Hello again! Well, I feel sort of proud of myself for getting another post out so soon. I find that sharing is lots of fun but takes lots of time too. However, as I am getting closer to the anniversary of my first year here, I wanted to share some of my favorite things about Korea and also some of the least favorites. We'll start with favorites.
Favorites:
Korean Food!!
As much as I love Italian food and mushroom chicken spaghetti, I have to confess that my affinity for eating pasta continuously has shrunk. Used to, when there was lots of leftovers from lasagna or spaghetti, I'd have it for 3 days straight and savor each bite every time. But living in Korea has done something to me. After my second night of eating leftover spaghetti, I realized I was craving Korean food...or more specifically, RICE! I was coming home from the gym and I just had to stop and eat at a Korean place because I couldn't hardly stand the thought of going another day without rice. What is happening to me?! I keep thinking about all the things I want to eat when I get back to the states but this recent revelation makes me wonder if I won't be craving Korean food a few days into my visit. Well, I guess the upside to all this is that it will be a good reason to look forward to coming back.
Korean People!!
Going from a society that is built on individualism and diversity to a homogeneous and generally uniform culture makes for quite a change that Americans go through when they step onto Korean soil. However, I've enjoyed observing the more collective Koreans interact with each other. In my opinion, they better Americans in the areas of respect, service, and loyalty. I also find that children here actually behave like children instead of little adults, which is often the case in westernized countries. Most of all, I enjoy sights like the one I saw recently in the supermarket. I separately observed two boys with their mothers and each boys was linked arm in arm with their mom, chatting away and exhibiting a closeness which I would never see from two almost teen-aged boys in America. From what I can tell, Koreans have a healthy filial respect and a deep bond with their parents that westerners could take a lesson from.
Korean Nature!
When you live surrounded by fantastic scenery and mountains, its hard not to be sucked into the nature addicted lifestyle modeled by many Koreans. Some go hiking every week-end and there are always scads of people at the parks. Their national parks and trails are also maintained very well so there is really nothing to hinder one from fully enjoying all that nature has to offer.
Korean Open Markets!!
These are some of the best places to find bargains for things and they are also always buzzing with activity and color. I like to just people watch when I go sometimes. Koreans who go on a regular basis know all the best stalls to buy from (when there are 30 stalls in a row all selling the same thing, I still don't know how they can discern this). Also colorful and bustling, but less entertaining is the shopping district where pretty much anything of fashion and popularity can be found.
Ok, now for the least favorites:
Being so far away!
Sometimes the homesickness can really get to me. I've been told that I write/express all positive things and feelings about my time here and don't share any of my struggles. So here it is. I really miss home sometimes. There have been times where I've questioned what I'm doing here and if it's really worth it. There have been times that buying the ticket to the next flight out was shockingly tempting. The only thing that has kept me going and kept me here is the firm belief that this is where God wants me and this is where He has brought me. If I didn't have that to cling to, I'd have run home long ago.
Language/Communication!
Don't misunderstand. I love the Korean language and I am working on learning it. It's just the difficulties you run across at times when you need/want something can be frustrating when you are still at a toddler level of a language (and at times are treated almost like such). I would love to fluently be able to express myself, and hopefully one day I will but for now, the broken sentences and frequent use of hand motions continue to be my main method of communication.
Squid/Octopus!
The one area of Korean cuisine that I genuinely do not enjoy. I have told some of my Korean friends this, and they just can't believe that a person could not like squid or octopus. The rubbery texture and smell is just too much for me though. I can't be faulted for lack of trying though as I have given them several chances. Just not for me!
Well, there you have it. Of course, I also love my new church family and being a part of the Dongshin Church body. And all my new friends that I've made too. And just a lot of little things about living here. But I'll keep it at that.
Hoping everyone is well and blessed.
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Friday, April 2, 2010
Well, I am trying
I have stated before that I am trying to redeem my poor blogging habits and make it a more frequent occurrence so here is my second blog in the space of two weeks...whoa, is that really possible? Yes indeed, I am actually updating again! Not that anything I have to update about is very interesting or important, but anyhow.
So, I have gotten back into the swing of things after my exciting trip to Seoul a few weekends ago. My, but I was sore from the marathon, though I think my cramps probably made the post-marathon soreness worse. Just the sight of stairs (going up or down) made me cringe and running across the street the next day wasn't an option for me when I needed to cross in a hurry. But it was still worth it and I have since recovered and returned to running.
I have been playing with my newest "baby" since the moment I got home. Her official name is Philomela, which in the Greek means Friend of Song. And she indeed is my friend in song. We have been making some sweet (ok, and not so sweet) music together. I am trying to improve my picking skills and testing out riffs for different songs. I want to bring her back with me when I visit but I have no hard case for her and traveling with a carry-on guitar is not a good activity. I am definitely bring one of my girls back with me though. Can't go a month without playing...and I don't have the luxury of rightys who are able to borrow or pick up any guitar and play.
And speaking of travel, that brings me to my next topic; my visit home! Hooray! Only a little over two months to go and I will be able to see and physically be with the ones I love. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here in Korea and everything I have been able to do and see and experience, but I have also missed all my friends and family immensely as well. And also, I do miss some of the little things that I took for granted back in the states. Like going into the grocery store and being able to find what you're looking for by glancing at the aisle signs instead of scouring the aisles trying to make out the Korean characters (I am half blind because I don't wear glasses and I need them). Or hopping in the car and driving to your destination instead of planning out how you can get there by subway, bus, or walking. Or simply being able to eat things like Chick-Fil-A or Panera Bread (my two favorites) and being offered the plethera of choices that are so lacking here (e.g. smoothies here come in 3-4 flavors, with only one offered for each smoothie, NO MIXING; whereas I used to go into Jamba Juice and order a blended smoothie of about 7-8 different flavors and they wouldn't bat an eye.) Not knocking Korean food AT ALL...it is absolutely fabulous. But when one grows up with their palate adjusted to certain things, its hard to change the cravings you get sometimes. SO, anyways, I am looking forward to the day when I can see all of most of your faces again!<-- (I was proofreading this and I came across this bizarrely written sentence. I decided to leave it as is because its evidence of what living in a non-English speaking country can do to grammar skills.)
And to wrap up this blog entry, I'll recount the most recent events and upcoming ones. Earlier this evening, all of the teachers at my school went together to eat at a Korean restaurant. The dish we ate is called Shabu-Shabu (of Japanese origin) and it is simply delicious. I could eat it every day I think. It's thin strips of pork and beef that you grill or stick into a boiling pot of broth and cook, along with lots of yummy vegetables that you cook in the broth as well. You can wrap the cooked veggies and meat in a wafer like rice cake that you soak in broth too. After you are done with the meat and veggies, they bring out homemade rice noodles and boil them up, and after that, they bring out a mixture of rice, egg, and some flavorful things (not sure) and make a sticky porridge for you. It is my favorite part of the whole meal. I ate so much and am still simply stuffed. Tomorrow, I am going to my Korean lesson in the morning and then heading up help clean the room where we have our English service. We'll start at 1:00 and hopefully knock everything out fairly quickly. There was also a promise of a pizza and chicken break/lunch (yum!). Then, Sunday, we will have our Easter service. I am singing backing vocals in worship without playing any intrument for the first time (strange for me but exciting too). So, it will be another full week-end and then comes the work week after that. Gentlemen, start your engines!
Well, I suppose that's it for now. I have been working on my plan for my next year here in recent weeks. It looks like I may have settled on a university to attend and am trusting that God works out all the little kinks elsewhere. For those of you who don't know what I'm talking about, I am planning to attend a Korean Language Institute year long course starting in the fall semester. I have visited Keimyung University recently, and their program seemed to be the most advantageous for my situation. Please pray that God opens or closes the way so that I can get clear direction.
