My aplogies in not posting in a while. I have been occupied with VegSource, church, friends, phone calls, and overwhelming emotions. It’s been a crazy 12 days since I’ve last posted on this good ole blog.
Doubts about Gordon have come and gone. My circumstances would seem to say one thing, while my heart another. I have realized that I need to look beyond my own ways and thoughts, and look to the Lord, whose ways and thoughts are WAY higher than mine. A negative attitude does not help. At all. God is GOOD. He provides WELL, even if it’s not in the way I expect or want, it’s in the way I need. My heavenly Daddy knows best. Selling home school books is crazy. Jesus works at the eleventh hour. I have some REALLY awesome friends waiting for me at Gordon and I have some REALLY awesome friends supporting me here in North Carolina. You can act like a child but lack the much needed child-like faith. Romans 15:13. Isaiah 55. If it looks like it is going to rain…make sure your windows are up all the way, or you will get drenched…twice! God knows how to bless His children. Worrying gets you no where.
I guess that can sum up the almost past two weeks.
My mind is still currently else where. I need to pack and get ready for a conference I will be going to tonight till Friday. It’s the Refuel Conference in Asheville, NC – through the Vineyard church. I really have not a clue what it will consist of…but I can’t wait!
Here’s to getting Refueled!
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Since I've gotten back...
It’s been almost two weeks since La Vida. Those lovely days now feel like a dream (did the wonderfulness even occur?). In these almost two weeks, I got to reunite with a dear bosom friend who I have not seen in five months (she was over in the Philippines studying under midwives in a birthing home), I learned that my car had broken down (which it has just recently gotten fixed – thank God! – and was fortunately not as bad of a problem as we had thought), and I had also learned that I was going to have trouble securing an outside loan for school.
Transition is, well, transition. It’s crazy what 12 days out in the wilderness can do to a girl. The simplicity of that life, it was luscious. By day three of coming back, I was already running around again trying to get things done. It feels like everything that was awaken in me, that was established in my life, that I had learned during La Vida, is now being tested.
I feel SO ready for Gordon, for this new season in my life. Sadly it just feels like my circumstances are trying to fight that. With my current situation, I will not be able to dorm at Gordon this year. I think I have envisioned this new life at college so vividly in a dorm, that the thought of not dorming is rather hard – it’s almost as though I’m morning a “lost.” Not quite sure how reasonable that emotion is, or how pathetic.
God is Sovereign though. Those “who see the Lord lack no good thing” (Psalm 34:10). Whatever happens will be GOOD. Right now, it’s just hard to see that.
I will be commuting back and forth to Gordon while living with my mom (who lives a tad bit more than 30 minutes from the college). My heart has been missing my mom dearly, so I’m looking forward to living with her. But my heart that is also yearning for new independence, well, I think you all get the picture.
Romans 15:13
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”
It’s time to trust in God, to hope in Him. There is a verse in a song that goes “Sovereign, you are still sovereign, even when my circumstances don’t change.” It is a true reality, but a hard one. But my soul rests in the one whose “presence goes with me and gives me rest” (Exodus 33:14).
I don’t want to give in to anxiety, fear, worry, doubt, and depression. No. That is not a choice I want to make. I have had to make a lot of choices within the past few months, and to give in to the negative will NOT be one of them. No.
I choose joy.
Transition is, well, transition. It’s crazy what 12 days out in the wilderness can do to a girl. The simplicity of that life, it was luscious. By day three of coming back, I was already running around again trying to get things done. It feels like everything that was awaken in me, that was established in my life, that I had learned during La Vida, is now being tested.
I feel SO ready for Gordon, for this new season in my life. Sadly it just feels like my circumstances are trying to fight that. With my current situation, I will not be able to dorm at Gordon this year. I think I have envisioned this new life at college so vividly in a dorm, that the thought of not dorming is rather hard – it’s almost as though I’m morning a “lost.” Not quite sure how reasonable that emotion is, or how pathetic.
God is Sovereign though. Those “who see the Lord lack no good thing” (Psalm 34:10). Whatever happens will be GOOD. Right now, it’s just hard to see that.
I will be commuting back and forth to Gordon while living with my mom (who lives a tad bit more than 30 minutes from the college). My heart has been missing my mom dearly, so I’m looking forward to living with her. But my heart that is also yearning for new independence, well, I think you all get the picture.
Romans 15:13
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”
It’s time to trust in God, to hope in Him. There is a verse in a song that goes “Sovereign, you are still sovereign, even when my circumstances don’t change.” It is a true reality, but a hard one. But my soul rests in the one whose “presence goes with me and gives me rest” (Exodus 33:14).
