The Glorious Pursuit of Life

Chichicastenango

2012-01-30T13:33:00.003-05:00

First weekend trip of our Cross Cultural took us to Chichicastenango, a town in the region of El Quiche famous for their Mayan culture and beautiful markets.

One experience that will continue to stay with me was our interaction with the women of Proyecto Ruth y Noemi. This project was formed in response to Guatemala's Civil War in 1980, which greatly affected the people of El Quiche. After the war, many women were left without their husbands and in need of an income for their families. In response, the Guatemalan Methodist church formed this community which gave widows the tools to support themselves.

After talking with the pastor who started the program, our group went to visit a coop of women who produce traditional handmade merchandise for Proyecto Ruth y Noemi. Together our group sat with the widows in an open room filled with the bright colors of their merchandise. Siting with these women and children, I was happy for the opportunity to witness a true sisterhood community and to feel the strength God has equipped them with in their unity. To see the joy and pride the women held in who they are, where they had come from, and what they had accomplished. It was beautiful.

After this experience I was reading from Henri Nouwen's book "Gracias!" and came across a quote that stated, "Ministry is entering with our human brokenness into community with others and speaking a word of hope". I was blessed to witness this form of ministry as we talked with the pastor and fellowshiped with the women. Here in Guatemala, Christians joined together in brokenness and created something beautiful from the ashes of war.

Playing with the grandchildren of the widows at the coop.
Photo Credit: Peyton Erb

Hola desde Guatemala

2012-01-24T09:18:00.002-05:00

Hello friends and family!!

Well here we are, a little over a week since we have arrived here. The journey has begun! A little time line thus far starts Thursday the 12th when we arrived at CASAS, the language school a part of the seminary Semillas. The next day included orientation and then being passed on to host families. From the outside, it may have looked like the EMU students were a group of lost puppies looking for a home. :) After a weekend in our new homes with our host families, classes started on Monday as well as mid day adventures throughout the week to various historical sights as well as having guest speakers come in to share.

Some highlights so far include...

random adventures with my host family
seeing the new president live at a Sunday afternoon Mega Church Service.
getting to know/talk with my host families auydante (househelp) Epep
learning more of the history social make up and reformation going on in Guatemala
studying Spanish grammar- hopefully it will help improve my Spanish!

Coming back into a culture different than my own does have its fair share of challenges as well. Cultural norms, language, and being the stranger make certain tasks more difficult, but I find life from these challenges. After having lived and reflected (which I am sure the reflection process is sure to continue) on another previous cross cultural experience, I greatly appreciate the importance of living each moment to the fullest, reflecting and keeping God at the center of everything I do.

With that said, some more "everyday" yet profound events have included...

being able to engage in conversation (at home, CASAS, the street, and with other host families)
figuring out a new bus system
pulling un chiste (a joke) in Spanish!
reflecting with our ayudante Epep on the inequalities in Guatemala

Hopefully this gives a taste of what I am thinking and experience. I hope for the following blog entries to focus on stories, encounters, and observations of my experience. From these experiences both you and I will be given new ways to view the world and most importantly bits of truth from God.

Desde Guatemala,
Rosita <3

Orientation

2012-01-10T17:18:00.004-05:00

I find myself feeling so many different emotions right now...

Excitement for the beautiful adventures to come.

Anxiety of the strong emotions that come for me within Latino culture and the reliving of memories from Paraguay.

Wonder at the world and the diversity it holds.

"Culture is not something achieved by a few. It is our way of being in the world together."

-"Learning from the Stranger"

Gratitude for this amazing opportunity.

Pray for our group as we open up to God and the journey he has in store.

Packing List

2012-01-07T13:47:00.005-05:00

a fairly organized suitcase and super sweet backpack

time to think and process
a new short hair cut

one mind filled with a range of emotions.

Well sounds to me that I am on the right track! :) Trying to keep this wise saying of Gandhi in my mind...

"I do not want to foresee the future. I am concerned with taking care of the present. God has given me no control over the moment following."

Five days till Guatemala

"Be strong, do not fear"

2012-01-02T09:55:00.002-05:00

"Strengthen the feeble hands, steady the knees that give way; say to those with fearful hearts,'Be strong, do not fear; your God will come, he will come with vengeance; with divine retribution he will come to save you'."