In closing, I'll share a funny story (or two) about various cultural and language occurrences. The other day, I went to the track and ran some laps for speed work on it. A group of Korean runners were doing their workouts at the same time and we finished up around the same time. As I was preparing to leave, a woman came up to me and began to speak rapidly to me in Korean. It was rather dark (funfact; Koreans don't light up their tracks or outdoor courts and fields. They just run and play b-ball or soccer in the semi dark) and I don't think she realized at first that I was a "Waykukin" -foreigner. Then, when she got a good look at me, she asked if I spoke Hangul. My response "chunun, hangul mal chogum"-I only speak a little Korean. She then gestured to her son and began telling him to speak to me in English. He shyly said hello and how are you and then I asked "irum muyeyo?"-what's your name? He responded in Korean and his mother chided him "not in Korean, in English!" It was so funny because I was trying to respond in Korean and she kept urging him to speak English! So, after a few moments of awkwardly stumbling around in the linguistics dept., we said good-bye and then she said to me "Pighting!"-which literally means cheer up or keep it up! It was a fun incident. Then, today, I was offered cola by one of my co-teachers. I accepted and she proceeded to pour me a drink. When she poured it, I automatically touched my left hand under my right elbow and she saw it and laughed. I laughed too and thought to myself, is it possible that some of these habits will stick with me for life? Later on this evening, she was sitting beside me at the meal and I heard her tell the others teachers in Korean about what I had done. I turned to her and asked if she just said what I thought. She laughed and said yes and then said to the other teachers "she understood!" Whereupon, they all laughed and then one of them said to me, "you are just so cute!" referring I think to my pitiful attempts to adapt culturally and linguistically. It's funny because even though I am still woefully western in speaking and mannerisms, I noticed a marked difference between the two new ENT teachers who just arrived and myself. I helped them shop the other day and we were getting assistance from a worker in the store. At the end of the exchange, I bowed and said "Kamsahamnida" like I had been doing it all my life. Its weird how the things that you adopt here quickly become like second nature.
Time to cut it off. I have to get some rest for tomorrow.
Until next time, Gruss Gott.
So, I have gotten back into the swing of things after my exciting trip to Seoul a few weekends ago. My, but I was sore from the marathon, though I think my cramps probably made the post-marathon soreness worse. Just the sight of stairs (going up or down) made me cringe and running across the street the next day wasn't an option for me when I needed to cross in a hurry. But it was still worth it and I have since recovered and returned to running.
I have been playing with my newest "baby" since the moment I got home. Her official name is Philomela, which in the Greek means Friend of Song. And she indeed is my friend in song. We have been making some sweet (ok, and not so sweet) music together. I am trying to improve my picking skills and testing out riffs for different songs. I want to bring her back with me when I visit but I have no hard case for her and traveling with a carry-on guitar is not a good activity. I am definitely bring one of my girls back with me though. Can't go a month without playing...and I don't have the luxury of rightys who are able to borrow or pick up any guitar and play.
And speaking of travel, that brings me to my next topic; my visit home! Hooray! Only a little over two months to go and I will be able to see and physically be with the ones I love. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here in Korea and everything I have been able to do and see and experience, but I have also missed all my friends and family immensely as well. And also, I do miss some of the little things that I took for granted back in the states. Like going into the grocery store and being able to find what you're looking for by glancing at the aisle signs instead of scouring the aisles trying to make out the Korean characters (I am half blind because I don't wear glasses and I need them). Or hopping in the car and driving to your destination instead of planning out how you can get there by subway, bus, or walking. Or simply being able to eat things like Chick-Fil-A or Panera Bread (my two favorites) and being offered the plethera of choices that are so lacking here (e.g. smoothies here come in 3-4 flavors, with only one offered for each smoothie, NO MIXING; whereas I used to go into Jamba Juice and order a blended smoothie of about 7-8 different flavors and they wouldn't bat an eye.) Not knocking Korean food AT ALL...it is absolutely fabulous. But when one grows up with their palate adjusted to certain things, its hard to change the cravings you get sometimes. SO, anyways, I am looking forward to the day when I can see all of most of your faces again!<-- (I was proofreading this and I came across this bizarrely written sentence. I decided to leave it as is because its evidence of what living in a non-English speaking country can do to grammar skills.)
And to wrap up this blog entry, I'll recount the most recent events and upcoming ones. Earlier this evening, all of the teachers at my school went together to eat at a Korean restaurant. The dish we ate is called Shabu-Shabu (of Japanese origin) and it is simply delicious. I could eat it every day I think. It's thin strips of pork and beef that you grill or stick into a boiling pot of broth and cook, along with lots of yummy vegetables that you cook in the broth as well. You can wrap the cooked veggies and meat in a wafer like rice cake that you soak in broth too. After you are done with the meat and veggies, they bring out homemade rice noodles and boil them up, and after that, they bring out a mixture of rice, egg, and some flavorful things (not sure) and make a sticky porridge for you. It is my favorite part of the whole meal. I ate so much and am still simply stuffed. Tomorrow, I am going to my Korean lesson in the morning and then heading up help clean the room where we have our English service. We'll start at 1:00 and hopefully knock everything out fairly quickly. There was also a promise of a pizza and chicken break/lunch (yum!). Then, Sunday, we will have our Easter service. I am singing backing vocals in worship without playing any intrument for the first time (strange for me but exciting too). So, it will be another full week-end and then comes the work week after that. Gentlemen, start your engines!
Well, I suppose that's it for now. I have been working on my plan for my next year here in recent weeks. It looks like I may have settled on a university to attend and am trusting that God works out all the little kinks elsewhere. For those of you who don't know what I'm talking about, I am planning to attend a Korean Language Institute year long course starting in the fall semester. I have visited Keimyung University recently, and their program seemed to be the most advantageous for my situation. Please pray that God opens or closes the way so that I can get clear direction.
In closing, I'll share a funny story (or two) about various cultural and language occurrences. The other day, I went to the track and ran some laps for speed work on it. A group of Korean runners were doing their workouts at the same time and we finished up around the same time. As I was preparing to leave, a woman came up to me and began to speak rapidly to me in Korean. It was rather dark (funfact; Koreans don't light up their tracks or outdoor courts and fields. They just run and play b-ball or soccer in the semi dark) and I don't think she realized at first that I was a "Waykukin" -foreigner. Then, when she got a good look at me, she asked if I spoke Hangul. My response "chunun, hangul mal chogum"-I only speak a little Korean. She then gestured to her son and began telling him to speak to me in English. He shyly said hello and how are you and then I asked "irum muyeyo?"-what's your name? He responded in Korean and his mother chided him "not in Korean, in English!" It was so funny because I was trying to respond in Korean and she kept urging him to speak English! So, after a few moments of awkwardly stumbling around in the linguistics dept., we said good-bye and then she said to me "Pighting!"-which literally means cheer up or keep it up! It was a fun incident. Then, today, I was offered cola by one of my co-teachers. I accepted and she proceeded to pour me a drink. When she poured it, I automatically touched my left hand under my right elbow and she saw it and laughed. I laughed too and thought to myself, is it possible that some of these habits will stick with me for life? Later on this evening, she was sitting beside me at the meal and I heard her tell the others teachers in Korean about what I had done. I turned to her and asked if she just said what I thought. She laughed and said yes and then said to the other teachers "she understood!" Whereupon, they all laughed and then one of them said to me, "you are just so cute!" referring I think to my pitiful attempts to adapt culturally and linguistically. It's funny because even though I am still woefully western in speaking and mannerisms, I noticed a marked difference between the two new ENT teachers who just arrived and myself. I helped them shop the other day and we were getting assistance from a worker in the store. At the end of the exchange, I bowed and said "Kamsahamnida" like I had been doing it all my life. Its weird how the things that you adopt here quickly become like second nature.
Time to cut it off. I have to get some rest for tomorrow.
Until next time, Gruss Gott.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Annyong haseyo!
I have come to the conclusion that I am a terrible blogger. Many of you are probably thinking "We're way ahead of you there buddy". It's just that when I think about writing a post, I chicken out when I consider all the time I'll spend typing and editing. "So write more often and the posts won't have to be so long" you say. This is very true and something I WILL work on in the future. For now though, I offer my humble apologies yet AGAIN, and hope that you find it in your hearts to forgive and have hope for me.
So, where to begin? I suppose I could start with the latest news and works backwards from there. Alright, here goes.
Last weekend, I traveled up to Seoul to participate in the Seoul International Marathon. I hadn't been to Seoul yet, so I left on Friday night in order to get in a full day of sightseeing on Saturday before the marathon on Sunday. Seoul is a very nice city and bustles with activity all day long. I stayed at a hostel in Hongdae district and traveled by subway to get around most of the time. The subways there are VERY crowded to say the least, and I spent quite a bit on tickets there as I didn't have a pass card. I went to several districts, one of particular note called Insa-Dong, where they have a whole street devoted to souvenirs, crafts, and traditional tea houses. I didn't buy anything there as I arrived before all the shops opened.