I don’t want to give in to anxiety, fear, worry, doubt, and depression. No. That is not a choice I want to make. I have had to make a lot of choices within the past few months, and to give in to the negative will NOT be one of them. No.
I choose joy.
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
BE HERE NOW: An art of Focus
(This was a lesson for Spark that I got to share with a couple girls Tuesday night.)
In today’s culture it is EXTREMELY easy to get caught up in things. With our Ipods blasting Justin Bieber and Lady Gaga in our ears, with video games like Halo and Grand Theft Auto blasting before our eyes, with Facebook drawing us to check up on our friends and to “poke” someone, homework in itself takes too long, we got our friends, we may have a boyfriend or a girlfriend, parents are asking us to do chores, text messages are too important not to answer right away, how can there be time for God?
With that big math test coming up, with trying to find a babysitting job or a lawn to mow to get some extra cash, how can we even focus on right now?
How are we expected to be focused when everything around us is crazy, out of order, and just plain chaotic?
No day but today.
With that big math test coming up, with trying to find a babysitting job or a lawn to mow to get some extra cash, how can we even focus on right now?
How are we expected to be focused when everything around us is crazy, out of order, and just plain chaotic?
No day but today.
I found myself getting caught up in the world. It would be Monday and I would be too busy worrying about what would be happening on Saturday. I would be running around crazy, too focused on things I had to get done, that I wasn’t focusing on Jesus.
When we find ourselves running around, worrying about things, how do we usually end up feeling??? EXHAUSTED! OVERWHELMED! Maybe even ANXIOUS!
About a month ago, I was running around like I said before, like a crazy person. On top of that, when I was having a nice relaxing moment, I would allow it to be ruined by thinking of the fact that the next day I would have to work a ten hour shift or that I had something else that I needed to get done.
Matthew 6:34 – “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”
I looked over that verse and took on the thought, one day at a time. Easy said in done though right? I have been learning a lot about choices lately. We have the opportunity to make choices daily, hourly. Sprite or Pepsi? Go on Facebook or get homework done? Worry about tomorrow or choose to focus on today? The choice was made, and it helped! Monday, I would think only about Monday things, Tuesday , Tuesday things, and so on and so on. If it was a Wednesday and I knew I had to work ten hours on Saturday (bleh), I would wait to think about it till the time came, when it was actually Saturday. In the end, it actually made work a bit more bearable.
There is a reason Matthew 6:34 is in the Bible. Jesus wants us to live today. BE HERE NOW. He doesn’t want us to be stressing out over things that aren’t even going to happen yet, for “today has enough troubles of its own” – and He isn’t kidding!
By focusing on TODAY, we notice more things. Moments that may have been lost on us are experienced fully. Lessons that may have been looked over are learned.
Fortunate Camera Malfunction
For the past 12 days I went on a camping and canoeing trip that’s a requirement for Gordon College. A major theme in the trip was this philosophy “Be Here Now.”
We were never told what time it was, there was no such things as 9:30 in the morning or 3:00 in the afternoon. And when we would ask what we would be doing next, we were always told, “We’ll get there.”
I brought my camera on this trip and was EXTREMELY excited to take photos and capture everything that I would be doing. On day two, my camera began to act weird. Eventually it just wasn’t working. I was quite upset. I now wouldn’t be able to capture the moments of La Vida; at least, I didn’t capture them in the way I had intended.
Going through the days, I began to soak in the world around me. I could concentrate on the beauty of the water, how at moments it looked almost solid; the next it looked like it had the texture of oil. The woods/forests around us ranged from thick walls of pine trees to areas that felt more like I had canoed past a safari.
When I was rock climbing, I wasn’t thinking I need to get a photo of this (well, I wasn’t thinking that AS much…still human here ;D), but that this is awesome (even though I never was able to climb to the top…). Soon I began to realize that my camera malfunctioning was in fact, a GOOD thing.
I’ve always been a picture taker. At any event, I have my camera out and would walk away with at least a hundred photos. During La Vida, I learned that I had always been to busy trying to capture moments, that consequently, I wasn’t living the moments.
How much do we go about life through a “camera,” focusing on the wrong thing while we should just be focusing on now?
SINKING
Matthew 14:29-30 - “Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, ‘Lord, save me!’”
So, the disciples are out on a boat, minus Jesus. Looking out onto the water, they get frightened thinking that a ghost is walking towards them. It’s no Casper, but Jesus the Son of God. Peter calls out to Jesus, “If you are who you say you are…then ask me to walk to you out on the water?” Jesus does just that. GULP. Peter made his way out of the boat (I wonder if he put one foot down to quickly test the water first or if he just went for it…) and WALKED on water. Suddenly, a good gust of wind blew by and Peter noticed it. His eyes went from Jesus to looking out on the water. Automatically he began to sink. A call out for help, and IMMEDIATELY Jesus grabbed his hand.
