Hard to believe. It’s been one month. Never would have guessed it to go by so fast!
How’s it going? Going good; surreal but good. This past week was a bit of a challenge. Got a real bad cold. Probably not as bad as I would have thought on the offset, but in a place where the choice of cold medicine products is pretty limited (to say the least), you suffer through all the symptoms. It’s amazing how much you can appreciate (or want) a good cough drop, when it’s not available. Or even access to home remedies of honey and tea and lemon. Or a good night time cold medicine to knock you out. Nope, nada, not this time. Several long nights. I’m just saying.
Missed 2 days of Spanish classes because of my cold, so not much progress on the lingo side. Worked a little on the on-line lessons, but not feeling like doing much when I was sick. Back on track now, but feeling a bit behind.
I was emailing a friend today about leaving a former life behind, and pushing forward. And seeing the joys and challenges of that process. Speaking of which, my mom calls me later that same day. And informs me that… here’s the good news….and bad. Things are going great between her and my dog. Well, now more properly stated HER dog. She has informed me that the dog is now officially hers. And she has NO PLANS of giving him back (the bad news). I know that’s a good thing, but when your dog is/was (for better or worse) a big part of your life, letting go is not easy. The right thing, but not easy. I’m glad to know Lucas is happy and she’s happy with him. But I still miss him. But, the irony is that she’s about to learn things about a human and dog bond that she may not have known before; both the joy and pain. It was a similar enlightenment when I had my first dog, Copper. Just be careful Mom, my only word of advice is… even dogs can break your heart when/if you let them in.
And for the surreal… in mean time God continues to show me a glimpse of life that people like my Mom know well, but I never did. The life of parenting, and kids 24/7, and all things there of. And no, I’m not a dad, but I’m telling you, it’s like I’ve stepped in a worm hole, and instantly this new simulated/temporary life of fatherhood. And it blows my mind. I was actually at a parent/teacher school conference last night getting the period grades for Marsil, (while his mom was at the university taking night classes for her master’s in psychology). Marsil asked me to go and I was glad I did. But, talk about surreal. Probably not unlike my mom waking up one day and realizing the last thing she every thought would happen… a dog living 24/7 INSIDE her house – and she loves Lucas! And me, going to a teacher/parent conference, and actually feeling like it was a place where I was suppose to be for that moment (this season). Too weird, way too weird. And before that, I’m running around signing the kids up for swim lessons; going to the clinic to get their lab results (routine school stuff); dropping bills by the utility companies; grabbing some food for all of us on the way. But I’m in SANTIAGO, DR with this family I didn’t even know 30 days ago.
So, Mom has Lucas, and I have Paul and Marsil (for a season). Each is a great challenge in their own way. And it’s still touch and go cause I don’t have a clue for what I’m doing (I can hear God saying, “You think Paul is touch and go, you should see my son Norm!”). And yes I’ve had to say “I’m sorry” several times to them for things I know I didn’t handle well. I may never know true blood fatherhood to a 12 and 15 year old, but I’m glad I got this glimpse.
And the funny thing is, life is so routine. So day in, day out. But not in a bad way. I can definitely get a glimps as to how time slips away; and kids are grown and gone. Each day we’re up; off to school (all of us); home early afternoon. Chores and running around. Joke and play. Homework; eat; daily wrap up; off to bed. Day after day. And my time here slips away so fast; too fast.
Went with some great new friends to the beach (Ava and Jose Luis), along with Roberta (an incredible friend in her own right!) and her son Thomas from Haiti this past weekend. And all of them are a huge blessing to me.
One last thing. I’ve set a record. For automobile accidents (Luckson would say incidents). I’m hoping he’s not reading this or I’ll never live this down. I’ve actually been hit three (3) times by taxi drivers in the past 2 weeks. I was hit twice!!! Twice!! In one day!! Two drivers rear ended me. The third one, I’d had enough. I jump out and started talking, not quite yelling, but certainly making sure he could hear me (but of course not understanding English) that this was the third time I was hit; twice in one day and he needed to learn how to drive. In the mean time, Paul and Marsil (of course they’re with me) are laughing up a storm. There was no major damage to the car, so we went on. But seriously, rear ended twice in one day. Both times, I was at a complete stop and bam. These drivers are very very crazy. I tell Nidia later, and she gets a good laugh too. It is kinda funny, now!