Near Insa-Dong street, I discovered a huge indoor music market. It was like having about 20 music stores combined into one giant mall. For a music lover like myself, its like being in a candy shop. I did a lot of "eye shopping" as the Koreans say, and then as I was looking over some guitars in a window, I was asked by the shop keeper in English (excellent, btw) if he could help me. I explained I was just looking and then told him I was left handed and I knew they probably didn't have anything like that. He said slowly "Well, actually, I do have a left handed model for this guitar" pointing to a all black electric Ibanez. Now, I've been longing to own an electric guitar, mainly for the purpose of playing it in worship. After talking through its qualities, he fetched in the lefty from storage and plugged it in for me to play. It was like magic. I played through some stuff and checked out all the various tones and distortions, and like that, I was hooked. But I didn't want to commit right away so I asked him if I could come back after a while. "Of course" he said, and then proceeded to make a package deal for me. The guitar, a 15w amp, soft carry case, cables, extra strings, picks, and an instructional CD all for 300,000 won. Which in American dollars is less than 300. Excited beyond words, I left and headed to a PC bang and checked out what the net had to say about this guitar. Every review I read had positive things to say and the owners were all pleased with its performance. And the price was even better; in the states I would have been paying nearly twice as much for what he had offered to me. So, armed with this information, I went back and boldly took the plunge on buying my first electric guitar. Now, this was not in my plans at all but I believe there was a reason I went into that store and met that certain man. I truly am blessed beyond words.
The next day was the marathon. It started at 8:00 am so I was up at five and there by six. It was freezing cold with a chilly wind but like the crazy people they are, most of the marathoners had stripped down to shorts and t-shirt by the time the race started (I fell into this crazy catagory). I was assigned to section E, the last section to be positioned in the corralling area. My number was 54138 so I'm guessing there were over 54,000 people registered to run. We had to stand there and wait while the announcer guy kept talking away, giving an inspirational speech I suppose, and cheer at the appropriate times. Finally we got started and it was a little tricky to run at first with so many people all around jostling for position and trying to set their paces. After things settled down and everyone spread out and was running comfortably, I felt much better. For the first 20 miles, things went very well. I was on pace to finish at 4:10, maybe a little under. And then, CRAMPS. I began to cramp up in my hamstrings very bad and before long, I was considering dropping out of the race. But, I pushed away the thought and kept doggedly limping along, telling myself I had not entered my first marathon just to quit. On and on it seemed to go, and those six miles felt like they had turned into another 20. Every step was like someone stabbing a knife into the back of my thighs and I sometimes just wanted to scream from the pain. But FINALLY, we entered the last 2 km and I saw the Olympic Stadium in sight and the thought of getting to that finish line gave me the extra boost I needed. As I entered the stadium, a feeling like none I've had before hit me. Rounding the track, and bearing down the homestretch, my legs pumping with adrenaline, I thought "I've done it-I've just run 26.2 miles. Further than I ever have in my life. And I didn't quit." Then, across the finish line, with the time of 4:52 flashing at me. It was so incredible. Was it the time I was hoping for? Did the race go as I expected? No and no but I finished and that's what counts in the end. Some may ask "Why would you suffer that amount of pain? Is it really worth all that torment?" Well, when you have the medal hanging around your neck that reads "Marathon Finisher", you tell me how you feel then. I felt pretty darn good.
Well, in other, older news, teaching is still going well and I am enjoying interacting with all the kids. My two Native Speaking co-teachers have ended their contracts recently so we have two new teachers in, a couple named Joe and Jessica. They are nice.
Spring is coming, slowly but surely. We have a phenomenon here called Yellow Dust days during spring. It is when a strong wind blows down yellow dust from China all the way to Korea and turns the air a yellowish tint. I experienced my first time of it when I was in Seoul and I have to say, it is a very odd sight. Other than yellow dust, spring in Korea is known for its myriads of flower and tree blossoms. They say the scenery in the mountains can't be beat in the spring time. I can't wait to hit the hiking trails!
My involvement with Dongshin Church continues to grow. I can't tell you how thankful I am to God for providing this body here. We are having communion this Sunday so I am looking forward to that.
Well, I guess that is all for now. Hopefully there will not be such a long time between posts next time. Until then, be blessed.
I have come to the conclusion that I am a terrible blogger. Many of you are probably thinking "We're way ahead of you there buddy". It's just that when I think about writing a post, I chicken out when I consider all the time I'll spend typing and editing. "So write more often and the posts won't have to be so long" you say. This is very true and something I WILL work on in the future. For now though, I offer my humble apologies yet AGAIN, and hope that you find it in your hearts to forgive and have hope for me.
So, where to begin? I suppose I could start with the latest news and works backwards from there. Alright, here goes.
Last weekend, I traveled up to Seoul to participate in the Seoul International Marathon. I hadn't been to Seoul yet, so I left on Friday night in order to get in a full day of sightseeing on Saturday before the marathon on Sunday. Seoul is a very nice city and bustles with activity all day long. I stayed at a hostel in Hongdae district and traveled by subway to get around most of the time. The subways there are VERY crowded to say the least, and I spent quite a bit on tickets there as I didn't have a pass card. I went to several districts, one of particular note called Insa-Dong, where they have a whole street devoted to souvenirs, crafts, and traditional tea houses. I didn't buy anything there as I arrived before all the shops opened.
Near Insa-Dong street, I discovered a huge indoor music market. It was like having about 20 music stores combined into one giant mall. For a music lover like myself, its like being in a candy shop. I did a lot of "eye shopping" as the Koreans say, and then as I was looking over some guitars in a window, I was asked by the shop keeper in English (excellent, btw) if he could help me. I explained I was just looking and then told him I was left handed and I knew they probably didn't have anything like that. He said slowly "Well, actually, I do have a left handed model for this guitar" pointing to a all black electric Ibanez. Now, I've been longing to own an electric guitar, mainly for the purpose of playing it in worship. After talking through its qualities, he fetched in the lefty from storage and plugged it in for me to play. It was like magic. I played through some stuff and checked out all the various tones and distortions, and like that, I was hooked. But I didn't want to commit right away so I asked him if I could come back after a while. "Of course" he said, and then proceeded to make a package deal for me. The guitar, a 15w amp, soft carry case, cables, extra strings, picks, and an instructional CD all for 300,000 won. Which in American dollars is less than 300. Excited beyond words, I left and headed to a PC bang and checked out what the net had to say about this guitar. Every review I read had positive things to say and the owners were all pleased with its performance. And the price was even better; in the states I would have been paying nearly twice as much for what he had offered to me. So, armed with this information, I went back and boldly took the plunge on buying my first electric guitar. Now, this was not in my plans at all but I believe there was a reason I went into that store and met that certain man. I truly am blessed beyond words.
The next day was the marathon. It started at 8:00 am so I was up at five and there by six. It was freezing cold with a chilly wind but like the crazy people they are, most of the marathoners had stripped down to shorts and t-shirt by the time the race started (I fell into this crazy catagory). I was assigned to section E, the last section to be positioned in the corralling area. My number was 54138 so I'm guessing there were over 54,000 people registered to run. We had to stand there and wait while the announcer guy kept talking away, giving an inspirational speech I suppose, and cheer at the appropriate times. Finally we got started and it was a little tricky to run at first with so many people all around jostling for position and trying to set their paces. After things settled down and everyone spread out and was running comfortably, I felt much better. For the first 20 miles, things went very well. I was on pace to finish at 4:10, maybe a little under. And then, CRAMPS. I began to cramp up in my hamstrings very bad and before long, I was considering dropping out of the race. But, I pushed away the thought and kept doggedly limping along, telling myself I had not entered my first marathon just to quit. On and on it seemed to go, and those six miles felt like they had turned into another 20. Every step was like someone stabbing a knife into the back of my thighs and I sometimes just wanted to scream from the pain. But FINALLY, we entered the last 2 km and I saw the Olympic Stadium in sight and the thought of getting to that finish line gave me the extra boost I needed. As I entered the stadium, a feeling like none I've had before hit me. Rounding the track, and bearing down the homestretch, my legs pumping with adrenaline, I thought "I've done it-I've just run 26.2 miles. Further than I ever have in my life. And I didn't quit." Then, across the finish line, with the time of 4:52 flashing at me. It was so incredible. Was it the time I was hoping for? Did the race go as I expected? No and no but I finished and that's what counts in the end. Some may ask "Why would you suffer that amount of pain? Is it really worth all that torment?" Well, when you have the medal hanging around your neck that reads "Marathon Finisher", you tell me how you feel then. I felt pretty darn good.
