My sinuses are killing me. Despite the physical discomfort, today has been one of those days that makes everything else worthwhile.
My Pastor asked to meet with me today so I have been looking forward to that all week. I was not sure if it were for personal ministry or for something else, but any time spent with Pastor Ruth is good time, so I was happy to go.
Turned out Ruth was ready to plan for when the teams come to visit. We are not sure how many days we will have with them, but we need to be prepared. She asked how they normally like to serve. I said the teens have now cancelled. :( They probably would have liked something more task oriented. But the group in June is going to be more relationship oriented. They would like to go home, I think, feeling like they know some Honduran people, have built relationships with people, and can call them by name.
I told Ruth that I think it would be really cool if they could see the contrast between city life (in Los Pinos where they will also serve) and the difficulties that people in the country face. The city and country are two very different worlds, and I would like the team to experience both.
So Ruth and I worked together, brainstorming about things that she knows about her church together with things that I know about my home church and I think we came up with some great plans! We are both really excited for the visit from my home church.
They come in May. That is going to feel like forever! But I look forward to every second of their visit.
Today was very productive and reminded me about why I love Pastor Ruth and her church. Can't wait for both of my worlds to come together in May when I share Pastor Ruth and Alas de Aguilas with my friends from K2! It's going to be great. I can feel God's hand in it already.
Wednesday, January 28, 2015
Grumpy
Yesterday was a strange day. I haven't been able to fall asleep since I got back from the US. Every night I am awake until 3 a.m. If I wake up at 5:30 a.m. or 7 :30 a.m. I still can't fall asleep the next night until after the clock passes 3 a.m.
So, after not getting to sleep until close to 4 a.m. the night before, I had plans to sleep late and spend the rest of the morning doing a bible study.
I was in the middle of a good dream. Skiing with my good friends from high school. Just like the old days. We are hanging out and skiing in my dreams. Probably because everyone on the East Coast is talking about all of the snow they are getting. Or maybe because it is so cold here I had to turn on a heater for the past 2 nights in my bedroom just to stay warm. Who knows.
In the middle of this good dream with good friends I hear the voice of my neighbor, Fany, calling from the front door. This time, I think, I am not going to answer. Then she comes to my bedroom window. I look at the clock. It's 9:30. A reasonable time for her to think I am awake. So I answer.
She starts talking about men who are here to cut off my electricity. Woah. This is way too early in the morning for this kind of talk in a different language. I am still skiing with Peter and Brooke in my dreams. But harsh reality comes crashing in.
How can this be? I just got the bill on Friday. Fany says I have to go talk to them. So I climb out of bed in my fleece pajamas and go to the front gate. Needless to say the young men are not impressed. I try to plea my case but they don't want to hear it. They tell me I need to go turn off my breakers because they are here to do a job and they are going to shut off my power. So I walk back to the house and turn off the breakers.
Fany is still talking with them. She says they will come back in an hour to turn it back on if I go pay the bill right now. I doubt it. I am ready to go back to bed and deal with it all later. But then Fany says she also needs to go to the bank. If I am going to pay the bill, could I please take her. Fany never asks for anything so I pull on some sweatpants, brush my teeth extra fresh because my breath stinks from this sinus infection I am fighting, and put on a baseball cap.
Fany, her daughter Laura, and her nephew whom she is babysitting all pile into my car and we go to pay the bill.
Now, in Honduras there is no mail system like in the US. We get the bill taped onto our front gate and we have to go to the bank to pay it. Which means that every bank, at every hour, of every day has close to an hour wait. Sometimes more. I have tried to figure out a way around it, but there is none. After spending a year bumming rides with others I have spent a lot of time waiting in lines at the bank. Everyone does it and that's that.
So we waited in line. With the kids running and playing and almost knocking over grocery displays. Tugging on my sweatpants until I think they are going to come down in the middle of the supermarket. (Some banks are just little stations inside supermarkets.) I felt my patience draining.
I had already lost it once before we left the house when Fany told Laura we were going to the bank and Laura started one of her new things which is to cry. "I don't want to! I don't want to! I don't want to!" over and over. Fany was in the house and Laura sat down outside, refusing to go get dressed. So I said to her, "I don't care if you want to or not. You are not in charge here. Your mother is. And you will do as she tells you. Now go inside and put on your shoes."
Normally I stay our of those things. But today I didn't.
Then we got into the car and her mother told her to put on her seat belt, which triggered the second new phase we are going through this week. It's the "I can't" phase. I can't cut with scissors, I can't lift myself up on the bed, and my personal favorite, I can't open the door, which means she stands outside asking if she can come in until she realizes that I am not going to get up and open the door for her. Then she suddenly can.
Today she couldn't put on her seat belt. Which, honestly, is not the easiest. But she can. Fany could tell I was stressed out so she started to do it for her. But I said no, she can do it. Again, overstepping my bounds. We waited calmly until she did it. I helped and encouraged. I was not all mean. But I was not in the mood for manipulation from a little girl (whom I love and adore!) this morning.
Alright, enough of me complaining. The bill is paid and now we have to run some errands for my landlord. We get those done and go to the electric company to show them the bank receipt which states my bill is paid. Now can they please send someone to re-connect my power? They start talking amongst themselves. One is on the phone while another points out a phone number on the bottom of the bill. She said, instead of coming here if this happens again you can just call this number from home after you pay the bill. I ask, so is somone going to come and re-connect my electricity today? She says, well, we are calling this number right now to get someone to do it but nobody is answering. And that is the same number I am supposed to call from home for service if this happens again. Great. Finally Fany steps up and the lady says to Fany, don't you have someone who could reconnect this for you? The line is working, it just needs to be connected. Fany says no, we don't. The lady assures us someone will come at around 1p.m. I leave feeling sure that nobody is ever going to come. But I am tired and just want to go home.
Of course today is the day Laura and her friend found a new delightful game. They run into my house, find the cat and then hide from the cat. It doesn't matter that the cat is asleep and oblivious to the fact they are there. Or that my floor was just cleaned and I have to sweep it four more times throughout the afternoon. It is the most exciting game in the world to dash inside, look at the cat, then hide and giggle.
Fany would never allow this. Laura always asks before she comes in under normal circumstances. But today Fany is busy with a lady who is visiting. Later she tells me that she heard the whole thing and was concerned because she didn't hear Laura asking permission to come in.
Eventually the game got boring. Thank God. And later I got over my bad attitude and went over to visit Fany. She was stressed out because the kids were fighting and our laundry was hanging on every tree in the yard plus the clothes line but it is so cold nothing was drying. So I told her let's put this in the dryer, which seemed to relax her a little. We would all have clean, warm pajamas to sleep in tonight. We sat and talked until her nephew got picked up. We put Laura to bed and talked more. Last night we looked at her wedding photos until past midnight so as I noticed the night starting to slip away, I said good night and headed to my house.
Yesterday I learned that I have a sinus infection. The medicine is making me sick and I have no appetite. I cooked some dinner but couldn't bring myself to eat it. I did get some yogurt into my belly. That was the best I could do.
In fact that is kind of how this whole day went. It wasn't the greatest day, and I didn't handle some things very well. But I did the best I could do. I have faith that tomorrow is going to be better. I have a lunch time meeting with Pastor Ruth, and dinner plans with some North American friends. Plus some study time set aside in between. I think this gusty, cold wind has me on edge. But tomorrow will be better.
So, after not getting to sleep until close to 4 a.m. the night before, I had plans to sleep late and spend the rest of the morning doing a bible study.
I was in the middle of a good dream. Skiing with my good friends from high school. Just like the old days. We are hanging out and skiing in my dreams. Probably because everyone on the East Coast is talking about all of the snow they are getting. Or maybe because it is so cold here I had to turn on a heater for the past 2 nights in my bedroom just to stay warm. Who knows.
In the middle of this good dream with good friends I hear the voice of my neighbor, Fany, calling from the front door. This time, I think, I am not going to answer. Then she comes to my bedroom window. I look at the clock. It's 9:30. A reasonable time for her to think I am awake. So I answer.
She starts talking about men who are here to cut off my electricity. Woah. This is way too early in the morning for this kind of talk in a different language. I am still skiing with Peter and Brooke in my dreams. But harsh reality comes crashing in.