Isaiah 35 has served a life giving reminder to not fear or fret over the unknown. To not start planning what cannot be planned. I am reminded to be strong and not fear- for God is preparing both me and my new family in Guatemala for our journey to come.

Be strong- do not fear.

A Time of Preparation

2011-12-30T21:27:00.003-05:00

"Guatemala- a country in Central America bordered by Mexico to the north and west, the Pacific Ocean to the southwest, Belize to the northeast, the Caribbean to the east, and Honduras and El Salvador to the southeast. Its area is 108,890 km² (42,043 mi²) with an estimated population of 13,276,517 (Wikipedia)."

But there is so much more to Guatemala than its geography such as its people. The culture. Its language. The diversity. Its struggles and its strengths.

During break I have been taking the time to prepare for a new adventure and a new journey filled with experiences. But most importantly- an experience to learn from the people of Guatemala and learn more of their lives. I cannot wait.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/hideki_naito/6278546289/

First for Everything

2010-05-31T15:42:00.002-04:00

I have never been to prision and frankly never expected to go there. But recently that changed...

The other day Edulia, Alfred and I went to visit two of the three young men who broke into the Klassen home about a year ago. Throughout my stay here in Paraguay I have seen a story of forgiveness and hope unravell from that unforgetable event. This visit to prision was yet another page in their tale.

When we arrived at the prison the three of us split into the lines for men and women at the front entrance. As Edulia and I joined the women line we noted that all the ladies among us were wearing skirts. Here to discover it is manditory for women to wear a skirt in order to enter. Lucky for us there was a skirt renting shop right next door. :) And of course that is exactly where we were headed next. Unaware of the fact that the skirts were not to keep, I picked out a cute looking knee lenth skirt. I was quite a site with my floral green skirt, sneakers, high green striped socks and burgandy work shirt.

Ready for anything, we made our way through the line, got patted down for drugs, and went to find the young men. As we entered the large meeting room I felt like I was in some sort of thug movie. Tons of men were crowded around, some at the gate, others on the balcony and others at the food bar. There was a steady beat of slow Paraguayan music and smoke from the cigaretts wafted around creating a shady atmosphere. As we made our way through I instantly regreted wearing a skirt that showed any part of my leg.

Upstairs we located the young man who stabbed my host dad. We had come with a cake for his birthday which was that week. It was an awesome moment of be sitting around that table with the two of them together. What a powerful display of forgiveness it was. The young man did not have much to say so our visit did not last too long. But sometimes it is not necessarly important what words are exchanged but rather the moment which was shared.

Top 10 Favorite Spanish Words and Phrases

2010-04-29T16:03:00.002-04:00

Seven months of spanish learning has led to this list...

1. guapa(o)- (usually meaning handsome) here in Paraguay it means well rounded or skilled. example- Que guapa que sos!

2. de repente- suddenly or next

3. alegeria- joy, happiness

4. poder- control, power, authority, strength (great discription of God)

5. ya- already, now

6. todavia- still, yet, even

7. ¡Por supuesto!- Of course!

8. ¡Asi no!- This no! (first phrase I leared at the Guarderia)

9. verguenza- embarrassment (I like how the word sounds like its deffinition!)

10. ¡No puede ser!- It can´t be! (great phrase when talking to kids. Keeps the excited energy going :)

Semana Santa

2010-04-09T10:47:00.003-04:00

Holy Week- a holiday I have been looking forward to since I arrived.

Some basic Paraguayan traditions that I have discovered include...

The making of chipa (a very traditional cheesy bread). Some households make chipa at the beginning of the week and both eat and exchange chipa until the end of Semana Santa. This tradition is more strictly followed by devout catholics in Paraguay.

Over Semana Santa my neighborhood was unusually quiet. None of the usual polka style music was being played and most people spent time inside instead of out in their usual seats with terere by the road. It was as if the whole barrio was showing reverence to this holy week.

But out of all of my experiences I enjoyed most seeing how my church celebrated Semana Santa. Thursday, Friday and Saturday night the church held outdoor services for the community. The program consisted of praise music, skits put on by the youth, and a short sermon with an alter call at the end. A beautiful part for me during this service was actually the alter call. It was so moving for me to see persons from my church living out their faith and praying with other brothers and sisters who have decided to follow Christ. Being a part of these services reminded me how important it is that as Christians we continue to share Christ with others. Not only that, but I was also reminded how great a God we worship. God is worshiped and viewed in a unique way depending on the surrounding culture. Even within cultural boundaries, we all have a variety of ways to connect with God. This only goes to show how big and grand of a God we worship.