How does this relate to Be Here Now and Focus? What happened the moment Peter lost Focus of Jesus? He sank. How true is that in our lives?! Our lives are bumpy like the ocean and can crash around us. The world itself is fierce like the wind. It’s distracting.
When we make our focus be Jesus, the things we can do! We can even “walk on water!” But…how do we keep from getting distracted? How do we focus on Jesus, when we got so many things that need to get done and accomplished?
What are we to do? You know how race horses have those blinders that they wear so not to see anything else but what is ahead. Should we just put on blinders, not paying attention to the world around us and just see Jesus. Yes and no. Our focus must be Jesus. But we can’t ignore our homework for school – even though I’m sure we all would like to. So then, how do we go about doing all the we must do in our life while keeping our focus on Jesus?
Matthew 6:33 – “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
Seek Jesus FIRST…and then everything else will follow. Simple, but by no means simplistic.
So what is something that you can do personally in taking a step towards focusing more on Jesus? Maybe you can take some time each to have so undivided time with the Lord. OR, maybe you can memorize a verse that you can recite whenever you find yourself losing focus on Jesus. Exchange some La Gaga songs for a few worship songs that you can listen to throughout the day. The main thing though is to think of something and DO it. Make a goal.The thing with setting goals and thinking up realistic ways to practice something is how we can take a lesson heard and turn it into a lesson learned.
Let's make the choice. CHOOSE to FOCUS on JESUS and everything will work out.
Monday, July 12, 2010
La Vida - The Life (part 3)
Day 9 and 10 – SOLO
As part of our “final” for La Vida, we are required to do a solo. Basically, for two days we are on our own in the woods and during that time we do a fast from food. The night before solo, we as a group decided to have a vow of silence during the morning of solo and the morning when we would return. We would end the silence with a song of worship.
Getting up that morning, we all packed up our things – in silence – and soon enough were led away from camp. When we were about 100 yards or so away from camp (close enough that our leaders could get to us in case of an emergency and such), I was led to my spot. The group continued on, leaving me to start looking for a spot for my solo tarp. For the first few minutes I found myself wandering in circles trying to find a good clearing where I would leave my gear and sleep for the next two nights. Once I finally discovered a good spot, I got everything set up and am pleased to say, I set up quite a lovely solo tarp.
When all of that was said and done, it was time to explore. We were only allowed to stay within a certain distance of our solo camp, but were permitted to go down to the water – thank God! Down near the water, I was blessed with the perfect spot. A nice birch tree that had a thick branch hanging low to ground provided me with my sitting spot.
The mornings of solo were easier than the nights. The second day was overall easier than the first. Each day I wrote in my La Vida journal, prayed, read my Bible, memorized scripture, and worshiped. I craved GORP (Good Ole Raisins and Peanuts) as well as other yummy foods, there were moments that I was rather tired, and at some moments I found myself at a loss of what I wanted to do. Fasting out in the wilderness is much different than fasting in the comfort of your home where you have more things to do to keep you occupied (like reading a book). Besides the struggles that I meet over those two days, I also had some wonderful moments that triumphed over them. To sit on a tree, look out over the lake, and talk to Jesus, it’s a special thing. He brought me through things over that time. I ended that solo all the more excited for Gordon.
Day 11 – The last bag of GORP
Getting up that morning, taking down my solo camp, and walking back to the campsite with the rest of the girls (we would meet the boys at the campsite) was rather hard. We were all lightheaded and tired.
When we all meet up together and sat around the campfire, we each placed a natural object (a leaf, rock, a stick, etc) in the middle and said something about our solo time. After we sung our song, chatter broke loose and we over a nice breakfast of soup, shared our experience.
Camp was taken down, things were packed, canoes were loaded, and we embarked on our quickest canoe voyage. After pulling in, we found ourselves along a road. As we waited for the van to come and pick us up along with the canoes, we sat in a circle, dined on our last bag of GORP, and shared our ACE’s with another (Appreciations and Challenges/Exhortations). Arriving back to base camp was interesting, eleven days ago we had all started out there, to be back and to see how different we all were as individuals and as a group, it was awesome!