How can this be? I just got the bill on Friday. Fany says I have to go talk to them. So I climb out of bed in my fleece pajamas and go to the front gate. Needless to say the young men are not impressed. I try to plea my case but they don't want to hear it. They tell me I need to go turn off my breakers because they are here to do a job and they are going to shut off my power. So I walk back to the house and turn off the breakers.
Fany is still talking with them. She says they will come back in an hour to turn it back on if I go pay the bill right now. I doubt it. I am ready to go back to bed and deal with it all later. But then Fany says she also needs to go to the bank. If I am going to pay the bill, could I please take her. Fany never asks for anything so I pull on some sweatpants, brush my teeth extra fresh because my breath stinks from this sinus infection I am fighting, and put on a baseball cap.
Fany, her daughter Laura, and her nephew whom she is babysitting all pile into my car and we go to pay the bill.
Now, in Honduras there is no mail system like in the US. We get the bill taped onto our front gate and we have to go to the bank to pay it. Which means that every bank, at every hour, of every day has close to an hour wait. Sometimes more. I have tried to figure out a way around it, but there is none. After spending a year bumming rides with others I have spent a lot of time waiting in lines at the bank. Everyone does it and that's that.
So we waited in line. With the kids running and playing and almost knocking over grocery displays. Tugging on my sweatpants until I think they are going to come down in the middle of the supermarket. (Some banks are just little stations inside supermarkets.) I felt my patience draining.
I had already lost it once before we left the house when Fany told Laura we were going to the bank and Laura started one of her new things which is to cry. "I don't want to! I don't want to! I don't want to!" over and over. Fany was in the house and Laura sat down outside, refusing to go get dressed. So I said to her, "I don't care if you want to or not. You are not in charge here. Your mother is. And you will do as she tells you. Now go inside and put on your shoes."
Normally I stay our of those things. But today I didn't.
Then we got into the car and her mother told her to put on her seat belt, which triggered the second new phase we are going through this week. It's the "I can't" phase. I can't cut with scissors, I can't lift myself up on the bed, and my personal favorite, I can't open the door, which means she stands outside asking if she can come in until she realizes that I am not going to get up and open the door for her. Then she suddenly can.
Today she couldn't put on her seat belt. Which, honestly, is not the easiest. But she can. Fany could tell I was stressed out so she started to do it for her. But I said no, she can do it. Again, overstepping my bounds. We waited calmly until she did it. I helped and encouraged. I was not all mean. But I was not in the mood for manipulation from a little girl (whom I love and adore!) this morning.
Alright, enough of me complaining. The bill is paid and now we have to run some errands for my landlord. We get those done and go to the electric company to show them the bank receipt which states my bill is paid. Now can they please send someone to re-connect my power? They start talking amongst themselves. One is on the phone while another points out a phone number on the bottom of the bill. She said, instead of coming here if this happens again you can just call this number from home after you pay the bill. I ask, so is somone going to come and re-connect my electricity today? She says, well, we are calling this number right now to get someone to do it but nobody is answering. And that is the same number I am supposed to call from home for service if this happens again. Great. Finally Fany steps up and the lady says to Fany, don't you have someone who could reconnect this for you? The line is working, it just needs to be connected. Fany says no, we don't. The lady assures us someone will come at around 1p.m. I leave feeling sure that nobody is ever going to come. But I am tired and just want to go home.
Of course today is the day Laura and her friend found a new delightful game. They run into my house, find the cat and then hide from the cat. It doesn't matter that the cat is asleep and oblivious to the fact they are there. Or that my floor was just cleaned and I have to sweep it four more times throughout the afternoon. It is the most exciting game in the world to dash inside, look at the cat, then hide and giggle.
Fany would never allow this. Laura always asks before she comes in under normal circumstances. But today Fany is busy with a lady who is visiting. Later she tells me that she heard the whole thing and was concerned because she didn't hear Laura asking permission to come in.
Eventually the game got boring. Thank God. And later I got over my bad attitude and went over to visit Fany. She was stressed out because the kids were fighting and our laundry was hanging on every tree in the yard plus the clothes line but it is so cold nothing was drying. So I told her let's put this in the dryer, which seemed to relax her a little. We would all have clean, warm pajamas to sleep in tonight. We sat and talked until her nephew got picked up. We put Laura to bed and talked more. Last night we looked at her wedding photos until past midnight so as I noticed the night starting to slip away, I said good night and headed to my house.
Yesterday I learned that I have a sinus infection. The medicine is making me sick and I have no appetite. I cooked some dinner but couldn't bring myself to eat it. I did get some yogurt into my belly. That was the best I could do.
In fact that is kind of how this whole day went. It wasn't the greatest day, and I didn't handle some things very well. But I did the best I could do. I have faith that tomorrow is going to be better. I have a lunch time meeting with Pastor Ruth, and dinner plans with some North American friends. Plus some study time set aside in between. I think this gusty, cold wind has me on edge. But tomorrow will be better.
Tuesday, January 27, 2015
Congratulations K2!
It has been inching up on me little by little. The first jab occurred when I was in Utah at the all staff meeting where the leadership team of my home church talked about doing 24 hours of worship before the first service in their new location. What a cool idea!
You see, my home church is moving. Since before I left for Honduras they have been working toward this goal. I can remember saying to my mentor, "It doesn't matter to me where they will be. I am going to be in Honduras."
But now that it is happening, it matters.
It snuck up on me slowly and completely out of the blue. I didn't expect to care this much.
Then there were messages on Facebook. And pictures. The 24 hours of worship day came. I prayed with my home church but I felt alone. I wanted to be there to share in their experience of blessing this new church and praising God for it.
I know. It is just a building. The church is the people. But, you see, many of my favorite people are all joining together right now to celebrate something very special, and I can't be there.
I am sad.
I am jealous.
I am homesick.
I am a little mad.
I am left out. (Because of logistics.)
I am hurt that a year from now or 5 years from now, or 15 years from now I won't have these memories to share with "my people" as Honduran friends call them.
Is it that I want my cake and eat it too? Yes. I want to live in Honduras and be able to tele-port myself to the US for the important things. Like this move. Or my nephews' birthdays. Christmas. The 4th of July.
Am I unhappy in Honduras? No. Not in the slightest. I don't want to leave here. I don't want to live anywhere else.
But sometimes, when I least expect it, things creep up on me. Like this week as my church is preparing to move to its awesome new building. I miss my people.
There's a strange inner battle between wanting to know and see everything, Then I feel sad when I see photos so I want to avoid it all - crawl under a rock and hide out from social media until all of this excitement is over. I want to send a letter to my friends and tell them how much I wish I were there. But it seems kind of silly. They are all working like crazy people and I am just sitting here complaining that I can't be part of it.
So yeah. That is where I am tonight. My heart is aching for fellowship with "my people". At this time of celebration I want to feel a part of it all. I know I am a part of them (usually I am very proud to be the Honduras part of them) but tonight I feel a world apart.
So, my sisters and brothers at K2 the Church, you are in my thoughts and my prayers. You are important to me. This move is important to me, although I never expected it to be. I miss you and I wish I could be there with you to support you as you are exhausted. I want to celebrate with you all that God has done to make this amazing thing happen.
Congratulations K2! This is the beginning of a new season. Can't wait to see my new church building with my old church friends some day soon.
PS: Don't worry. I am doing well. Just missing you.
You see, my home church is moving. Since before I left for Honduras they have been working toward this goal. I can remember saying to my mentor, "It doesn't matter to me where they will be. I am going to be in Honduras."
But now that it is happening, it matters.
It snuck up on me slowly and completely out of the blue. I didn't expect to care this much.
Then there were messages on Facebook. And pictures. The 24 hours of worship day came. I prayed with my home church but I felt alone. I wanted to be there to share in their experience of blessing this new church and praising God for it.
I know. It is just a building. The church is the people. But, you see, many of my favorite people are all joining together right now to celebrate something very special, and I can't be there.
I am sad.
I am jealous.
I am homesick.
I am a little mad.
I am left out. (Because of logistics.)
I am hurt that a year from now or 5 years from now, or 15 years from now I won't have these memories to share with "my people" as Honduran friends call them.