A First for Everything

2010-03-18T15:39:00.002-04:00

This past weekend has been filled with a whirlwind of events. It all started Thursday night...

Well technically this story started in the first week of March when I got some type of fungus on my knee. Don`t know where or how I got it- but it was nasty. A pussy, scabbing, itchy mess that grew to the size of a half dollar. When this nastyness in all its glory decided to spread to my left knee, Edulia (my host mom) and I headed to the free clynic where I recieved pills and a cream. Everything was good.

Two days later (Thursday March 11th) at about 8:30pm I was reallly itchy. First my head, then my back and upper thigh. Even for me, who is use to the usual allergic breakouts or bug bites, this was something out of the ordinary. As I prepared to take a shower to hopefully soothe the itch, I discovered red welts covering my body. My stomach, legs, and face- covered in red itchy bumps. It was then that me and my host family decided to go to the hospital.

On our ride there the red welts spread, cold sore type bumps formed on my lips and my nose inflated making it more difficult to breath. By the time we got to the hospital I was a mess. They took me to the Emergency room where I got an IV and some shots to slow the reaction. As the nurse wheeled me to a more permentent room, I caught a glimpse of my face. It looked as though someone had taken a bat to my face! Either that or some plastic surgery gone wrong. :)

We came to discover that I was having an allergic reaction to my anti-inflamitory pills for my fungus. I would need to spend the night at the hospital just incase I had another reaction. I ended up staying in the hospital for 24 hours (which was a good test of my patience).

During this whole ordeal, I felt an overwhellming sence of love. Alfred, Edulia and my host siblings were so concerned. My teammates were oh so supportive. God provided so much during my time of complete helplessness. Now I am starting to understand the beauty of God`s global family. Gracias a Dios.

Just Breathe

2010-02-16T14:58:00.003-05:00

This past weekend Team Paraguay headed to Encarnaciòn for our mid-way retreat. We were blessed to stay in a church`s guest house of sorts for our relaxing weekend away. The church, located about 20 minutes out of the city, looked like a sceen from a painting, surrounded by green rolling hills of soy fields and a sky blanketed with some of the friendliest clouds I have ever seen. This home was our own little hide away. A hidden space for us to take a deep breath before entering into the second half of our journey.

Though before hand we planned for the main highlight of our trip to be visiting the Jesuit Ruins (which was an amazing experience!!), the highlight for me was our time spent at the guest house. The relaxed conversations that came out of our time together are unforgetable. Basking in the beauty of God`s creation gave me a sence of calm. The simple yet priceless things in life such as star gazing on a perfectly clear night. Laying under an acient cluster of trees discussing life questions. Watching an incoming storm. Standing in awe of the grand rainbown afterwords.

This time away was just what I needed. Recently I can across a verse...

But what happens when we live God´s way? He brings gifts into our lives...we develope a willingness to stick with things, a sense of compassion in heart, and a conviction that a basic holiness permeates things and people.

-Galations 5:22-23 (Message)

God knows us better than anyone around. He understands our needs. He hears our prayers. When I was worrying about coming to Paraguay, He was preparing for me an opportunity of a life time. Chances to feel like a total fool away from home and times of the purest joy. Both the ups and downs are blessings because they add to our experiences and understanding. I am so thankful for this trip and whatever blessings God has in store.

Food!

2010-02-04T14:34:00.002-05:00

Looking back on past blog entries, I noticed that I have neglected sharing anything about the amazing food of Paraguay. With this inspiration I created...

Rose´s Top 10 Favorite Foods of Paraguay
(not in any specific order because that would be impossible)

1. Asado (steak)- usually asado is prepared over an open flame, rich with fat and salty seasonings

2. Fresh Fruit- some fruits that have been in season during my stay include mangos, watermelon, apples, pears, plums, pineapples, melon, oranges etc.

3. Neokies- a delicious mix of potato and flour which creates a mouth watering pasta like glob

4. Gizo- very traditional Paraguayan dish usually consisting of pasta, meat and a tomato sauce with onions and peppers

5. Chipa- traditional Paraguayan treat made with madioca flour and cheese. Sold on the streets, in the park, on the bus... everywhere!

