Something I'm becoming more and more aware of is that everyone has convicting insight, a challenging truth or encouraging words, they just need someone to hear them. Many people don't share the words in their hearts because they second-guess themselves, or what is worse, they second-guess others. This is a dilemma that could go two ways: the extreme of not sharing because we fear judgement, or the other extreme of not taking the time listen.
Part of our problem is that we tend to focus on our own perspective so much, we devalue to true worth in the hearts of others. Well, maybe that's my problem. I confess, when I interrupt stories and conversations, in essence I am giving priority to my thoughts and words, even if it is to ask further questions. Sometimes I just need to trust that it's okay to let their words steer the conversation to the direction of their hearts. That is where words are most meaningful. That is where true depth is found.
However, the first step is to initiate that conversation. That may begin with pleasantries, so my inquisitive nature can still play a part, but it needs to be bridled by respect and genuine openness. The reminder I heard someone tell a group of children applies to this child, "It was not by mistake that God gave us two ears and one mouth." Like I said, everyone has something to share, they just need someone to hear.
Friday, May 13, 2011
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
shining here
My purpose for creating this blog was for my experiences in life abroad. When I created it, I was headed for my first trip to Mexico for 8 weeks. The next year I picked it up again with my trip to Mexico for 4 weeks, followed by my time in Qatar for 6 weeks and then my semester in Europe. The last time I made updates was for my month-long trip to Mexico again last summer.
However, I've been going through a time when I've been reflecting on why God has purposed for me to be here, now. For those of you who don't know what "here and now" looks like, I'm currently in my first year teaching at a Texas public school. I have a bilingual fourth grade group, whom I absolutely adore. There is no doubt in my mind, that they are a part of God's purpose for my "here and now."
Days like today are just a confirmation of that. At dinner, I shared how I just wish I could teach my students everything! My passion and enthusiasm get a hold of me, and I just want them to know all that I know and more, before they even go to fifth grade.
My fear was that after the state TAKS tests last week, we would have "senioritis" and would be ready for summer with five weeks holding us back. God has answered the prayers of my brothers and sisters, and we are running with a new engine. In fact, it is mostly because of the freedom from the pressure of TAKS that our lessons have gotten far more real-life and exciting. We've discussed everything from higher education, work, wages, cost of living and budgeting, to crucial events in the history of humanity such as the holocaust. These kids are just as enthusiastic about learning as they were at the beginning of the year (when they were begging for homework).
God knows why I'm here, now. Even though I would like to be sent by Him to serve throughout the world, He's helping my find joy in following His lead. Colossians 3:23 "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord."
However, I've been going through a time when I've been reflecting on why God has purposed for me to be here, now. For those of you who don't know what "here and now" looks like, I'm currently in my first year teaching at a Texas public school. I have a bilingual fourth grade group, whom I absolutely adore. There is no doubt in my mind, that they are a part of God's purpose for my "here and now."
Days like today are just a confirmation of that. At dinner, I shared how I just wish I could teach my students everything! My passion and enthusiasm get a hold of me, and I just want them to know all that I know and more, before they even go to fifth grade.
My fear was that after the state TAKS tests last week, we would have "senioritis" and would be ready for summer with five weeks holding us back. God has answered the prayers of my brothers and sisters, and we are running with a new engine. In fact, it is mostly because of the freedom from the pressure of TAKS that our lessons have gotten far more real-life and exciting. We've discussed everything from higher education, work, wages, cost of living and budgeting, to crucial events in the history of humanity such as the holocaust. These kids are just as enthusiastic about learning as they were at the beginning of the year (when they were begging for homework).
God knows why I'm here, now. Even though I would like to be sent by Him to serve throughout the world, He's helping my find joy in following His lead. Colossians 3:23 "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord."
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Ags REPRESENT!
Monday morning, David Gomez, one of the Mexican church leaders took me to the main bus station in Mexico City so I could catch a charter bus to Puebla to visit good friends that are working there. Brian and Kate Cruickshanks have been good friends of mine ever since my freshman year of college. They both went to Texas A&M and went to Grace Bible Church while in school. They have been in Mexico this past year serving as the directors at Puebla Christian School (http://www.pueblachristianschool.org). It was great to be with them, see their life in Puebla, witness first-hand what I have been praying for this past year, reminiscing, laughing, talking about things we're looking forward to going back to as well as things we are going to miss. It was just all around great to be with friends from home.