Getting some logistics dealt with (returning some gear, setting up the campsite where we all start out at, practicing a skit), we eventually got to do what we were all looking forward to, eat some FOOD food, and this wasn’t just in our group of twelve, but with all the canoe and hiking groups – the reunion was lovely. Walking into the room where we were to get our food, all the Sherpas served us – the room was CHAOTIC but WONDERFUL, Sherpas screaming at students if they wanted a burger or a hot dog, barbecue chips or Doritos. Another fun memory was when all the Sherpas came running at us with buckets of ice cream, and we all wondered, were they going to throw it at us or give it to us to eat? It turned out to be the later; though I’m sure a food fight would have been rather delightful.
After some down time, though for our group it was more active time (we were playing soccer and throwing a Frisbee), we all gathered in the barn for worship, skits, and testimonies. Worship was delightful, our skit went pretty well, and the testimonies were encouraging.
The night was the first time the whole twelve of us slept under the group tarp. We all decided as a group that if we had done that every night, we would have never slept. That night as we finally went to bed, many things went through my mind. It was our last night. The next day we would be leaving. Also, the following morning would hold our last physical challenge – an 8 mile run.
Day 12 – A heartfelt goodbye
As part of our “final” for La Vida, we are required to do a solo. Basically, for two days we are on our own in the woods and during that time we do a fast from food. The night before solo, we as a group decided to have a vow of silence during the morning of solo and the morning when we would return. We would end the silence with a song of worship.
Getting up that morning, we all packed up our things – in silence – and soon enough were led away from camp. When we were about 100 yards or so away from camp (close enough that our leaders could get to us in case of an emergency and such), I was led to my spot. The group continued on, leaving me to start looking for a spot for my solo tarp. For the first few minutes I found myself wandering in circles trying to find a good clearing where I would leave my gear and sleep for the next two nights. Once I finally discovered a good spot, I got everything set up and am pleased to say, I set up quite a lovely solo tarp.
When all of that was said and done, it was time to explore. We were only allowed to stay within a certain distance of our solo camp, but were permitted to go down to the water – thank God! Down near the water, I was blessed with the perfect spot. A nice birch tree that had a thick branch hanging low to ground provided me with my sitting spot.
The mornings of solo were easier than the nights. The second day was overall easier than the first. Each day I wrote in my La Vida journal, prayed, read my Bible, memorized scripture, and worshiped. I craved GORP (Good Ole Raisins and Peanuts) as well as other yummy foods, there were moments that I was rather tired, and at some moments I found myself at a loss of what I wanted to do. Fasting out in the wilderness is much different than fasting in the comfort of your home where you have more things to do to keep you occupied (like reading a book). Besides the struggles that I meet over those two days, I also had some wonderful moments that triumphed over them. To sit on a tree, look out over the lake, and talk to Jesus, it’s a special thing. He brought me through things over that time. I ended that solo all the more excited for Gordon.
Day 11 – The last bag of GORP
Getting up that morning, taking down my solo camp, and walking back to the campsite with the rest of the girls (we would meet the boys at the campsite) was rather hard. We were all lightheaded and tired.
When we all meet up together and sat around the campfire, we each placed a natural object (a leaf, rock, a stick, etc) in the middle and said something about our solo time. After we sung our song, chatter broke loose and we over a nice breakfast of soup, shared our experience.
Camp was taken down, things were packed, canoes were loaded, and we embarked on our quickest canoe voyage. After pulling in, we found ourselves along a road. As we waited for the van to come and pick us up along with the canoes, we sat in a circle, dined on our last bag of GORP, and shared our ACE’s with another (Appreciations and Challenges/Exhortations). Arriving back to base camp was interesting, eleven days ago we had all started out there, to be back and to see how different we all were as individuals and as a group, it was awesome!
Getting some logistics dealt with (returning some gear, setting up the campsite where we all start out at, practicing a skit), we eventually got to do what we were all looking forward to, eat some FOOD food, and this wasn’t just in our group of twelve, but with all the canoe and hiking groups – the reunion was lovely. Walking into the room where we were to get our food, all the Sherpas served us – the room was CHAOTIC but WONDERFUL, Sherpas screaming at students if they wanted a burger or a hot dog, barbecue chips or Doritos. Another fun memory was when all the Sherpas came running at us with buckets of ice cream, and we all wondered, were they going to throw it at us or give it to us to eat? It turned out to be the later; though I’m sure a food fight would have been rather delightful.
After some down time, though for our group it was more active time (we were playing soccer and throwing a Frisbee), we all gathered in the barn for worship, skits, and testimonies. Worship was delightful, our skit went pretty well, and the testimonies were encouraging.
The night was the first time the whole twelve of us slept under the group tarp. We all decided as a group that if we had done that every night, we would have never slept. That night as we finally went to bed, many things went through my mind. It was our last night. The next day we would be leaving. Also, the following morning would hold our last physical challenge – an 8 mile run.
