After my relaxing weekend, I have been working on catching up on homework, emails, cleaning, and some other things that I have been putting off. Believe it or not I actually did some sewing to fix a few of my favorite pieces of clothing. I am not very good at sewing but I am getting better.
Yesterday, a friend and I went to the national theatre to see a show. (This week they have a production taking place at noon every day for only $2.) The theatre is beautiful! I will return some day and take pictures so that you can see it. The paintings on the cieling are breath taking. I didn't have any expectations when going to see the show but the actual production really surprised me. It was a interpretive modern dance production with music in English. I really love dance so the choreography was great but overall the actual production was just okay.
Today, I went downtown with some friends and walked around and went to the artisan market. Two of my friends are leaving tomorrow for Peru so we had a girls day out in order to say our goodbyes. I am going to miss those girls but I know God has a reason for everything so it was just their time to go. I am not looking forward to this meeting everyone and then saying goodbye. I know the longer I stay here and the more I get to know people the harder it will be to say goodbye.
P.S. If you could please pray for me I would appreciate it. I have been feeling sick for almost 3 weeks now. It has not been bad so I have been avoiding the doctor but I would really like it if my body would get back to normal. I am not sure if because I had a cold a week ago that my voice is starting to mess up, but I would really like my voice to be normal so that I can speak Spanish properly.
June 22, 2011
June 21, 2011
Complaining
This is a topic I want to write about today because I think as people we complain alot! If we don't get our way we complain. If we feel entitled to something and don't get it we complain. If things don't go as planned we complain. You might be thinking oh I don't complain that much...if you are thinking that chances are you do. Stop and think about the things this past week that you complained about or wanted to.
This past weekend was wonderful and I absolutely loved Nicaragua, but I was shocked and even embarrassed by how much some of the missionaries complained. If someone claims to be a missionary or a Christian I hold them to a higher standard than most people because they know the Lord or at least I hope they do. We, as Christians, should not complain constantly. If you find yourself complaining constantly, that is something that you need to work on. By constantly, I mean that you complain at least 3 times a day.
I know we can all find things to complain about: the children that won't stop crying, being late for an appointment, someone is not returning your e-mails or calls, that rude person at the grocery store, bad traffic, etc. My thought I want to share with you is this....is it really worth it. Who is your complaining going to help besides yourself? If you can't think of anyone besides yourself or family than don't do it. Whose day is going to be made better because you complained? I have never met anyone that has ever said, "Wow I am so glad that I got hear that person complain for the past hour. My day just got so much better".
I know there are things that you might want to bring to someone's attention but before you complain think about what is you are complaining about and if it is really worth the time and energy. If you are angry don't complain right away take a moment think about it and about the other person (or even the other people you are with) then approach someone if needed.
Christians and Missionaries I would expect to be more flexible, more compassionate, and kinder than most people so seriously try to complain less. You might find that you might become a happier person and so might the people around you. Learn to go with the flow and take on situations as they appear and determine how that situation is going to affect you 24 hours from now. If it won't, don't complain. If it will affect you in 24 hours, be compassionate and understanding.
I would love to challenge everyone even myself to complain a little less each day, and become more flexible with "our" time and money, more understanding, and more compassionate.
This past weekend was wonderful and I absolutely loved Nicaragua, but I was shocked and even embarrassed by how much some of the missionaries complained. If someone claims to be a missionary or a Christian I hold them to a higher standard than most people because they know the Lord or at least I hope they do. We, as Christians, should not complain constantly. If you find yourself complaining constantly, that is something that you need to work on. By constantly, I mean that you complain at least 3 times a day.
I know we can all find things to complain about: the children that won't stop crying, being late for an appointment, someone is not returning your e-mails or calls, that rude person at the grocery store, bad traffic, etc. My thought I want to share with you is this....is it really worth it. Who is your complaining going to help besides yourself? If you can't think of anyone besides yourself or family than don't do it. Whose day is going to be made better because you complained? I have never met anyone that has ever said, "Wow I am so glad that I got hear that person complain for the past hour. My day just got so much better".
I know there are things that you might want to bring to someone's attention but before you complain think about what is you are complaining about and if it is really worth the time and energy. If you are angry don't complain right away take a moment think about it and about the other person (or even the other people you are with) then approach someone if needed.