Is it that I want my cake and eat it too? Yes. I want to live in Honduras and be able to tele-port myself to the US for the important things. Like this move. Or my nephews' birthdays. Christmas. The 4th of July.
Am I unhappy in Honduras? No. Not in the slightest. I don't want to leave here. I don't want to live anywhere else.
But sometimes, when I least expect it, things creep up on me. Like this week as my church is preparing to move to its awesome new building. I miss my people.
There's a strange inner battle between wanting to know and see everything, Then I feel sad when I see photos so I want to avoid it all - crawl under a rock and hide out from social media until all of this excitement is over. I want to send a letter to my friends and tell them how much I wish I were there. But it seems kind of silly. They are all working like crazy people and I am just sitting here complaining that I can't be part of it.
So yeah. That is where I am tonight. My heart is aching for fellowship with "my people". At this time of celebration I want to feel a part of it all. I know I am a part of them (usually I am very proud to be the Honduras part of them) but tonight I feel a world apart.
So, my sisters and brothers at K2 the Church, you are in my thoughts and my prayers. You are important to me. This move is important to me, although I never expected it to be. I miss you and I wish I could be there with you to support you as you are exhausted. I want to celebrate with you all that God has done to make this amazing thing happen.
Congratulations K2! This is the beginning of a new season. Can't wait to see my new church building with my old church friends some day soon.
PS: Don't worry. I am doing well. Just missing you.
Saturday, January 24, 2015
Free stuff
A friend of mine has been eager to meet with the family of a Honduran boy who attends her home church in the US. He studies at a university near her home church and for several years she has visited him when she goes home. This year he encouraged her to meet his family in Honduras.
The family doesn't speak English and she is still working on her Spanish, so she invited me to come along and translate for the meeting. Man was I glad I went. We ate at Ni-Fu Ni-Fa, which I have only been to once before. It is a nice Brazilian restaurant with a big salad bar and MEAT. Now you know, I don't normally like meat. But this is some good meat and I figure my body could use it once in a while.
After great food and great conversation, my friend and I parted ways with our new favorite family, promising to meet again soon. Next time they would like to cook for us at the home.
We had some errands to run so I translated for my friend at the cable company where she needs someone to fix her modem and her cable box. Then we were supposed to go to the bank and the grocery store. But we got side tracked.
At the mall where we paid the cable bill the center area was turned into a huge display of beauty products with demonstrations of how to curl your hair, handmade soaps, anti-aging products and a bunch of other things including a Clinique counter.
My friend said she used to wear Clinique lipstick when she lived in the US. If something is expensive in the US, it is usually much more expensive, and also can be hard to find in Honduras. So we stood on the second floor looking down over the Clinique booth and decided to check it out.
We both ended up getting makeovers! It was really fun! Then we acted like silly teenagers and posed for selfies at the mall of our new looks. For some reason most Honduran teens I know take selfies when they go to the mall and post them on Facebook. I'm not sure why, but it seems to be the thing to do. My friend and I didn't post ours on Facebook.
As we were leaving I said wow, someone rich or important is parked next to your car. There were a ton of military guys parked all around us, probably waiting for the rich or important person to come out of the mall so they could follow the person in a caravan with their lights flashing to their next destination. That's how rich or important people travel in Honduras. It was a little intimidating because I am still getting used to men in camouflage with huge guns and they were all around our car.
As I tried to get into the passenger's side of my friend's car, I noticed the car next to us had parked at the most absurd angle. It was bizarre to imagine someone leaving their car parked like that. Not only did it make it impossible for me to get into the passenger's door, it was going to be hard for my friend to back out.
When the men noticed that I was saying how ridiculously the person had parked they all agreed and each one of them jumped into action. My poor friend had - she said four, I thought five, men with big guns yelling directions to her as she backed out of the spot. I, knowing she didn't understand what they are saying, start yelling to her in English. So she had five men and me all directing her out of the spot.
When we got out I thanked the men. They seemed more than happy to have helped us from our dreadful parking dilemma and deliver us on our way.
As we were finishing our errands I called Fany. At that point I had been gone for hours. But the day before I told her I was meeting my friend for lunch. Before she even said hello she asked in a strong and concerned tone, "Where are you!?! Your car is here, but you are not at home!" I said, "Fany, remember I had to translate today?" "Oh, " and I could hear her relax. I was just calling to see how much clothesline we need because ours broke and I was in a place that sells it. So we figured out the clothesline and Fany was able to relax for the rest of the day.
I am so blessed to always have people looking out for me here!
We continued with errands, still complimenting each other on our beautiful makeup. My friend said, "And we don't even have dates tonight!" I don't think either of us has had a date in years, but with our gorgeous new look we just couldn't go home. So we decided to go have 2 for 1 chicken wings.
Neither of us were hungry, but sitting in our houses alone was not an option and 2x1 chicken wings is the most social we get outside of church. So we went, She had self control and only ate half of hers since we weren't hungry. I ate all of mine.
Then we stopped at a gas station where the two young attendants (you can't pump your own gas in Honduras) catered to our every need and practiced their limited English with us. They cleaned the windows and offered us every car service that an attendant can do, all with big smiles, jokes and loads of congeniality.
On the way home we stopped at a pharmacy which happened to employ about 10 men and only one woman. We also happened to be the only customers in the place, which meant every eye was on us. I told my friend, I am not sure if it is because we are two North Americans, or if it is our beautiful makeup. But I have never attracted so much attention in my life.
When I got home Laura came over and climbed onto the bed. Then Fany hopped on too. We sat and talked and watched music videos (Laura's new favorite thing to do) until Laura said she was tired and wanted to go to her bed.
It was a simple day, but really fun. Free lunch, free makeovers, good company, male attention (which every woman needs once in a while) and lots of laughs. I am translating for my friend again on Monday.
I wonder what is going on. The church bell has been ringing for more than 15 minutes and there are lots of fireworks at 11 a.m.
I have noticed that EVERY time I ask someone what is going on - if there is a parade, or a day off of work, or fireworks - they answer, "It's a holiday." Well yes, I know that. When I ask what they are celebrating hardly anyone actually knows. Usually they say, "Some saint." Or, "Well, this month has lots of holidays so we are celebrating them all together." After three years of the same, I rarely bother to ask anymore.
The family doesn't speak English and she is still working on her Spanish, so she invited me to come along and translate for the meeting. Man was I glad I went. We ate at Ni-Fu Ni-Fa, which I have only been to once before. It is a nice Brazilian restaurant with a big salad bar and MEAT. Now you know, I don't normally like meat. But this is some good meat and I figure my body could use it once in a while.
After great food and great conversation, my friend and I parted ways with our new favorite family, promising to meet again soon. Next time they would like to cook for us at the home.
We had some errands to run so I translated for my friend at the cable company where she needs someone to fix her modem and her cable box. Then we were supposed to go to the bank and the grocery store. But we got side tracked.
At the mall where we paid the cable bill the center area was turned into a huge display of beauty products with demonstrations of how to curl your hair, handmade soaps, anti-aging products and a bunch of other things including a Clinique counter.
My friend said she used to wear Clinique lipstick when she lived in the US. If something is expensive in the US, it is usually much more expensive, and also can be hard to find in Honduras. So we stood on the second floor looking down over the Clinique booth and decided to check it out.
We both ended up getting makeovers! It was really fun! Then we acted like silly teenagers and posed for selfies at the mall of our new looks. For some reason most Honduran teens I know take selfies when they go to the mall and post them on Facebook. I'm not sure why, but it seems to be the thing to do. My friend and I didn't post ours on Facebook.
As we were leaving I said wow, someone rich or important is parked next to your car. There were a ton of military guys parked all around us, probably waiting for the rich or important person to come out of the mall so they could follow the person in a caravan with their lights flashing to their next destination. That's how rich or important people travel in Honduras. It was a little intimidating because I am still getting used to men in camouflage with huge guns and they were all around our car.
As I tried to get into the passenger's side of my friend's car, I noticed the car next to us had parked at the most absurd angle. It was bizarre to imagine someone leaving their car parked like that. Not only did it make it impossible for me to get into the passenger's door, it was going to be hard for my friend to back out.
