Baptism at the Brim River
Sunday, March 13, 2005
Monday, February 28, 2005
The Journey Continues
What a tremendous, memorable and life-changing journey I've had going to Africa for the first time. Most of my fears and expectations came true. I got sick, was hungry, thirsty, hot, homesick and at times felt culturally isolated.
But I also experienced growth in practically every aspect of my life: personally, mentally, physically and spiritually. It is an experience I am so glad I had the opportunity to obtain. I would readily do it again, and I am looking forward to my next trip there.
Since arriving back to the US, I've been experiencing a missing or longing for Ghana. Strange. Maybe it is the people? Each person I met was so giving, so sincere. Maybe it is the experiences? The adventure of seeing and learning so many new things.
Either way-- I opened my heart and my spirit to the people and the experience and now that I'm back I'm already feeling restless. The spiritual side of me, the soul part felt a connection to the "mother land".
Richard, a young man that we met selling sea shells at Cape Coast outside of the Elmina Slave Castle reminded me that we are one people and that I am living in exile. That made me stop and think. We are one people. All people come from the same original source. We are all connected.
Africa is my land, my country and my home. I don't know much about it. But I am learning. The journey continues.
But I also experienced growth in practically every aspect of my life: personally, mentally, physically and spiritually. It is an experience I am so glad I had the opportunity to obtain. I would readily do it again, and I am looking forward to my next trip there.
Since arriving back to the US, I've been experiencing a missing or longing for Ghana. Strange. Maybe it is the people? Each person I met was so giving, so sincere. Maybe it is the experiences? The adventure of seeing and learning so many new things.
Either way-- I opened my heart and my spirit to the people and the experience and now that I'm back I'm already feeling restless. The spiritual side of me, the soul part felt a connection to the "mother land".
Richard, a young man that we met selling sea shells at Cape Coast outside of the Elmina Slave Castle reminded me that we are one people and that I am living in exile. That made me stop and think. We are one people. All people come from the same original source. We are all connected.
Africa is my land, my country and my home. I don't know much about it. But I am learning. The journey continues.
Sunday, February 13, 2005
West Africa-- An Experience of a Lifetime
It's hard to believe our West African trip is coming to a close. It is sunday afternoon and we are leaving on Tuesday morning, to arrive back in the US on Wed.
This trip has been such a rewarding experience. All the sights and sounds and smells and sensations are indelibly planted in my mind.
I have been outside my comfort zone in so many areas.
I've sampled the local foods such as Fufu, a specialty dish made by pounding plantain and casava togehter with a wooden pole till it forms a rubbery consistency. This is taken with peanut soup call ground-nut soup and dried tilapia fish. --Very interesting flavors.
The local music is beautiful. The rhythms and harmonies, I really enjoy. The art work and clothes of the locals reflect a rich and colorful culture.
Some of sites we visited included the Big Tree, where a very big tree, the biggest in the region, towers many feet in the sky; a cocoa plantain and factory where chocolate is grown and made; the Palace and Musuem of the Ashanti Kings; and the Elmina castle, the largest slave holding site in Africa.
I crawled into the room called the "place of no return". It was a small dark windowless "cell" that had a small opening leading to the ocean. It is the place where thousands of slaves boarded ships bound for the Americas and the Caribbean.
But I must say, the most memorable experience of West Africa is the people. I have been truly blessed and touched by the kindess, generousity and sincerity of everyone I've met. I did not expect to make any "real" or meaningful friendships while here, especially since our stay is so short, but I must say, I will miss the people I've met and have had the pleasure of making lasting friendships.
This trip has been such a rewarding experience. All the sights and sounds and smells and sensations are indelibly planted in my mind.
I have been outside my comfort zone in so many areas.
I've sampled the local foods such as Fufu, a specialty dish made by pounding plantain and casava togehter with a wooden pole till it forms a rubbery consistency. This is taken with peanut soup call ground-nut soup and dried tilapia fish. --Very interesting flavors.
The local music is beautiful. The rhythms and harmonies, I really enjoy. The art work and clothes of the locals reflect a rich and colorful culture.
Some of sites we visited included the Big Tree, where a very big tree, the biggest in the region, towers many feet in the sky; a cocoa plantain and factory where chocolate is grown and made; the Palace and Musuem of the Ashanti Kings; and the Elmina castle, the largest slave holding site in Africa.
I crawled into the room called the "place of no return". It was a small dark windowless "cell" that had a small opening leading to the ocean. It is the place where thousands of slaves boarded ships bound for the Americas and the Caribbean.
