Today’s been one of those thinking days, a lot of unnecessary over-thinking, but some completely necessary thinking. With that thinking comes a lot of life evaluation, some doubt, and some praise and thanks
I’m sitting here and listening to Telecast, and as I do I find myself sad about Josh Whites departure at Solid Rock. For those who don’t know, Josh White is the worship leader at my church, and he’s recently left in order to plant another church in Portland. While I’m overjoyed at the idea that he’s following God’s calling on his life and bringing the Kingdom of Heaven to earth, I continue to find myself sad that he won’t be leading anymore, and as that emotion comes I reevaluate my position towards church. If I can get upset that worship is no longer going to be lead by this one man, than maybe the reasons I go to church are wrong. Church should not be about what I can gain, but what I can give to it, and as I sit here and see the reaction to one man’s absence I realize that maybe I’m wrong.
I’ve also found myself having doubts about my life, about choices that are coming my way, about things that are coming on. When I say doubt, I don’t necessarily mean I question what I’m doing, but rather think to myself “what the heck am I supposed to be doing with what’s already been given to me?” Life’s not about what happens, but how we react to it, and that’s where I’m stuck over thinking. It comforts me to know that if I devote my life to God, that everything else will fall into place. It comforts me to know that what God has in store for me far surpasses anything that I could set up for myself. As I was walking, thinking about my questions, feeling bad about doubts it hit me (maybe it was God walking me up?). People say that if you don’t have doubts about God/the Bible then you’re not digging deep enough, or trying hard enough. Well maybe if I wasn’t trying hard enough, or digging deep enough into this life that God has given me then I wouldn’t be having these doubts. Maybe it’s a blessing that I may have the doubts I’m having. Either way I know that I need to get over it and start praising the God who blesses me beyond measure, beyond anything I deserve. Praise God.
With all that said, today was our last excursion. We went to a place called Stellenbosch (spelling?). Stellenbosch is the second oldest city in South Africa (not that it looks that way) and is known for its vineyards. We got to eat a great mean at one of the vineyards, got to hang around, and the big climax…we got to go to a cheetah farm. This place raises cheetahs to raise awareness of the decrease of the population. We payed a small fee to get into the place, and then you could pay more to actually go in and pet a cheetah. I opted to save money, but still was blown away about being so close to these animals that I was actually able to reach through the fence and touch a few of them who were laying down…maybe not a good idea, but I did it.
Anyway that’s about it for now. Today was the first day that I’ve really wanted to be home. I want to see my family, my friends, etc. I guess it’s coming at the right time, but I’m going to still fight to enjoy and seize every second I have left here. Pray for the same please. Good chatting with you all!
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
4.29.09
It’s become custom to start my blog with something like, “well I’m two more days in.” Or, “Since I wrote last…” So I’ll start with this, hey I’m Alex, I’m six feet three inches tall, I like soft rock and chick flicks, I’m really good at clipping my fingernails, and I have allergies so I always blow my nose really loud in the morning.
Ok, now that I’ve broke my boring patter, I’ll start. I’m now two more days in and since I last wrote I’ve had some fun as usual. Monday, after my last blog, I headed down to the city with two of my friends and chilled. The city is really rad, but I’m kind of done with it. I love Portland more than Cape Town; Portland my home, where I’ve lived for a long time. Therefore, as I would probably get a little tired of going to Portland all the time, I’m about ready to not go back into the city anymore haha. While it lasts though, I’m having a blast. Learning from what’s around me. It’s really interesting because the poor community is so large, and they’re so in your face about giving them money. It’s not like anything in the states, and while it’s sad to see, it’s provides great opportunity to interact with these people. We’ve been blessed to buy groceries for a homeless 18 year old, we’ve invited some homeless to eat lunch with us, and we’ve definitely given money to more than we can count on one hand. It’s all a blessing, and it’s really cool to see how my mindset over the years has gone from, ‘I’m doing good to these people, to God is really blessing me with an opportunity to serve him.’
With that being it for Monday, yesterday we got to head into the city once again on an excursion to an area called Bo-Kaap. Bo-Kaap is a large Islamic community. We got to learn about the religion, about the culture, the community etc. It was really cool to learn what goes on and why, and to see that they’re not crazy like a lot of naïve Christians (me being one) label them as. A few of us went down to the waterfront afterwards, did some chillin there, hopped in a comvi (a big taxi bus thing that is very unsafe and we’re advised not to take…don’t tell my host parents, they wouldn’t be happy) back to the train, and headed back home. The rest of the day was filled with nothing to spectacular, little homework, little Prison Break, little Barcelona Chelsea match, etc.
That’s about it for now. God’s good as always. I’m so relieved to once again be excited to head back home. Cape Town has been a great transitional stage. It’s still tough to think about all this ending…very surreal. I’ll talk to you all later. Love.
Ok, now that I’ve broke my boring patter, I’ll start. I’m now two more days in and since I last wrote I’ve had some fun as usual. Monday, after my last blog, I headed down to the city with two of my friends and chilled. The city is really rad, but I’m kind of done with it. I love Portland more than Cape Town; Portland my home, where I’ve lived for a long time. Therefore, as I would probably get a little tired of going to Portland all the time, I’m about ready to not go back into the city anymore haha. While it lasts though, I’m having a blast. Learning from what’s around me. It’s really interesting because the poor community is so large, and they’re so in your face about giving them money. It’s not like anything in the states, and while it’s sad to see, it’s provides great opportunity to interact with these people. We’ve been blessed to buy groceries for a homeless 18 year old, we’ve invited some homeless to eat lunch with us, and we’ve definitely given money to more than we can count on one hand. It’s all a blessing, and it’s really cool to see how my mindset over the years has gone from, ‘I’m doing good to these people, to God is really blessing me with an opportunity to serve him.’