Day 12 – A heartfelt goodbye
That morning we had a nice light breakfast to fuel us as we would being running soon. A nice thing about all the challenges that we had (low ropes, rock climbing…) was that they are considered a “challenge by choice.” I knew I could not run the whole 8 miles, physically my body couldn’t do that; however, to walk and jog it, that’s a different story. And that was what I did.
After picking a spot, like a mail box, a sign, or a house, I would then jog to that spot. Two hours and about twenty minutes later, I had jogged and walked back to base camp. Praise Jesus! There were moments along the jog/walk that I felt like the Lord was placing this on my heart: “You have turned to others for answers, for support, now it’s time to turn to me for the solutions to your problems, to be your support. Let me carry you.”
After we had finished gather all our things together, had lunch, exchanged info to one another, it was time to board the vans and go home. Our Sherpas, Steven and Sarah, were incredible – wouldn’t trade them for nothing. They encouraged, motivated, challenged, and supported us. They were patient with us and listened to us. They modeled servant leadership. It’s been more than week since La Vida ended, and I miss them already.
The van provided a good means to transition back to the world, especially when those who were controlling the radio kept letting it play Lady Gaga. Soon we halfway there, and then, we were back at Gordon. Photos were taken, loving words were exchanged, and hugs were given.
I hopped into my mom’s car and we drove back to her apartment where I got to take a delicious shower and sleep on a bed (aw, the luxury).
The physical experience of La Vida had ended, but La Vida continues through my life. The lessons I have learned go with me now throughout my days. Now, my heart is at ease knowing that I have friends waiting for me on the day orientation begins. Friends who will support and encourage me. The trip has given me a closer relationship with Jesus and has given me who I consider my La Vida family - to you lovely people, I love you all!
I could go on and on about La Vida, and there are still so many stories to share, but for now, everyone can at least have a small idea of what went on during that beautiful time.
After we had finished gather all our things together, had lunch, exchanged info to one another, it was time to board the vans and go home. Our Sherpas, Steven and Sarah, were incredible – wouldn’t trade them for nothing. They encouraged, motivated, challenged, and supported us. They were patient with us and listened to us. They modeled servant leadership. It’s been more than week since La Vida ended, and I miss them already.
The van provided a good means to transition back to the world, especially when those who were controlling the radio kept letting it play Lady Gaga. Soon we halfway there, and then, we were back at Gordon. Photos were taken, loving words were exchanged, and hugs were given.
I hopped into my mom’s car and we drove back to her apartment where I got to take a delicious shower and sleep on a bed (aw, the luxury).
The physical experience of La Vida had ended, but La Vida continues through my life. The lessons I have learned go with me now throughout my days. Now, my heart is at ease knowing that I have friends waiting for me on the day orientation begins. Friends who will support and encourage me. The trip has given me a closer relationship with Jesus and has given me who I consider my La Vida family - to you lovely people, I love you all!
I could go on and on about La Vida, and there are still so many stories to share, but for now, everyone can at least have a small idea of what went on during that beautiful time.
Choose Joy!
Thursday, July 8, 2010
La Vida - The Life (part 2)
Day 3 – Up in the Air
Three words: high ropes course. Imagine it. You come to a clearing. Trees that are rather high loom before you. One “course” consists of a rope incline, with two other ropes on each side (to be used to help pull you up). Another course, called the Indiana Jones Bridge, is made up of, you guessed it, a bridge that one must balance across. Four more small courses follow these two and make up what is considered the La Vida’s high ropes course. It was you, a harness, someone below who is connected to the harness, your balance, and Jesus.
This was where I found myself on the morning of Day 3. Of course, it was also raining. Praise God, the weather had let up some when it came to my turn to attempt the course.
Going up the first course – the incline – was especially hard. Encouragement from below motivated me to push. To my amazement, I did it! The next three small courses went by with a breeze. The whole time I was in utter disbelief. I was actually doing this! I came to a small platform where I got to rest for a few minutes and was required to either, sing a song, do a dance, or make a joke. I went for the lovely song and dance combo and sang “Don’t Stop Believing” (the Glee version).
The next course that loomed ahead of me was considered the rope vines course. Besides a small wire my feet had to balance and cross on, rope vines were spaced nicely apart to be what my hands could cling to for support. Halfway through, due to slipperiness of the wire rope I’m sure, I slipped. There I hung, clinging to one of the vines with one hand, and the wire rope with the other. More encouragement from down below shouted that I could do it, that I just had to pull myself up.