Well, in other, older news, teaching is still going well and I am enjoying interacting with all the kids. My two Native Speaking co-teachers have ended their contracts recently so we have two new teachers in, a couple named Joe and Jessica. They are nice.
Spring is coming, slowly but surely. We have a phenomenon here called Yellow Dust days during spring. It is when a strong wind blows down yellow dust from China all the way to Korea and turns the air a yellowish tint. I experienced my first time of it when I was in Seoul and I have to say, it is a very odd sight. Other than yellow dust, spring in Korea is known for its myriads of flower and tree blossoms. They say the scenery in the mountains can't be beat in the spring time. I can't wait to hit the hiking trails!
My involvement with Dongshin Church continues to grow. I can't tell you how thankful I am to God for providing this body here. We are having communion this Sunday so I am looking forward to that.
Well, I guess that is all for now. Hopefully there will not be such a long time between posts next time. Until then, be blessed.
Monday, January 18, 2010
A Review of Korean Culture
Hello everyone! Annyong Haseyo? (literally translates: Peaceful Are?)
I sincerely apologize for being so remiss in keeping up this blog. I'm sure most of you were thinking I was never going to update again. I won't give any excuses; I have been neglectful and it was inconsiderate of me. So please accept my sincerest Choesong hamnida!
I don't think I've really touched on all of the Korean cultural idiosyncrasies so we will go on a journey together through the cultural jungle of South Korea. Grab your kimchi and rice for the ride and let's go!
First stop, the area of personal hygiene and other related things. In Korea, I have found that having a shower or tub is not really the norm for most people. It is slowly becoming a staple item to have in a newer high rise apt. but in all of the smaller apts and houses, it's just you, the tiled four walls of the bathroom and a hose with a spray nozzle attached. Which you must hold with one hand while you scrub with the other. This arrangement, along with short hot water life span, make for a very quick and un-relaxing shower. I call it my dash and rinse.
Additionally, in Korea, it is not the custom to flush toilet paper down the toilet. Rather, everyone puts their used paper in the wastebasket. It took me awhile to get adjusted to this but now it's become second nature. The smell generated by this unusual practice however, is not one that I have quite got used to. It is very bad in a public restroom frequented by lots of people. Oh, and did I mention that in most of the public restrooms the stalls do not contain toilet paper? Yes indeed! There is a big common roll out by the sinks and everyone grabs their little supply before heading in. Of course, when you are a clueless foreigner fresh in from the land of ubiquitous T.P., this can make for a humourous (though not at the time) and slightly humiliating experience when you have finished your business and realize you have nothing to work with (oh yes, it did happen). Thankfully, I learned my lesson very quickly and thoroughly. Also, squatty potties are predominant in public transportation places like the subway, bus station, and train station. With flush handles that you can operate by foot. My first thought upon using one? I feel like I'm at HEART again!
On we go, grinding to a halt at the next stop of personal conduct, etc. In Korea, it is considered polite to accept things given with two hands or the left hand placed under the right elbow and vice versa for giving. Also, adding in a little head bow is considered good manners too. If I were to reach out with one hand like I do in America, the giver or receiver might feel that I am being impolite or insulting or simply didn't have any decent manners. So, because of being involved in Taekwondo in the States, I picked up this habit almost immediately and will likely continue it just because it does seem to show much more respect to the people with whom you are dealing. It is also considered polite to take off one's shoes when entering a person's house or traditional eating places. The entries of houses are even built slightly lower so that you can remove your shoes quickly on the step. I have house shoes I wear inside my apt. and also bathroom shoes (because as you might guess, the bathroom is not the driest place sometimes).
Another form of politeness in Korea that may seem a little strange is that when offered something (such as if I offer some of my snack to a co-worker), the polite response is to decline. A Korean may do this 2-3 times before accepting but if the other person does not continue to offer, THEY are considered rude! I have broken this custom many times and still forget on occasion. It is so ingrained in me that if a person says no, they don't want it and if something is offered to me, I feel it impolite saying no. It's a tough habit to break and the other is a hard one to make.
Let's see, one last thing. It's ok to bump people; hard! I have become a regular user of the subway here and if there's one thing I've learned, it's don't be shy about physical contact. Korean cities and transportation are always very crowded and therefore the people can be very aggressive in order to secure a seat or just a spot. In getting on and off the bus and subway, it is usually a little crazy, because Koreans don't wait until everyone has gotten off. Nope, they push their way in as the outgoing crowd is coming out, creating quite the traffic jam. I've been in a subway car before that was so crowded that I couldn't even lift my arm to scratch my nose (if I had wanted to). My first instinct upon bumping people in my rush to transfer subway lines is to say sorry, but I realized after almost being bulldozed by a woman on the sidewalk and offered no words of apology or even a single backward glance that in Korea, its every man for himself. So, now I shove onto the subway with the best of 'em and ride the rails with a peaceful heart.
Trekking onward, we come to the food court stop. Just what you've been waiting for. I hope you are ready to eat rice, rice, and more rice! Of course, I love rice so I'm not complaining but in all seriousness, I have rice everyday; literally. Rice is the staple of all Korean meals. It is their equivalent to bread though we don't have it at every meal as they do. It is so engrained in their culture that when greeting you with the query of whether you've eaten, they ask "Bab moko uyo?" which literally means, "Have you eaten rice?" Rice means food here, so to many of the older generation, the fact that the young people eat at the western restaurants which serve no rice with the meal seems appalling. I have adopted this philosophy in that I will sometimes eat a bowl of rice with a sandwich because it just seems to fill me better. An interesting thing to note is that if you are finished with your rice before you finish your side dishes, that means you are finished with the meal. So, in restaurants, I always see people consuming their bab as the last dish. along with the spicy tofu stew usually served with bab.
Another staple of Korean meals is the ever present Kimchi. Made of cabbage, spices, red pepper paste, and other sundry items which I don't know, this fermented dish is a perennial fixture on the Korean table. It can be super salty or spicy depending on the maker and as a general rule I really like it and will eat a few pieces whenever I go out to eat.
Eating at a traditional Korean restaurant is a lot of fun, especially galbi places. Galbi is Korean barbeque complete with a bowl of marinated meat (to be cut up with scissors, not a knife), turning tongs, and a grill that's built into the table. There are myriads of side dishes and everyone just sticks their chopsticks in and grabs what they want. Double dipping with your chopsticks and spoon may sound unsanitary to some, but in Korea, everyone shares side and main dishes without qualm. Coming from a large family, this sharing has a familiar feel to it and can be strangely comforting. Pouring drinks for people is also customary and Koreans usually consider it polite not to pour their own drink but wait for someone else to. However, its becoming more culturally accepted to pour one's own glass too.
I cannot leave this area before mentioning the pizza. I love me some American pizza with thick cheeses, meaty toppings, and golden crust but I gotta say, I am in love with the Korean pizza too. There are two reasons. One, the corn; the CORN! I love corn on pizza! If this sounds weird and slightly disturbing, I assure you, I thought so too. But man, once you've had it, you don't want to look back. The sweet combined with the salty flavor=excellence! Two, green tea crust. Again, sounds weird and slightly disturbing but it is really good and also good for the health as well. When I eat the green tea crust pizza, I feel less guilty. So, if you're ever in the neighborhood, swing by and I'll treat you to one of the best pizza's you've ever had.
And now to the last stop of the day, miscellaneous info. I'll list it so it's easy to follow.
1. It is not uncommon to walk by a Korean hospital and see a bunch of patients lounging around the entrance or even walking down the sidewalk, wheeling their IV with them. In my observation, Koreans seem to be much less uptight in regards to what patients can and cannot do.
2. Koreans make a sharp intake of breath (a hissing like sound) when they are thinking or considering what to say. It can sound like they are alarmed or upset by what you've just said but as I discovered, they're just making a "HMMM" sound by sucking air through their teeth.
3. Korean service, in general, is much better than American service. Whether it be in a shop, a restaurant, or a bank, the people who are helping you are truly there to serve. Service is always prompt and done with an air of quiet respectfulness that I find really refreshing.
4. Pointing with one finger is considered rude. When pointing out something or choosing a person, gesture with an open hand or both hands.
5. Koreans often try to speak English to be accomodating in stores, so I have often asked a question or ordered in Korean and been answered in English. A strangely ironic situation I find.