With that being it for Monday, yesterday we got to head into the city once again on an excursion to an area called Bo-Kaap. Bo-Kaap is a large Islamic community. We got to learn about the religion, about the culture, the community etc. It was really cool to learn what goes on and why, and to see that they’re not crazy like a lot of naïve Christians (me being one) label them as. A few of us went down to the waterfront afterwards, did some chillin there, hopped in a comvi (a big taxi bus thing that is very unsafe and we’re advised not to take…don’t tell my host parents, they wouldn’t be happy) back to the train, and headed back home. The rest of the day was filled with nothing to spectacular, little homework, little Prison Break, little Barcelona Chelsea match, etc.
That’s about it for now. God’s good as always. I’m so relieved to once again be excited to head back home. Cape Town has been a great transitional stage. It’s still tough to think about all this ending…very surreal. I’ll talk to you all later. Love.
Monday, April 27, 2009
4.27.09
Since I wrote last I haven’t done much. Saturday, following my last blog post, I went home and didn’t leave the homestay for the remainder of the day. I watched some WWE, played some indoor (hallway) soccer, watched some Prison Break, and that’s it.
Sunday started, as Dave would say, “earlier than sin.” We were up and out of the house for church at 6:45. I’m still not sure if God is even up that early. Our host family took us to their church, an Anglican church – a very cool cultural experience. Following, we went back home and back to bed. Last night I was able to go to Hillsong Cape Town, which was planted just over a year ago. Phil Dooley, Hillsong’s youth pastor for years left Australia and is now the pastor at the church. Worship was great! It was just very fun, very cool, and I’m glad I got to do it. That’s it though for now.
I’m starting to think more about home, getting more excited to go home. This Cape Town experience has been such a blessing in getting me transitioned to go home. It’s not that I don’t like it here, I’m having a great time, but I’m ready to see home, see family, see friends, see life as I know it. Anyway, that’s it. I’m about to head into the city for the day to kick it as usual. See ya!
Sunday started, as Dave would say, “earlier than sin.” We were up and out of the house for church at 6:45. I’m still not sure if God is even up that early. Our host family took us to their church, an Anglican church – a very cool cultural experience. Following, we went back home and back to bed. Last night I was able to go to Hillsong Cape Town, which was planted just over a year ago. Phil Dooley, Hillsong’s youth pastor for years left Australia and is now the pastor at the church. Worship was great! It was just very fun, very cool, and I’m glad I got to do it. That’s it though for now.
I’m starting to think more about home, getting more excited to go home. This Cape Town experience has been such a blessing in getting me transitioned to go home. It’s not that I don’t like it here, I’m having a great time, but I’m ready to see home, see family, see friends, see life as I know it. Anyway, that’s it. I’m about to head into the city for the day to kick it as usual. See ya!
Saturday, April 25, 2009
4.25.09
Well we have a beautifully rainy Saturday morning on our hands today in Cape Town. First morning in weeks we’ve got to sleep in, that’s why I woke up at 730 and failed to get back to sleep…just how the cookie crumbles I guess. Anyway, these past few days have been pretty rad. Let’s see, Wednesday was just class, nothing too special that I can remember. To be honest I can’t really separate…wait yes, I climbed up Table Mountain again on Wednesday, which was even better the second time around cause the mountain wasn’t engulfed in a cloud so we could see the view. It was amazing! I’m sure some pics will go up on facebook so check those out if you get a chance. Let’s see…Thursday was our tour of the cape. It was a lot of driving on a bus, but we did get to make two really cool stops. One at Cape Point (the southern most tip of Southwest Africa, and another at a penguin zoo haha. Cape Point was beautiful, when the clouds passed so we could see things, and the penguins were of course awesome too.
Yesterday, Friday, we had class again in the morning, we headed to the city after that to grab some lunch and kick it. It was fun as usual. As I spend more time in Cape Town I’m finding that yes it is beautiful, but I think the reason it gets so much praise in America is because it is an American city. In my opinion, I’d way rather be in other areas of South Africa any day of the week, but if you like American cities then you’ll like Cape Town. Anyway, last night we got to go play some cricket, which much to my assumption, after playing it, it still is a boring sport. Haha! Baseball is awesome, cricket is not. Call it my bias, my worldview, whatever you want, but I think cricket is an awful sport.
Anyway, that leads me to where I am now, enjoying life as usual. I get to go to Hillsong Cape Town tomorrow which should be pretty rad, but that’s about it for now. Life’s a blessing as usual. Miss everyone, and I’m pumped to see you all!
Yesterday, Friday, we had class again in the morning, we headed to the city after that to grab some lunch and kick it. It was fun as usual. As I spend more time in Cape Town I’m finding that yes it is beautiful, but I think the reason it gets so much praise in America is because it is an American city. In my opinion, I’d way rather be in other areas of South Africa any day of the week, but if you like American cities then you’ll like Cape Town. Anyway, last night we got to go play some cricket, which much to my assumption, after playing it, it still is a boring sport. Haha! Baseball is awesome, cricket is not. Call it my bias, my worldview, whatever you want, but I think cricket is an awful sport.
Anyway, that leads me to where I am now, enjoying life as usual. I get to go to Hillsong Cape Town tomorrow which should be pretty rad, but that’s about it for now. Life’s a blessing as usual. Miss everyone, and I’m pumped to see you all!