But I must say, the most memorable experience of West Africa is the people. I have been truly blessed and touched by the kindess, generousity and sincerity of everyone I've met. I did not expect to make any "real" or meaningful friendships while here, especially since our stay is so short, but I must say, I will miss the people I've met and have had the pleasure of making lasting friendships.
Wednesday, February 02, 2005
Ghana, A People Wealthy with Kindness
My Dear Friends,
I hope all is well with you. Thank you for your continued prayers and well wishes. This has been and continues to be an interesting and memorable experience.
The country (the part we've seen so far is extremely poor.) In the town of Akim-Oda many people live in small wooden houses made of scrapes of wooden boards with a galvanize sheet as a roof. The roof is nailed to the boards or in some cases, stones or other piece of scrap metal is used to keep the roof in place. In these homes there is no electricty or running water. The more fortunate ones live in cement block houses, similiar to the Caribbean. Where several families (or exended family) all live toghether. Most of cooking is done outside on coal pots.
Despite this, the people are very generous and friendly. They have gone out of their way to make us feel welcomed and as comfortable as possible. They willing share the little they have and would rather go without something if giving it away helps another. We have been blessed with gifts of honey and fruits such as oranges and bannanas from the locals.
Mom, Dad and I are all glad we came. It has given us the opportunity to appreciate the basic things in life, like food and water.
I'm experiencing the joy of giving from a people who give so much.
I hope all is well with you. Thank you for your continued prayers and well wishes. This has been and continues to be an interesting and memorable experience.
The country (the part we've seen so far is extremely poor.) In the town of Akim-Oda many people live in small wooden houses made of scrapes of wooden boards with a galvanize sheet as a roof. The roof is nailed to the boards or in some cases, stones or other piece of scrap metal is used to keep the roof in place. In these homes there is no electricty or running water. The more fortunate ones live in cement block houses, similiar to the Caribbean. Where several families (or exended family) all live toghether. Most of cooking is done outside on coal pots.
Despite this, the people are very generous and friendly. They have gone out of their way to make us feel welcomed and as comfortable as possible. They willing share the little they have and would rather go without something if giving it away helps another. We have been blessed with gifts of honey and fruits such as oranges and bannanas from the locals.
Mom, Dad and I are all glad we came. It has given us the opportunity to appreciate the basic things in life, like food and water.
I'm experiencing the joy of giving from a people who give so much.
Monday, January 17, 2005
Ethiopia- A Land Rich with Culture and History
I've been in Addis Abba for a little over a day.
It has been very exciting-- my first steps --my first breaths -- my first thoughts, on the Mother Land.
Ethiopia is a special place. It is the only country that wasn't colonized, thus it has for the most part retained much of its African identity and culture. This have given the people a distinct pride. There are over 80 different languages spoken, the main one is Amhric. Ethiopia, I believe it is the only African country that has its own Language and alphabet (not borrowed from other countries) that has been passed on through the years.
Most of the women cover their heads with a scarf while out. The traditional clothing for both men and women are long cotton robes with sometimes intricate patterns on the sleeves and borders.
I've enjoyed my short stay and looking forward to learning more about this country referred to as the "Capital of Africa".
It has been very exciting-- my first steps --my first breaths -- my first thoughts, on the Mother Land.
Ethiopia is a special place. It is the only country that wasn't colonized, thus it has for the most part retained much of its African identity and culture. This have given the people a distinct pride. There are over 80 different languages spoken, the main one is Amhric. Ethiopia, I believe it is the only African country that has its own Language and alphabet (not borrowed from other countries) that has been passed on through the years.
Most of the women cover their heads with a scarf while out. The traditional clothing for both men and women are long cotton robes with sometimes intricate patterns on the sleeves and borders.
I've enjoyed my short stay and looking forward to learning more about this country referred to as the "Capital of Africa".
Friday, January 14, 2005
Some Thoughts Before the Journey
Some of my friends came together last night to give me a special send off before leaving. It was so nice. I really appreciate it.
Today is my last day before we leave. I have mixed feelings. I have been mentally, physically and spiritually preparing myself, yet I still feel unprepared and am not sure what to expect. I have been "brainwashed" by tv and the western ways of thinking that my expectation is to expect the worst. Mentally I'm prepared for no water, no electricity, no safe edible food, disease, poverty, crime, language and culture barriers. Can I really be of service if I am expecting the worst?