Another intern wrote an excellent tribute to Ags serving Christ worldwide. I was very proud to read it and I recommend you take a look at it. (http://camronprice.blogspot.com/2010/06/you-know-somedays-its-great-to-be_16.html)
Last night, when I got dropped off, my host-family wasn't home, and the house was wayt to dark and lonely for my comfort. The family from the church that was dropping me off asked me if I wanted to spend the night at their place. I quickly agreed and got back in their car. This morning, Aurora took me to breakfast with some of her friends. After breakfast, I made it back to teach Spanish again. I feel bad because the classes are getting tougher, but that is mostly because they are getting to the point where they needer a greater push. They are doing well, and I'm praying against discouragement. I'm willing to teach as long as I'm around. I'm just running out of material that I prepared beforehand. Pretty soon, I'm going to have to wing it even more than I already have been.
A week from tomorrow I head back to Texas. Lots to do and so many people to see. Pray for wisdom and that time will be enough with everyone. Pray that I can stay focused on living well for Him here. I'm looking forward to being home, to seeing family, to clean clothes, to driving my car, etc. There's much to look forward to, so pray for dilligence here. Can't wait to see you my friends! Thanks for your love and encouragement!
Another intern wrote an excellent tribute to Ags serving Christ worldwide. I was very proud to read it and I recommend you take a look at it. (http://camronprice.blogspot.com/2010/06/you-know-somedays-its-great-to-be_16.html)
Last night, when I got dropped off, my host-family wasn't home, and the house was wayt to dark and lonely for my comfort. The family from the church that was dropping me off asked me if I wanted to spend the night at their place. I quickly agreed and got back in their car. This morning, Aurora took me to breakfast with some of her friends. After breakfast, I made it back to teach Spanish again. I feel bad because the classes are getting tougher, but that is mostly because they are getting to the point where they needer a greater push. They are doing well, and I'm praying against discouragement. I'm willing to teach as long as I'm around. I'm just running out of material that I prepared beforehand. Pretty soon, I'm going to have to wing it even more than I already have been.
A week from tomorrow I head back to Texas. Lots to do and so many people to see. Pray for wisdom and that time will be enough with everyone. Pray that I can stay focused on living well for Him here. I'm looking forward to being home, to seeing family, to clean clothes, to driving my car, etc. There's much to look forward to, so pray for dilligence here. Can't wait to see you my friends! Thanks for your love and encouragement!
Sunday, June 13, 2010
"what happens in Mexico...
...goes on my blog!" Okay, so nothing majorly embarrassing happened, but that just a new expression that I have with my friends here. This week has flown by, jammed-packed with stuff, that I don't even know where to begin.
Spanish courses officially ended, although in the time that I'm here, if I'm free, we'll have a few more lessons. The interns have exhausted my "beginner's" material, so I've pushed them hard into the "intermediate" level. Continue to pray for encouragement and language development.
Basketball lessons have also finished with a bang! I've enjoyed working with the little ones so much. I don't tire easily of having little kids that can't even remember my name half the time hang all over me or constantly try to get my attention to show me their new tricks. Precious!
Wednesday night, I spent the night with the intern girls and had a great time getting to know them. Tiffany and I stayed talking until about 2:30am sharing about everything and anything! (Megan, she kept reminding me a lot of you!) After that night, I felt like we became much closer friends.
The following day, after Spanish class, we drove over to a region called Teotihuacan, where the famous Aztec pyramids are located. Thursday was a pretty low-key day. Friday after watching the Mexico vs. South Africa openning game, we headed out to the pyramids, where we climbed up to the top of the "Sun" and halfway up the "Moon." When we got back to the beautiful home where we were staying, we had some lunch and a time for debriefing. The rest of the day we just hung out, learned a few salsa moves, watched a movie and played some games.
Saturday after breakfast, we headed into Mexico City and went to an amusement park called "La Feria de Chapultepec" to celebrate Daniel's 13th birthday. We had a great time at the park. One thing I have to admit, we went in a haunted house and have never been so scared by one ever! I think we all came out of there closer than ever (in terms of friendship AND proximity). The rest of the rides were way fun, but a little more rickety or something than here. I'm pretty sore on my left side.
When I got home, we had a full house. A family from the church came to visit my host-dad to see how he was doing. Two of my host-aunts and their kids came over too. After some time of just hanging out and talking, we went to my host-sister's house to hang out there. When we got home, I talked with my host-mom and finally went to bed around midnight.
Although I was bummed to not get to watch the US play, I'm ok with the tie, and I'm glad we have been able to watch some of the other games. It's more fun to watch them here in Mexico with people that are more interested in the World Cup.