Friday, April 24, 2009
4.21.09
Hello hello hello! The clock remains to tick down to our return home, and I got to say I’m looking forward to it. Since my last post, I’ve had two somewhat uneventful days, sorry. Yesterday we had class, got some lunch, and headed home for the night. Today was a little more exciting. We got to go to Robben Island, the Alcatraz of South Africa. Robben Island is a prison off the coast of Cape Town. Originally it was created to quarentine lepers, but when apartheid came around, it was used for political prisioner holding…only of blacks whites and colored though…obviously. Oh yeah quick note, while the word “colored” is completely politically incorrect in America, it’s absolutely fine to use here. People are either white, black, or colored (if they’re anything in between all white and all black). Anyway…Robben Island is most famous for housing Nelson Mandela during apartheid. I have to be honest, while the idea of this place was cool, it was just alright. I was expected the awesomeness of Alcatraz, but found a much more spread out, much less “this is how it was” island. Nonetheless, it was cool.
That’s about it for now. I might make another hike up table mountain tomorrow, we’ll have to see. For now though, I’m going to play some guitar, maybe watch a movie, and got to bed. See you later!
That’s about it for now. I might make another hike up table mountain tomorrow, we’ll have to see. For now though, I’m going to play some guitar, maybe watch a movie, and got to bed. See you later!
Sunday, April 19, 2009
2 more blog posts
4.17.09
Well we’re now another two days in. 2 days that couldn’t be any more different from the past 3ish months. Pietermartizburg was so relaxed, so tranquil, and so empowering for an introvert like me. Cape Town on the other hand, is beautifully chaotic. Yesterday, our first full day here in our homestays, we headed into a nearby Township to walk around. The township was so amazing to see. After spending a month in Haniville, where there is so much potential, but so little hope, we were blessed to see a township that is on the rise. A township where people look after each other; where people seek the interest of one another. It was pretty rad. After that we headed back to the college, walked around for a little bit, then walked back home.
Walking to and from college is an interesting experience in itself. We’re only a 10-15 minute walk from the school, yet it’s rather sketch. Out of all the places I’ve been so far in South Africa, the only time I’ve felt unsafe at all was yesterday walking home. We’re not even allowed to walk anywhere at night, but even during the day you’ve got to be smart about what you’re doing…it’s kind of cool though to experience this.
Today we had our first Anthropology class. It seems like it’ll be pretty cool – a lot of discussion about what we’re seeing, what we’re experiencing, and how things are impacting us. Reflection’s always good, so we’ll see. Following class, a big group of us headed onto the train to go down into the city. We at lunch, hung out a little market, and enjoyed our time there. Since then, we’ve just arrived back at our homestay, ate some dinner, and relaxed…what our family is all about.
This whole experiencing is transitioning me for coming home, so I’m becoming more excited to see everyone. Hope all is well!
4.19.09 20:04
Hello all! I’m two more days into the Cape Town adventure, and therefore, much to everyone’s surprise, I’ve done two more days of fun stuff…weird how that works.
Yesterday (Saturday), we went up to the infamous table mountain…or tabletop mountain, I can never remember what it’s called. The mountains here are unlike anything I’ve ever seen so I’m super fascinated by them. The weather wasn’t up to par, so when we got there, the fog-engulfed mountain caused about half of the group to opt out of the hike. The other half of us headed right up to the top. It was tough, but so much fun. Once we got up to the top, we were able to imagine what it would have looked like to see the whole city of Cape Town, we at lunch, and we headed back down. While it was disappointing not to see the view, it was totally worth it to get some exercise, enjoy people’s company, and experience the diversity of God’s creation.
Last night a couple of us wanted to go out, so the two other houses near mine and Dave’s headed over and we began planning on getting out of here. We’re beginning to realize that we’re being hosted by the entire senior-citizen community of Cape Town. Therefore, just as much of the older generations throughout this world (I say most because my grandparents are hip) are a little out of the times, so are our hosts. While they are so sweet, and want only what’s best for us, they are convinced that the private taxis, those that are expensive, safe, and made for tourists, are the most dangerous thing that’s ever hit this earth. Therefore, upon not wanting to keep our parents out way past our bedtime, we decided to stay back, watch a movie, and chill. It was sweet, I would rather do the movie thing most of the time anyway so I had no complaints. It was humorous though.
Today, we went to see a comedy show done by a man who dresses up like a girl and ends up looking lot like Mrs. Doubtfire (if you have’t seen that movie DO IT!). Anyway, they guy/girl knows a ton about politics, and his/her entire sketch is funny and very educational. The only problem is that the 3% of his sketch that is done in Afrikaans just happens to be all the punch lines. So we’d be sitting there, following everything, and then he switch to Afrikaans for two sentences, the crowd would bust up laughing, and the 5 tables in front from America would be staring blankly into the eyes. While it was tough not understanding what was going on, I would definitely say that the guy/girl was a high caliber comedian – he knew his stuff.
Other than that, today’s been homework and about to be sleep…I’m super tired. The days are counting down until I’m home, and I gotta say I’m pretty excited!
Well we’re now another two days in. 2 days that couldn’t be any more different from the past 3ish months. Pietermartizburg was so relaxed, so tranquil, and so empowering for an introvert like me. Cape Town on the other hand, is beautifully chaotic. Yesterday, our first full day here in our homestays, we headed into a nearby Township to walk around. The township was so amazing to see. After spending a month in Haniville, where there is so much potential, but so little hope, we were blessed to see a township that is on the rise. A township where people look after each other; where people seek the interest of one another. It was pretty rad. After that we headed back to the college, walked around for a little bit, then walked back home.
