we choose to bow
Do we choose to bow.
Though the cost is great to the call set before us,
We choose to bow.
Though the world may hate us our God if for us,
We choose to bow.
Though we may struggle or we may prosper,
Though we have little or many things,
You are our God and there is no other
Worthy now of the song we sing.
We choose to bow,
We choose to sing,
We choose to crown You the King of Kings.
We are not God,
We say out loud,
Only to You to we choose to bow
Do we choose to bow.
...in light of reading Daniel...
Walt Harrah
Though a million voices choose to deny You,
We choose to bow
Though a thousand thoughts seek to rise above You,
We choose to bow.
Though they deny that we all are sinful,
Though they proclaim God is in us all,
Though we are told we don't need a Savior,
Humbly now at Your feet we fall.
We choose to bow,
We choose to sing,
We choose to crown You the King of Kings.
We are not God,
We say out loud,
Only to You to we choose to bow
Do we choose to bow.
Though the powers of darkness rage all around us,
We choose to bow.
Though trials come and temptations surround us,
We choose to bow.
Though we may stumble or we may falter,
Though we have wandered and gone astray
Mercy is given to all who call You,
Mercy is given to all who say:
We choose to bow,
We choose to sing,
We choose to crown You the King of Kings.
We are not God,
We say out loud,
Only to You to we choose to bow
Do we choose to bow.
Though the cost is great to the call set before us,
We choose to bow.
Though the world may hate us our God if for us,
We choose to bow.
Though we may struggle or we may prosper,
Though we have little or many things,
You are our God and there is no other
Worthy now of the song we sing.
We choose to bow,
We choose to sing,
We choose to crown You the King of Kings.
We are not God,
We say out loud,
Only to You to we choose to bow
Do we choose to bow.
...in light of reading Daniel...
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
"'What is the use of a book,' thought Alice, 'without pictures and conversations?'"
... Lewis Carroll, Alice's Adventures In Wonderland
Indeed. In this case, my blog is the book and conversation. But still pretty useless without the pictures, eh?
So, announcement: the pictures from my Northeast trip are up for viewing, along with a few choice pictures of Tannu and I rejoicing over our new inverter (yay for no more sweaty, sleepless nights with no fans!). Just click on the link on the right.
As a side note, I suppose I don't fully agree with little Alice. I like books just fine without any pictures. But books without conversations attached (be it internal or external) leaves the book lifeless, in my humble opinion.
Now that my internet is working again, more to come later.
With love,
Alice in Wonderland
(randomly enough, Aunty's nickname for me...)
Indeed. In this case, my blog is the book and conversation. But still pretty useless without the pictures, eh?
So, announcement: the pictures from my Northeast trip are up for viewing, along with a few choice pictures of Tannu and I rejoicing over our new inverter (yay for no more sweaty, sleepless nights with no fans!). Just click on the link on the right.
As a side note, I suppose I don't fully agree with little Alice. I like books just fine without any pictures. But books without conversations attached (be it internal or external) leaves the book lifeless, in my humble opinion.
Now that my internet is working again, more to come later.
With love,
Alice in Wonderland
(randomly enough, Aunty's nickname for me...)
Monday, June 18, 2007
Mirror, Mirror, on the wall...
… who is the fairest of them all?
Well if by “fair” you mean white, translucent, or snowy, I think, especially in my present context, that I fit the bill, win the prize, take the cake… you get the picture.
Unlike California – where summer is indicative of shed clothing and laying-out or tanning sessions, all to achieve that perfect, make-your-teeth-look-glow-in-the-dark tone – India’s darker skinned population equates lightness with perfection. So instead of bikinis you’ve got elbow length gloves; instead of tanning beds, broad brimmed hats; instead of lounging in the sun, umbrella covered forays to the great outdoors; and finally, instead of tanning oils, a whole line of lightening & whitening skin products.