Headed to a big family get together this evening (Sunday). A cousin's 18th birthday party. Here we go again!
Sunday, September 30, 2007
Friday, September 21, 2007
Finished Week Three in the DR
You may have seen that last week things were not going well with my Spanish classes. And I really struggled to know if that was me wanting to give up or was there some legitimate concerns. After speaking with some folks and some of you emailing your thoughts, I decided to do a sit-out of the class. Yep, just decided to stop going. The teach was adding more and more people in the class; packed in like sardines by now. Hot, cramped; lessons going way over my head. Not my style of learning. Not to mention the other concerns I already had. Make a long story short the teacher calls me that same afternoon I skipped and wanted to speak with me. Like being called into the principle's office.
I did go to see her and let her know my concerns. She says (as all Dominican's do); no problem. We will create a "special" class just for you. (I got over being called "special" long ago; even though the "special" students in my high school were, shall we say, less than A students). And so now I'm being tutored privately for 2 hours each morning. So far so good. Only 2 days in to it, but they have clarified a lot of cloudiness about what I'd already learned. And I picked up what I think were more foundational things that will help reinforce my learning.
And of course, my concern was, what is this going to cost me???!!! Private lessons didn't sound cheap. But, she says (if I understood her broken English correctly), no additional cost. We'll see. And frankly if I learn what I hope to, I have no problem paying more. Like a pay as I learn type of thing.
And I also signed up for Rosetta Stone on-line Spanish. So far, I've really enjoyed that. It's also full immersion (no English instruction), so it seems to match well with what I'm doing here.
For those that encouraged me based on my "I'm hitting a wall" blog, thanks. Muchas gracias.
Deep thoughts for the end of week three? Not really. Just good stuff. Peaceful stuff. Being where I think I'm supposed to be at this point in my life. After 5 years of questioning when was I to move on (5 years after having seen Haiti and third world conditions for the first time and wondering when was it my time to jump in full time), I know the time is now. It's a good "knowing".
Frankly I didn't even really truly "know" when I got on the plane to come. I guess it was a faith thing. Hoping (Godly) I was following as best I knew how and listening to God as best I knew how. Since I'm not one that's receives the audible "message from God". Sure wished I did some times.
Yesterday, Marsil asked me, Norm, if you could have three wishes from a genie, what would they be. That was a real struggle to answer. Because the truth is that I've had so many of my "wishes" come true. Yes, there are things I think I want, but getting them may preclude other blessings God's got planned. So, I had to tell him, I honestly didn't know what to ask for. I have goals. Spiritual goals; physical goals; stuff I want. I'm totally human. But, I've also had a lot of financial blessings and now that a lot of those are in my past, I honestly honestly feel relieved. Like this huge burden of wanting, and keeping up, and impressing, and all that junk has been lifted, at least for this season. If some of those friends of my past could see me know, I don't think they'd recognize me, not to mention understand me. And frankly I don't, but so far I love this life as it is.
And for those who are praying for Paul, it's getting better. Much better. The restrictions I placed on him were a complete shock to his system (and mine) to begin with. But, do you know that now, even though there still are restrictions at times, it's not this huge long explanation of why, and how, and when; and no more of him stomping off to his room to pout. He has become more accepting of them when they come, and they are coming less often. I think just maybe he's understanding more of why they come. And, he still gives me lots of hugs. And plops down on beside me when I'm watching TV every night. And loves to wrestle 'cause he's an "elite warrior and they never give up!" (a quote that will sure be forever burned in my brain) And grabs my hand to hold it for a few seconds or so, or grabs my arms to wrap them around his neck, and then goes on about his being a boy. God please please watch over Paul.