Walking to and from college is an interesting experience in itself. We’re only a 10-15 minute walk from the school, yet it’s rather sketch. Out of all the places I’ve been so far in South Africa, the only time I’ve felt unsafe at all was yesterday walking home. We’re not even allowed to walk anywhere at night, but even during the day you’ve got to be smart about what you’re doing…it’s kind of cool though to experience this.
Today we had our first Anthropology class. It seems like it’ll be pretty cool – a lot of discussion about what we’re seeing, what we’re experiencing, and how things are impacting us. Reflection’s always good, so we’ll see. Following class, a big group of us headed onto the train to go down into the city. We at lunch, hung out a little market, and enjoyed our time there. Since then, we’ve just arrived back at our homestay, ate some dinner, and relaxed…what our family is all about.
This whole experiencing is transitioning me for coming home, so I’m becoming more excited to see everyone. Hope all is well!
4.19.09 20:04
Hello all! I’m two more days into the Cape Town adventure, and therefore, much to everyone’s surprise, I’ve done two more days of fun stuff…weird how that works.
Yesterday (Saturday), we went up to the infamous table mountain…or tabletop mountain, I can never remember what it’s called. The mountains here are unlike anything I’ve ever seen so I’m super fascinated by them. The weather wasn’t up to par, so when we got there, the fog-engulfed mountain caused about half of the group to opt out of the hike. The other half of us headed right up to the top. It was tough, but so much fun. Once we got up to the top, we were able to imagine what it would have looked like to see the whole city of Cape Town, we at lunch, and we headed back down. While it was disappointing not to see the view, it was totally worth it to get some exercise, enjoy people’s company, and experience the diversity of God’s creation.
Last night a couple of us wanted to go out, so the two other houses near mine and Dave’s headed over and we began planning on getting out of here. We’re beginning to realize that we’re being hosted by the entire senior-citizen community of Cape Town. Therefore, just as much of the older generations throughout this world (I say most because my grandparents are hip) are a little out of the times, so are our hosts. While they are so sweet, and want only what’s best for us, they are convinced that the private taxis, those that are expensive, safe, and made for tourists, are the most dangerous thing that’s ever hit this earth. Therefore, upon not wanting to keep our parents out way past our bedtime, we decided to stay back, watch a movie, and chill. It was sweet, I would rather do the movie thing most of the time anyway so I had no complaints. It was humorous though.
Today, we went to see a comedy show done by a man who dresses up like a girl and ends up looking lot like Mrs. Doubtfire (if you have’t seen that movie DO IT!). Anyway, they guy/girl knows a ton about politics, and his/her entire sketch is funny and very educational. The only problem is that the 3% of his sketch that is done in Afrikaans just happens to be all the punch lines. So we’d be sitting there, following everything, and then he switch to Afrikaans for two sentences, the crowd would bust up laughing, and the 5 tables in front from America would be staring blankly into the eyes. While it was tough not understanding what was going on, I would definitely say that the guy/girl was a high caliber comedian – he knew his stuff.
Other than that, today’s been homework and about to be sleep…I’m super tired. The days are counting down until I’m home, and I gotta say I’m pretty excited!
Friday, April 17, 2009
4.15.09
Well as I write I’m sitting in my new home, with my new dad Brian, Watching the Man U game. Somehow, but divine intervention and prayer, I’m doing my home stay with Dave….it’s pretty supreme….I’ll get to that a little later though, let me fill you in on the last few days.
Sunday was Easter, as the whole world knows. We went to a Sunday service at a super conservative church, it was fun. Following that, we were able to chill at the beach all day long. Our hotel was right on the East London beach, and boy was it beautiful, especially at night. Being one of the last days we would all be living together, we soaked up our together time…and it was amazing.
Monday brought something new…skydiving at Bloukrans Bungy, a 216 meter bungy jump that holds the world record for highest bungy jump. It was surreal. I’ve been skydiving before, but I personally like bungy jumping more…much more of a rush. It was really funny, I had no nerves prior to the jump at all. I was super pumped, but no nerves…I think that makes me a freak. Anyway, as soon as I jumped all of a sudden my mindset was, ‘dear lord what the heck have I done!?!?’ Within a second I realized what was going on, and was safe. I’ll attach pictures if internet connection allows once I get around to posting this tomorrow, if not I’ll hopefully get it on facebook. The remainder of the day was traveling, and then making it to our stay for the night, which was an awesome place. We didn’t to see much of it during the day, but it was really sweet at night!
Tuesday was our last travel day. We began by heading through Cango caves, which area just what they’re called, caves. Some tight squeezes allowed for some excitement, and overall it was super rad. Following that we headed to an ostrich farm which again, just like it sounds, was an ostrich farm. Ostriches are officially my least favorite animal in the world I think. I just don’t like them, but God calls me to love my enemies so I’m working on that. I’ll never like them though. After another several hours of driving we finally made it to Cape Town. It was an interesting night emotionally. We’re all a little upset about leaving Pietermaritzburg in the first place, so ending up in Cape Town at night kind of threw us all for a loop. Waking up to what we did though was amazing.
Cape Town is the closest thing to America we’ve experienced. A 180 degree turn from what we’ve been living in for the past 2 and a half months. Today they let us loose. We were given a list of 15 places to go / things to do and we spent the next 4 hours walking throughout Cape Town. While exhausting, it was a ton of fun. From there we headed to Cornerstone Christian College, where we’ll be studying, and met our host parents. My host parents are a couple with 2 sons around 40 years old, and 2 granddaughters that are our age. We’re in an awesome house, me and Dave that is, and I think we’ll be spoiled to death. It’s amazing!