6. Waffelen (waffle)- a German Mennonite Paraguayan food homemade by my host mom

7. Pie- sweet fruity treat hidden between two flakey layers of crust (a thinner version of traditional American pie)

8. Dulce- a thick jam spread made from most any fruit or milk

9. Tortilla- dough batter, sometimes containing green onions or meat, fried and delicious

10. Empenadas- a flakey dough sandwhich containing anything from beef to ham and cheese

Redefining Strength

2010-01-18T15:07:00.007-05:00

I use to be strong
A stable, confident person
Sure of my beliefs.
Comfortable.

Then God came along.
He showed me a new reality.
My eyes were open to new ways.
Different customs.

I´m not sure what I believe anymore.
Now I don´t feel that strong.
Insecurities flood my thoughts.
Uncomfortable.

But there is comfort in the unknown
A relief that control is not with me.
No, I have intrusted my life in someone greater.
Someone who is so much wiser that I.

In Him I am strong
I recieve stability and confidence
And an assurance from Him.
In God I find rest.

¨That is why, for Christ´s sake, I delight in weakness... in difficulties. For when I am weak, I am strong.¨ -2 Corinthians 12:10

A Service to Remember

2010-01-18T15:07:00.003-05:00

At the young adults retreat there was a certian worship service that I will not easily forget. A service filled with a new light on worship that I had not experinced before.

It started with praise and worship, like the others that week had. Clapping, jumping and loud chanting at times created a lively atmosphere. During one of the slower more moving songs, the speaker of the day took the mike and began speaking about possibly what the song inspired him to tell us- I am not sure really because his spanish was hard for me to understand. But before I knew it, youth were bawlling around me. Youth started heading up to the front starting an alter call of sorts. They were kneeling, weeping and crying out to God while at the same time sharing testimonies at the mike. As more time passed, even more youth headed to the front. By now there was loud wailing and crying from all around. People I knew from my youth group were up. They reconized how undeserving we are of His love and were litterally falling to their knees in repentance.

While everything was unfolding around me, I felt like a silent observer among the group. I had been introduced to this style of worship before in Asuncion , but nothing of this intensity. Watching everyone, I could feel the importance of this moment for some present. But I personally was unable to connect the same way. Maybe it was the language barrier or maybe the newness of the style of worship.

Even though I was unable to connect, this moment gave me appreciation for different styles of worship. There is something valuable to be taken out of any style of worship, weather it be a new way of connecting to God or a deeper understanding of the global church. By seeing worship in a different context, I was reminded of how complex and indiscribable God is.

The Art of Play

2010-01-12T18:24:00.004-05:00

Life has been busy recently! Over the holidays there has been a LOT of traveling...

Going with the team to Argentina to renew our visas
Visiting the Chaco with my host family for the holidays
Going to Casaapa to visit Rosanna, a friend at church
Attending the Youth Retreat for the Mennonite Conference in Paraguay

What do all four of this trips have in common? Learning the Art of Play. What exactly does that mean you may say? Well for me- it means learning to live life to the fullest. When life throws you a curve, as South American travel usually does, learning to take it with a smile. When you do not understand what is going on, which is a common occurance when learning a new language, learning to ask questions and laugh at your self along the way. When God blesses you with beautiful moments, like visiting Iguazu Falls, learning to thank him constantly.

During my time in the Chaco, I had the opportunity to see what genunie play looks like. My host moms father was the source of this moment. Over my stay in their house, it was not unusual to see him running right along side his grandchildren. This served as a great reminder for me. I too want to keep the art of play in my life. God desires for us to have a child like faith. He wants us to come running to him with our arms wide open, ready for his warm embrace.

Today I challenge all of us to redefine what it play looks like in our life. There is nothing to loose... and I am finding it to be a lot of fun :)

Loving Relationships

2009-12-07T16:21:00.002-05:00

My favorite aspect of this year is getting to know people of Paraguay. I love interacting and sometimes even holding conversation with neighbors- when I am having a good day with my spanish that is. :) Those briefest moments make my experience much richer.

It is by getting to know people here that one is able to see the true spirit of Paraguay. In the shy smile from my neighbor Sophie as I walk to work. Or the friendly adios from Toni and Laura on the way to church. In these brief moments I find much joy.