When the men noticed that I was saying how ridiculously the person had parked they all agreed and each one of them jumped into action. My poor friend had - she said four, I thought five, men with big guns yelling directions to her as she backed out of the spot. I, knowing she didn't understand what they are saying, start yelling to her in English. So she had five men and me all directing her out of the spot.
When we got out I thanked the men. They seemed more than happy to have helped us from our dreadful parking dilemma and deliver us on our way.
As we were finishing our errands I called Fany. At that point I had been gone for hours. But the day before I told her I was meeting my friend for lunch. Before she even said hello she asked in a strong and concerned tone, "Where are you!?! Your car is here, but you are not at home!" I said, "Fany, remember I had to translate today?" "Oh, " and I could hear her relax. I was just calling to see how much clothesline we need because ours broke and I was in a place that sells it. So we figured out the clothesline and Fany was able to relax for the rest of the day.
I am so blessed to always have people looking out for me here!
We continued with errands, still complimenting each other on our beautiful makeup. My friend said, "And we don't even have dates tonight!" I don't think either of us has had a date in years, but with our gorgeous new look we just couldn't go home. So we decided to go have 2 for 1 chicken wings.
Neither of us were hungry, but sitting in our houses alone was not an option and 2x1 chicken wings is the most social we get outside of church. So we went, She had self control and only ate half of hers since we weren't hungry. I ate all of mine.
Then we stopped at a gas station where the two young attendants (you can't pump your own gas in Honduras) catered to our every need and practiced their limited English with us. They cleaned the windows and offered us every car service that an attendant can do, all with big smiles, jokes and loads of congeniality.
On the way home we stopped at a pharmacy which happened to employ about 10 men and only one woman. We also happened to be the only customers in the place, which meant every eye was on us. I told my friend, I am not sure if it is because we are two North Americans, or if it is our beautiful makeup. But I have never attracted so much attention in my life.
When I got home Laura came over and climbed onto the bed. Then Fany hopped on too. We sat and talked and watched music videos (Laura's new favorite thing to do) until Laura said she was tired and wanted to go to her bed.
It was a simple day, but really fun. Free lunch, free makeovers, good company, male attention (which every woman needs once in a while) and lots of laughs. I am translating for my friend again on Monday.
I wonder what is going on. The church bell has been ringing for more than 15 minutes and there are lots of fireworks at 11 a.m.
I have noticed that EVERY time I ask someone what is going on - if there is a parade, or a day off of work, or fireworks - they answer, "It's a holiday." Well yes, I know that. When I ask what they are celebrating hardly anyone actually knows. Usually they say, "Some saint." Or, "Well, this month has lots of holidays so we are celebrating them all together." After three years of the same, I rarely bother to ask anymore.
Wednesday, January 21, 2015
Tamalitos y cositas
Today's big news is:
I am going to start translating for a friend. I figure translating is not going to take up much emotional energy and she is willing to schedule everything according to times that work well for me, so I can still get my morning quiet times in. I like translating and she needs help, so it's a win-win.
A friend asked me to help her learn better English so I decided to have another conversational group on Sundays between my regular church service and the English church service. I've only talked to two people but they know more people who want to come. I'm thinking it will be a group of about six. It should be fun!
Prayer group was good. I have been watching the news, which is something I never did before because for some reason I couldn't understand what they were saying. Now that I watch the news I understand better when we pray for things that are going on in Honduras and around the world. The homicide rate in Honduras went down 20% in 2014!
I also learned in the news that a group of boys were arrested for blowing up a dog. They tied these things that looked like firecrackers onto its sides. I closed my eyes as they showed the explosion on tv. (They show EVERYTHING on tv here from extremely explicit sexual things to bloody dead people.) I saw them strap on the explosives, watched the kids light them and run away. Then I covered my eyes and peeked through my fingers to see the smoke. I shut my eyes again until the segment was over. How horrible. Today everyone is posting things on FB about being against animal cruelty. So blowing up a dog in Honduras is cruel, but kicking or throwing stones at one is widely accepted. Things that make you go "Hmmm..."
My diet is doomed. Fany came back from visiting her family out in the country and brought tamalitos, my favorite kind of tamale. They are made with corn and no meat. Small and sweet so you can eat them for breakfast, lunch, dinner or snacks. Delicious anytime. Dangerous.
And finally, today I was called a "thing". Actually it was "my little thing". A friend who was trying to be flirtatious said, "Hola mi cosita." I have heard people use that word to babies or toddlers and didn't like it then. Ana doesn't allow her boys to call their baby sister "cosita" because she tells them that their sister is not a thing. It's always said in baby talk, which makes it even more annoying. (co-she'-ta)
Oh, and nobody from my new church uses the word Gringa. At least not in front of me. I didn't even have to say anything. They just don't say it! I really appreciate that.
That is the latest news from Honduras.
I am going to start translating for a friend. I figure translating is not going to take up much emotional energy and she is willing to schedule everything according to times that work well for me, so I can still get my morning quiet times in. I like translating and she needs help, so it's a win-win.
A friend asked me to help her learn better English so I decided to have another conversational group on Sundays between my regular church service and the English church service. I've only talked to two people but they know more people who want to come. I'm thinking it will be a group of about six. It should be fun!
Prayer group was good. I have been watching the news, which is something I never did before because for some reason I couldn't understand what they were saying. Now that I watch the news I understand better when we pray for things that are going on in Honduras and around the world. The homicide rate in Honduras went down 20% in 2014!
I also learned in the news that a group of boys were arrested for blowing up a dog. They tied these things that looked like firecrackers onto its sides. I closed my eyes as they showed the explosion on tv. (They show EVERYTHING on tv here from extremely explicit sexual things to bloody dead people.) I saw them strap on the explosives, watched the kids light them and run away. Then I covered my eyes and peeked through my fingers to see the smoke. I shut my eyes again until the segment was over. How horrible. Today everyone is posting things on FB about being against animal cruelty. So blowing up a dog in Honduras is cruel, but kicking or throwing stones at one is widely accepted. Things that make you go "Hmmm..."
My diet is doomed. Fany came back from visiting her family out in the country and brought tamalitos, my favorite kind of tamale. They are made with corn and no meat. Small and sweet so you can eat them for breakfast, lunch, dinner or snacks. Delicious anytime. Dangerous.
And finally, today I was called a "thing". Actually it was "my little thing". A friend who was trying to be flirtatious said, "Hola mi cosita." I have heard people use that word to babies or toddlers and didn't like it then. Ana doesn't allow her boys to call their baby sister "cosita" because she tells them that their sister is not a thing. It's always said in baby talk, which makes it even more annoying. (co-she'-ta)
Oh, and nobody from my new church uses the word Gringa. At least not in front of me. I didn't even have to say anything. They just don't say it! I really appreciate that.
That is the latest news from Honduras.
Monday, January 19, 2015
Praying at the mall
The electricity went out as I got ready for a meeting this morning. It has been a while since the power went out, so I was a little surprised. Today was a gorgeous, sunny day. But you never know when the power is going to go out in Honduras.
I met with a woman who is selling life and health insurance through Honduran Fellowship. Honduran Fellowship is the group of missionaries I joined. Since insurance is cheaper here, and I spend more time here, I decided getting insurance in Honduras was the wiser way to go. (Actually it wasn't much of a choice. I checked into Obama Care. It was $187/month - way out of my budget. Not sure how that is "affordable" health care.)
My insurance here will cost $500/year. It only costs $6.50 for an office visit and that usually includes the exam and meds unless I go out of the network or need a specialist. Not bad! It also covers me in 6 Central American countries including Guatemala and Costa Rica - the two places I have cousins to visit. I am looking forward to having health insurance for the first time in three years.
My friend Carol set up the insurance meeting and applied for insurance too. After the insurance meeting we sat outside in a little garden at the mall and talked. It was really nice.
Carol wants to organize a time for all of the missionaries who are currently in transition to meet and pray together. It's so strange, there are a bunch of us. I think it is a great idea. It would be nice to have a place to share our experiences and concerns. I know that for me, personally, it is good to have someone remind me that I will begin full-time ministry again in God's time. I can not get overly eager and jump into something just because it sounds interesting or challenging, or just because there is a need. I am a missionary sent to Honduras by God to serve His people here and what I do cannot come from me. It must come from Him.