Anyway, we’re finally settling in so I’m going to enjoy the company for the next few minutes and then get a good night of sleep for the first time in a while. I don’t know how the whole internet thing is going. I’m just going to keep writing blogs on word and then just posting when I get internet. If it’s tough, then it’s only 3 weeks so whatever. I’ll talk to you all soon. Love.
Sunday was Easter, as the whole world knows. We went to a Sunday service at a super conservative church, it was fun. Following that, we were able to chill at the beach all day long. Our hotel was right on the East London beach, and boy was it beautiful, especially at night. Being one of the last days we would all be living together, we soaked up our together time…and it was amazing.
Monday brought something new…skydiving at Bloukrans Bungy, a 216 meter bungy jump that holds the world record for highest bungy jump. It was surreal. I’ve been skydiving before, but I personally like bungy jumping more…much more of a rush. It was really funny, I had no nerves prior to the jump at all. I was super pumped, but no nerves…I think that makes me a freak. Anyway, as soon as I jumped all of a sudden my mindset was, ‘dear lord what the heck have I done!?!?’ Within a second I realized what was going on, and was safe. I’ll attach pictures if internet connection allows once I get around to posting this tomorrow, if not I’ll hopefully get it on facebook. The remainder of the day was traveling, and then making it to our stay for the night, which was an awesome place. We didn’t to see much of it during the day, but it was really sweet at night!
Tuesday was our last travel day. We began by heading through Cango caves, which area just what they’re called, caves. Some tight squeezes allowed for some excitement, and overall it was super rad. Following that we headed to an ostrich farm which again, just like it sounds, was an ostrich farm. Ostriches are officially my least favorite animal in the world I think. I just don’t like them, but God calls me to love my enemies so I’m working on that. I’ll never like them though. After another several hours of driving we finally made it to Cape Town. It was an interesting night emotionally. We’re all a little upset about leaving Pietermaritzburg in the first place, so ending up in Cape Town at night kind of threw us all for a loop. Waking up to what we did though was amazing.
Cape Town is the closest thing to America we’ve experienced. A 180 degree turn from what we’ve been living in for the past 2 and a half months. Today they let us loose. We were given a list of 15 places to go / things to do and we spent the next 4 hours walking throughout Cape Town. While exhausting, it was a ton of fun. From there we headed to Cornerstone Christian College, where we’ll be studying, and met our host parents. My host parents are a couple with 2 sons around 40 years old, and 2 granddaughters that are our age. We’re in an awesome house, me and Dave that is, and I think we’ll be spoiled to death. It’s amazing!
Anyway, we’re finally settling in so I’m going to enjoy the company for the next few minutes and then get a good night of sleep for the first time in a while. I don’t know how the whole internet thing is going. I’m just going to keep writing blogs on word and then just posting when I get internet. If it’s tough, then it’s only 3 weeks so whatever. I’ll talk to you all soon. Love.
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
I'm in Cape Town, but I'm short on internet so I'll have to blog later. Here's Sunday's blog. Went skydiving Monday off the world's tallest official bungee jump. I'll blog later!
4.12.09 7:34
Happy Easter all! I’m no in East London (there’s at least 2 Londons in the world…we’re still in South Africa). We have an awesome little hotel flat on the beach. We arrived here last night after a day of driving, driving, and more driving. I think it ended up being some 10 hours or so. Anyway, we are officially done with Pietermaritzburg. I wouldn’t say it was too tough to leave, except Philip and Msa. Philip was our driver for the past 3 months. He’s…well it’s pretty tough to describe him, but he is one heck of a guy, and he has a 10 year old son Msa who was always with us on the weekends. It was really tough seeing them off. It was clear they were having a harder time with it than we were, so be praying for them.
Anyway, now that we’re gone, we can only sing praises for what a blessing African Enterprise and Pietermaritzburg has been to us and then look forward to what lies ahead. I guess this is where we become vulnerable again and see what God can do over the next couple weeks. There’s a lot of sadness about leaving, a lot of excitement of where we’re going, and a lot of nervousness/uncertainty that goes with that as well.
As for today, Easter, we’re headed to a church nearby and then we’re going to spend the rest of the day at some beach, really soaking up what Jesus did for us by resurrecting haha. In all reality, praise God for his goodness. I’ve been given a lot of biblical learning experiences this semester about Jesus’ life and resurrection, and with that I pray that today will settle within me that much more.
Anyway, I’ve got to roll out soon. I am fully aware that this won’t be posted for a couple days, so sorry about that, but when you finally do read this I think I will officially be in Cape Town. Cherio!
4.12.09 7:34
Happy Easter all! I’m no in East London (there’s at least 2 Londons in the world…we’re still in South Africa). We have an awesome little hotel flat on the beach. We arrived here last night after a day of driving, driving, and more driving. I think it ended up being some 10 hours or so. Anyway, we are officially done with Pietermaritzburg. I wouldn’t say it was too tough to leave, except Philip and Msa. Philip was our driver for the past 3 months. He’s…well it’s pretty tough to describe him, but he is one heck of a guy, and he has a 10 year old son Msa who was always with us on the weekends. It was really tough seeing them off. It was clear they were having a harder time with it than we were, so be praying for them.
Anyway, now that we’re gone, we can only sing praises for what a blessing African Enterprise and Pietermaritzburg has been to us and then look forward to what lies ahead. I guess this is where we become vulnerable again and see what God can do over the next couple weeks. There’s a lot of sadness about leaving, a lot of excitement of where we’re going, and a lot of nervousness/uncertainty that goes with that as well.