Not long until I go home. 11 days! Time flies. Pray for the rest of my time. Pray I make the most of it and enjoy it to the fullest! Love yous!
Spanish courses officially ended, although in the time that I'm here, if I'm free, we'll have a few more lessons. The interns have exhausted my "beginner's" material, so I've pushed them hard into the "intermediate" level. Continue to pray for encouragement and language development.
Basketball lessons have also finished with a bang! I've enjoyed working with the little ones so much. I don't tire easily of having little kids that can't even remember my name half the time hang all over me or constantly try to get my attention to show me their new tricks. Precious!
Wednesday night, I spent the night with the intern girls and had a great time getting to know them. Tiffany and I stayed talking until about 2:30am sharing about everything and anything! (Megan, she kept reminding me a lot of you!) After that night, I felt like we became much closer friends.
The following day, after Spanish class, we drove over to a region called Teotihuacan, where the famous Aztec pyramids are located. Thursday was a pretty low-key day. Friday after watching the Mexico vs. South Africa openning game, we headed out to the pyramids, where we climbed up to the top of the "Sun" and halfway up the "Moon." When we got back to the beautiful home where we were staying, we had some lunch and a time for debriefing. The rest of the day we just hung out, learned a few salsa moves, watched a movie and played some games.
Saturday after breakfast, we headed into Mexico City and went to an amusement park called "La Feria de Chapultepec" to celebrate Daniel's 13th birthday. We had a great time at the park. One thing I have to admit, we went in a haunted house and have never been so scared by one ever! I think we all came out of there closer than ever (in terms of friendship AND proximity). The rest of the rides were way fun, but a little more rickety or something than here. I'm pretty sore on my left side.
When I got home, we had a full house. A family from the church came to visit my host-dad to see how he was doing. Two of my host-aunts and their kids came over too. After some time of just hanging out and talking, we went to my host-sister's house to hang out there. When we got home, I talked with my host-mom and finally went to bed around midnight.
Although I was bummed to not get to watch the US play, I'm ok with the tie, and I'm glad we have been able to watch some of the other games. It's more fun to watch them here in Mexico with people that are more interested in the World Cup.
Not long until I go home. 11 days! Time flies. Pray for the rest of my time. Pray I make the most of it and enjoy it to the fullest! Love yous!
Monday, June 7, 2010
la clase de español
Here's a little video Rod Fry, the missionary here, took of Spanish class last week.
Sunday, June 6, 2010
Week One
Here's an attempt at updating as briefly as I can, without leaving out too much. Thank you for praying for my health. That night, I continued ill, but after a bucket shower, some hot tea and a night's rest, I woke up well and have been well since! My host-dad is also on his way to recovery. Please continue to lift him up.
Spanish is going well. Week one down, one more to go. I give props to these interns. They are being worked hard in and out of class!!! Pray that we will make the most of this last week of the course. Pray also that God would continue to teach through me in order to better equip them for the ministry laid out before them.
In the afternoons, we have been doing a Basketball Camp with the kids from the neighborhood. Initially about 30 were coming, but the group has increased to at least 50 and growing. What is most awesome about this is that many parents come to watch their kids and are witnessing the the outreach of the church. I've worked with the littlest ones and have fallen in love with each of them. They are absolutely precious.
Friday night, my host-sister and her family were spending the night because she, her husband and a friend went to a youth conference early Saturday. It was so great to be with her like old times. We stayed up late, talking, giggling, crying, and catching up on life until about 4.30am. I felt bad for her...she had to be up an hour later. Pray for her, she's going through a lot in life and she needs the Lord's strength now more than ever!!!
Time with the interns here has been really sweet. We are getting closer each day, and I am so encouraged by their lives. I'm so blessed at the opportunity to develop new friendships founded in Him. We have so much fun together!!! It's awesome :)
Yesterday we took a trip up to the "Paso de Cortéz," between two volcanoes (Iztaccíhuatl and Popocateptl). It was a great time to just hang out and have fun in God's beautiful creation. We even got to zipline! -Dad, I finally learned how to "chiflar"...David, "you want me to whistle as loud as I can?!" :)-
Week two brings the end of the Spanish course as well as a trip to the Pyramids, an amusement park and a mini-debrief on what we have been processing thus far. Thanks again for your prayers and I leave you with some pictures. Enjoy!
Spanish is going well. Week one down, one more to go. I give props to these interns. They are being worked hard in and out of class!!! Pray that we will make the most of this last week of the course. Pray also that God would continue to teach through me in order to better equip them for the ministry laid out before them.