Those who know me can agree that I am not strong by any means, especially when it comes to upper body strength. It seemed I had no choice but to let go and have them lower me back down. But something came. Motivation? Determination? Inspiration? Sure! I pushed my muscles and surprisingly pulled myself up. A few more steps and I of course slipped once more. However, getting back up that time was easier. I came to the last course, crossed the log, and was then lowered to the ground in great victory. Thank the Lord, I had done it.
Later on, we packed up a van, loaded up the canoes, and we finally, to the groups greatest delight, set off. The trip began with a portage – when you carry the canoes overhead so to cross land. Down the first hill I recall slipping (it must have become a new habit for the day) and falling with the canoe upon me – it was rather brilliant on my end. The portage was small and I was able to manage it.
This was where I found myself on the morning of Day 3. Of course, it was also raining. Praise God, the weather had let up some when it came to my turn to attempt the course.
Going up the first course – the incline – was especially hard. Encouragement from below motivated me to push. To my amazement, I did it! The next three small courses went by with a breeze. The whole time I was in utter disbelief. I was actually doing this! I came to a small platform where I got to rest for a few minutes and was required to either, sing a song, do a dance, or make a joke. I went for the lovely song and dance combo and sang “Don’t Stop Believing” (the Glee version).
The next course that loomed ahead of me was considered the rope vines course. Besides a small wire my feet had to balance and cross on, rope vines were spaced nicely apart to be what my hands could cling to for support. Halfway through, due to slipperiness of the wire rope I’m sure, I slipped. There I hung, clinging to one of the vines with one hand, and the wire rope with the other. More encouragement from down below shouted that I could do it, that I just had to pull myself up.
Those who know me can agree that I am not strong by any means, especially when it comes to upper body strength. It seemed I had no choice but to let go and have them lower me back down. But something came. Motivation? Determination? Inspiration? Sure! I pushed my muscles and surprisingly pulled myself up. A few more steps and I of course slipped once more. However, getting back up that time was easier. I came to the last course, crossed the log, and was then lowered to the ground in great victory. Thank the Lord, I had done it.
Later on, we packed up a van, loaded up the canoes, and we finally, to the groups greatest delight, set off. The trip began with a portage – when you carry the canoes overhead so to cross land. Down the first hill I recall slipping (it must have become a new habit for the day) and falling with the canoe upon me – it was rather brilliant on my end. The portage was small and I was able to manage it.
Soon, we had hit water. After returning to our starting point near the van once more to collect gear we made our way back to the water which we all had yearned to reach. It was time to canoe! I got in the front of the canoe with one our Sherpas – Steven. Once everyone was loaded up, gear and all, two to a canoe, we took off. How exhilarating! The first trip didn’t last long and we soon had to pull in due to the fact that if we continued down the river any further we would have hit some small rapids. Unloading, we began another portage. This one I didn’t have to carry a canoe, so I took a bag and followed. Once we got to camp, we had to turn around once more and go retrieve our bags (this is how all the portages were set up).
Our camp consisted of a nice lean-to, and we were fortunate, there was an outhouse. That night, we learned how to set up a bear bag (where you put food in a sturdy stuff sack and hang it up in a tree in a way that a bear cannot attack it), strangely enough it wasn’t a bear that ever attacked our food during the trip, but chipmunks. We also learned how to broadcast – it’s when after your brush your teeth, you do not merely just spit the toothpaste out in one spot, but spray it out all around. It was hard not to broadcast the first time without fits of laughter.
All cozy in the lean-to, boys one side and girls on the other, we reflected on the day. That day I got a clear example of endurance from the ropes course. Sometimes in trials, it seems the only option we have is to give in. But, you can always pull yourself up and finish with victory (more on this lesson later).
Our camp consisted of a nice lean-to, and we were fortunate, there was an outhouse. That night, we learned how to set up a bear bag (where you put food in a sturdy stuff sack and hang it up in a tree in a way that a bear cannot attack it), strangely enough it wasn’t a bear that ever attacked our food during the trip, but chipmunks. We also learned how to broadcast – it’s when after your brush your teeth, you do not merely just spit the toothpaste out in one spot, but spray it out all around. It was hard not to broadcast the first time without fits of laughter.
All cozy in the lean-to, boys one side and girls on the other, we reflected on the day. That day I got a clear example of endurance from the ropes course. Sometimes in trials, it seems the only option we have is to give in. But, you can always pull yourself up and finish with victory (more on this lesson later).
Day 4 to Day 8 - The Wonderfulness in Between
The next following days generally went along the lines of this: We would get up, pack up most of our stuff and go about doing our morning duties (bring down the bear bags, take down the tents and group tarp, filter water and fill up water bottles, or make breakfast). Then our Sherpa, Sarah, would lead us into a small lesson which was followed with us going off on our own for some devotion time (a time to sit at the base of a tree, or on a rock by the water and write in our journals, worship, and pray to God).