As for today, Easter, we’re headed to a church nearby and then we’re going to spend the rest of the day at some beach, really soaking up what Jesus did for us by resurrecting haha. In all reality, praise God for his goodness. I’ve been given a lot of biblical learning experiences this semester about Jesus’ life and resurrection, and with that I pray that today will settle within me that much more.
Anyway, I’ve got to roll out soon. I am fully aware that this won’t be posted for a couple days, so sorry about that, but when you finally do read this I think I will officially be in Cape Town. Cherio!
Thursday, April 9, 2009
4.9.09
Welp, we are within hours of our last day here in Pietermaritzburg, and I think it’d be safe to say that majority of us are having a hard time wrapping our minds around the idea of leaving. African Enterprise and the staff here has become a home away from home for all of us. The idea of leaving the people, and then being separated in Cape Town is a scary thought. But much like the rest of my life, I’m over-thinking things as usual and I just need to take a step back and enjoy this moment for what it is. Hey, I was nervous to come to South Africa in the first place and look what’s it turned out to be.
I’m officially done with Biology, Life and Teachings, and Community Engagement! I’m coming closer by the day to finishing History, and we’ll be taking Anthropology in Cape Town, then we’re done. It’s a great feeling to know that the weight that is school is slowly being lifted.
Haven’t done too much these past two days. Today was super slow. I slept with some friends outside for the second night this week, and after getting 4 hours asleep, I was kicking myself…but I’m still glad I did it.
Everything’s just coming fast. Cape Town’s coming fast. Home is coming fast. Leaving people is coming fast, and it seems like Saturday morning, when we depart, it’s going to be step one of the end of things, so it’s hard in general. Regardless, life’s good. I’m still enjoying every second here, even if the idea of leaving is always somewhere in the back of my head. Hey, one month and I’ll be home! That’s a great thing that is to come!
I’m officially done with Biology, Life and Teachings, and Community Engagement! I’m coming closer by the day to finishing History, and we’ll be taking Anthropology in Cape Town, then we’re done. It’s a great feeling to know that the weight that is school is slowly being lifted.
Haven’t done too much these past two days. Today was super slow. I slept with some friends outside for the second night this week, and after getting 4 hours asleep, I was kicking myself…but I’m still glad I did it.
Everything’s just coming fast. Cape Town’s coming fast. Home is coming fast. Leaving people is coming fast, and it seems like Saturday morning, when we depart, it’s going to be step one of the end of things, so it’s hard in general. Regardless, life’s good. I’m still enjoying every second here, even if the idea of leaving is always somewhere in the back of my head. Hey, one month and I’ll be home! That’s a great thing that is to come!
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
4.6.09
Soro one more day and your gone. Love you man, and I’m going to miss you! Anyway, I’m done with my finals from the semester’s first two classes…YEAH! They both went pretty well. Had bio Monday, and Life and Teachings today! I feel completely confident with what I did so that’s great.
Let’s see, haven’t done a whole lot recently. Sunday was a good day, just enjoying myself, my friends, my life – usually how it works when you’re living this blessed life I am in South Africa. Monday I spent time in a final, time at the mall for the last time (yeah!), and time studying for today’s final. Oh yeah, I almost forgot. If I haven’t mentioned yet, about a month or more ago, me and Dave bought these cheap necklaces on one of our excursions. Mine’s an elephant and his a water buffalo. I’ve been wearing mine on a shoelace, but I finally got a chain yesterday and I’m stoked. It definitely increased my cool level by at least 3 stars. Anyway…today was another good day. I’ve been exhausted, but other than that I had that final, and then I got to head back to Walk In the Light to chill for a while. Some people had to finish painting and since Austin (my big bro) took all the art ability from me and Jesse (my little bro) I surely wasn’t about to help paint so I just hung out. Now I’m exhausted, waiting to skype mom, about to watch a movie (which I know I’ll fall asleep in), and that’s it.
Life’s good as always, and God’s still better.
Let’s see, haven’t done a whole lot recently. Sunday was a good day, just enjoying myself, my friends, my life – usually how it works when you’re living this blessed life I am in South Africa. Monday I spent time in a final, time at the mall for the last time (yeah!), and time studying for today’s final. Oh yeah, I almost forgot. If I haven’t mentioned yet, about a month or more ago, me and Dave bought these cheap necklaces on one of our excursions. Mine’s an elephant and his a water buffalo. I’ve been wearing mine on a shoelace, but I finally got a chain yesterday and I’m stoked. It definitely increased my cool level by at least 3 stars. Anyway…today was another good day. I’ve been exhausted, but other than that I had that final, and then I got to head back to Walk In the Light to chill for a while. Some people had to finish painting and since Austin (my big bro) took all the art ability from me and Jesse (my little bro) I surely wasn’t about to help paint so I just hung out. Now I’m exhausted, waiting to skype mom, about to watch a movie (which I know I’ll fall asleep in), and that’s it.
Life’s good as always, and God’s still better.
Sunday, April 5, 2009
4.5.09
I’m just about to wrap up my Sunday morning of seclusion, following a phenomenal last day at Durban. I’ve grown to love this morning, because I’ve found that when I approach the throne of God, he’s so faithful in showing me something, in giving me something, even if all it is, is rest. I’ve been watching my “The I Heart Revolution” Hillsong United DVD, and I’m beginning to see this incredible need that God is instilling in me. I’ve always approached the idea that if I can do something that will witness to one person, and make a difference in that one person’s life, than what I’m doing is important. I’m watching this clip from the DVD that’s all about the multitude of sick, unemployed, uneducated people in sub-Saharan Africa. The idea of the clip is simple, there’s 1 billion children in the world, of 2.2 billion, who live under the poverty line. Yet, if we can make a difference in 1 life of those 1 billion, or 2.2 billion for that matter, then we are living the gospel. Then we are making a difference. Then we are living a purpose-filled life. If we do this, that’s when we are taking up our cross and following.