But some of my most memorable moments occur over terere. The chilled terere during a hot summer day creates a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere. Any sort of conversation can come up over terere. Maybe the re-telling of a hillarious moment staring a kid from the Guardaria. Or a sad tale of our neighbors who made a poor decision. Listening into these talks gives me a glimpse of how God is at work in Paraguay. How through loving relationships, God is changing lives.

Grace Like Rain

2009-11-16T16:34:00.002-05:00

I love rainy days. But rainy days are a little different in Paraguay. When it rains, the roads turn muddy and unpassable. The road infront of my house looks something similar to a creek if it gets wet enough. So when it rains, Asuncion takes the day off. Schools close, parents stay home, and the day is free.

On Wednesday, we had a very rainy day. I woke up to the sound of rain hitting the roof. It was a relaxing rhythm that coaxed me further under the covers. Once my tired body was convinced it was morning, I headed downstairs for breakfast, which consisted of a warm cup of cocido- warm milk, but for me soy milk, brewed jerva, the tea leaves used to make terere. Together, me and my host family sat under the patio, watching the rain spill over the terrain. It was such a tranquil sceen.

Since the Guardaria was closed for the day, the dawas very relaxed. For the rest of the morning I sat with Alfred and Edulia, drinking steaming hot mate while surrounded by the chill breeze of the rain fall. This was such a spiritual experience for me. It felt as if God was clearing away all the dirt from my heart.

As the clouds cleared and the rain ceased, the sweet smell of wet grass filled the air. Edulia began cooking bread for the month and the kids spent their free time watching tv. This rainy day was such a blessing. An opportunity to recharge and be reminded of God`s provision.

For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demonds, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God.
-Romans 8: 38, 39

Digging to the Core

2009-11-09T16:13:00.006-05:00

Being immersed in a culture which you don´t know the language give a lot a time for time for thinking. After a full day of thoughts, I go to my journal to release some of my questions. On November 1st, my day led to this entry...

Last night when I plopped onto my bed, I found myself questioning... who am I?

What kind of person am I becoming after just two months in Paraguay? For most of

my life I have been able to identify myself by what I did

or maybe by certian personality traits. But I don´t have those discriptions to hide

behind anymore. While all those charcteristics are great assets, they are not the core

who I am. The very center of me is that I am a child of God. I am his daughter. But

what does that really mean? How can I continue to dig deeper to discover who God

wants me to become? The only way I know how is to become hungry once

again for Christ. Over and over I must continue to fall to my knees and offer all of myself

to Christ. Because it is through him that I am made whole.

I have found that after journaling I am left with an eager heart. A new found excitment is developing in my faith. Who knows where God may lead...

La Guardaria

2009-11-02T17:17:00.004-05:00

Coming into this year I didn´t have much of an idea what sort of voulenteer work I would be doing. But now I do! Now, I am beginning have a pace to life.

For the past two weeks I have been working with 10 wonderful co-workers at Iglesia de Amistad´s daycare and kindergarden program. About 96 kids between the ages of one and four spend either a part or the whole day at the Guarderia. With patience and kindness, both the faculty and kids have been showing me how things run. So far my job discription has looked something like this...

nose wiper, dish washer, lice picker,

dance instructor, cook assistant,

floor sweeper, terere drinker,

hair dresser, hug giver, shoe tie-er,

wardrobe assistant etc....

Each day is an opportunity to learn something new! Who knows what occupation I may be interested in after such a variety of experiences! :)

Helping Hands

2009-10-26T16:38:00.003-04:00

The other day I was walking through the neighborhood with one of our family friends and my host mom. We got to a point where the path led to a bridge over a creek. The bridge consisted of two long logs stretched across the gap with a few tattered and broken boards loosely nailed to the supporting logs. As I watched our neighbor expertly cross the bridge, I could hear the wood creeking and saw the bridge wobble and sag with each step.

This is when I began to realize that I too would be crossing that bridge. You have got to be kidding me, I thought. There is no way I can cross that thing. I took one step on to the mess of a bridge and the very first thing I do is look down. The only object in the way of me falling 8 feet to the rocky creek bottom was a worn out board.

I could´t do it. Each time I put my food ahead of me to test the bridge, the board would alert me that it was not capable to carry my weight with an awful creeking sound. At this point, I started looking back trying to see if I could possibly take another route. There was no other choice but to go forward. It was then that my friend came back across the bridge. She took my hand and guided me to the secure and safe points on the bridge. Slowly she held my hand until we safely reached the other side.