In fact, any product remotely related to skin care – from acne cream to hand lotion – has a proud “whitening product” stamp emblazoned on the side. Aside from causing me to take note of the ironic cultural differences, recall mum’s childhood maxims about the grass always being greener on the other side, and momentarily rehas soul-ish questions about the true nature of beauty, I hadn’t really taken much notice of said products.
But the other day during a routine trip to the local market, I spotted a new product. An herbal facemask. In my sweaty, dirty state I was intrigued. A face-mask; sort of a skin self-help, if you will. Acknowledging the product’s purported whitening tendencies, the thoughts flittering through my head were along the lines of, “how could I get any whiter? It certainly can’t do me any harm…” Plunk went the rupees 50 and my fate was sealed.
What ensued was lesson #1,327 of life in India. I’ll bypass the multiple lessons learned from trying to use a drying, peeling product in 100+ heat with no electricity (read: lots of sweat) and get right to the primary revelation: I can’t get any whiter, but I can get redder.
The genius plot to lighten skin – at least in the case of this product – was to painfully peal layer upon layer off. Perhaps it works for some people. In my case the desired pearly affect was eradicated by the nubbins of blood dotting my face and nose. Piqued, I’m sure, by the painful pull, my skin rebelled and turned a rosy, someone-just-slapped-me red. And I have yet to discover a culture that gives red the foremost place in its skin beauty rubric.
Since the beaches of California and horsemanship summers at Ironwood had previously instilled in me a similar lesson, namely, I can’t get any darker, but I can get redder, I feel I’ve effectively covered my bases in lessons learned about my personal skin color.
There really is nowhere for me to go but "redder".
Well if by “fair” you mean white, translucent, or snowy, I think, especially in my present context, that I fit the bill, win the prize, take the cake… you get the picture.
Unlike California – where summer is indicative of shed clothing and laying-out or tanning sessions, all to achieve that perfect, make-your-teeth-look-glow-in-the-dark tone – India’s darker skinned population equates lightness with perfection. So instead of bikinis you’ve got elbow length gloves; instead of tanning beds, broad brimmed hats; instead of lounging in the sun, umbrella covered forays to the great outdoors; and finally, instead of tanning oils, a whole line of lightening & whitening skin products.
In fact, any product remotely related to skin care – from acne cream to hand lotion – has a proud “whitening product” stamp emblazoned on the side. Aside from causing me to take note of the ironic cultural differences, recall mum’s childhood maxims about the grass always being greener on the other side, and momentarily rehas soul-ish questions about the true nature of beauty, I hadn’t really taken much notice of said products.
But the other day during a routine trip to the local market, I spotted a new product. An herbal facemask. In my sweaty, dirty state I was intrigued. A face-mask; sort of a skin self-help, if you will. Acknowledging the product’s purported whitening tendencies, the thoughts flittering through my head were along the lines of, “how could I get any whiter? It certainly can’t do me any harm…” Plunk went the rupees 50 and my fate was sealed.
What ensued was lesson #1,327 of life in India. I’ll bypass the multiple lessons learned from trying to use a drying, peeling product in 100+ heat with no electricity (read: lots of sweat) and get right to the primary revelation: I can’t get any whiter, but I can get redder.
The genius plot to lighten skin – at least in the case of this product – was to painfully peal layer upon layer off. Perhaps it works for some people. In my case the desired pearly affect was eradicated by the nubbins of blood dotting my face and nose. Piqued, I’m sure, by the painful pull, my skin rebelled and turned a rosy, someone-just-slapped-me red. And I have yet to discover a culture that gives red the foremost place in its skin beauty rubric.
Since the beaches of California and horsemanship summers at Ironwood had previously instilled in me a similar lesson, namely, I can’t get any darker, but I can get redder, I feel I’ve effectively covered my bases in lessons learned about my personal skin color.
There really is nowhere for me to go but "redder".
Sunday, June 17, 2007
Success!
I’ve returned from my trip to the Northeast! What an adventure (in more ways than one). Besides experiencing a very different culture, nearly dying on a foggy mountain road drive in a 16-year-old barely functional car, escaping from my first bahnd, rejoicing in the monsoon season 20 C temperatures, wind, and rain… besides all that… interviewing 23 people in 3 days, sharing with three groups, and getting to know and love the people and ministry of *****. Like I said, adventure!