Well, I hope you enjoyed our little trip today. I'll just close by sharing a cultural story that my worship leader (Korean) shared at the worship team dinner on Sunday.
A Korean man was visiting London, England and had stopped into a bar to have a few drinks. After a time, he began to have a heated debate with an Englishman he had met there. Possessing the fiercely aggressive nature of Koreans, the man was very upset and a little worse the wear for liquor. He and the Englishman came out of the bar and shouted a few more minutes before turning to storm off in opposite directions. The Korean man, still being very upset, turned around to shout again at the other man. He wanted to say what Koreans do when they are angry and making a threat; "You take care and watch out for your body because you never know what I'll do". Not knowing quite how to convey this in English, he blurted out loudly "YOU TAKE CARE!" The Englishman was very surprised at this and began to think, "Gosh this Korean guy is really being great about this whole thing and he's even telling me to take care! I've got to show the same level of dignity and respect." So he turned and bellowed back to the Korean man "THANK YOU VERY MUCH!"
I sincerely apologize for being so remiss in keeping up this blog. I'm sure most of you were thinking I was never going to update again. I won't give any excuses; I have been neglectful and it was inconsiderate of me. So please accept my sincerest Choesong hamnida!
I don't think I've really touched on all of the Korean cultural idiosyncrasies so we will go on a journey together through the cultural jungle of South Korea. Grab your kimchi and rice for the ride and let's go!
First stop, the area of personal hygiene and other related things. In Korea, I have found that having a shower or tub is not really the norm for most people. It is slowly becoming a staple item to have in a newer high rise apt. but in all of the smaller apts and houses, it's just you, the tiled four walls of the bathroom and a hose with a spray nozzle attached. Which you must hold with one hand while you scrub with the other. This arrangement, along with short hot water life span, make for a very quick and un-relaxing shower. I call it my dash and rinse.
Additionally, in Korea, it is not the custom to flush toilet paper down the toilet. Rather, everyone puts their used paper in the wastebasket. It took me awhile to get adjusted to this but now it's become second nature. The smell generated by this unusual practice however, is not one that I have quite got used to. It is very bad in a public restroom frequented by lots of people. Oh, and did I mention that in most of the public restrooms the stalls do not contain toilet paper? Yes indeed! There is a big common roll out by the sinks and everyone grabs their little supply before heading in. Of course, when you are a clueless foreigner fresh in from the land of ubiquitous T.P., this can make for a humourous (though not at the time) and slightly humiliating experience when you have finished your business and realize you have nothing to work with (oh yes, it did happen). Thankfully, I learned my lesson very quickly and thoroughly. Also, squatty potties are predominant in public transportation places like the subway, bus station, and train station. With flush handles that you can operate by foot. My first thought upon using one? I feel like I'm at HEART again!
On we go, grinding to a halt at the next stop of personal conduct, etc. In Korea, it is considered polite to accept things given with two hands or the left hand placed under the right elbow and vice versa for giving. Also, adding in a little head bow is considered good manners too. If I were to reach out with one hand like I do in America, the giver or receiver might feel that I am being impolite or insulting or simply didn't have any decent manners. So, because of being involved in Taekwondo in the States, I picked up this habit almost immediately and will likely continue it just because it does seem to show much more respect to the people with whom you are dealing. It is also considered polite to take off one's shoes when entering a person's house or traditional eating places. The entries of houses are even built slightly lower so that you can remove your shoes quickly on the step. I have house shoes I wear inside my apt. and also bathroom shoes (because as you might guess, the bathroom is not the driest place sometimes).
Another form of politeness in Korea that may seem a little strange is that when offered something (such as if I offer some of my snack to a co-worker), the polite response is to decline. A Korean may do this 2-3 times before accepting but if the other person does not continue to offer, THEY are considered rude! I have broken this custom many times and still forget on occasion. It is so ingrained in me that if a person says no, they don't want it and if something is offered to me, I feel it impolite saying no. It's a tough habit to break and the other is a hard one to make.
Let's see, one last thing. It's ok to bump people; hard! I have become a regular user of the subway here and if there's one thing I've learned, it's don't be shy about physical contact. Korean cities and transportation are always very crowded and therefore the people can be very aggressive in order to secure a seat or just a spot. In getting on and off the bus and subway, it is usually a little crazy, because Koreans don't wait until everyone has gotten off. Nope, they push their way in as the outgoing crowd is coming out, creating quite the traffic jam. I've been in a subway car before that was so crowded that I couldn't even lift my arm to scratch my nose (if I had wanted to). My first instinct upon bumping people in my rush to transfer subway lines is to say sorry, but I realized after almost being bulldozed by a woman on the sidewalk and offered no words of apology or even a single backward glance that in Korea, its every man for himself. So, now I shove onto the subway with the best of 'em and ride the rails with a peaceful heart.
Trekking onward, we come to the food court stop. Just what you've been waiting for. I hope you are ready to eat rice, rice, and more rice! Of course, I love rice so I'm not complaining but in all seriousness, I have rice everyday; literally. Rice is the staple of all Korean meals. It is their equivalent to bread though we don't have it at every meal as they do. It is so engrained in their culture that when greeting you with the query of whether you've eaten, they ask "Bab moko uyo?" which literally means, "Have you eaten rice?" Rice means food here, so to many of the older generation, the fact that the young people eat at the western restaurants which serve no rice with the meal seems appalling. I have adopted this philosophy in that I will sometimes eat a bowl of rice with a sandwich because it just seems to fill me better. An interesting thing to note is that if you are finished with your rice before you finish your side dishes, that means you are finished with the meal. So, in restaurants, I always see people consuming their bab as the last dish. along with the spicy tofu stew usually served with bab.
Another staple of Korean meals is the ever present Kimchi. Made of cabbage, spices, red pepper paste, and other sundry items which I don't know, this fermented dish is a perennial fixture on the Korean table. It can be super salty or spicy depending on the maker and as a general rule I really like it and will eat a few pieces whenever I go out to eat.
Eating at a traditional Korean restaurant is a lot of fun, especially galbi places. Galbi is Korean barbeque complete with a bowl of marinated meat (to be cut up with scissors, not a knife), turning tongs, and a grill that's built into the table. There are myriads of side dishes and everyone just sticks their chopsticks in and grabs what they want. Double dipping with your chopsticks and spoon may sound unsanitary to some, but in Korea, everyone shares side and main dishes without qualm. Coming from a large family, this sharing has a familiar feel to it and can be strangely comforting. Pouring drinks for people is also customary and Koreans usually consider it polite not to pour their own drink but wait for someone else to. However, its becoming more culturally accepted to pour one's own glass too.
I cannot leave this area before mentioning the pizza. I love me some American pizza with thick cheeses, meaty toppings, and golden crust but I gotta say, I am in love with the Korean pizza too. There are two reasons. One, the corn; the CORN! I love corn on pizza! If this sounds weird and slightly disturbing, I assure you, I thought so too. But man, once you've had it, you don't want to look back. The sweet combined with the salty flavor=excellence! Two, green tea crust. Again, sounds weird and slightly disturbing but it is really good and also good for the health as well. When I eat the green tea crust pizza, I feel less guilty. So, if you're ever in the neighborhood, swing by and I'll treat you to one of the best pizza's you've ever had.
And now to the last stop of the day, miscellaneous info. I'll list it so it's easy to follow.
1. It is not uncommon to walk by a Korean hospital and see a bunch of patients lounging around the entrance or even walking down the sidewalk, wheeling their IV with them. In my observation, Koreans seem to be much less uptight in regards to what patients can and cannot do.
2. Koreans make a sharp intake of breath (a hissing like sound) when they are thinking or considering what to say. It can sound like they are alarmed or upset by what you've just said but as I discovered, they're just making a "HMMM" sound by sucking air through their teeth.
3. Korean service, in general, is much better than American service. Whether it be in a shop, a restaurant, or a bank, the people who are helping you are truly there to serve. Service is always prompt and done with an air of quiet respectfulness that I find really refreshing.
4. Pointing with one finger is considered rude. When pointing out something or choosing a person, gesture with an open hand or both hands.
5. Koreans often try to speak English to be accomodating in stores, so I have often asked a question or ordered in Korean and been answered in English. A strangely ironic situation I find.
Well, I hope you enjoyed our little trip today. I'll just close by sharing a cultural story that my worship leader (Korean) shared at the worship team dinner on Sunday.