Carol and I also had a good time of prayer. It struck me that I have never prayed in public that long or that hard outside of a church. Have you ever held someone's hands and prayed in a mall? People in Honduras are more accepting of talking about God in public, so I am sure it was not a big deal to them, but for me it was really special.
As we were leaving I realized how blessed I am with friendships. I don't know if I have ever had this many people I trust surrounding me. I don't feel like I am constantly on guard any more.
I am good hands with Ruth as my Pastor at church. I like the ladies there, but haven't gotten close to any. However, here in Honduras I have Fany who is my bestie. I have Ana, who is busy being a Mom and serving at the Breakfast Program, but is also one of my closest friends. Now I have Carol who is someone who just "gets" me. I can trust any of these people and also, each of them will hold me accountable if I need them to. (Fany and I have a specific agreement that if one of us starts acting crazy the other one will say something.)
I love having so many wonderful women in my life here. On top of that there are a few more people I enjoy spending time with who could become good friends too! Feeling really safe in friendships is a new experience for me in Honduras and it feels like a huge breath of fresh air. It takes a big burden off my shoulders to know that I am not alone and there are people I can trust.
Thank God for good friends.
I met with a woman who is selling life and health insurance through Honduran Fellowship. Honduran Fellowship is the group of missionaries I joined. Since insurance is cheaper here, and I spend more time here, I decided getting insurance in Honduras was the wiser way to go. (Actually it wasn't much of a choice. I checked into Obama Care. It was $187/month - way out of my budget. Not sure how that is "affordable" health care.)
My insurance here will cost $500/year. It only costs $6.50 for an office visit and that usually includes the exam and meds unless I go out of the network or need a specialist. Not bad! It also covers me in 6 Central American countries including Guatemala and Costa Rica - the two places I have cousins to visit. I am looking forward to having health insurance for the first time in three years.
My friend Carol set up the insurance meeting and applied for insurance too. After the insurance meeting we sat outside in a little garden at the mall and talked. It was really nice.
Carol wants to organize a time for all of the missionaries who are currently in transition to meet and pray together. It's so strange, there are a bunch of us. I think it is a great idea. It would be nice to have a place to share our experiences and concerns. I know that for me, personally, it is good to have someone remind me that I will begin full-time ministry again in God's time. I can not get overly eager and jump into something just because it sounds interesting or challenging, or just because there is a need. I am a missionary sent to Honduras by God to serve His people here and what I do cannot come from me. It must come from Him.
Carol and I also had a good time of prayer. It struck me that I have never prayed in public that long or that hard outside of a church. Have you ever held someone's hands and prayed in a mall? People in Honduras are more accepting of talking about God in public, so I am sure it was not a big deal to them, but for me it was really special.
As we were leaving I realized how blessed I am with friendships. I don't know if I have ever had this many people I trust surrounding me. I don't feel like I am constantly on guard any more.
I am good hands with Ruth as my Pastor at church. I like the ladies there, but haven't gotten close to any. However, here in Honduras I have Fany who is my bestie. I have Ana, who is busy being a Mom and serving at the Breakfast Program, but is also one of my closest friends. Now I have Carol who is someone who just "gets" me. I can trust any of these people and also, each of them will hold me accountable if I need them to. (Fany and I have a specific agreement that if one of us starts acting crazy the other one will say something.)
I love having so many wonderful women in my life here. On top of that there are a few more people I enjoy spending time with who could become good friends too! Feeling really safe in friendships is a new experience for me in Honduras and it feels like a huge breath of fresh air. It takes a big burden off my shoulders to know that I am not alone and there are people I can trust.
Thank God for good friends.
Sunday, January 18, 2015
Full hearts and full bellies
Today was a day full of love from start to finish. I got to see a bunch of kids I haven't seen since November and spend time with some of my favorites.
Some of the older kids were sitting outside the gates of the church (Iglesia en Transformación) using the internet yesterday. The church was closed because it was Saturday. Don Juan cannot be responsible for a bunch of kids hanging around, so that is why they were outside the gates. A car passed by, turned around, came back and held them up with a pistol. The bad guys robbed the kids' phones, a tablet that one of them had, everything of value and even the shoes off their feet! How scary!
People think I am crazy when they visit from the US and we asked them to take off their valuables and not to use their cameras or phones in Los Pinos. They don't understand that stuff like this really happens. One of the boys told his Mom that he thought he was going to end up with a hole in his head because of how forcefully the man was pressing the gun against him. That is horrible.
I want to be clear, I do not think the church did anything wrong. The kids are constantly told not to hang out there. It is dangerous! Traffic drives by way too fast and it is a bad neighborhood. I was sad to hear about this.
I invited my friend Ana to visit my new church today. As I picked her up I saw a bunch of the younger kids like Homni and Esteven and Memo (or whatever name he is asking to be called these days).
As I dropped them off I saw a bunch of older kids like Ingrid and Alejandra. They gave me big hugs and told me how much they miss me. It was great to see them! I realized I have been trying not to think about how much I miss them too.
Ana, her kids, and her nephew enjoyed visiting my new church. The kids liked the classes (and the hot dogs). Ana said she completely understands why I love the church and the people there. After church we went to my house where we played games and played outside. It was a nice, relaxing afternoon. I made brownies and we ate the whole pan! The kids kept saying they liked the cake and they didn't understand that the walnuts were nuts. They have never had brownies before!
Laura and Fany were not home when we first got there. Laura was so good about sharing her bikes and toys! She is not your typical three year old. I was proud of her.
Ana, Fany and I had some nice lady time as the kids played. Being with Ana and her family made me realize how much I miss them and love them.
As I took them home Ana said she had a great day. She said first she was filled with the Holy Spirit at church in the morning, and then filled with friendship and love during our time in the afternoon. I felt the same. But I was extra happy because it was nice to see Ana relax and receive spiritually. She works so hard between being a single Mom of four kids and also cooking at the church for all of the kids every day, she deserves to be refilled!
I told her I will not pester her to come to my new church, but she is invited any time she wants to come. It meant a lot to me that she could see why I love my new church and to know she liked it too.
In the evening I hung out with Fany. We had Chinese rice, which is kind of like fried rice, but with no eggs. It is a basic staple in Honduras when a family doesn't want to cook at home. We sat around talking about girl things and about how in the world she is going to handle her daughter, who is so smart it is scary! Fany has never tried time outs before. She saw a North American friend use them, but Fany mostly threatens the belt. Today Laura dropped her bread on the floor and then refused to pick it up. While Fany threatened to get the belt, in my head I could hear my mother say, "I am going to count to three..."
I the whole process of time outs to her. Fany said she is willing to try it. I expect it to be hard at first, but as we always see on Supernanny, in the end it pays off. I am not a mom, but I think time outs can help Fany set firmer limits now and make her life a whole life easier both now and in the future.
I also got to spend the day with Ana's nephew. He is a really sweet boy. My heart hurts when I think of him. Ana is about the only adult who shows him love, so when I am around him I do my best to make him feel special and loved.
Here are some photos of our day:
Some of the older kids were sitting outside the gates of the church (Iglesia en Transformación) using the internet yesterday. The church was closed because it was Saturday. Don Juan cannot be responsible for a bunch of kids hanging around, so that is why they were outside the gates. A car passed by, turned around, came back and held them up with a pistol. The bad guys robbed the kids' phones, a tablet that one of them had, everything of value and even the shoes off their feet! How scary!
People think I am crazy when they visit from the US and we asked them to take off their valuables and not to use their cameras or phones in Los Pinos. They don't understand that stuff like this really happens. One of the boys told his Mom that he thought he was going to end up with a hole in his head because of how forcefully the man was pressing the gun against him. That is horrible.
I want to be clear, I do not think the church did anything wrong. The kids are constantly told not to hang out there. It is dangerous! Traffic drives by way too fast and it is a bad neighborhood. I was sad to hear about this.
I invited my friend Ana to visit my new church today. As I picked her up I saw a bunch of the younger kids like Homni and Esteven and Memo (or whatever name he is asking to be called these days).