Physically my voice is beginning to regain its strength. I actually forced myself to eat several cloves of raw garlic late last night, since I was told this was the only thing that would knock this particular strain of ailment. All today I was dosing on fresh pineapple juice, vitamins and other liquids. Will I be physically able to be of adequate service?
Spiritually, I am open to God's leading and ready to do His bidding. Yet I still question God and the things I don't understand and often do "my own thing" when I feel like it. How can I share when I myself don't have all the answers and am not perfect?
The only I have come up with is-- sharing and being of service is giving all you have, no matter what it is. I have time and resourse and desire, so I am giving that. I also have questions and fears and challenges, so I'm giving that too. Along with my hopes to make a difference, my willingness to take a chance and my trust in God to make sure it all comes out for His glory. ....And that's why I'm going. I'm giving my ALL to be of service to others.
Today is my last day before we leave. I have mixed feelings. I have been mentally, physically and spiritually preparing myself, yet I still feel unprepared and am not sure what to expect. I have been "brainwashed" by tv and the western ways of thinking that my expectation is to expect the worst. Mentally I'm prepared for no water, no electricity, no safe edible food, disease, poverty, crime, language and culture barriers. Can I really be of service if I am expecting the worst?
Physically my voice is beginning to regain its strength. I actually forced myself to eat several cloves of raw garlic late last night, since I was told this was the only thing that would knock this particular strain of ailment. All today I was dosing on fresh pineapple juice, vitamins and other liquids. Will I be physically able to be of adequate service?
Spiritually, I am open to God's leading and ready to do His bidding. Yet I still question God and the things I don't understand and often do "my own thing" when I feel like it. How can I share when I myself don't have all the answers and am not perfect?
The only I have come up with is-- sharing and being of service is giving all you have, no matter what it is. I have time and resourse and desire, so I am giving that. I also have questions and fears and challenges, so I'm giving that too. Along with my hopes to make a difference, my willingness to take a chance and my trust in God to make sure it all comes out for His glory. ....And that's why I'm going. I'm giving my ALL to be of service to others.
Wednesday, January 12, 2005
3 Days and Counting...
Today I woke up and had no voice. A slight sore throat yesterday has turned into full blown larynigitis. When I try to speak, only varied sounding squeeks come out. I spent most of the day using my own brand of sign launguage. It is amazing how much I miss my voice. I am used to speaking all the time. I never realized how much I jump in and give my opinion and input. Now I am resigned to use body and facial expressions. It's not quite the same. I am surprized at how much I have to say and want to say. How can I share without a voice?
Tuesday, January 11, 2005
Friday, January 07, 2005
He Makes Everything New
God takes the ordinary and makes it extraordinary. He takes the old and makes it new. My old life of sin and sadness, He replaces with love and gladness. The past two days I have really been experiencing the joy of love and life... and it is great!
Some things have changed. I was able to obtain new transportation. In the process I learned that my efforts at credit improvement actually made a difference. (yes!) I took to the time to really appreciate and enjoy friendship relationships. I came to the realization that my strange and delightful sense of humor came from my parents, who are REALLY funny. I'm about to embark on a basement improvement project (which will also help to improve the financial situation even more.) And I've been gathering the final supplies and materials for our trip (which has been an adventure in itself).
But the main thing that has changed is my attitude and outlook. I asked for sight that I might see the beauty of love. God showed me that joy and beauty was already all around me. I hadn't seen it because I wasn't looking for it. Everyone sees what he or she is looking for.
What do you see?
Some things have changed. I was able to obtain new transportation. In the process I learned that my efforts at credit improvement actually made a difference. (yes!) I took to the time to really appreciate and enjoy friendship relationships. I came to the realization that my strange and delightful sense of humor came from my parents, who are REALLY funny. I'm about to embark on a basement improvement project (which will also help to improve the financial situation even more.) And I've been gathering the final supplies and materials for our trip (which has been an adventure in itself).
But the main thing that has changed is my attitude and outlook. I asked for sight that I might see the beauty of love. God showed me that joy and beauty was already all around me. I hadn't seen it because I wasn't looking for it. Everyone sees what he or she is looking for.
What do you see?
Wednesday, January 05, 2005
A Reprieve From the Mundane
Last night I did something new. I learned to salsa. I was artistic expression in motion. It was fun. It was different. It felt good to not ponder the intricate meanings of life, ....for a moment.