I was so pleased and encouraged with the interviews I was able to conduct. I got exactly what I needed; I got a much better understanding of the nature and impact of the ministry of *****. I got to see the exact places that Aunty has been telling me about all these months – the land that was in a vision God gave her, the people she discipled, the jungle they built in – even the gargantuan bugs that I had thought must be exaggerated!
As I’ve gotten to hear Aunty's story of God’s leading over the past couple months, I’ve been continually convicted and encouraged by her example of consistent quick obedience. My trip just confirmed this. I was rejoicing as, in Jowai, I got to see the fruit of Aunty’s obedience. She went to a place that had a very real need (and still does) to hear truth and see Christian living consistently displayed. She provided that by her own life example and by establishing such things as a Basic Bible School and Bible study projects. As I interviewed person after person I realized that even though many had been born in “Christian” families, they didn’t even know the basics of who Christ was until they were involved in these programs. So many people gave testimony to their changed lives because of Aunty's example and the ministry's stand on God's Word.
My two favorite interviews were with people who, after getting basic training at *****, have gone to villages. I can’t wait to come home and share their actual stories with you. My heart was broken and touched as I heard about their front line work. They are sharing where it’s never been shared before and they, and those who believe, suffer. Jim Elliot's classic quote, “He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose” kept coming to mind as they talked. They were two interviews that I will not soon forget. Heart-changing.
There are so many more stories and joys from my trip, but that will have to do for now. Pictures are forthcoming, it’s just taking me forever to label them all so you’ll actually know what you’re looking at. Hopefully they’ll give you some more insight into my adventures.
Coming back has meant a hit-the-ground-running return to “normal life”. Tannu’s English lessons continue and we’re both pleased with her progress. She starts her school early next month. Aunty and I are trying to put concentrated effort into the book during this upcoming week. I’ve got notes to type, old reports to go through, pictures to scan, and letters to read. Also (I’ve not mentioned this before), I’m about a month into a Bible study with a neighbor friend, A. We are using a great study titled, Following Jesus: Navigating the Narrow Path written by friend, Grace Cabalka. Our bi-weekly Bible study has been an India-time highlight for me as I’ve seen how lessons I learned at the front end (cultural lessons, openness to the Spirit’s leading, sensitivity to spiritual battle issues, increased knowledge of the Word) were the Spirit’s preparation for this particular study with this particular friend. It’s been fruitful, encouraging, and amazing to lead and care for her in this way! Add to all these “normalities” Brajen’s upcoming engagement ceremony (this Saturday!) and you’ve got a very busy Karisa & Co.
As side notes in my little update-fest, Aunty’s health is greatly improved, though the health of two of her dear sisters is not good. Please pray for continued health for Aunty, strength during this busy time, and health for her two sisters. Also, the Faridabad property continues to move forward – today Aunty picked out the flooring, bathroom fixtures, etc. Please pray for further finances to be raised, as there has been an unexpected cost increase of $10,000 to complete the ministry portion of the building.
More later, friends!
With love,
Duffy.
I was so pleased and encouraged with the interviews I was able to conduct. I got exactly what I needed; I got a much better understanding of the nature and impact of the ministry of *****. I got to see the exact places that Aunty has been telling me about all these months – the land that was in a vision God gave her, the people she discipled, the jungle they built in – even the gargantuan bugs that I had thought must be exaggerated!
As I’ve gotten to hear Aunty's story of God’s leading over the past couple months, I’ve been continually convicted and encouraged by her example of consistent quick obedience. My trip just confirmed this. I was rejoicing as, in Jowai, I got to see the fruit of Aunty’s obedience. She went to a place that had a very real need (and still does) to hear truth and see Christian living consistently displayed. She provided that by her own life example and by establishing such things as a Basic Bible School and Bible study projects. As I interviewed person after person I realized that even though many had been born in “Christian” families, they didn’t even know the basics of who Christ was until they were involved in these programs. So many people gave testimony to their changed lives because of Aunty's example and the ministry's stand on God's Word.