Christians and Missionaries I would expect to be more flexible, more compassionate, and kinder than most people so seriously try to complain less. You might find that you might become a happier person and so might the people around you. Learn to go with the flow and take on situations as they appear and determine how that situation is going to affect you 24 hours from now. If it won't, don't complain. If it will affect you in 24 hours, be compassionate and understanding.
I would love to challenge everyone even myself to complain a little less each day, and become more flexible with "our" time and money, more understanding, and more compassionate.
June 20, 2011
Adios Nicaragua
Today we are heading back to Costa Rica from Nicaragua. I am some what sad to be leaving this lovely place so soon, but I am looking forward to the comforts of home. That is right I said it, home. San Jose has become home and I am looking forward to seeing my host family.
Nicaragua has been the best trip that I have taken so far. I have been able to enjoy new sights and really relax. Relaxing for me is never easy but I have found all of my worries slowly drifting away day by day since my arrival here. I have enjoyed trying new foods and meeting new people. I have really enjoyed getting to know the Nicaraguan people.
I am surprised at how sad I actually am to leave. I don't think I have ever fallen in love with a place so quickly. Even though it has only been 4 days and 3 nights I am in love with Nicaragua. God willing I would love to return some day.
Nicaragua has been the best trip that I have taken so far. I have been able to enjoy new sights and really relax. Relaxing for me is never easy but I have found all of my worries slowly drifting away day by day since my arrival here. I have enjoyed trying new foods and meeting new people. I have really enjoyed getting to know the Nicaraguan people.
I am surprised at how sad I actually am to leave. I don't think I have ever fallen in love with a place so quickly. Even though it has only been 4 days and 3 nights I am in love with Nicaragua. God willing I would love to return some day.
June 19, 2011
Nicaragua
I am in Nicaragua renewing my visa so that I can continue to stay in Costa Rica under a tourist visa. In order to keep an updated tourist visa I have to go out of the country every so many weeks for at least 72 hours. The school has students who volunteer to plan trips so that the students my renew their visas as a group in a fun and safe manner.
This trip for me is somewhat of a surprise. I am sincerely enjoying myself and learning a ton. I am learning alot about the people and about the city of Granada. I say it is a surpise because I am learning things that I didn't expect to learn and God is really working in my heart here. Yesterday, the Lord and I had a few one on one moments that I didn't expect. One moment was during my devotion time and suddenly I heard people singing worship songs in English. I turned around and behind the bushes was a group of over 30 teenagers on a mission trip worshiping and having a time of devotion together. I sat behind the bushes singing along and worshiping, just me and my Father. Then the devotion started and I asked a leader of the group if I could join the group. He said it was fine and I got to listen to a great sermon. The man talked about flying on the wings of the eagles and he compared the life of an eagle to our relationship with the Lord and God just spoke to my heart.
Later on in the day as a friend and I decided to go exploring we came across a worship service inside a church. We walked in and she started walking around and I sat down and just observed. They were preparing for a worship service and testing the sound equipment then a woman came up to me and asked if she could put a pin on me, which said pentecost. I said sure since everyone had one and then my friend and I left to go for a walk. Well, I couldn't get that church and those people out of my mind so we went back. For over 4 hours, these people just sang and danced to worship songs praising the Lord. We did not stay the whole time but for the time that we did stay God really touched my heart. I was worshiping and then out of nowhere I started just crying. I was crying because of how overwhelmed I feel by God's love for me and for His children and I was crying because God reminded me in that moment of why I am a missionary. I looked around the room at all of those people worshiping and I just cried because that is what my heart longs for the rest of the world. My heart longs for the world to be able to stand and worship the Lord as one, joined together in Christ. That is why I am a missionary because there are people out there who don't the Lord and His love, and nothing breaks my heart more that. Standing together with the people of Nicaragua worshiping in a language I am just starting to understand was a wonderful experience. God is so good. When I am at a lost for words those words always come to my mind, God is good.
This trip for me is somewhat of a surprise. I am sincerely enjoying myself and learning a ton. I am learning alot about the people and about the city of Granada. I say it is a surpise because I am learning things that I didn't expect to learn and God is really working in my heart here. Yesterday, the Lord and I had a few one on one moments that I didn't expect. One moment was during my devotion time and suddenly I heard people singing worship songs in English. I turned around and behind the bushes was a group of over 30 teenagers on a mission trip worshiping and having a time of devotion together. I sat behind the bushes singing along and worshiping, just me and my Father. Then the devotion started and I asked a leader of the group if I could join the group. He said it was fine and I got to listen to a great sermon. The man talked about flying on the wings of the eagles and he compared the life of an eagle to our relationship with the Lord and God just spoke to my heart.