As I dropped them off I saw a bunch of older kids like Ingrid and Alejandra. They gave me big hugs and told me how much they miss me. It was great to see them! I realized I have been trying not to think about how much I miss them too.
Ana, her kids, and her nephew enjoyed visiting my new church. The kids liked the classes (and the hot dogs). Ana said she completely understands why I love the church and the people there. After church we went to my house where we played games and played outside. It was a nice, relaxing afternoon. I made brownies and we ate the whole pan! The kids kept saying they liked the cake and they didn't understand that the walnuts were nuts. They have never had brownies before!
Laura and Fany were not home when we first got there. Laura was so good about sharing her bikes and toys! She is not your typical three year old. I was proud of her.
Ana, Fany and I had some nice lady time as the kids played. Being with Ana and her family made me realize how much I miss them and love them.
As I took them home Ana said she had a great day. She said first she was filled with the Holy Spirit at church in the morning, and then filled with friendship and love during our time in the afternoon. I felt the same. But I was extra happy because it was nice to see Ana relax and receive spiritually. She works so hard between being a single Mom of four kids and also cooking at the church for all of the kids every day, she deserves to be refilled!
I told her I will not pester her to come to my new church, but she is invited any time she wants to come. It meant a lot to me that she could see why I love my new church and to know she liked it too.
In the evening I hung out with Fany. We had Chinese rice, which is kind of like fried rice, but with no eggs. It is a basic staple in Honduras when a family doesn't want to cook at home. We sat around talking about girl things and about how in the world she is going to handle her daughter, who is so smart it is scary! Fany has never tried time outs before. She saw a North American friend use them, but Fany mostly threatens the belt. Today Laura dropped her bread on the floor and then refused to pick it up. While Fany threatened to get the belt, in my head I could hear my mother say, "I am going to count to three..."
I the whole process of time outs to her. Fany said she is willing to try it. I expect it to be hard at first, but as we always see on Supernanny, in the end it pays off. I am not a mom, but I think time outs can help Fany set firmer limits now and make her life a whole life easier both now and in the future.
I also got to spend the day with Ana's nephew. He is a really sweet boy. My heart hurts when I think of him. Ana is about the only adult who shows him love, so when I am around him I do my best to make him feel special and loved.
Here are some photos of our day:
 |
| David, Samuel, Angel and Isabela |
 |
| David and Samuel |
 |
| Love that smile! |
.JPG) |
| Jetty smelling a flower |
.JPG) |
| WOW! Great jump Angel!! |
 |
| Jetty and Isabela. Thank God I have the gentlest cat ever. |
 |
| Lounging around |
 |
| Even Samuel is tired after a long day of fun! |
Saturday, January 17, 2015
Reunion de las damas
Since I first moved to Honduras I have learned to go with the flow. In the beginning it was hard. I remember many times, sitting in a car full of people with no idea where we were headed or what we were about to do or when we would ever get back home. Not only was it difficult because of all of the unknown, it was also very isolating. I didn't like to constantly ask, where we were going and what we were doing. I was supposed to understand the language well enough to know. But I didn't.
Well, now I do understand the language well enough to know. And I have my own car. But still, some things slip by. Like two weeks ago I asked whether prayer group was on Friday or Wednesday because it rotates. Someone told me that prayer group was Wednesday and the women's meeting was a week from Saturday. I knew nothing about the women's meeting. Don't ask how I missed out on that entire topic. But since I am a woman I assumed I should go.
Then a bunch of ladies were asking me about different things revolving around service, like cleaning and cooking at the church. So in my head the woman's meeting was about how we were going to divide those tasks. I did consciously think that it was odd no men were included. But I was also okay with it.
Today was the women's meeting. I decided to bring a bible just in case. Maybe we would pray about who got what chore. Ha ha! I was way off base. Like I used to be three years ago - that far out of the loop.
When I got there everyone was seated with their bibles. That was my first hint.
The projector was on. Ruth thanked us for coming to this time of fellowship for the ladies and asked me to pray. Since I had no idea what we were about to do I kept it short and thanked God for time to be together as women, then stuck to the basics, good health, provision, etc...
Turned out Ruth had prepared for us a presentation that she was supposed to present in 2010 at the Women's Conference at Iglesia en Transformación. Then at the last minute, God changed the topic on her, so she never presented this material. It was very cool. It was about how powerful we women can be. We learned about examples of powerful women in the bible to demonstrate how God worked through them. I was so glad to be there! I gobbled that stuff up. God is feeding me a most delicious feast these days. It is delicious!
They took photos too. I need to learn people's names. It is getting embarrassing at this point that I don't know them by name. But that is Pastora Ruth in the white and blue dress. I am grateful to be a part of this church and in this group of women. The women's group is going to meet once/month. Next month I will present my testimony. I am a little nervous, but more honored to be asked. God will help me to speak and say what the women need to hear.
Well, now I do understand the language well enough to know. And I have my own car. But still, some things slip by. Like two weeks ago I asked whether prayer group was on Friday or Wednesday because it rotates. Someone told me that prayer group was Wednesday and the women's meeting was a week from Saturday. I knew nothing about the women's meeting. Don't ask how I missed out on that entire topic. But since I am a woman I assumed I should go.
Then a bunch of ladies were asking me about different things revolving around service, like cleaning and cooking at the church. So in my head the woman's meeting was about how we were going to divide those tasks. I did consciously think that it was odd no men were included. But I was also okay with it.
Today was the women's meeting. I decided to bring a bible just in case. Maybe we would pray about who got what chore. Ha ha! I was way off base. Like I used to be three years ago - that far out of the loop.
When I got there everyone was seated with their bibles. That was my first hint.
The projector was on. Ruth thanked us for coming to this time of fellowship for the ladies and asked me to pray. Since I had no idea what we were about to do I kept it short and thanked God for time to be together as women, then stuck to the basics, good health, provision, etc...
Turned out Ruth had prepared for us a presentation that she was supposed to present in 2010 at the Women's Conference at Iglesia en Transformación. Then at the last minute, God changed the topic on her, so she never presented this material. It was very cool. It was about how powerful we women can be. We learned about examples of powerful women in the bible to demonstrate how God worked through them. I was so glad to be there! I gobbled that stuff up. God is feeding me a most delicious feast these days. It is delicious!
They took photos too. I need to learn people's names. It is getting embarrassing at this point that I don't know them by name. But that is Pastora Ruth in the white and blue dress. I am grateful to be a part of this church and in this group of women. The women's group is going to meet once/month. Next month I will present my testimony. I am a little nervous, but more honored to be asked. God will help me to speak and say what the women need to hear.
 |
| The powerful women of Alas de Aguilas |
Wednesday, January 14, 2015
I like being me!
Today I met with a girl who is going into La Kennedy and doing ministry all by herself. Wow! She happens to know a lot of the people I know. I really liked her. She reminded me of myself in some ways. She has completely immersed herself in the culture. She is even living with a Honduran family that she used to serve. She seems completely at home here. She has faced a lot of challenges, not in serving, but in the place where she served. She is now in transition and looking for full time ministry. I admire her strength and determination.
In the afternoon I met with my former landlord's daughter. It was so nice! We had a good conversation and got caught up. It felt like old times when we used to walk up the dirt road in the mountains and talk. But something was different this time. Marcela is about to finish college and move on to the next stage of her life and I am finally content with where I am. Being in transition isn't a bad thing. I am happy and peaceful and content. To quote my three ear old nephew, "I like being me!" It was fun to have so many positive things to share with each other.
In the afternoon I met with my former landlord's daughter. It was so nice! We had a good conversation and got caught up. It felt like old times when we used to walk up the dirt road in the mountains and talk. But something was different this time. Marcela is about to finish college and move on to the next stage of her life and I am finally content with where I am. Being in transition isn't a bad thing. I am happy and peaceful and content. To quote my three ear old nephew, "I like being me!" It was fun to have so many positive things to share with each other.
Tuesday, January 13, 2015
Staying busy
Sunday was a long one. Left for church and didn't get home until 8 p.m. We had lunch after the first church service and dinner after the second with coffee in between. I think my cat believed I had gone back to the US and left her again. She was not happy when I finally got home after leaving her all day.