My two favorite interviews were with people who, after getting basic training at *****, have gone to villages. I can’t wait to come home and share their actual stories with you. My heart was broken and touched as I heard about their front line work. They are sharing where it’s never been shared before and they, and those who believe, suffer. Jim Elliot's classic quote, “He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose” kept coming to mind as they talked. They were two interviews that I will not soon forget. Heart-changing.
There are so many more stories and joys from my trip, but that will have to do for now. Pictures are forthcoming, it’s just taking me forever to label them all so you’ll actually know what you’re looking at. Hopefully they’ll give you some more insight into my adventures.
Coming back has meant a hit-the-ground-running return to “normal life”. Tannu’s English lessons continue and we’re both pleased with her progress. She starts her school early next month. Aunty and I are trying to put concentrated effort into the book during this upcoming week. I’ve got notes to type, old reports to go through, pictures to scan, and letters to read. Also (I’ve not mentioned this before), I’m about a month into a Bible study with a neighbor friend, A. We are using a great study titled, Following Jesus: Navigating the Narrow Path written by friend, Grace Cabalka. Our bi-weekly Bible study has been an India-time highlight for me as I’ve seen how lessons I learned at the front end (cultural lessons, openness to the Spirit’s leading, sensitivity to spiritual battle issues, increased knowledge of the Word) were the Spirit’s preparation for this particular study with this particular friend. It’s been fruitful, encouraging, and amazing to lead and care for her in this way! Add to all these “normalities” Brajen’s upcoming engagement ceremony (this Saturday!) and you’ve got a very busy Karisa & Co.
As side notes in my little update-fest, Aunty’s health is greatly improved, though the health of two of her dear sisters is not good. Please pray for continued health for Aunty, strength during this busy time, and health for her two sisters. Also, the Faridabad property continues to move forward – today Aunty picked out the flooring, bathroom fixtures, etc. Please pray for further finances to be raised, as there has been an unexpected cost increase of $10,000 to complete the ministry portion of the building.
More later, friends!
With love,
Duffy.
Thursday, June 07, 2007
Jet Plane...
Tomorrow morning (June 8th) I'm leaving bright and early for a 6 day trip to Goharti, Shillong, and then Jowai, all cities in the Northeast state of Meghalaya. Click HERE. for description, maps, info, etc. If you don't want to wade through an encyclopedia article, here's my shortlist of interesting things about the area:
1. Meghalaya means "Abode of the Clouds"
2. The % of Christians is 64
3. The "Wettest Place on Planet Earth" is the town of Cherrapunji... which I'll be visiting
4. The tribal people of Meghalaya are part of the "world's largest surviving matrilineal culture"
The cities I'll be visiting are Aunty's old stomping grounds -- a place where she spent years caring for the tribal people and establishing a strong, Biblically based, discipleship focused ministry. She went when there was nothing but jungle; the result is thriving ministry center, the Basic Bible School, Bible Studies, counseling projects and sewing centers.
I'm going to do interviews and "research" (read: take pictures and see the place I'm to describe) for the book Aunty and I are putting together on how God has directed, provided, and blessed her during her years of service. I'm looking forward to meeting the people that I've heard so much about. Please be praying that I'll have wisdom in what questions to ask. Please also pray for the time to meet everyone I need to, particularly that my schedule and theirs will conenct. In addition, I'll be doing some "encouraging", so please pray as I prepare for those times. Finally, pray for me as I've been hit with a wave of exhaustion the last two days-- pray for physical strength and endurance.
It's a "whirlwind" trip -- I'll be back June 13th.
Until then...