In the same way I have been experiencing God in Paraguay. Last week was not easy for me. I had been feeling sick and thinking of home a lot. But God heard my cries and he took me into his firm embrace. I am so blessed to have helping hands from my Radical Journey teammates, my host family, and the friends of my host church. They reached out to me when the bridge a head seemed quite impossible to pass alone. It is with God´s love through others that I have begun walking forward.

Christ Be Our Light

2009-10-13T10:24:00.004-04:00

Over the past three weeks in Paraguay, I have seen the bible, Jesus and the church in a different context. In my neighborhood, the church and what it believes is very different from the surrounding community. People of the church naturally stand out because of the choices they make.

For example- when people fill the bars on the weekend, the youth of the church worship together. As my neighbor comes home drunk, my host mom prays for the safety of his wife and children. When there is too much free time for the kids of the neighborhood, the women of the church create Saturday morning activities for them to learn about Christ. As problems of the world are ever present, the people of the church respond in Christ like ways.

What does this mean for me. In what ways can I stand out from the world in order to be a shining light for Christ. How can we as a church stand out in the world.

Mi Familia

2009-10-05T10:57:00.002-04:00

One of the highlights of living in Paraguay living in a host family. I can remember from the first time I met them thinking, ¨Now this is a neat family.¨

My host father, Alfred, is the lead pastor of our church, La Amistad. He has a great sence of humor (at least from the phrases I understand) and seems to always be laughing at something or other. Edulia, my host mom, is a mother figure for the surrounding neighborhood. Daily she visits people who are sick or going through a rough time. Edulia is also very involved in our church by planning childrens activities, decorating for fiestas or by welcoming others with her warm smile.

Now- the explaination of my family would not be complete if I left out my new brothers and sister! Jeremias (11), Noemi (9), and Josias (7) are three full of life kids that I have enjoyed getting to know the past two weeks. The first time I met Jeremias he came running to give me a big hug (what a great way to be welcomed into the family!). He seems to be the inquisitive and observant one. When I was first unpacking, Jeremias took interest in each of my posessions, intently asking ¿Que es eso? or ´what is that?´.

Noemi is a charming girl. She enjoys singing and dancing weather or not their is music on. Noemi has also had a lot of patience with me, as she helps me learn the spanish language. Josias is a hyper kid who loves to fool around. He loves playing soccer and makes many funny faces in a day.

Even from the few days I have lived with the Klassens, it has been a gift to see how Christ like they act towards people in their community. From simply exchanging a friendly ´buen dia´to having friends and family over for savory meals. Their home is filled with love. I think that is partly because they so freely give love to others. In Dorothy Day´s autobiography ¨The Long Loneliness¨, she states that

¨Most of our life is unimportant, filled with trivial things from
morning till night. But when it is transformed by love it is
of interest even to the angels.¨

The Klassens have fully embraced this idea and have discovered the gift of love with no boundaries.

Life in Paraguay

2009-09-29T16:40:00.002-04:00

The other day I said in very broken spanish to my host mom, ¨muchos cosas para mi escribir¨.

What I was trying to say was there are so many events for me to discribe that I don´t know where to start. How can I manage to discribe what I have seen and learned so far.

Well- first of all it is improtant to know how loving and beautiful the people of Paraguay are. Their unconditional love and hospitality has made me feel very welcomed. The past couple days I have gotten to know people in my neighborhood, host family, and members of numberous Mennonite churches in Asuncion. I have felt especially welcomed by my host family as they have made many sacrifices to have me in their home such as taking time to explain the spanish language, providing dairy free food and inviting me so freely into their lives.

For the next three weeks, me and my Radical Journey teammates will be taking the time to work on our Spanish-which can be quite humerous at times- and becoming familiar with Asuncion. This time of orientation has been very helpful as we begin to get situated in our homes.

Some days I look around me and wonder why I am here. Why is it that God called me to Paraguay. Throughout these next 10 months I want to be open to whatever God has instore for me. I have no clue where that may take me, but I am ready for a ´radical journey´.

Disclaimer: I am still getting use to the key boards down here so sorry if I do not use all the correct grammer hehe

Dirty Rotten Day

2009-09-18T21:55:00.003-04:00

Bad days are no fun.