I started the day by putting on my stretchiest pants and discovering they did not fit. Must do something about that. Haven't exercised since my gym membership ran out in November. In the meantime, dresses are the answer.
Got to church early because I was one of three people assigned to prepare lunch for church members to buy after the service. We decided since we had short notice we would serve... Surprise! Chinese food! The most commonly eaten food in Honduras outside of beans. We had to leave during the service to run and get it, which was a bummer, but we bought extra and sold it all! Profits go to the church, so we were happy.
Some of my new North American friends called me early in the morning saying they would like to come to my new church. It was nice to have guests. The pastor's assistant jumped up when he realized there were English speakers there and translated the whole service for them. I appreciated that very much and so did they.
Afterward they asked if I was going to the English service in the afternoon. We decided since we all had the same plans that we could drop off my car and spend the rest of the day together. So I showed them my house, which they loved, grabbed Skip-Bo (a card game I bought in the US) and we headed to their house. They treated me to coffee on the way. I can't drink coffee because the caffeine keeps me awake for days, so I got a grape frozen drink.
We played cards until it was time for our second round of church. One of my friends has a seven or eight year old son. It was like torture for him every time he drew a skip card. He could not stand the thought of skipping his Mommy, and he really didn't want to skip his Auntie, so he kept wanting to skip me. His family pointed out that it was not nice to skip his friend (me) all of the time. He should use strategy to choose who he is going to skip. Then he skipped his Aunt once. But he still could not bring himself to skip his Mom. He begged us please, could he skip himself. We told him that was not part of the rules. Poor kid. He drew more skip cards than the rest of us put together and each time got more upset. He was relieved when it was time to go to church!
At church I was introduced to two other missionaries who are also in transition. The pastor's wife joked that we need a whole separate ministry that is like a temp agency because so many people are in transition right now. People could say they need help and others could go and serve with them to see if it is a good fit.
One of the young women I met is meeting with me tomorrow for lunch. I would like to learn more about what she has been doing and see if I feel called to help. From what I can see, I would not feel safe doing what she is doing. But I will meet with her before I make any decision.
The other woman I met is about to go to school for two weeks to improve her Spanish. I thought that sounds amazing, but my friends immediately said I don't need it. Plus it was $500!. I think that included room and board which isn't so bad if you consider it that way. But still, that is not in my budget. My friends said they will work with me themselves on the things I want to improve and save me the $500.
After church we all went out to dinner. We do that once/month at the English speaking church. Since most of the congregation are missionaries, the leadership believe fellowship is extra important. We get a huge table that takes up most of the restaurant at Pizza Hut and share pizzas. I always have a good time and meet someone new. I love my morning church for feeding my soul, I can't live without that one. But the English church is great for fellowship and for worshiping in English. Although now I have been in Honduras for almost 3 years, and didn't have any English speaking friends until now, so I don't know any of the English songs they are singing these days. I am learning them little by little.
Yesterday I caught up on "housekeeping" which means I did everything BUT housekeeping. Sent out letters I had been meaning to write, wrote my update to supporters, and took care of some other business. The next thing I knew it was 5 p.m. and the whole day was gone.
Sunday night a strange thing happened. A vision flashed into my mind of my friend Ana's daughter Isabela. In the vision Isa fell and hit her head really hard. I considered calling Ana, but thought there is really nothing Ana can do. It would only make her worry. So I didn't call.
Last night I called Ana because I was supposed to meet her today. She said she was shaken up because Isa had just fallen off the steps, which are really high and rickety, and banged her head. She said her eyes rolled back in her head and she lost her breath. I couldn't believe it. In my vision I didn't know how she fell, and I thought she fell backward, but Ana said she fell frontward. Anyway the blow to her head was in the same exact place, above her right ear just like in my vision. It scared me because I didn't know why God would show me something like that. Fany and I joined Ana in prayer for Isabela. As of last night she seemed to be okay. But Ana's phone lost its charge and I couldn't follow up. I will talk to her this afternoon.
I started the day by putting on my stretchiest pants and discovering they did not fit. Must do something about that. Haven't exercised since my gym membership ran out in November. In the meantime, dresses are the answer.
Got to church early because I was one of three people assigned to prepare lunch for church members to buy after the service. We decided since we had short notice we would serve... Surprise! Chinese food! The most commonly eaten food in Honduras outside of beans. We had to leave during the service to run and get it, which was a bummer, but we bought extra and sold it all! Profits go to the church, so we were happy.
Some of my new North American friends called me early in the morning saying they would like to come to my new church. It was nice to have guests. The pastor's assistant jumped up when he realized there were English speakers there and translated the whole service for them. I appreciated that very much and so did they.
Afterward they asked if I was going to the English service in the afternoon. We decided since we all had the same plans that we could drop off my car and spend the rest of the day together. So I showed them my house, which they loved, grabbed Skip-Bo (a card game I bought in the US) and we headed to their house. They treated me to coffee on the way. I can't drink coffee because the caffeine keeps me awake for days, so I got a grape frozen drink.
We played cards until it was time for our second round of church. One of my friends has a seven or eight year old son. It was like torture for him every time he drew a skip card. He could not stand the thought of skipping his Mommy, and he really didn't want to skip his Auntie, so he kept wanting to skip me. His family pointed out that it was not nice to skip his friend (me) all of the time. He should use strategy to choose who he is going to skip. Then he skipped his Aunt once. But he still could not bring himself to skip his Mom. He begged us please, could he skip himself. We told him that was not part of the rules. Poor kid. He drew more skip cards than the rest of us put together and each time got more upset. He was relieved when it was time to go to church!
At church I was introduced to two other missionaries who are also in transition. The pastor's wife joked that we need a whole separate ministry that is like a temp agency because so many people are in transition right now. People could say they need help and others could go and serve with them to see if it is a good fit.
One of the young women I met is meeting with me tomorrow for lunch. I would like to learn more about what she has been doing and see if I feel called to help. From what I can see, I would not feel safe doing what she is doing. But I will meet with her before I make any decision.
The other woman I met is about to go to school for two weeks to improve her Spanish. I thought that sounds amazing, but my friends immediately said I don't need it. Plus it was $500!. I think that included room and board which isn't so bad if you consider it that way. But still, that is not in my budget. My friends said they will work with me themselves on the things I want to improve and save me the $500.
After church we all went out to dinner. We do that once/month at the English speaking church. Since most of the congregation are missionaries, the leadership believe fellowship is extra important. We get a huge table that takes up most of the restaurant at Pizza Hut and share pizzas. I always have a good time and meet someone new. I love my morning church for feeding my soul, I can't live without that one. But the English church is great for fellowship and for worshiping in English. Although now I have been in Honduras for almost 3 years, and didn't have any English speaking friends until now, so I don't know any of the English songs they are singing these days. I am learning them little by little.
Yesterday I caught up on "housekeeping" which means I did everything BUT housekeeping. Sent out letters I had been meaning to write, wrote my update to supporters, and took care of some other business. The next thing I knew it was 5 p.m. and the whole day was gone.
Sunday night a strange thing happened. A vision flashed into my mind of my friend Ana's daughter Isabela. In the vision Isa fell and hit her head really hard. I considered calling Ana, but thought there is really nothing Ana can do. It would only make her worry. So I didn't call.
Last night I called Ana because I was supposed to meet her today. She said she was shaken up because Isa had just fallen off the steps, which are really high and rickety, and banged her head. She said her eyes rolled back in her head and she lost her breath. I couldn't believe it. In my vision I didn't know how she fell, and I thought she fell backward, but Ana said she fell frontward. Anyway the blow to her head was in the same exact place, above her right ear just like in my vision. It scared me because I didn't know why God would show me something like that. Fany and I joined Ana in prayer for Isabela. As of last night she seemed to be okay. But Ana's phone lost its charge and I couldn't follow up. I will talk to her this afternoon.
Friday, January 9, 2015
Vision Mapping
Today I sat down with a lady who does vision mapping. I was dreading it to be honest. She takes information from your whole life history, your dreams, your past jobs, your passions, and finds the common keys.
I was scared to meet with her because I did not want to be boxed into anything until I receive God's call for my next mission. I thought it would be bad to define things too concretely. I expected my desire to be less definite would bother her.