1. Meghalaya means "Abode of the Clouds"
2. The % of Christians is 64
3. The "Wettest Place on Planet Earth" is the town of Cherrapunji... which I'll be visiting
4. The tribal people of Meghalaya are part of the "world's largest surviving matrilineal culture"
The cities I'll be visiting are Aunty's old stomping grounds -- a place where she spent years caring for the tribal people and establishing a strong, Biblically based, discipleship focused ministry. She went when there was nothing but jungle; the result is thriving ministry center, the Basic Bible School, Bible Studies, counseling projects and sewing centers.
I'm going to do interviews and "research" (read: take pictures and see the place I'm to describe) for the book Aunty and I are putting together on how God has directed, provided, and blessed her during her years of service. I'm looking forward to meeting the people that I've heard so much about. Please be praying that I'll have wisdom in what questions to ask. Please also pray for the time to meet everyone I need to, particularly that my schedule and theirs will conenct. In addition, I'll be doing some "encouraging", so please pray as I prepare for those times. Finally, pray for me as I've been hit with a wave of exhaustion the last two days-- pray for physical strength and endurance.
It's a "whirlwind" trip -- I'll be back June 13th.
Until then...
Wednesday, June 06, 2007
ESL SOS
“Kh – now.”
“Know.”
“Now.”
“No, know.”
“No now?”
“Yes… er… no…er… nay… know!”
“No?”
“Yes, know.”
“Huh?”
I’ve always had a fairly amicable relationship with my mother tongue. A few random “oot” and “aboots”, one frightening junior college English teacher (Mr. Roundy called the class “a pile of stinkweeds”), and a propensity toward verbose written creations are the only aspects of the relationship that could be termed “negative”. And even those experiences I prefer to see as quirks or anomalies. (In retrospect, I have had one truly negative experience: my inability to consistently and correctly use “nauseous” vs. “nauseated” in their respective “right ways” has led to sometimes violent remonstrations from a roommate who will remain nameless.)
The point being: I like English. I speak it. I write it. I read it. I’d say it’s been pretty good to me.
Then I tried teaching it.
Who came up with English? What were they thinking? How are student and teacher supposed to keep their sanity when every time you finish teaching a “rule” the very next word to be read breaks that rule? Homonyms, homographs, and homophones…is there a specific phobia for these kinds of terrors? Grammar? Eek.
It is not my student’s fault. My student – also my dear friend – is19-year-old Tannu. Tannu is one of Aunty’s adopted daughters and has been living with us for the past month. This past May she received her certificate in Bible from the local Christian college. She did that course via their Hindi medium program. This fall she will begin studying at what they call “Open University” in a bid to complete her 10th standard (code word for high school diploma). Her long-term goal is to go back to Bible college and obtain her BTh. Both the high school diploma and her future Bible studies will require English proficiency. I have never seen such an eager, motivated student. She is constantly reading – signs, brochures, books, and receipts. Anything with English she wants to decipher. She is bold in striking up conversations with me and we role-play phone conversations and shopping trips multiple times a day to help her practice. She diligently writes chapters of the Bible and has memorized a plethora of verses in English. She is a model student.
(And on a side note, I am so thankful for Tannu! Her cheerful spirit, amazing and quick laughter, and affectionate friendship have all been a true blessing to me. Her story, which I will have to share in person, is an amazing testimony to God's miraculous, saving power, and sovereign work. Even her desire and ability to learn after, as a girl, having been kept from educational opportunities most of her life, is an example and reminder to me of God providing wisdom to those the world would deem foolish. I love Tannu so much!)
But English is still difficult! I watched My Fair Lady the other night and was fairly (see!?!) oozing sympathy for heroine Eliza Doolittle. That poor thing had to contend not only with the irascible Henry Higgins but also the uppity pronunciation and finicky rules of the English’s English!
To add insult to injury, I've barely been able to write this post. I was agonizing over each dot and tiddle (or is it dot and tittle?) because of my new, painful, language-aware state. (If you couldn't tell already, I just gave up and wrote the post anyway...crimes against the "Mothertongue" and all.)