Later on in the day as a friend and I decided to go exploring we came across a worship service inside a church. We walked in and she started walking around and I sat down and just observed. They were preparing for a worship service and testing the sound equipment then a woman came up to me and asked if she could put a pin on me, which said pentecost. I said sure since everyone had one and then my friend and I left to go for a walk. Well, I couldn't get that church and those people out of my mind so we went back. For over 4 hours, these people just sang and danced to worship songs praising the Lord. We did not stay the whole time but for the time that we did stay God really touched my heart. I was worshiping and then out of nowhere I started just crying. I was crying because of how overwhelmed I feel by God's love for me and for His children and I was crying because God reminded me in that moment of why I am a missionary. I looked around the room at all of those people worshiping and I just cried because that is what my heart longs for the rest of the world. My heart longs for the world to be able to stand and worship the Lord as one, joined together in Christ. That is why I am a missionary because there are people out there who don't the Lord and His love, and nothing breaks my heart more that. Standing together with the people of Nicaragua worshiping in a language I am just starting to understand was a wonderful experience. God is so good. When I am at a lost for words those words always come to my mind, God is good.
June 16, 2011
Things to know when living in San Jose
- Don't flush the toilet paper down the toilet.
- The water is safe to drink inside the city but be careful when traveling else where.
- When walking always move out of the way for woman with children.
- Don't walk alone at night.
- Don't point at people, that is really bad.
- Bring an umbrella it rains almost every day.
- When visiting a beach wear sunscreen even if you think you don't burn.
- Don't carry valueables with you. If you have to carry them then be smart and don't flash your phone or iPod around. People literally get shot for those things here.
- Talk to people. The majority of Costa Ricans you will meet will be nice and helpful.
- If you skateboard or play fútbol you will automatically be a cool gringo among the youth.
- If you want a real Costa Rican meal you won't find it at the mall. You are not a true Tico unless you eat gallo pinto for breakfast.
- You must visit POPS. It is the best ice cream there is. You can find a store just about anywhere.
- If you really want to fit in pack heels and dress clothes. Looks matter here.
- Taking a shower every day is important. Most people here take their showers in the morning.
- If you have perfume or colgne use it. Smelling good is important.
- Drying your clothes on a clothesline might take two days so be patient.
- Not all taxis are real taxis be aware of pirate taxis.
- Wash all your fruit before eating. The best place to buy fruit and vegetables is at the Feria on Saturday.
- Go to church, you will learn not only about God but also alot about the culture. It is a great experience.
- Stepping in dog poop or being pooped on by a bird means good fortune or luck here so be happy if it happens.
- If someone tells you to be somewhere it is better to show up a little late 15 mins. Unless the person who told you the time acts like an American if so then be on time.
- When ever you walk into a room. It is polite to greet everyone in the room.
- If someone offers you coffee or a snack take it and be polite. If you seriously can't have it, make an excuse saying your stomach hurts.
- Bus transportation is important so learn where the stops are not all of them are marked.
- If you are a guy don't carry a colored umbrella. It is culturally appropriate only to have a black umbrella. Woman you can have any umbrella you want.
- Don't blow your nose in public. It is rude.
June 15, 2011
With each day it feels more like home...
Tonight after I finished my homework and had dinner, I watched TV for a while and then cleaned my room. I went around and dusted some of my shelves with some cleaning supplies that I bought at the store. After I finished I sat on my bed and smiled at my organized room. It feels a bit more like home each day.
Even with my host family I am starting to feel more connected. Not completely but a little more each day. We have an understanding of one another and we continue to build a relationship. I love mamí and papí.
Also I am getting use to walking everywhere even though this week I didn't feel like walking. When I don't feel like walking I just take the bus but to go to the grocery store and school it is easier just to walk. Jumbo has become my favorite store because it reminds me of home. It is big and has a variety of different things. I can usually find what I need there and compare prices.
School is becoming more like college and I really enjoy it. Especially, chapel every Tuesday and Thursday. I look forward to seeing all of my friends and learning new Spanish words. Some days it is more fun than others depending on how I am feeling. Some days I am like a sponge and just soak in information. Then other days I am like cement that blocks out everything and I feel like my mind can't handle anymore. On those days it is good to take a break and step back and then try again.