I did go to see her and let her know my concerns. She says (as all Dominican's do); no problem. We will create a "special" class just for you. (I got over being called "special" long ago; even though the "special" students in my high school were, shall we say, less than A students). And so now I'm being tutored privately for 2 hours each morning. So far so good. Only 2 days in to it, but they have clarified a lot of cloudiness about what I'd already learned. And I picked up what I think were more foundational things that will help reinforce my learning.
And of course, my concern was, what is this going to cost me???!!! Private lessons didn't sound cheap. But, she says (if I understood her broken English correctly), no additional cost. We'll see. And frankly if I learn what I hope to, I have no problem paying more. Like a pay as I learn type of thing.
And I also signed up for Rosetta Stone on-line Spanish. So far, I've really enjoyed that. It's also full immersion (no English instruction), so it seems to match well with what I'm doing here.
For those that encouraged me based on my "I'm hitting a wall" blog, thanks. Muchas gracias.
Deep thoughts for the end of week three? Not really. Just good stuff. Peaceful stuff. Being where I think I'm supposed to be at this point in my life. After 5 years of questioning when was I to move on (5 years after having seen Haiti and third world conditions for the first time and wondering when was it my time to jump in full time), I know the time is now. It's a good "knowing".
Frankly I didn't even really truly "know" when I got on the plane to come. I guess it was a faith thing. Hoping (Godly) I was following as best I knew how and listening to God as best I knew how. Since I'm not one that's receives the audible "message from God". Sure wished I did some times.
Yesterday, Marsil asked me, Norm, if you could have three wishes from a genie, what would they be. That was a real struggle to answer. Because the truth is that I've had so many of my "wishes" come true. Yes, there are things I think I want, but getting them may preclude other blessings God's got planned. So, I had to tell him, I honestly didn't know what to ask for. I have goals. Spiritual goals; physical goals; stuff I want. I'm totally human. But, I've also had a lot of financial blessings and now that a lot of those are in my past, I honestly honestly feel relieved. Like this huge burden of wanting, and keeping up, and impressing, and all that junk has been lifted, at least for this season. If some of those friends of my past could see me know, I don't think they'd recognize me, not to mention understand me. And frankly I don't, but so far I love this life as it is.
And for those who are praying for Paul, it's getting better. Much better. The restrictions I placed on him were a complete shock to his system (and mine) to begin with. But, do you know that now, even though there still are restrictions at times, it's not this huge long explanation of why, and how, and when; and no more of him stomping off to his room to pout. He has become more accepting of them when they come, and they are coming less often. I think just maybe he's understanding more of why they come. And, he still gives me lots of hugs. And plops down on beside me when I'm watching TV every night. And loves to wrestle 'cause he's an "elite warrior and they never give up!" (a quote that will sure be forever burned in my brain) And grabs my hand to hold it for a few seconds or so, or grabs my arms to wrap them around his neck, and then goes on about his being a boy. God please please watch over Paul.
Sunday, September 16, 2007
Spider Update
Just so you know, we had ANOTHER visitor two days later to mi casa. Yes, another huge spider. I think we're near infestation levels. These suckers are huge! And, I'm the one in charge of exterminating them! Well, I have to confess, I let the first one go but I was not so merciful with his brother. For you spider lovers, I'm sorry. And, for the record, during a run about 2 blocks from the house, what should I stumble upon, yes, you got it, ANOTHER ONE! This is getting ridiculous.
The Wall
I think I’m hitting a wall.
Not a wall of homesick (although that may come). But the struggle to know when to move forward and when to change courses. With a couple of things.