It’s hard having one month left here. One week flies by in the blink of an eye, so four blinks from now I’ll be home in America. It sucks. Yes, I want to see my family. Yes, I want to see my friends. Yes, I want to go back to my church, and be back in my home. But I don’t want to leave. I don’t want to leave the 33 others who have become my family over the past 3 months. I don’t want to leave this country that is so in need, but I have to. The thing that’s hitting me, is that there is so much that needs to be done here and now in South Africa, and I would consider myself blessed beyond measure to be called from God to live in a place like this, and to pour myself out into the lives of those around me. But that’s not the only place that needs ministry. I find it funny when people say they are called into full-time ministry, because if we are part of the body of Christ, we are all full-time ministers already. I look at myself as a missionary here. I look at myself as a missionary in Nicaragua, but who wants to be a missionary in Wilsonville, or Azusa, or wherever you may be in America? I’ve found that I am missing the point. I see the need, but I don’t live like I see it. Yes, Americans are filthy rich in comparison the remainder of the world. Even the “poor” in America have far more than most where I am right now. Minimum wage here is 8 rand an hour, which is 80 cents an hour. Yet, there is spiritual poverty that is everywhere in America. We Americans are missing something that the remainder of the world understands, and I just can’t seem to put my finger on it.
I was talking to Reg the other day. Reg is essentially our Dad/boss/president here, we call him the closest thing on earth to Jesus. Anyway, we were talking about what it takes to receive salvation. We completely affirmed my belief that it takes so much more than a simple statement of “I believe” to receive salvation. Our church has fallen prey to this “easy” Christian life. Where in the Bible does Jesus ever say this life should be easy? This is where I’m torn. I feel so called to go across the globe and meet the needs of those less fortunate than me. However, at the same time, I see such a need to fight at bringing Christianity back to what it should be. We’re told in Romans that if we confess with our mouths and believe in our hearts, we will be saved. Since when is it acceptable to say something that we don’t support with our life? And if we believe something in our hearts, shouldn’t every action we do support that? There is this crazy necessity to actually be the gospel in this world. I know I’ve been aware of this for sometime, but I feel as if it’s finally making sense to me. It’s a lot of confusion, a lot of fighting with myself, and a lot of prayer, but I guess it only means that God is working.
It’s hard having one month left here. One week flies by in the blink of an eye, so four blinks from now I’ll be home in America. It sucks. Yes, I want to see my family. Yes, I want to see my friends. Yes, I want to go back to my church, and be back in my home. But I don’t want to leave. I don’t want to leave the 33 others who have become my family over the past 3 months. I don’t want to leave this country that is so in need, but I have to. The thing that’s hitting me, is that there is so much that needs to be done here and now in South Africa, and I would consider myself blessed beyond measure to be called from God to live in a place like this, and to pour myself out into the lives of those around me. But that’s not the only place that needs ministry. I find it funny when people say they are called into full-time ministry, because if we are part of the body of Christ, we are all full-time ministers already. I look at myself as a missionary here. I look at myself as a missionary in Nicaragua, but who wants to be a missionary in Wilsonville, or Azusa, or wherever you may be in America? I’ve found that I am missing the point. I see the need, but I don’t live like I see it. Yes, Americans are filthy rich in comparison the remainder of the world. Even the “poor” in America have far more than most where I am right now. Minimum wage here is 8 rand an hour, which is 80 cents an hour. Yet, there is spiritual poverty that is everywhere in America. We Americans are missing something that the remainder of the world understands, and I just can’t seem to put my finger on it.
I was talking to Reg the other day. Reg is essentially our Dad/boss/president here, we call him the closest thing on earth to Jesus. Anyway, we were talking about what it takes to receive salvation. We completely affirmed my belief that it takes so much more than a simple statement of “I believe” to receive salvation. Our church has fallen prey to this “easy” Christian life. Where in the Bible does Jesus ever say this life should be easy? This is where I’m torn. I feel so called to go across the globe and meet the needs of those less fortunate than me. However, at the same time, I see such a need to fight at bringing Christianity back to what it should be. We’re told in Romans that if we confess with our mouths and believe in our hearts, we will be saved. Since when is it acceptable to say something that we don’t support with our life? And if we believe something in our hearts, shouldn’t every action we do support that? There is this crazy necessity to actually be the gospel in this world. I know I’ve been aware of this for sometime, but I feel as if it’s finally making sense to me. It’s a lot of confusion, a lot of fighting with myself, and a lot of prayer, but I guess it only means that God is working.
Friday, April 3, 2009
4.3.09
Well we are officially done with our service sites. It’s crazy to see how hard it has been to leave Walk In the Light. After such a frustrating start, to end with such a high note is incredible. I’m ready to settle down and begin to really see what I learned, to see how God worked, to see what I can take with me away from Walk In the Light.
In the end, we were able to finish all but the mud on the outside of 1 ½ walls on the kitchen. I think that as we worked we forgot what we were doing this for, but to leave behind the family at their home when we were all done brought everything into perspective. This family didn’t have a kitchen, and now we’ve provided one. It’s crazy to me how easy it is to serve in the communities of destitute around the globe.