Tuesday, January 04, 2005
Ghana -- Here We Come
It is officially 11 days till our departure for Ghana, West Africa. My Dad after retiring last year, decided he wanted to do mission work. My Mom after retiring this year, had no excuse but to follow my Dad. ...And me, well, I can't have my parents going all the way to the other side of the world to be of service to others and not go with them. Thus the Mission Trip to Ghana was born.
I don't really know what to expect. We all got the required shots. Being I have a real phobia of needles, this took great sacrifice and courage on my part. But I got through it ok. It helped that my Dad held my hand the whole time. (or rather I was firmly grasping his hand and wouldn't let go...) I got the basics-- Yellow Fever and Meningitis (sp) my parents got extras -- typhoid and hepetitis. (sp) I'm hoping the Lord will protect me from the rest.
I don't really know what to expect. We all got the required shots. Being I have a real phobia of needles, this took great sacrifice and courage on my part. But I got through it ok. It helped that my Dad held my hand the whole time. (or rather I was firmly grasping his hand and wouldn't let go...) I got the basics-- Yellow Fever and Meningitis (sp) my parents got extras -- typhoid and hepetitis. (sp) I'm hoping the Lord will protect me from the rest.
Love Part 2: More Questions and Contemplations
Where is the joy? Is there joy and happiness in love or is it all sacrifice and suffering? If there is joy, how do I get to it? No, I'm not a pessimist or depressed(?). I'm an optimist by nature and a relatively happy person. But this love quest has rendered me more pensive than usual and I'm not sure of where it is going to lead. -- J
You wanted to learn about love and its meaning. I am taking you there. I know it feels uncomfortable right now, but be not dismayed. Everything is going according to My plans. Trust me as you walk through the cold water, comfort and warmth is on the other side. -- God
You wanted to learn about love and its meaning. I am taking you there. I know it feels uncomfortable right now, but be not dismayed. Everything is going according to My plans. Trust me as you walk through the cold water, comfort and warmth is on the other side. -- God
Monday, January 03, 2005
Love Part 1: Show Me
Every year, I make new year's resolutions. Usually it is some commitment or task that I want to accomplish. For example, last year one of my resolutions was to get more involved in spiritual leadership.
This year my new year's resolution is a little different. Instead of committing to something that I am going to do, my resolution is a request. My new year's request is that I experience the fullnest of love-- God's love. My request is that God would show me and teach me true love. (Please do this in a gentle and gracious way.)
My ideas and concepts of love have been flawed and tainted by society and my own experiences. Now I am open to learning the selfless, sacrificing, yet joyous and rewarding love of God.
God, who are you?
I am love. (1Jn. 4:7)
What does this mean? Can love be defined? Can we/I ever really know you? We have so many words to describe what love is like, but there is no real synonym for love itself. We can describe the effects of love, how it feels or how it makes others feel. We can even say what love does or doesn't do, but what is it?
I look forward to getting to know you. I look forward to experiencing Your Love.
J
This year my new year's resolution is a little different. Instead of committing to something that I am going to do, my resolution is a request. My new year's request is that I experience the fullnest of love-- God's love. My request is that God would show me and teach me true love. (Please do this in a gentle and gracious way.)
My ideas and concepts of love have been flawed and tainted by society and my own experiences. Now I am open to learning the selfless, sacrificing, yet joyous and rewarding love of God.
God, who are you?
I am love. (1Jn. 4:7)
What does this mean? Can love be defined? Can we/I ever really know you? We have so many words to describe what love is like, but there is no real synonym for love itself. We can describe the effects of love, how it feels or how it makes others feel. We can even say what love does or doesn't do, but what is it?
I look forward to getting to know you. I look forward to experiencing Your Love.
J
Sunday, January 02, 2005
Welcome
To My family and friends,
Welcome to my blog. I'm new at this. But so far so good...
Feel free to join me in my various journeys and explorations. Some of my paths involve visiting new places. For example, my folks and I are heading to Ghana, West Africa in less than two weeks.
Some of the journeys involve exploring new ideas or ways of thinking.
My hope is that you will be blessed as I document this adventure called life.
Sincerely,
Jewell
Welcome to my blog. I'm new at this. But so far so good...
Feel free to join me in my various journeys and explorations. Some of my paths involve visiting new places. For example, my folks and I are heading to Ghana, West Africa in less than two weeks.
Some of the journeys involve exploring new ideas or ways of thinking.
My hope is that you will be blessed as I document this adventure called life.
Sincerely,
Jewell
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