In the afternoons, we have been doing a Basketball Camp with the kids from the neighborhood. Initially about 30 were coming, but the group has increased to at least 50 and growing. What is most awesome about this is that many parents come to watch their kids and are witnessing the the outreach of the church. I've worked with the littlest ones and have fallen in love with each of them. They are absolutely precious.
Friday night, my host-sister and her family were spending the night because she, her husband and a friend went to a youth conference early Saturday. It was so great to be with her like old times. We stayed up late, talking, giggling, crying, and catching up on life until about 4.30am. I felt bad for her...she had to be up an hour later. Pray for her, she's going through a lot in life and she needs the Lord's strength now more than ever!!!
Time with the interns here has been really sweet. We are getting closer each day, and I am so encouraged by their lives. I'm so blessed at the opportunity to develop new friendships founded in Him. We have so much fun together!!! It's awesome :)
Yesterday we took a trip up to the "Paso de Cortéz," between two volcanoes (Iztaccíhuatl and Popocateptl). It was a great time to just hang out and have fun in God's beautiful creation. We even got to zipline! -Dad, I finally learned how to "chiflar"...David, "you want me to whistle as loud as I can?!" :)-
Week two brings the end of the Spanish course as well as a trip to the Pyramids, an amusement park and a mini-debrief on what we have been processing thus far. Thanks again for your prayers and I leave you with some pictures. Enjoy!
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
getting around
Today was day 3 of Spanish class, and it's going really well. The interns are picking it up quickly. Today was a little more of an intense day. I could tell they were a little more drained by the end of the class. Three hours is a long time to have to process a foreign language! I try to give them breaks and to do different types of activities to break up the monotony. They're doing well.
It's great to be back and catch up with people. I love the feeling of ¨being back,¨ knowing people, how to get around on public transportation, where to buy things, what food to get. It's also fun to remember things that make Mexico Mexico: the sounds, the smells, the sights, the flavors, etc. Monday I got to see my host-sister and her family. It's bizarre to see her as a wife and mother now. My little Mexican niece is adorable, if I may say so myself. Yesterday, after the Spanish course, I went to surprise my old friend Abigail and her two sons. It was so great to catch up with her. We decided to go out for breakfast this morning with another friend and her daughter. It was so sweet to see them again and reminisce and catch-up with some good eats. The only thing is that at around noon today my stomach told me it's not used to the mexican food yet, but sooner or later it will have to be. I'm still eating anyway.
Continue praying for my host-dad. He's having to stay at home these days, and he has at least four appointments with the chiropractor (I never know if I'm spelling that right...). Pray for the interns, ministry, language and health. Pray for me also. I'm feeling well right now, but I don't like having stomach issues.
Funny how:
-people here blare their music loud enough to be heard down the street, so you may hear several different sounds systems on your walk to the corner
-Mexicans LOVE mayo
-many things aren't refrigerated like you would in the US
-when you're traveling with people, you're much more open about your body functions
-it's freeing to not be tied down by a schedule or a cell phone
-people here on the street refer to me as 'white girl' :)
It's great to be back and catch up with people. I love the feeling of ¨being back,¨ knowing people, how to get around on public transportation, where to buy things, what food to get. It's also fun to remember things that make Mexico Mexico: the sounds, the smells, the sights, the flavors, etc. Monday I got to see my host-sister and her family. It's bizarre to see her as a wife and mother now. My little Mexican niece is adorable, if I may say so myself. Yesterday, after the Spanish course, I went to surprise my old friend Abigail and her two sons. It was so great to catch up with her. We decided to go out for breakfast this morning with another friend and her daughter. It was so sweet to see them again and reminisce and catch-up with some good eats. The only thing is that at around noon today my stomach told me it's not used to the mexican food yet, but sooner or later it will have to be. I'm still eating anyway.
Continue praying for my host-dad. He's having to stay at home these days, and he has at least four appointments with the chiropractor (I never know if I'm spelling that right...). Pray for the interns, ministry, language and health. Pray for me also. I'm feeling well right now, but I don't like having stomach issues.
Funny how:
-people here blare their music loud enough to be heard down the street, so you may hear several different sounds systems on your walk to the corner
-Mexicans LOVE mayo
-many things aren't refrigerated like you would in the US
-when you're traveling with people, you're much more open about your body functions
-it's freeing to not be tied down by a schedule or a cell phone
-people here on the street refer to me as 'white girl' :)
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