Language courses for one. The course I’m taking is divided into two sections. Vocabulary and grammatics. Vocabulary has been a struggle, but it’s doable. Grammatics is becoming very undoable. But, I don’t know if that’s me just wanting to give up when it gets hard (never did like grammar lessons), or if it’s really something that’s not where I need to be right now. For anyone that’s had Spanish you can appreciate the complexity of grammatics and how very different it is than English. Grammatics is not exactly the problem. The problem is that we’re covering grammatical rules at such a fast pace that it’s extremely difficult to absorb. We graze the surface of one topic, and on to the next the next day. And, I’m studying about as much as I think I should be. Anymore, and this time becomes all about Spanish, and I close out the family I live with and the friends I’ve made. I wonder what Jesus would do?
I don’t want to give up. But, I also don’t want to waste my time. I have every intention of studying/learning Spanish. I just want to be studying the optimal lessons of Spanish. But what is that?
I also don’t doubt that I’m supposed to be in Santiago. I certainly don’t regret coming here. It’s been incredible, and still is an amazing experience.
I’ve spoken to a few people here in Santiago who have learned Spanish or know Spanish and they’re telling me that the grammatics I’m taking (based on what they read in my lesson books) is NOT what I should be studying. Not exactly sure what that means in terms of changes I should make! I understand what they’re saying, but if that’s true, what does that mean in terms of this course. Do I skip the grammatics and focus on vocabulary? Do I find another school? Supposedly the one I’m at is the best in Santiago.
In my study (on line) of learning conversational languages, it seems that the best language courses focus on basic everyday words, basic sentence structure, and then grow with more complex grammatics as the language is mastered. That’s not what’s happening here.
In a word, I decided to called TJ, who’s a missionary in Rio San Juan and took Spanish in Guatamala. I think he’s talked me off the ledge, for now. Thank you TJ. I'll stay the course for another week.
I know the starting point (and ending point) is prayer.
And, some minor problems with the family. Turns out that Paul (12 years old) is not anything like Marsil. Not responsible. Lazy in fact. Quite lazy. Only wants to play. And everyone, including his family, says “that’s just Paul.” I understand that to some degree. But then Paul requires (or tries to demand) so much of my time and energy. He wants to be entertained and wants to play all the time. I’ve set a record for number of times I’ve played Monopoly in one week. Which at some levels is great. I've loved playing with him, but then I had some expectations in terms of him helping around the house.
But now I’m less motivated to give my time or anything else to him with an ungrateful heart and someone who’s very resistant when ask to do small things around the house (keep in mind there’s a full time housekeeper, so we’re not talking HUGE chores here). So I set boundaries. And those boundaries send him ballistic. And like any child, turns on me as though I’m the enemy. Surprise! I understand he’s a child. And I don’t give in! But I wonder if he understands that I don’t know anything about this fathering stuff and I’d really prefer to avoid it if possible. But it seems that I can’t. God has chosen a different path. So, here we go. To the battle. The battle to honor the Lord in our lives (mine and his) and the battle for Paul to grow to love the Lord in his young life.
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
Island of Adventures
In all my trips to this island, I never had the chance to see this type of creature roaming free, until now. Look carefully in the trash can to the upper right of each of our pictures. Not sure if you can tell, but believe me it was GRANDE. My face is closer to the camera, so you can't get a good perspective. Laid out, I'd say he had a good 8 inch span, maybe more. Marsil and I had a great time capturing and then releasing in the empty lot near by. Everybody in the house wanted to kill him, but I told them they were good. I don't think they believe me.
Thursday, September 6, 2007
Host Family Pics
Brothers sleeping.
Marsil studying, which he does a lot of.
Marsil taking his ciesta; which he does a lot of. Note remote control close at hand.
Paul (pronounced Pa-eul)
Paul playing video games, which he does a lot of.
Chapter 3 - Week in Review September 6, 2007
Well, it went almost as I had expected. No that's not true! Far better; mucho mucho better. The Spanish classes are hard but not too hard. I don’t know all the Spanish words (not even close), but I CAN pronounce a lot more than I did; recognize more words than I did, and understand some basic grammar rules for Spanish. Yes, I feel lost. Extremely frustrated at times. Like when I learned that at least half the class has had between 4 and 8 years of Spanish in earlier high school years, and our teacher seems to go at a pace that’s set for their background, not mine. Oh well, I keep telling myself to enjoy the experience. Not to freak out that I’m not getting everything. Just trying to learn what I can. I’ve had two papers (homework) graded. I got an “A” on both. I think that’s because I’m only 1 of 2 Americans in the class; and the other one dropped the class the 2nd day!! I think the teacher (Arelis) feels sorry for me. I hope she does!