My unexpected foray into teaching English as a second language needs to have a storybook ending. So I’m on the lookout for any advice or resources all you practiced teachers might have on hand. Pronunciation is a key difficulty; how do you help a non-native speaker “hear” the difference in what you are saying and what is coming out of their mouth? Have you ever had students who really struggle with consonant blends and combinations (i.e., they always put a vowel sound in-between any two consonants at the beginning of a word – “paress” or “puress” instead of “press”)? What about a student who seems to consistently mix up seemingly unconnected letters (o and v, f and s, p and r)… any idea what might be going on there? What combination of phonics, memorization, etc, should be used in teaching someone to read? Another difficulty – bringing together the three aspects of language learning (reading, writing, conversation) when the student is at different “levels” in each. Ideas? Helpful hints? I've been using several on-line ESL resources/curriculums that have been helpful, but I'd welcome any tried and true recommendations.
Just to clarify, English and I now have a love/hate relationship. I'm sure once we work on our communication the relationship will improve.
(In the space of time it has taken me to write this blog Tannu and I are both seeing the brigher side of English. It's beginning to make sense to her, my ability to convey meaning and explination in Hindi/English is improving, and we are having so much fun reading missionary stories, doing Bible study, and acting out conversations. Today we both saw a marked improvement in her reading comprehension. Don’t let that stop you from any suggestions, though. I could use all the help I can get!)
“Know.”
“Now.”
“No, know.”
“No now?”
“Yes… er… no…er… nay… know!”
“No?”
“Yes, know.”
“Huh?”
I’ve always had a fairly amicable relationship with my mother tongue. A few random “oot” and “aboots”, one frightening junior college English teacher (Mr. Roundy called the class “a pile of stinkweeds”), and a propensity toward verbose written creations are the only aspects of the relationship that could be termed “negative”. And even those experiences I prefer to see as quirks or anomalies. (In retrospect, I have had one truly negative experience: my inability to consistently and correctly use “nauseous” vs. “nauseated” in their respective “right ways” has led to sometimes violent remonstrations from a roommate who will remain nameless.)
The point being: I like English. I speak it. I write it. I read it. I’d say it’s been pretty good to me.
Then I tried teaching it.
Who came up with English? What were they thinking? How are student and teacher supposed to keep their sanity when every time you finish teaching a “rule” the very next word to be read breaks that rule? Homonyms, homographs, and homophones…is there a specific phobia for these kinds of terrors? Grammar? Eek.
It is not my student’s fault. My student – also my dear friend – is19-year-old Tannu. Tannu is one of Aunty’s adopted daughters and has been living with us for the past month. This past May she received her certificate in Bible from the local Christian college. She did that course via their Hindi medium program. This fall she will begin studying at what they call “Open University” in a bid to complete her 10th standard (code word for high school diploma). Her long-term goal is to go back to Bible college and obtain her BTh. Both the high school diploma and her future Bible studies will require English proficiency. I have never seen such an eager, motivated student. She is constantly reading – signs, brochures, books, and receipts. Anything with English she wants to decipher. She is bold in striking up conversations with me and we role-play phone conversations and shopping trips multiple times a day to help her practice. She diligently writes chapters of the Bible and has memorized a plethora of verses in English. She is a model student.
(And on a side note, I am so thankful for Tannu! Her cheerful spirit, amazing and quick laughter, and affectionate friendship have all been a true blessing to me. Her story, which I will have to share in person, is an amazing testimony to God's miraculous, saving power, and sovereign work. Even her desire and ability to learn after, as a girl, having been kept from educational opportunities most of her life, is an example and reminder to me of God providing wisdom to those the world would deem foolish. I love Tannu so much!)
But English is still difficult! I watched My Fair Lady the other night and was fairly (see!?!) oozing sympathy for heroine Eliza Doolittle. That poor thing had to contend not only with the irascible Henry Higgins but also the uppity pronunciation and finicky rules of the English’s English!
To add insult to injury, I've barely been able to write this post. I was agonizing over each dot and tiddle (or is it dot and tittle?) because of my new, painful, language-aware state. (If you couldn't tell already, I just gave up and wrote the post anyway...crimes against the "Mothertongue" and all.)