A Korean man was visiting London, England and had stopped into a bar to have a few drinks. After a time, he began to have a heated debate with an Englishman he had met there. Possessing the fiercely aggressive nature of Koreans, the man was very upset and a little worse the wear for liquor. He and the Englishman came out of the bar and shouted a few more minutes before turning to storm off in opposite directions. The Korean man, still being very upset, turned around to shout again at the other man. He wanted to say what Koreans do when they are angry and making a threat; "You take care and watch out for your body because you never know what I'll do". Not knowing quite how to convey this in English, he blurted out loudly "YOU TAKE CARE!" The Englishman was very surprised at this and began to think, "Gosh this Korean guy is really being great about this whole thing and he's even telling me to take care! I've got to show the same level of dignity and respect." So he turned and bellowed back to the Korean man "THANK YOU VERY MUCH!"
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Thanksliving
The nursery was quiet and still. No sounds echoed in the darkened corridors of the Home. A place that was normally teeming with the activities and shouts of dozens of children now seemed unnatural in its peace and calm. It was Thanksgiving Day and all of the children had been taken to various places for the holiday meal. Some to volunteer families' homes, some to homes of the employees of the Home, and others to a local church's dinner. Everyone had been given a chance to experience the expressions of thanksgiving and love, everyone except one.
Far down the hallway in the last room on the right, an enclosed bed sat tucked away in the corner, its occupant seemingly forgotten. No noise came from the bed apart from an occasional grunt and a shifting sound. After a time, the sound of heels striking against the hardwood floor of the hallway approached the room, breaking the heavy silence. Two aides came into the room and crossed to the bed. "Hey Buddy," crooned the shorter of the two, "How are you?" She stroked the rigid hand clenched tightly against the chest. Vacant eyes stared up at the women. "His meds are due in about 10 minutes or so," said the other aide, looking at a log chart. "Do you really want to stay here the whole time with him Dani? We could just give him his medicine and then go eat those Turkey day dinners they donated to the Home. We can watch him in the monitors and hanging out in the common room wouldn't be so bad." "No thanks Anna. You go on home to your family. I don't mind staying here with him until the other kids get back." replied Dani, reaching out to cover the spastic legs with a fleece blanket. "O.K. Call if you need anything." The echo of Anna's footsteps gradually receded down the hall, leaving Dani alone with her charge. She lowered the metal railing and bent over the stiff figure that was rocking slightly. "Come on Anto, let's get you some Thanksgiving dinner."
Twenty minutes later, Dani had completed the arduous task of wrestling the rigid boy into a eating chair, strapping down his flailing extremities, and securing a bib of twice the normal size around his neck. "Alright mister, here's your very own turkey, dressing, and mashed potatoes with gravy, pureed to especial perfection." Dani inserted the first bite of the gooey mixture into the gaping mouth and waited for Anto to register that something was actually in there. Presently, the gumming and grinding began and Dani patiently began the long process of feeding Anto. Again she put more food into his mouth and again most of it fell out or was spit out, only to be scooped up and put back yet again. At last, the pains-taking ordeal was done and after the equally challenging job of changing the boy's diaper, Dani settled into a rocker with Anto who seemed like a over-sized baby with his long thin legs and big round head. As she rocked, Anto doubled up his legs and began to giggle softly. "Poor sweet boy," murmured Dani against his head. "They all thought you'd just be too much trouble for anyone to deal with...that their meal would be too disrupted by your neediness." A tear slid down Dani's cheek as she hugged the little boy tighter. "But they just don't know how much they are missing. The blessings that they could have received and been thankful for. The ones that I am thankful for." Dani rubbed Anto's back. "On this Thanksgiving Day Anto, I want to say thank you for being the miracle that you are. For showing me that there is so much more to life than the normal parameters allow. I know you will never be able to express any gratitude or love so here's mine for you." She bent down to lay place a kiss on Anto's cheek as he rocked himself in her lap, grunting and making other odd noises. Dani continued to rock even after Anto fell asleep and even as the sounds of returning people began to filter into the room. Finally, as the shadows lengthened across the room, the rocker slowed to a stop. Laying her cheek against Anto's, whispered words fell from Dani's lips.
"Thanksgiving is a time of cheer
To celebrate the warmth
Of family so near
But not for you.
It's a time of plenty
Where food, love, and laughter
Are shared by many
But not for you.
Thanks is given for much
And many prayers are said
For blessings and such
But not for you.
But in the heavens above
The mighty angels sing songs
Of pure joy and love
And it's all for you."
Dani rose and lifted Anto back into his railed bed. Tenderly covering him with his blankets, she bent down, put her lips against his ear and spoke three more words; "Happy Thanksgiving Anto."
Many of us have fond memories of Thanksgiving Day; I know I do anyway. The family, friends, fellowship, and of course, the food! This past Sunday I participated in a church Thanksgiving meal and was privileged to lead the congregation in singing "For the Beauty of the Earth". In one of the verses, it talks about the joy of human love "brother, sister, parent, child". As I was getting ready to go up and play, I started thinking about all those who don't know the joy of human love or have no family to be thankful for. I know I have been feeling a few pangs of loneliness because I am not able to be with the ones I love this Thanksgiving, but imagine if you had no one to miss and no one to miss you. I pondered over the unfairness-why it is that so many have this fate, particularly those who are less lovable. The boy in the story is just fiction but the reality is real; we pass over those who are unable to express love and gratitude more easily because it seems like a waste to expend emotion on them and because we believe they won't miss it anyways. But justification of neglect always falls flat. It got me thinking; what if families focused outward instead of inward at Thanksgiving? What if they opened up their circles to include the fatherless, the neglected, the handicapped? Isn't that the point of thanksgiving anyways? To give thanks, not just in word but in deed. By letting our gratitude for our blessings spill out and into the lives of others. Anto had someone who was like that for him, but what of all the others? The mentally and physically handicapped orphans of Eastern Europe who lay tied to their beds for days, months, years. The starving orphans of North Korea, their swollen bellies never having known a real meal. The special needs children languishing in hospitals and hospices of affluent North America because no one wants to shoulder the burden of their care. The kids in the projects of North Tulsa whose lives are filled with violence and broken homes. Who will be the ones to pour themselves out for the least of these?
So, my prayer for all of you, my family and friends, is that this would be an action oriented Thanksgiving. Let's not just give thanks on Thanksgiving, let's LIVE thanks.
Far down the hallway in the last room on the right, an enclosed bed sat tucked away in the corner, its occupant seemingly forgotten. No noise came from the bed apart from an occasional grunt and a shifting sound. After a time, the sound of heels striking against the hardwood floor of the hallway approached the room, breaking the heavy silence. Two aides came into the room and crossed to the bed. "Hey Buddy," crooned the shorter of the two, "How are you?" She stroked the rigid hand clenched tightly against the chest. Vacant eyes stared up at the women. "His meds are due in about 10 minutes or so," said the other aide, looking at a log chart. "Do you really want to stay here the whole time with him Dani? We could just give him his medicine and then go eat those Turkey day dinners they donated to the Home. We can watch him in the monitors and hanging out in the common room wouldn't be so bad." "No thanks Anna. You go on home to your family. I don't mind staying here with him until the other kids get back." replied Dani, reaching out to cover the spastic legs with a fleece blanket. "O.K. Call if you need anything." The echo of Anna's footsteps gradually receded down the hall, leaving Dani alone with her charge. She lowered the metal railing and bent over the stiff figure that was rocking slightly. "Come on Anto, let's get you some Thanksgiving dinner."
Twenty minutes later, Dani had completed the arduous task of wrestling the rigid boy into a eating chair, strapping down his flailing extremities, and securing a bib of twice the normal size around his neck. "Alright mister, here's your very own turkey, dressing, and mashed potatoes with gravy, pureed to especial perfection." Dani inserted the first bite of the gooey mixture into the gaping mouth and waited for Anto to register that something was actually in there. Presently, the gumming and grinding began and Dani patiently began the long process of feeding Anto. Again she put more food into his mouth and again most of it fell out or was spit out, only to be scooped up and put back yet again. At last, the pains-taking ordeal was done and after the equally challenging job of changing the boy's diaper, Dani settled into a rocker with Anto who seemed like a over-sized baby with his long thin legs and big round head. As she rocked, Anto doubled up his legs and began to giggle softly. "Poor sweet boy," murmured Dani against his head. "They all thought you'd just be too much trouble for anyone to deal with...that their meal would be too disrupted by your neediness." A tear slid down Dani's cheek as she hugged the little boy tighter. "But they just don't know how much they are missing. The blessings that they could have received and been thankful for. The ones that I am thankful for." Dani rubbed Anto's back. "On this Thanksgiving Day Anto, I want to say thank you for being the miracle that you are. For showing me that there is so much more to life than the normal parameters allow. I know you will never be able to express any gratitude or love so here's mine for you." She bent down to lay place a kiss on Anto's cheek as he rocked himself in her lap, grunting and making other odd noises. Dani continued to rock even after Anto fell asleep and even as the sounds of returning people began to filter into the room. Finally, as the shadows lengthened across the room, the rocker slowed to a stop. Laying her cheek against Anto's, whispered words fell from Dani's lips.