Group Tarp
Next, it would be time to load up the canoes, get with your canoe buddy (we switched every day), and then as a group we would gather the canoes together out on the water and pray. And off we went! We canoed a lot each day (my guess at least 3 hours a day). We usually stopped once in between for snack, lunch, and/or bathroom break. At the end of each canoe voyage, we would then portage the canoes and gear to our campsite. This usually occurred after lunchtime. Once we get to camp, it’s time to set up the tents, tarp, get out things for dinner, filter more water, take care of bear bags, and fellowship with one another during it all. We would end the day with a life story or two (when one of us students would share basically a 15-20 minute testimony which followed with the rest of the group asking the student various questions whether serious or silly and then it would end for us praying for that student), some prayer, and worship. It was a blissful time!
Our Canoes
Each day we would have our LOD’s (Leaders of the Day). Two or three (depending on the day) of us would be the “Sherpas” for the day. We would be in charge of getting everyone up, making sure tasks were done, making sure everyone stuck to the map route, encouraging all, etc.
One of our Campsites
Throughout those days songs were sung out on the canoes, sometimes a little to loudly that we had to contain ourselves to not to disturb other canoers or kayakers who would pass us. Laughter was a common occurrence throughout the hours and minutes. Encouragement was just as frequent. Life was shared.
We would get caught in the rain, so we did all that we could do, we’d put on our rain jackets and embrace the weather (I remember on Day 8 – our “Final” – we got poured on out on the canoes. We didn’t complain, no, instead we shouted with glee, and welcomed the weather and challenge that it presented to us). Support was exchange during portaging. We learned to trust each other enough to be vulnerable and admit when we needed help. Friendships were made; a family was created.
I could go into detail of all the wonderful moments, but that would probably take about a books worth of writing. Just know, each moment was a treasure and it’s print will be forever in my memory and forever in my heart.
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
La Vida - The Life (Part 1)
Day 1 - Welcome to La Vida
Arriving at the Bennett Center, it was interesting to see everyone else arrive. Awkward, nervous, and shy, radiated from all. We were all total strangers. Slowly, names were exchanged, chatter arose, and all were asked the same question, “Hiking? Or canoeing?”
Boarding the van was an experience in itself. My initial introduction into the van was as followed: I was the last one to board the van. Looking at the fellow passengers, I smiled, went to hop in, and being a natural klutz, banged my head on the door frame. Hello everyone!
I was one of the few who was on the canoe patrol and I found it quite ironic that the friends I was currently attempting to make would not even be joining me on my particular adventure. However, there were two on the van who were going to canoe, who’d also be a part of my group, and who I now consider dear friends.
The van was loud. Then it was silent. And basically it repeated that cycle the whole way there. Loud being chatter, silent not necessarily being an awkward silence, but a silence brought on by people sleeping.
Roughly 7 hours and a ferry boat ride later, we arrived at the La Vida base camp. Cell phones were put away, it would be the last time we would have them till it came time to leave, and we took our last glance at the clock, for it would be our last time being aware of the time of day till it came time to leave. Automatically, we were meet by a lovely group of Sherpas (those who would be our leaders for the next 12 days). I recall seeing one guy run up to the group with a rather large plastic horse in hand and thinking, “He looks like he would make a fun Sherpa.” Whoda thunk he’d end up being one of my Sherpas! Once bags were unloaded and we all stood in a huddle, the games began. We were goblins attacking wizards and cows eating grass - I thoroughly enjoyed myself.
Soon we were put into our groups. My group consisted of, including me, ten students, two Sherpas (Sarah and Steven), and Steven’s plastic horse (our “team mascot” named Blazon). After a name game and some time to get to know one another we were given our camping gear (a sleeping bag, sleeping pad, sleeping bag liner, a bug net, a wet bag, a stuff sack, and a whistle - I also had to borrow a pair of hiking boots, wool pants, and a rain jacket). Soon, we were off to our “campsite” that was a mere walking distance to base camp. After we were settled in, a small devotion, worship, and a prayer later, it was time for bed. May I add here, the one thing I missed the most on this trip was a pillow.
Day 2 - Low ropes, a hike, and rock climbing, oh my!
I never really knew what time we were woken up each day - my guess would be around 7 in the morning - all I know is, now my body is adjusted to it and I can’t seem to sleep much past 7:30 since I’ve gotten back from La Vida.
The morning was wet. Rain had graced us with it’s presence, and it would do so throughout the 12 day trip. Asking what we would be doing for the day, I was told gently by Sarah that “we’ll get there.” This would become her key phrase for the entire trip. I finally caught on by day three that I wasn’t ever really going to know what the day would have in store for us.