Much more bonding with my host family. Started taking Marsil and Paul to school in the mornings. Letting their mom have a break. Plus it gets me more exposure to the culture. We pray together before we leave for God to give us good days. The prayers are answered. The kids continue to be a great blessing to me. It helps me not miss those I love back home so much. Thank you God!
More exploring the city. Really a modern city. Not the standards of West Palm, FL (Stuart) or anything like that; but everything you could possibly need. A Home Depot want-a-be; a Wal-Mart want-a-be, good grocery stores, and of course the Costco want-a-be. Ate at McDonald’s the other day. The biggest difference between American stores here and in the US is the price. Everything American seems much more expensive than in the US. Which makes sense. But I’m not sure how “regulars” of this city afford the US product. I know the poor don’t indulge; but there are plenty who do.
Turns out the neighborhood I’m living in would be considered “middle-class”. Almost a new class for this country. The country used to have only super rich people; and very poor. But, middle class is making up ground. My host, Nidia, is a counselor working on her master’s in counseling. She works for a local drug rehab clinic and for the government. She’s worked her way out of poverty through determination and education, and mostly God's grace. The classic way.
The church gathering on Sunday was awesome. Much much better than I expected. Great people. Warm. Friendly. Really seem to love the Lord. Honest worshipers. And ironically, they are a group that is focused on training young missionaries for field service. Very similar, it appears, to what we are planning with our program. I hope to learn more from them as we go. Another God thing as only God can do.
One of the elders (Pablo) came by to visit me after church on Sunday. He basically wanted to coach me on the culture. Like being careful about the women who want an American Visa, and in so doing, will “fall in love” with me. And, not spending too much money on my host family. I had taken them to Taco Bell, which I mentioned previously; turns out the whole church ended up knowing about it. Obviously things like "Taco Bell" are huge things around here. I hear what he’s saying, clearly. Just hard to put into practice. Like I'd have soda in the house for me, but not offer it them? NOT. Would be different if I were in my own home maybe. But I’m NOT going to have all the stuff I like sitting around (peanuts, snacks, soda, chips, etc), and not make sure they know they can enjoy it also. What would you do?
I’m glad the elders of the church are sensitive enough to their flock and their visitors to take the time to guide them. A true sign of a healthy church.
I’m invited to go on holiday with my host family’s extended family. Sisters, mother/father (grandparents), etc. in Puerta Plata (resort city on the coast). In two weekends, there’s a national holiday. We’re supposed to spend 3 days at the beach. Sounds like fun. My new family!
By now I’m guessing you know that I’m not exactly suffering physically. I do miss hot water and AC (especially in the car; mucho calienta!). But, there are also things I have here that I don’t have in the States. Like a great lady (housekeeper) that keeps everything extremely clean and organized. She’s also a great cook as I mentioned before. And, she’s a warm person I believe. She’s easy (facil) to be around. I think she’s confused that I do as much as I do (believe it or not). I try to make my own bed now; take my own dishes to the kitchen; keep my own room straighten. Nothing big, but I think there’s a role for all of us. And mine is NOT to be served hand and foot. I enjoy her help but I don’t want to ever be “served”, just helped.
Oh, and how can a middle class family afford a full time live-in housekeeper? She makes around 3000 pesos per month. Divide that by 33, and you get her US monthly salary. Which is like what, $100 per month?!! It does include her room and board here, but still! (of course I had to ask!)