I am also getting more involved in working with the kids and I love it. Tonight I purchased some poster board and copied the lyrics to some children's songs on them. This week the kids are going to learn Father Abraham and a few others. Last week, I started doing the motions to the song during worship time and then I realized that it was the first time the kids were hearing the song. Horacio then asked me to teach it to the children next week, but since I am going to be gone. Shawn, another volunteer, is going to teach them the song.
This has been one busy but wonderful week. This Friday I leave for Nicaragua to renew my tourist visa with the students from the school. We have a 5 day weekend so I will be in Nicaragua til Monday evening. I am excited about this trip and I am looking forward to exploring a new city.
Even with my host family I am starting to feel more connected. Not completely but a little more each day. We have an understanding of one another and we continue to build a relationship. I love mamí and papí.
Also I am getting use to walking everywhere even though this week I didn't feel like walking. When I don't feel like walking I just take the bus but to go to the grocery store and school it is easier just to walk. Jumbo has become my favorite store because it reminds me of home. It is big and has a variety of different things. I can usually find what I need there and compare prices.
School is becoming more like college and I really enjoy it. Especially, chapel every Tuesday and Thursday. I look forward to seeing all of my friends and learning new Spanish words. Some days it is more fun than others depending on how I am feeling. Some days I am like a sponge and just soak in information. Then other days I am like cement that blocks out everything and I feel like my mind can't handle anymore. On those days it is good to take a break and step back and then try again.
I am also getting more involved in working with the kids and I love it. Tonight I purchased some poster board and copied the lyrics to some children's songs on them. This week the kids are going to learn Father Abraham and a few others. Last week, I started doing the motions to the song during worship time and then I realized that it was the first time the kids were hearing the song. Horacio then asked me to teach it to the children next week, but since I am going to be gone. Shawn, another volunteer, is going to teach them the song.
This has been one busy but wonderful week. This Friday I leave for Nicaragua to renew my tourist visa with the students from the school. We have a 5 day weekend so I will be in Nicaragua til Monday evening. I am excited about this trip and I am looking forward to exploring a new city.
June 14, 2011
See
Do you see God's blessing each day? Can you feel his presence? Do you see God in your every day life?
I believe it is extremely important to see God every day in your life. This doesn't mean you need to look for extradinary things or miracles, but if you open yours eyes you might see more of those things. It is important to see God in your life. He was the one that created you and this world so you don't have to look too far to see Him. Take the sunrise and sunset as an obvious example. How can you not see God in that? Who really has that much creativity and imagination besides God.
Seeing God physically we can not do. Not even the Israelites could see Him because if they did they would die. However, we can see God in His creations. We can see God's faithfulness in our lives. There are many things that you can see if you open your eyes.
This is why me and unbelievers have such a hard time seeing eye to eye because I can't see anything but God's handprints in my life and they have a hard time seeing Him at all. I think this where the "I once was blind but now I can see" phrase comes into play. Before we were followers of Christ we were blind for God only allowed us to see what we wanted to see but once our hearts changed and we became one with Him, He opened our eyes so that we could see. Sometimes I believe we need help to see and this is where some followers who are farther along in their faith come into play. They came help us see beyond what we already can see on our own.
My prayer for everyone is that their eyes may be opened so that they may see the one true God, who pursues them daily. If you cannot see God pray that He would reveal Himself to you.
I believe it is extremely important to see God every day in your life. This doesn't mean you need to look for extradinary things or miracles, but if you open yours eyes you might see more of those things. It is important to see God in your life. He was the one that created you and this world so you don't have to look too far to see Him. Take the sunrise and sunset as an obvious example. How can you not see God in that? Who really has that much creativity and imagination besides God.
Seeing God physically we can not do. Not even the Israelites could see Him because if they did they would die. However, we can see God in His creations. We can see God's faithfulness in our lives. There are many things that you can see if you open your eyes.
This is why me and unbelievers have such a hard time seeing eye to eye because I can't see anything but God's handprints in my life and they have a hard time seeing Him at all. I think this where the "I once was blind but now I can see" phrase comes into play. Before we were followers of Christ we were blind for God only allowed us to see what we wanted to see but once our hearts changed and we became one with Him, He opened our eyes so that we could see. Sometimes I believe we need help to see and this is where some followers who are farther along in their faith come into play. They came help us see beyond what we already can see on our own.
My prayer for everyone is that their eyes may be opened so that they may see the one true God, who pursues them daily. If you cannot see God pray that He would reveal Himself to you.
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