"Thanksgiving is a time of cheer
To celebrate the warmth
Of family so near
But not for you.
It's a time of plenty
Where food, love, and laughter
Are shared by many
But not for you.
Thanks is given for much
And many prayers are said
For blessings and such
But not for you.
But in the heavens above
The mighty angels sing songs
Of pure joy and love
And it's all for you."
Dani rose and lifted Anto back into his railed bed. Tenderly covering him with his blankets, she bent down, put her lips against his ear and spoke three more words; "Happy Thanksgiving Anto."
Many of us have fond memories of Thanksgiving Day; I know I do anyway. The family, friends, fellowship, and of course, the food! This past Sunday I participated in a church Thanksgiving meal and was privileged to lead the congregation in singing "For the Beauty of the Earth". In one of the verses, it talks about the joy of human love "brother, sister, parent, child". As I was getting ready to go up and play, I started thinking about all those who don't know the joy of human love or have no family to be thankful for. I know I have been feeling a few pangs of loneliness because I am not able to be with the ones I love this Thanksgiving, but imagine if you had no one to miss and no one to miss you. I pondered over the unfairness-why it is that so many have this fate, particularly those who are less lovable. The boy in the story is just fiction but the reality is real; we pass over those who are unable to express love and gratitude more easily because it seems like a waste to expend emotion on them and because we believe they won't miss it anyways. But justification of neglect always falls flat. It got me thinking; what if families focused outward instead of inward at Thanksgiving? What if they opened up their circles to include the fatherless, the neglected, the handicapped? Isn't that the point of thanksgiving anyways? To give thanks, not just in word but in deed. By letting our gratitude for our blessings spill out and into the lives of others. Anto had someone who was like that for him, but what of all the others? The mentally and physically handicapped orphans of Eastern Europe who lay tied to their beds for days, months, years. The starving orphans of North Korea, their swollen bellies never having known a real meal. The special needs children languishing in hospitals and hospices of affluent North America because no one wants to shoulder the burden of their care. The kids in the projects of North Tulsa whose lives are filled with violence and broken homes. Who will be the ones to pour themselves out for the least of these?
So, my prayer for all of you, my family and friends, is that this would be an action oriented Thanksgiving. Let's not just give thanks on Thanksgiving, let's LIVE thanks.
Monday, November 9, 2009
Erika's Gift
There once was an ordinary little girl who lived in a very ordinary world and did many ordinary things. One day, she was walking along when she happened upon a small silver box. "How curious," she thought, as she knelt down to pick it up. On the box was a white tag which read "Open me and receive a gift that will bring joy and pain, suffering and sorrow, sweetness and delight. Keep me closed and remain safe from all." She shivered with anticipation at the descriptions of goodness, cringed at the words of harshness.
She considered a long while, then with a quick motion removed the bow topped lid. "Oh how dreadfully disappointing. There's nothing inside." She stared down into the empty box for a moment and then replaced the lid and put the box back where she found it. "I should have known it would be nothing because nothing exciting or extraordinary ever happens to me," she thought as she walked away.
Time passed and the little girl grew into a young woman. She continued to live a very ordinary life filled with ordinary tasks like washing pile after pile of dirty dishes, tending to the needs of small children, cooking and baking endless meals, and dozens of other household chores. And despite her busyness, she also found time for ordinary volunteering and education.
Late one night as she lay in her bed drowsily considering all that lay before her the next day, a light suddenly appeared in the room. Startled, she looked up to see a beautiful lady dressed in white gazing at her with intense eyes and a gentle smile. "Who are you? What do you wha-," the girl began, but as she was forming the questions, the lady held up her hand. "I know you have many questions about me. There is a time and place for questions but now is not the time. My errand has one concern only and that is you." "Me? I am the reason you are here?" queried the girl curiously. "Yes. I am here to help you See," the lady of beauty answered. "See? I can see fine,"came the girl's quick defensive reply. "You can only see what you perceive is reality. I am here to help you see what is true and real. The Dimension of Truth we call it. I will take you there now."
The room began to spin and soon it was whirling so fast the girl was afraid she might be sick. But then the motion suddenly slowed and through the haze, the girl could perceive prism like lights and shadowy forms which gradually became various people and colors as her focus grew. As she gazed around her, the girl could see bright gems shimmering in the inside of all the people around her. There was a strangely familiar feel to the whole atmosphere and as she focused more, she began to recognize the people as her family and friends. "What is happening?" she asked. "Why do they all have those precious gems inside them?" "You put them there," the beautiful lady said smilingly. "Me? No, no, I couldn't have. You must be confused," said the girl in a state of bewilderment. "No, it was you and only you," the lady reiterated with a small laugh. "But, how? I am just an ordinary girl without any special powers or extraordinary gifts," stammered the confused girl. "Oh, but you do have a gift, a very special and powerful one. Think back to the day you found a mysterious box and the inscription on that box which described all the risks and delights of its contents. You opened the box knowing that the gift would bring those things and yet you were willing to accept this double sided offering. You thought the box was empty but in fact, that day you DID receive a gift. One that is not perceptible to the ordinary senses. It is called The Compassionate Servant's Heart. Look down. You can see it now." The girl looked down at the area where her heart was located and there, gleaming with an inner glow, was an exquisite gem sparkling with myriads of colors. She gasped in amazement. "I never knew it was there" she whispered, gazing in rapt wonder. "Those who have the gift never do know" said the lady. "They are always too busy giving it away to notice what a treasure they really have." "I have been giving away my gift without ever having the knowledge of its possession?" asked the girl, still trying to understand. "Yes, and therein lies the real beauty and power of this gift. Because the possessor is unaware of their gift, they constantly give it away through the smallest of actions and the most insignificant of words. Watch now and see what the power of your gift has done."
The girl directed her attention in the direction the beautiful woman pointed and as she watched, scenes from her life began to unfold. But now she saw them through unveiled eyes and she stared as she saw the glittering diamonds drip from her fingers into the sudsy dishwater, extraordinary rubies with heart shapes explode from her chest into others as she hugged them, fed them, and gave them medicine, baths, and all forms of love and care, breathtakingly shaped sapphires and topaz stones roll from her tongue as she sang songs at work or to small ears. In the dull, gray landscape of her life, the colors of her gift began to so transform and change it that soon the shimmer and sparkle was hard to bear. But as she looked on with a feeling of intense pleasure, the girl started to feel sharp jabs of pain. "Oh, what is that pain?" she gasped, stunned by its force. "Now you are feeling both sides of your gift. In its impartation, sometimes the gift will cost you great pain and sorrow. At times it must be given in the most humbling and lowliest of circumstances. The Compassionate Servant's Heart has to be broken sometimes in order for you to bestow it," explained the lady with a sympathetic look. The girl, bowed by the intensity of suffering, wished silently that she had never opened the box, never accepted this wonderful gift with its terrible responsibility. But as she considered a life without her gift, she remembered the colorless landscape and lifeless faces which had preceded it. "No I would not change it, even to give myself a better life or situation, free of pain and subservient duties. If I can help bring but a little change to the world around me with my gift, then it is worth all the unpleasantness to gain the pleasure." "You have chosen wisely," a silvery voice said as the air began to swirl and swim around her.
Dawn was breaking as the girl sat up in bed and rubbed her eyes wearily. "That was not a restful night," she thought. "I can't remember any of my dream but it must have been a real adventure because I'm exhausted!" The girl got up and began to go about her usual ordinary tasks but unconsciously there was an extra tenderness in her touch, softness in her voice, and eagerness in her service. And even though the girl never remembered the dream or the beautiful lady who had helped her See, the lingering effects of that subconscious knowledge continue to impact and be felt by all those around her. And I am one of them.