Oh, and for you Curingtons (if any) that are reading this.... You’ll love this part. Ciestas every day. Seriously between 12 and 2; after lunch, Ciesta!!! A nap. It’s like the best idea in the world. Clearly Hispanics have genius level IQ's. I’ve had a nap almost every day since I’ve been here. That gives me energy to stay up way past what I would normally in the US. But, what happens when I go back to the US!!?? Reeeealllittyyyyy!!!
Speaking of which. I’ve decided to start mentally preparing for my leaving in December early. I know that sounds wierd but…. I’ve already talked to Marsil about God’s timing, and how God brings people into and out of my life. He says he understands. I’m not sure I do. I know already I’ll be broken again when I say goodbye to Paul and Marsil. I’m not sure why God brings these people to my life. It’s this huge blessing. They seem to love completely; or at least with great trust and unreserved. Reminds me of the....“Unless you become like one of these children…..”. But that also means heartbreak city in December, when I leave. Perhaps for all of us!
By the way, Nidia has decided to let me stay!!! At least for now. She says I can stay for free!! No, I’m not going to stay for free! But, I’m glad she thinks I add to the home and am not a burden. I hope God can bless them through me. They all certainly have blessed me. And what a great honor to be God’s blessing to this family.
Which means Satan will be on the prowl. Pray I can be just what God wants me to be.
I could write about every day and every event. They’re all new and different, but if you’re still reading this, I’ve asked you to read too much already. I’ve decided that this blog is really going to be for me. It will be a journal of my first three ½ months. But you're welcome to share it with me anytime. So, if it gets too long, or too boring, or too detailed, I COMPLETELY understand. Take a lesson/hint from me, skim.
Changing subjects..... Marsil yesterday says he has something to tell me. He says his friends have noticed me dropping him off at school and they want to know who I am. He told them I was his cousin. But he wants me to know that he thinks of me more than a cousin. He says I’m his brother. Again, I’m the one honored. My only regret is that you who are reading this may never meet Marsil. I believe he’s a good good kid. An incredible attitude for a 15 year old. Grateful and honorable and kind. And he does tons of homework without being asked, ever!! But at least you can see his picture. And Paul. They’ll be my first test of posting pics on my blog.
The first picture is of them (Marsil and Paul) sleeping in one bed. No, they both have beds. That’s not why they sleep in one bed. They sleep in one bed because they really love one another. They choose to sleep in one bed. I wonder if they’ll do that when they’re 25? I hope so. Some things should not be robbed by time!
I know all weeks cannot be like this one. But it was a very special gift from God, delivered because of your prayers. Thank you. It's really hard to describe how at home I've been this week. Not that I don't at times think about what I left behind, but it's like this IS my home now, for this season. Not anything like I expected to feel (I know I've said that several times before.). Was just expecting to be missing so much that I left behind right about now. And still think I will one of these days, but NOT this week. Really really weird. But, that's also what happened when I sold my house in Jupiter. Kept thinking, okay, any week I'm going to wake up and say, wow I really miss that house. It was a grand house. And we had awesome times there. But, I NEVER did miss that house after I moved; at least not yet. I wonder if my new life will be the same? When it's really time to move on, and God calls you on, you don't miss it, because what you're called to is better than what you've left? Is that possible?? As scared as I was to leave, it's an incredible peace I have to say. I can't imagine (don't expect) all steps being like this?! But, for this one step, I'm going to soak up the good times.
Hard times ahead I’m sure. Being hurt and hurting others as I loose sight of Jesus for brief moments. But, this week was one for the record books. Just when I thought it was going to be one of the hardest weeks of my life, it was one of the best. New, exciting, full of new love from and to people, full of adventure and mostly full of God. Thank you God. Thank you my family and friends (new and old).
I have to pinch myself and say, I'm really in a city in the DR by myself and have known these people 7 days; strange culture; strange language. And yet, wow. Everything is strange; but nothing feels strange so far.
As a side note, I did speak with Mom today. My dog Lucas seems to have bonded to her; and her to him. God even worked that out. Even before I left, I know this also sounds loco, but Lucas started spending much less time with me, and more with her. Started sleeping in her room at my house; staying more at her side than mine. I guess he knew he had a new master.