I’ve received some great pictures from our time at the service site, I’ll attach some of them. Also, Josiah, a member of our team, put together a video that’s now up on youtube at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gESaspWg2Rg.
In about an hour, we’ve got some of the kids that are our age from Haniville (the township we worked at) coming here to hang out with us for the night. It should be a lot of fun. Please enjoy the video and pictures. I hope you begin to see why our hearts have truly developed for what we’ve just finished serving in. Life’s good, God’s better!
A couple of us got a pic with Polina, the owner of the house we added a kitchen onto. Polina lived with her daughter of 35, who also had a son. Her daughter was HIV+, she also had a 7 year old son who hasn't been tested but is believed to be in good health. Then, Polina's other daughter and son-in-law have both passed from HIV and they left a 8 year old boy behind who is also HIV positive.
This is the kitchen 3 weeks in. You can understand just how big of a kitchen we were adding when you compare it to the rest of the house.
Here's our final product. We still had mud to add to a wall and a half on the outside, but we did a ton of work.
This is a hysterical picture. The last day (Thursday), we were heading back to the kitchen after lunch and school had just let out. As we walked we drew more and more of a crowd.
Our last walk out of Haniville. What a blessing it was.
In the end, we were able to finish all but the mud on the outside of 1 ½ walls on the kitchen. I think that as we worked we forgot what we were doing this for, but to leave behind the family at their home when we were all done brought everything into perspective. This family didn’t have a kitchen, and now we’ve provided one. It’s crazy to me how easy it is to serve in the communities of destitute around the globe.
I’ve received some great pictures from our time at the service site, I’ll attach some of them. Also, Josiah, a member of our team, put together a video that’s now up on youtube at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gESaspWg2Rg.
In about an hour, we’ve got some of the kids that are our age from Haniville (the township we worked at) coming here to hang out with us for the night. It should be a lot of fun. Please enjoy the video and pictures. I hope you begin to see why our hearts have truly developed for what we’ve just finished serving in. Life’s good, God’s better!
A couple of us got a pic with Polina, the owner of the house we added a kitchen onto. Polina lived with her daughter of 35, who also had a son. Her daughter was HIV+, she also had a 7 year old son who hasn't been tested but is believed to be in good health. Then, Polina's other daughter and son-in-law have both passed from HIV and they left a 8 year old boy behind who is also HIV positive.
This is the kitchen 3 weeks in. You can understand just how big of a kitchen we were adding when you compare it to the rest of the house.
Here's our final product. We still had mud to add to a wall and a half on the outside, but we did a ton of work.
This is a hysterical picture. The last day (Thursday), we were heading back to the kitchen after lunch and school had just let out. As we walked we drew more and more of a crowd.
Our last walk out of Haniville. What a blessing it was.
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
April 1, 2009
Let me first say that I just witnessed my first ever April Fools day where no pranks were pulled…it was awesome! I mean don’t get me wrong, pranks are hilarious, but it’s so nice not to have to have eyes on the back of your head for the entire day. Praise Yahweh! Anywho, I need to be studying right now, but I don’t want to leave you all hanging again so I’ll blog again quickly and get back to studying…or sleeping, whatever comes first.
We’re down to one day left at our service sites. What started at Walk In the Light as nothing but frustration, has become an amazing ending. Our first two weeks were full of a lot of under utilization of our group, a lot of frustration with what we were doing. While it was tough though, I did learn a lot from the time. These last two weeks however have found themselves to be full of intense experiences, great hard work, and breakthrough with those we have been seeing on a regular basis. It’s going to be tough to part ways, but to know that there’s an organization directly across the street from the Haniville Township, that is run by a few selfless servants is amazing. Bruce, Neils, and Pendile have taken the 10,000+ population on as their ministry in this world. HIV is their enemy, but it’s what gives them purpose in this world. It’s been a blessing to work alongside such incredible examples of what the gospel should look like in this world.
For the first an only time, I took my camera with me on Monday. I didn’t get any pictures of the kitchen we’ve been building, but here’s a couple pics that will give you an idea of where we’re at. Hope you enjoy!
My friend Gogo Lolo. She's the funniest old lady in South Africa, no question.
All the ladies from our support group, as well as the 16 of us.
Neils and Bruce...my heroes.
This is Haniville. In every direction this is what you see...it seems to go on forever.
Our daily trip to the clinic to get medications for various sicknesses.
We’re down to one day left at our service sites. What started at Walk In the Light as nothing but frustration, has become an amazing ending. Our first two weeks were full of a lot of under utilization of our group, a lot of frustration with what we were doing. While it was tough though, I did learn a lot from the time. These last two weeks however have found themselves to be full of intense experiences, great hard work, and breakthrough with those we have been seeing on a regular basis. It’s going to be tough to part ways, but to know that there’s an organization directly across the street from the Haniville Township, that is run by a few selfless servants is amazing. Bruce, Neils, and Pendile have taken the 10,000+ population on as their ministry in this world. HIV is their enemy, but it’s what gives them purpose in this world. It’s been a blessing to work alongside such incredible examples of what the gospel should look like in this world.
For the first an only time, I took my camera with me on Monday. I didn’t get any pictures of the kitchen we’ve been building, but here’s a couple pics that will give you an idea of where we’re at. Hope you enjoy!
My friend Gogo Lolo. She's the funniest old lady in South Africa, no question.
All the ladies from our support group, as well as the 16 of us.
Neils and Bruce...my heroes.
This is Haniville. In every direction this is what you see...it seems to go on forever.
Our daily trip to the clinic to get medications for various sicknesses.
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