This story was written as a tribute to my sister Erika, whose birthday it happens to be today. She is the possessor of a Compassionate Servant's Heart and I can't think of all the ways in which she has blessed me and many others by her loving heart, crinkly-eyed smile and infectious laugh, her service, and her joyous spirit. All those who know her love her and this is the reason: because the compassionate servant heart of the Savior, Jesus, beats inside her. I know this probably better than most because I was her roommate (and restless bunk mate) for many years. That alone is testimony of her gracious heart! Erika is not only a sister to me, she is also a best friend, a true companion, and best of all, a sister in Christ. She is one of a kind and I just want to say "Happy, Happy Birthday to you Erk! I love you and miss you more than I will ever let on."
She considered a long while, then with a quick motion removed the bow topped lid. "Oh how dreadfully disappointing. There's nothing inside." She stared down into the empty box for a moment and then replaced the lid and put the box back where she found it. "I should have known it would be nothing because nothing exciting or extraordinary ever happens to me," she thought as she walked away.
Time passed and the little girl grew into a young woman. She continued to live a very ordinary life filled with ordinary tasks like washing pile after pile of dirty dishes, tending to the needs of small children, cooking and baking endless meals, and dozens of other household chores. And despite her busyness, she also found time for ordinary volunteering and education.
Late one night as she lay in her bed drowsily considering all that lay before her the next day, a light suddenly appeared in the room. Startled, she looked up to see a beautiful lady dressed in white gazing at her with intense eyes and a gentle smile. "Who are you? What do you wha-," the girl began, but as she was forming the questions, the lady held up her hand. "I know you have many questions about me. There is a time and place for questions but now is not the time. My errand has one concern only and that is you." "Me? I am the reason you are here?" queried the girl curiously. "Yes. I am here to help you See," the lady of beauty answered. "See? I can see fine,"came the girl's quick defensive reply. "You can only see what you perceive is reality. I am here to help you see what is true and real. The Dimension of Truth we call it. I will take you there now."
The room began to spin and soon it was whirling so fast the girl was afraid she might be sick. But then the motion suddenly slowed and through the haze, the girl could perceive prism like lights and shadowy forms which gradually became various people and colors as her focus grew. As she gazed around her, the girl could see bright gems shimmering in the inside of all the people around her. There was a strangely familiar feel to the whole atmosphere and as she focused more, she began to recognize the people as her family and friends. "What is happening?" she asked. "Why do they all have those precious gems inside them?" "You put them there," the beautiful lady said smilingly. "Me? No, no, I couldn't have. You must be confused," said the girl in a state of bewilderment. "No, it was you and only you," the lady reiterated with a small laugh. "But, how? I am just an ordinary girl without any special powers or extraordinary gifts," stammered the confused girl. "Oh, but you do have a gift, a very special and powerful one. Think back to the day you found a mysterious box and the inscription on that box which described all the risks and delights of its contents. You opened the box knowing that the gift would bring those things and yet you were willing to accept this double sided offering. You thought the box was empty but in fact, that day you DID receive a gift. One that is not perceptible to the ordinary senses. It is called The Compassionate Servant's Heart. Look down. You can see it now." The girl looked down at the area where her heart was located and there, gleaming with an inner glow, was an exquisite gem sparkling with myriads of colors. She gasped in amazement. "I never knew it was there" she whispered, gazing in rapt wonder. "Those who have the gift never do know" said the lady. "They are always too busy giving it away to notice what a treasure they really have." "I have been giving away my gift without ever having the knowledge of its possession?" asked the girl, still trying to understand. "Yes, and therein lies the real beauty and power of this gift. Because the possessor is unaware of their gift, they constantly give it away through the smallest of actions and the most insignificant of words. Watch now and see what the power of your gift has done."
The girl directed her attention in the direction the beautiful woman pointed and as she watched, scenes from her life began to unfold. But now she saw them through unveiled eyes and she stared as she saw the glittering diamonds drip from her fingers into the sudsy dishwater, extraordinary rubies with heart shapes explode from her chest into others as she hugged them, fed them, and gave them medicine, baths, and all forms of love and care, breathtakingly shaped sapphires and topaz stones roll from her tongue as she sang songs at work or to small ears. In the dull, gray landscape of her life, the colors of her gift began to so transform and change it that soon the shimmer and sparkle was hard to bear. But as she looked on with a feeling of intense pleasure, the girl started to feel sharp jabs of pain. "Oh, what is that pain?" she gasped, stunned by its force. "Now you are feeling both sides of your gift. In its impartation, sometimes the gift will cost you great pain and sorrow. At times it must be given in the most humbling and lowliest of circumstances. The Compassionate Servant's Heart has to be broken sometimes in order for you to bestow it," explained the lady with a sympathetic look. The girl, bowed by the intensity of suffering, wished silently that she had never opened the box, never accepted this wonderful gift with its terrible responsibility. But as she considered a life without her gift, she remembered the colorless landscape and lifeless faces which had preceded it. "No I would not change it, even to give myself a better life or situation, free of pain and subservient duties. If I can help bring but a little change to the world around me with my gift, then it is worth all the unpleasantness to gain the pleasure." "You have chosen wisely," a silvery voice said as the air began to swirl and swim around her.
Dawn was breaking as the girl sat up in bed and rubbed her eyes wearily. "That was not a restful night," she thought. "I can't remember any of my dream but it must have been a real adventure because I'm exhausted!" The girl got up and began to go about her usual ordinary tasks but unconsciously there was an extra tenderness in her touch, softness in her voice, and eagerness in her service. And even though the girl never remembered the dream or the beautiful lady who had helped her See, the lingering effects of that subconscious knowledge continue to impact and be felt by all those around her. And I am one of them.
This story was written as a tribute to my sister Erika, whose birthday it happens to be today. She is the possessor of a Compassionate Servant's Heart and I can't think of all the ways in which she has blessed me and many others by her loving heart, crinkly-eyed smile and infectious laugh, her service, and her joyous spirit. All those who know her love her and this is the reason: because the compassionate servant heart of the Savior, Jesus, beats inside her. I know this probably better than most because I was her roommate (and restless bunk mate) for many years. That alone is testimony of her gracious heart! Erika is not only a sister to me, she is also a best friend, a true companion, and best of all, a sister in Christ. She is one of a kind and I just want to say "Happy, Happy Birthday to you Erk! I love you and miss you more than I will ever let on."
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Happy Birthday Jonah!
Today is my "little" brother Jonah's birthday. I don't really have anything unique or clever to say, just that I'm so glad he's my brother and that he celebrates 17 years of life with my family today. I remember back when my mom was pregnant with Jo and found out what she was having. She gathered us around and said "We're going to have another 'wave rider' (our nickname for Noah, the first boy after 4 girls) !" We were all so excited. Then, when he was born, we found out he should have been dubbed "wave maker" because that's what he did. He created huge waves of turmoil by his emergency entrance into the world (due to placental abruption) And afterward, Mom was in a state of shock over this big baby with the huge head and huge eyes that looked so different from all the rest of us. And now that cute baby has turned into a handsome young man with killer dimples in cheeks and chin.
But just like the way he came into the world with a bang, I believe Jonah is going to be a "wave maker" in the world. He sometimes reminds me of the apostle Peter, who was impulsive and passionate, often speaking before thinking and acting on the best of intentions but ending in disaster. And like Peter, Jo may have to learn some hard lessons - the hard way - before he is fit to do the work God has for him. But I believe that Jonah will grow in God and become a man who serves the Lord with all his might. A man who will do great things for the Kingdom and be a real "wave maker" for the glory of the Father.
So, in that vein, I just want to say "Keep going hard after God Jonah. Take that impulsive nature and use it to serve God impulsively. Be passionate about the things of God. Happy Birthday JO-JO! I Love You!!
But just like the way he came into the world with a bang, I believe Jonah is going to be a "wave maker" in the world. He sometimes reminds me of the apostle Peter, who was impulsive and passionate, often speaking before thinking and acting on the best of intentions but ending in disaster. And like Peter, Jo may have to learn some hard lessons - the hard way - before he is fit to do the work God has for him. But I believe that Jonah will grow in God and become a man who serves the Lord with all his might. A man who will do great things for the Kingdom and be a real "wave maker" for the glory of the Father.
So, in that vein, I just want to say "Keep going hard after God Jonah. Take that impulsive nature and use it to serve God impulsively. Be passionate about the things of God. Happy Birthday JO-JO! I Love You!!
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