Oh yes, and one of these days I’m going to learn Spanish!! But even if I don't learn the Spanish I planned, I can't imagine not being here for this moment in time.
Much more bonding with my host family. Started taking Marsil and Paul to school in the mornings. Letting their mom have a break. Plus it gets me more exposure to the culture. We pray together before we leave for God to give us good days. The prayers are answered. The kids continue to be a great blessing to me. It helps me not miss those I love back home so much. Thank you God!
More exploring the city. Really a modern city. Not the standards of West Palm, FL (Stuart) or anything like that; but everything you could possibly need. A Home Depot want-a-be; a Wal-Mart want-a-be, good grocery stores, and of course the Costco want-a-be. Ate at McDonald’s the other day. The biggest difference between American stores here and in the US is the price. Everything American seems much more expensive than in the US. Which makes sense. But I’m not sure how “regulars” of this city afford the US product. I know the poor don’t indulge; but there are plenty who do.
Turns out the neighborhood I’m living in would be considered “middle-class”. Almost a new class for this country. The country used to have only super rich people; and very poor. But, middle class is making up ground. My host, Nidia, is a counselor working on her master’s in counseling. She works for a local drug rehab clinic and for the government. She’s worked her way out of poverty through determination and education, and mostly God's grace. The classic way.
The church gathering on Sunday was awesome. Much much better than I expected. Great people. Warm. Friendly. Really seem to love the Lord. Honest worshipers. And ironically, they are a group that is focused on training young missionaries for field service. Very similar, it appears, to what we are planning with our program. I hope to learn more from them as we go. Another God thing as only God can do.
One of the elders (Pablo) came by to visit me after church on Sunday. He basically wanted to coach me on the culture. Like being careful about the women who want an American Visa, and in so doing, will “fall in love” with me. And, not spending too much money on my host family. I had taken them to Taco Bell, which I mentioned previously; turns out the whole church ended up knowing about it. Obviously things like "Taco Bell" are huge things around here. I hear what he’s saying, clearly. Just hard to put into practice. Like I'd have soda in the house for me, but not offer it them? NOT. Would be different if I were in my own home maybe. But I’m NOT going to have all the stuff I like sitting around (peanuts, snacks, soda, chips, etc), and not make sure they know they can enjoy it also. What would you do?
I’m glad the elders of the church are sensitive enough to their flock and their visitors to take the time to guide them. A true sign of a healthy church.
I’m invited to go on holiday with my host family’s extended family. Sisters, mother/father (grandparents), etc. in Puerta Plata (resort city on the coast). In two weekends, there’s a national holiday. We’re supposed to spend 3 days at the beach. Sounds like fun. My new family!
By now I’m guessing you know that I’m not exactly suffering physically. I do miss hot water and AC (especially in the car; mucho calienta!). But, there are also things I have here that I don’t have in the States. Like a great lady (housekeeper) that keeps everything extremely clean and organized. She’s also a great cook as I mentioned before. And, she’s a warm person I believe. She’s easy (facil) to be around. I think she’s confused that I do as much as I do (believe it or not). I try to make my own bed now; take my own dishes to the kitchen; keep my own room straighten. Nothing big, but I think there’s a role for all of us. And mine is NOT to be served hand and foot. I enjoy her help but I don’t want to ever be “served”, just helped.
Oh, and how can a middle class family afford a full time live-in housekeeper? She makes around 3000 pesos per month. Divide that by 33, and you get her US monthly salary. Which is like what, $100 per month?!! It does include her room and board here, but still! (of course I had to ask!)
Oh, and for you Curingtons (if any) that are reading this.... You’ll love this part. Ciestas every day. Seriously between 12 and 2; after lunch, Ciesta!!! A nap. It’s like the best idea in the world. Clearly Hispanics have genius level IQ's. I’ve had a nap almost every day since I’ve been here. That gives me energy to stay up way past what I would normally in the US. But, what happens when I go back to the US!!?? Reeeealllittyyyyy!!!