My unexpected foray into teaching English as a second language needs to have a storybook ending. So I’m on the lookout for any advice or resources all you practiced teachers might have on hand. Pronunciation is a key difficulty; how do you help a non-native speaker “hear” the difference in what you are saying and what is coming out of their mouth? Have you ever had students who really struggle with consonant blends and combinations (i.e., they always put a vowel sound in-between any two consonants at the beginning of a word – “paress” or “puress” instead of “press”)? What about a student who seems to consistently mix up seemingly unconnected letters (o and v, f and s, p and r)… any idea what might be going on there? What combination of phonics, memorization, etc, should be used in teaching someone to read? Another difficulty – bringing together the three aspects of language learning (reading, writing, conversation) when the student is at different “levels” in each. Ideas? Helpful hints? I've been using several on-line ESL resources/curriculums that have been helpful, but I'd welcome any tried and true recommendations.
Just to clarify, English and I now have a love/hate relationship. I'm sure once we work on our communication the relationship will improve.
(In the space of time it has taken me to write this blog Tannu and I are both seeing the brigher side of English. It's beginning to make sense to her, my ability to convey meaning and explination in Hindi/English is improving, and we are having so much fun reading missionary stories, doing Bible study, and acting out conversations. Today we both saw a marked improvement in her reading comprehension. Don’t let that stop you from any suggestions, though. I could use all the help I can get!)
Sunday, June 03, 2007
On My Mind III
"The key to humility is not merely feeling the absence of merit..., but feeling the presence of free grace." - John Piper, What Jesus Demands of the World, Demand #17, p.130
"Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." - Matt. 5:3
Humility: Five Implications for Bold Truth-Telling
1. "...humility begins with a sense of subordination to God in Jesus." (Matt. 10:24)
2. "(Humility) is not a life based on perceived rights. It is a life of sacrifice." (Matt. 10:25)
3. "(Humility) speaks truth as a service to Christ and as love to the adversary." (Matt. 10:27-28)
4. "...humility knows it is dependent on grace for all knowing and believing and speaking." (John. 15:5)
5. "...humility knows it is fallible, and so considers criticism and learns from it, but also knows that God has made provision for human conviction and that he calls us to persuade others." (Matt. 18:15-17 & 28:19-20)
"Is not the most effective way of bridling my delight in being made much of, to focus on making much of God? Self-denial and crucifixion of the flesh are essential, but O how easy it is to be made much of even for my self-denial! How shall this insidious motive of pleasure in being made much of be broken except through bending all my faculties to delight in the pleasure of making much of God!...You have to go down deeper into the grave of the flesh to find the truly freeing stream of miracle water that ravishes you with the taste of God's glory. Only in that speechless, all-satisfying admiration is the end of self." (John Piper, What Jesus Demands of the World, p. 135-7)
"Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." - Matt. 5:3
Humility: Five Implications for Bold Truth-Telling
1. "...humility begins with a sense of subordination to God in Jesus." (Matt. 10:24)
2. "(Humility) is not a life based on perceived rights. It is a life of sacrifice." (Matt. 10:25)
3. "(Humility) speaks truth as a service to Christ and as love to the adversary." (Matt. 10:27-28)
4. "...humility knows it is dependent on grace for all knowing and believing and speaking." (John. 15:5)
5. "...humility knows it is fallible, and so considers criticism and learns from it, but also knows that God has made provision for human conviction and that he calls us to persuade others." (Matt. 18:15-17 & 28:19-20)
"Is not the most effective way of bridling my delight in being made much of, to focus on making much of God? Self-denial and crucifixion of the flesh are essential, but O how easy it is to be made much of even for my self-denial! How shall this insidious motive of pleasure in being made much of be broken except through bending all my faculties to delight in the pleasure of making much of God!...You have to go down deeper into the grave of the flesh to find the truly freeing stream of miracle water that ravishes you with the taste of God's glory. Only in that speechless, all-satisfying admiration is the end of self." (John Piper, What Jesus Demands of the World, p. 135-7)
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