It all started when I discovered I needed to have the yellow fever shot... which I did not have. I cannot get into Paraguay without this shot. And I am leaving on Sunday. This resulted in two hours of being put on hold trying to find an office that could give me the shot before I leave.

Next thing, my debit card was not working. Try as I might, it would not work when trying to make a small purchase at Walgreen's. How am I going to get by in Paraguay without money? Yet again phone calls were made and more annoying hold music filled my ears.

Oh and yes. The washing machine decided to attack my clothing, resulting in gross detergent everywhere. It was a mess. And terrible timing.

All of this plus preparing to leave for Paraguay on Sunday.

It was a bad, terrible, no good, dirty rotten day filled with a roller coaster of emotions. But God was present. I saw God through friends who cleaned my laundry for me. Friends who gave me hugs, notes and prayers of encouragement. Friends who took me to the clinic so I would not get lost. I saw God in all of them. Looking back on the day, I can see that this was God's way of reminding me of his constant support.

I need not fear, for he will be there to take my hand and guide me along the way.

One Baby Step Forward

2009-09-14T20:08:00.004-04:00

I would not consider myself an athletic person.

Due to my athletic past (which includes many balls hitting me in the head :), I was quite surprised when I agreed to run with a group of girls in the morning. At first we took our mornings very slowly. As we continued, each morning got relatively easier. Yes, there were some days that I hardly had enough motivation to pull myself away from my warm bed. And yes, I am by far not the worlds greatest jogger after all my "hard work". But I keep getting up. Each morning is a new opportunity. A chance to go a bit farther or jog a bit faster than the day before.

I am trying to look at the next 10 months with the same attitude. Yes we do not know what we will be doing. And yes we might not be the most qualified for the job. But with God's strength we can look at each day as a new chance to take a step forward. An opportunity to connect to our host families in a new way. Or a chance to learn some more Spanish.

With each baby step, I hope to learn how to "live a life worthy of the calling we have received" (Ephesians 4:1).

A Lesson in Hospitality

2009-09-08T19:58:00.004-04:00

It all started with a bag of popcorn.

On Monday we were given the whole day to practice the gift of hospitality. With no guidelines or regulations, we were free to be creative with our time. Nothing in particular came to mind for me, so I decided to keep the day open for God do his thing. All I knew was I wanted some of Chicago's very own Garret's popcorn (www.garrettpopcorn.com). They have some of the best caramel corn ever! :) So off I went to find me some popcorn. On the way downtown, I was praying and observing the people I passed. The closer I got to Garret's the more homeless I saw. And this is where it all begins.

A young couple stopped me asking for some spare change. I felt a tug at my heart and went for it. They just lost their jobs and have been living on the streets for a couple months. After getting them a meal, we talked for awhile about their current struggles. I gave them my best wishes and continued on my way to the popcorn.

Once I found my beloved popcorn, I thought it would be awesome to continue talking to people and hearing their stories over this beautiful snack . One young woman I shared popcorn with told me how in the last week she had given birth to a still born from all the stress of being homeless. Another man I met gave me a big smile at the end of our encounter and said I was 'such a sweet girl'.

I must have looked quite silly sharing my big bag of caramel popcorn in downtown Chicago, most likely smiling from ear to ear. Not only was I feeling excited about my special treat, but the joy of sharing and listening to others share their stories. Everyone has struggles. Each of us have times of pain. It is through those stories that we can look back and see where God has been holding us close.

Asking the Hard Questions

2009-09-05T12:29:00.003-04:00

The other day we got into our country groups and tried to explain what we have learned over the past two weeks and where we are spiritually. But I couldn't seem to do it. I wasn't able to express my spiritual walk, my questions or believes. I was stumped.

Part of the reason for this 'spiritual standstill' might have been caused by the whirlwind of new information I have received thus far. From talking to JPUSA residents about their faith walks to hearing about the issue of male prostitution in Chicago (http://www.streets.org/). Or maybe it is the new faith insights I have received from our Radical Journey discussions. And quite possibly it could also be this new sense of responsibility to make my faith my own in this new found adulthood. All of these opportunities sparked an investigation of my current spiritual foundation. What exactly does my hope lie in? Am I truly surrendering my life to Christ?