Speaking of which. I’ve decided to start mentally preparing for my leaving in December early. I know that sounds wierd but…. I’ve already talked to Marsil about God’s timing, and how God brings people into and out of my life. He says he understands. I’m not sure I do. I know already I’ll be broken again when I say goodbye to Paul and Marsil. I’m not sure why God brings these people to my life. It’s this huge blessing. They seem to love completely; or at least with great trust and unreserved. Reminds me of the....“Unless you become like one of these children…..”. But that also means heartbreak city in December, when I leave. Perhaps for all of us!
By the way, Nidia has decided to let me stay!!! At least for now. She says I can stay for free!! No, I’m not going to stay for free! But, I’m glad she thinks I add to the home and am not a burden. I hope God can bless them through me. They all certainly have blessed me. And what a great honor to be God’s blessing to this family.
Which means Satan will be on the prowl. Pray I can be just what God wants me to be.
I could write about every day and every event. They’re all new and different, but if you’re still reading this, I’ve asked you to read too much already. I’ve decided that this blog is really going to be for me. It will be a journal of my first three ½ months. But you're welcome to share it with me anytime. So, if it gets too long, or too boring, or too detailed, I COMPLETELY understand. Take a lesson/hint from me, skim.
Changing subjects..... Marsil yesterday says he has something to tell me. He says his friends have noticed me dropping him off at school and they want to know who I am. He told them I was his cousin. But he wants me to know that he thinks of me more than a cousin. He says I’m his brother. Again, I’m the one honored. My only regret is that you who are reading this may never meet Marsil. I believe he’s a good good kid. An incredible attitude for a 15 year old. Grateful and honorable and kind. And he does tons of homework without being asked, ever!! But at least you can see his picture. And Paul. They’ll be my first test of posting pics on my blog.
The first picture is of them (Marsil and Paul) sleeping in one bed. No, they both have beds. That’s not why they sleep in one bed. They sleep in one bed because they really love one another. They choose to sleep in one bed. I wonder if they’ll do that when they’re 25? I hope so. Some things should not be robbed by time!
I know all weeks cannot be like this one. But it was a very special gift from God, delivered because of your prayers. Thank you. It's really hard to describe how at home I've been this week. Not that I don't at times think about what I left behind, but it's like this IS my home now, for this season. Not anything like I expected to feel (I know I've said that several times before.). Was just expecting to be missing so much that I left behind right about now. And still think I will one of these days, but NOT this week. Really really weird. But, that's also what happened when I sold my house in Jupiter. Kept thinking, okay, any week I'm going to wake up and say, wow I really miss that house. It was a grand house. And we had awesome times there. But, I NEVER did miss that house after I moved; at least not yet. I wonder if my new life will be the same? When it's really time to move on, and God calls you on, you don't miss it, because what you're called to is better than what you've left? Is that possible?? As scared as I was to leave, it's an incredible peace I have to say. I can't imagine (don't expect) all steps being like this?! But, for this one step, I'm going to soak up the good times.
Hard times ahead I’m sure. Being hurt and hurting others as I loose sight of Jesus for brief moments. But, this week was one for the record books. Just when I thought it was going to be one of the hardest weeks of my life, it was one of the best. New, exciting, full of new love from and to people, full of adventure and mostly full of God. Thank you God. Thank you my family and friends (new and old).
I have to pinch myself and say, I'm really in a city in the DR by myself and have known these people 7 days; strange culture; strange language. And yet, wow. Everything is strange; but nothing feels strange so far.
As a side note, I did speak with Mom today. My dog Lucas seems to have bonded to her; and her to him. God even worked that out. Even before I left, I know this also sounds loco, but Lucas started spending much less time with me, and more with her. Started sleeping in her room at my house; staying more at her side than mine. I guess he knew he had a new master.
Oh yes, and one of these days I’m going to learn Spanish!! But even if I don't learn the Spanish I planned, I can't imagine not being here for this moment in time.
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