Turns out, that's exactly how she prefers to work. We kept things open and still learned about my strengths and priorities. She said that many people come to her with expectations that she will tell them exactly what they should do next. She was happy to show me my life patterns and leave my life in God's hands. As was I.
There are two specific existing ministries it appears I will fit into well. She is going to arrange for me to visit both of them. There are also 3 people she met with over the past few days who, strangely, are looking to do what I am, but can't do it alone. I told her I would prefer to work with an established group, but I am open to meeting those people as well.
At the bottom of my heart, my greatest hope is that I will serve through my church. I need to speak with them more about how full time that could be. God knows the desires of my heart. All I have to do is pray about it, continue to follow my Pastor's plans for me, God's plan for me and stay open to everything that comes my way. What a great place to be!
I was scared to meet with her because I did not want to be boxed into anything until I receive God's call for my next mission. I thought it would be bad to define things too concretely. I expected my desire to be less definite would bother her.
Turns out, that's exactly how she prefers to work. We kept things open and still learned about my strengths and priorities. She said that many people come to her with expectations that she will tell them exactly what they should do next. She was happy to show me my life patterns and leave my life in God's hands. As was I.
There are two specific existing ministries it appears I will fit into well. She is going to arrange for me to visit both of them. There are also 3 people she met with over the past few days who, strangely, are looking to do what I am, but can't do it alone. I told her I would prefer to work with an established group, but I am open to meeting those people as well.
At the bottom of my heart, my greatest hope is that I will serve through my church. I need to speak with them more about how full time that could be. God knows the desires of my heart. All I have to do is pray about it, continue to follow my Pastor's plans for me, God's plan for me and stay open to everything that comes my way. What a great place to be!
Thursday, January 8, 2015
Reunion (meeting)
The sun came out today! Since I got back from the US, the weather has been dark and windy. Today was bright and windy. It was nice to see the sun.
I met with the Pastor of my new church today. Some of you may not know that God has led me to attend a different church. It is called Alas de las Aguilas (which means wings of the eagles), and is led by Pastora Ruth. She is an amazing lady whom I have respected since I first met her five years ago.
In 2009, when I first visited Ruth's church, God spoke to her about me. He told her that I had a lot of hurt in my heart that needed to be healed. God also told her that I would serve many people here with my heart and my words, not in a materialistic way. As you can see, Ruth is a gifted prophet. She is also an amazing lady and a powerful pastor. Pastora Ruth and her church are everything I need right now.
We met this afternoon to discuss my time in the US and the ways God used me there. I was so happy to share all that God did there with friends, family and the leadership of my church in the US. Pastora Ruth shared my joy.
We also discussed some things that I am going to be working on with her help. I am grateful and honored to have this lady walking with me.
I am happier than I have ever been before in my life. Putting my whole life into God's hands, with Ruth's support and wisdom, is what has brought me such great happiness.
Pastor Ruth is a straight shooter. She is direct and says what she thinks, which I appreciate. I also feel extremely comfortable with her. I have shared things with her that only a couple of people in the whole world know.
With Pastor Ruth's help I expect to be a powerful force in my next ministry. That is exciting to me beyond words.
I met with the Pastor of my new church today. Some of you may not know that God has led me to attend a different church. It is called Alas de las Aguilas (which means wings of the eagles), and is led by Pastora Ruth. She is an amazing lady whom I have respected since I first met her five years ago.
In 2009, when I first visited Ruth's church, God spoke to her about me. He told her that I had a lot of hurt in my heart that needed to be healed. God also told her that I would serve many people here with my heart and my words, not in a materialistic way. As you can see, Ruth is a gifted prophet. She is also an amazing lady and a powerful pastor. Pastora Ruth and her church are everything I need right now.
We met this afternoon to discuss my time in the US and the ways God used me there. I was so happy to share all that God did there with friends, family and the leadership of my church in the US. Pastora Ruth shared my joy.
We also discussed some things that I am going to be working on with her help. I am grateful and honored to have this lady walking with me.
I am happier than I have ever been before in my life. Putting my whole life into God's hands, with Ruth's support and wisdom, is what has brought me such great happiness.
Pastor Ruth is a straight shooter. She is direct and says what she thinks, which I appreciate. I also feel extremely comfortable with her. I have shared things with her that only a couple of people in the whole world know.
With Pastor Ruth's help I expect to be a powerful force in my next ministry. That is exciting to me beyond words.
Wednesday, January 7, 2015
Let it Go
Some days I don't write because I feel like there is nothing to say. But lately I haven't been writing because I have so much to say that I don't know where to start.
Since the list is getting bigger and bigger, I thought I'd give it a quick start tonight and see how it goes.
Everyone who knows me knows that I have always been an anxious person. I remember lying in my bed feeling anxious and not knowing why when I was in second grade.
When I went to the US in December, one person after another, everywhere I went, said that I look different. Some described it as more happy. Some as peaceful. One person said that I have always had a "heavy" feeling around me that is no longer there. My Mom said she hasn't seen me as happy and relaxed since I was 10 or 12 years old.
So what happened? Is it new facial cream? A haircut? Perhaps anti-anxiety meds?
The answer is... none of the above.
The true answer is that for the first time in my life, I have learned to give everything over to God. I spent most of November deep in prayer and seeking His will. This is the result.
I have finally learned to place my whole life in God's hands. Now that I know how it feels to let go of control, I surely don't want it back! It's a huge relief to know my life is not in my own hands. He will do a better job with it than I ever could.
No need to worry about heavy traffic on the way to the airport. If I am supposed to get on the plane, I will. If I am not, I won't. I did all I can do by leaving at a reasonable time.
Driving in a snow storm? What do I actually have control over? The car has snow tires. I am driving slowly and carefully. The rest is in God's hands.
I have learned that I cannot control how people act or respond. I cannot control what others think or say. Actually I cannot control much of anything. And that is fine. Because most things that I used to be concerned about are really not my problem to begin with.
So, if you want to have people constantly tell you that you look happier, peaceful, well-rested, and relaxed I have the answer for you! Give your life to God. Place everything in His hands. Have faith that He wants the best for you and that He will show you the path He wants you to take. Pray and listen. He will talk to you. Ask Him questions. He will answer!
Enough for tonight. That should give you something to chew on. Are you anxious? Do you want to look years younger? Do you want to be happier? More peaceful? Enjoy and appreciate each day more than ever before?
Since the list is getting bigger and bigger, I thought I'd give it a quick start tonight and see how it goes.
Everyone who knows me knows that I have always been an anxious person. I remember lying in my bed feeling anxious and not knowing why when I was in second grade.
When I went to the US in December, one person after another, everywhere I went, said that I look different. Some described it as more happy. Some as peaceful. One person said that I have always had a "heavy" feeling around me that is no longer there. My Mom said she hasn't seen me as happy and relaxed since I was 10 or 12 years old.
So what happened? Is it new facial cream? A haircut? Perhaps anti-anxiety meds?
The answer is... none of the above.
The true answer is that for the first time in my life, I have learned to give everything over to God. I spent most of November deep in prayer and seeking His will. This is the result.
I have finally learned to place my whole life in God's hands. Now that I know how it feels to let go of control, I surely don't want it back! It's a huge relief to know my life is not in my own hands. He will do a better job with it than I ever could.
No need to worry about heavy traffic on the way to the airport. If I am supposed to get on the plane, I will. If I am not, I won't. I did all I can do by leaving at a reasonable time.
Driving in a snow storm? What do I actually have control over? The car has snow tires. I am driving slowly and carefully. The rest is in God's hands.
I have learned that I cannot control how people act or respond. I cannot control what others think or say. Actually I cannot control much of anything. And that is fine. Because most things that I used to be concerned about are really not my problem to begin with.
So, if you want to have people constantly tell you that you look happier, peaceful, well-rested, and relaxed I have the answer for you! Give your life to God. Place everything in His hands. Have faith that He wants the best for you and that He will show you the path He wants you to take. Pray and listen. He will talk to you. Ask Him questions. He will answer!
Enough for tonight. That should give you something to chew on. Are you anxious? Do you want to look years younger? Do you want to be happier? More peaceful? Enjoy and appreciate each day more than ever before?
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)