But amidst all these questions I feel a sense of calm. Because even as my questions begin to pile up, I am reassured that I want Christ to be the center. God's powerful and mighty love has reshaped peoples lives and is at work in Chicago. Questioning my current truths does not leave me feeling weak, but finally alive to God's call.

An Adventure for the Sences

2009-09-01T19:02:00.004-04:00

Let me tell you what- I love the cultural diversity of Chicago. There is nothing quite like it.

This weekend I had the opportunity to get a piece of both Greek and Latin culture right in the heart of Chicago. On Friday night we ventured out to the Greek festival. Walking down the blocked off street, a variety of smells and sounds were every which direction. Tempting aromas drifted through the air from the open grills on each side street. The authentic Greek music being played gave an exciting energy to the party.

Saturday we ventured off to the Latino Festival. After taking the "scenic route" to the park we were excited to hear the inviting sounds of the Latino band. All around us both young and old were dancing to the music. Some were doing traditional salsa while others were break dancing. Even us Mennonites were moving along- now that's impressive! :)

Looking back on the eventful weekend, I find so much power in different cultural backgrounds celebrating together. By learning more about cultures that differ from our own, we can learn to love each other that much more!

Ready, Set, Go!

2009-08-29T14:38:00.002-04:00

Oh what adventure today has been!

After three days of finding our way through the city, our final test has come. This morning we were blindfolded and taken to an unknown location and told to find our way back. The adventure begins!

Team Paraguay was dropped off in a Spanish neighborhood with nothing but a map to direct us. But never fear- we knew where we were. :) After feeling quite confident about our location, we took the time to work on our Spanish at a near by flea market. Spanish was being spoken everywhere and I found myself not feel nervous but rather excited for the challenge. One food vendor held a Spanish conversation with Naomi and I about her produce. Melons, pinas y tomates are a few of the many fresh produce that added color to the market.

Later, while eating lunch at the Resturante de patio, I told the team "a couple of months from now, we will be eating together in Paraguay". Together we will soon be embarking on a journey of a life time.

But never fear-- God is leading the way.

Living the City Life

2009-08-26T20:52:00.003-04:00

Greetings from Chicago!

So this very moment I am sitting at a computer in the library of one of the most beautiful cities out there. Life is good :)

But I guess I better back track a bit and fill you in to how I go here. Sunday morning my dad and I left at 5:50am for the Dulles airport. We found everything ok and said tearful goodbyes as I headed off to my flight alone. While siting for my plane to board, I had an overwhelming feeling of independence which both excited and scared me.

After a bit of a delay I did make it to the O'Hare Airport in Chicago right on time. A handful of other Radical Journey members where there and we headed off to meet the rest of our group. For the remaining part of the day we moved into our pocket sized flat at Jesus People USA (http://www.jpusa.org/) and got to know the other members of our group. JPUSA is a intentional community in Chicago of about 450 residents that shows Christ's light to their brothers and sisters in the city. Their loving and generous hospitality was a wonderful welcome.

For the last three days we have been preparing for our year long journey to come. Usually we have a prayer time with the residents of JPUSA. We have also taken the time to share our faith stories which has been a powerful experience. Today we had the chance to navigate the city of Chicago by our selves in a scavenger hunt which was quite an adventure indeed! :)

It is weird to think that I have only been at orientation for 4 days because the relationships that have formed seem so much more developed. Together we are getting excited to live out God's call in our lives and there is nothing quite more exciting than that!

Looking over this post, I feel like I have left so much out! But unfortunately I have a time limit here and that time is almost up. But in closing I do have one more thing to say. I want to remind you that Christ is at work through the people of Chicago! It is such a blessing to be a part of this group! Thank you again for your continued prayers and support. Love you guys!

7 Days and Counting

2009-08-16T20:45:00.003-04:00

It's hard to believe that this time next week I will be in Chicago getting ready for an incredible journey! God has prepared me bit by bit for this new step and I am excited to take it with Him.

This was my last Sunday at church-- and what a great experience it was. I felt the community of Harrisonburg Mennonite wrapping their arms around me and affirming my decision. I feel very blessed to have such a supportive body keeping me in their thoughts and prayers.

This next week there are a lot of goodbyes in store. I don't like to think of leaving in a 'goodbye' sort of way, but rather a 'see ya later'. I can't wait till when I can get together with friends and family after my year in Paraguay to exchange laughs once again like not a day passed.

This is all I am going to post for now but so much more exciting events are sure to come!