We were led by our Sherpas into the woods to a spot that consisted of a wooden platform with a swinging rope vine a couple feet away. Our goal? Being a few feet out of arms length from the rope we had to grab it and each swing across - not touching the ground - to the platform where we all had to be on. Barely into day two and already our group had to begin to work as a team and learn to communicate and trust each other.
Next, we were brought to a low ropes course. Where we had to balance on a thin steel cord using only each other most of the time for support. Because of the weather, the rope was rather slippery. Tightly we clung to each other, so not to fall off, and quickly barriers were broken, and we, from then on, became a tight group. The day had just begun, it wasn’t even lunch time.
Later on the day, as the sun finally broke out, we hopped into a van, drove, and walked up a trail with a very nice incline - she says with much sarcasm . Twice I had to stop and use my inhaler. I then began to freak out, was this what it would be like the entire trip? Me being totally unfit and inadequate to do the physical challenges of La Vida?
At the top we were meet with a nice rock wall which we would all attempt to climb. Our group all took turns climbing, most were able to get to the top. Authentic, genuine encouragement was shared greatly. When it came for my turn to climb the rock wall, what an experience it was. I got halfway - half more than I ever expected myself to even climb - when I got stuck. And stuck I was. For the next who knows how long I would get a good grip, pull myself up, and slip. The cycle continued for a rather long time. My group encouraged and tried to give me advice. I hold it dear to my heart, but unfortunately, I still couldn’t get myself up the wall.
I could tell that time was running short and we would have to get going soon. Eventually I had to go back down. While my attempt to finish rock climbing to those around me had shown determination, persistence, and endurance, I had viewed my efforts, as well, a fail. This would be the beginning of my learning to define success as God sees it, not as the world sees it. I had to allow God’s grace to be sufficient for me, because I was having trouble having grace upon myself.
A lovely thing to keep in mind about having to go uphill is that in the end you get to go downhill. I slept good that night.
Arriving at the Bennett Center, it was interesting to see everyone else arrive. Awkward, nervous, and shy, radiated from all. We were all total strangers. Slowly, names were exchanged, chatter arose, and all were asked the same question, “Hiking? Or canoeing?”
Boarding the van was an experience in itself. My initial introduction into the van was as followed: I was the last one to board the van. Looking at the fellow passengers, I smiled, went to hop in, and being a natural klutz, banged my head on the door frame. Hello everyone!
I was one of the few who was on the canoe patrol and I found it quite ironic that the friends I was currently attempting to make would not even be joining me on my particular adventure. However, there were two on the van who were going to canoe, who’d also be a part of my group, and who I now consider dear friends.
The van was loud. Then it was silent. And basically it repeated that cycle the whole way there. Loud being chatter, silent not necessarily being an awkward silence, but a silence brought on by people sleeping.
Roughly 7 hours and a ferry boat ride later, we arrived at the La Vida base camp. Cell phones were put away, it would be the last time we would have them till it came time to leave, and we took our last glance at the clock, for it would be our last time being aware of the time of day till it came time to leave. Automatically, we were meet by a lovely group of Sherpas (those who would be our leaders for the next 12 days). I recall seeing one guy run up to the group with a rather large plastic horse in hand and thinking, “He looks like he would make a fun Sherpa.” Whoda thunk he’d end up being one of my Sherpas! Once bags were unloaded and we all stood in a huddle, the games began. We were goblins attacking wizards and cows eating grass - I thoroughly enjoyed myself.
Soon we were put into our groups. My group consisted of, including me, ten students, two Sherpas (Sarah and Steven), and Steven’s plastic horse (our “team mascot” named Blazon). After a name game and some time to get to know one another we were given our camping gear (a sleeping bag, sleeping pad, sleeping bag liner, a bug net, a wet bag, a stuff sack, and a whistle - I also had to borrow a pair of hiking boots, wool pants, and a rain jacket). Soon, we were off to our “campsite” that was a mere walking distance to base camp. After we were settled in, a small devotion, worship, and a prayer later, it was time for bed. May I add here, the one thing I missed the most on this trip was a pillow.
Day 2 - Low ropes, a hike, and rock climbing, oh my!
I never really knew what time we were woken up each day - my guess would be around 7 in the morning - all I know is, now my body is adjusted to it and I can’t seem to sleep much past 7:30 since I’ve gotten back from La Vida.
The morning was wet. Rain had graced us with it’s presence, and it would do so throughout the 12 day trip. Asking what we would be doing for the day, I was told gently by Sarah that “we’ll get there.” This would become her key phrase for the entire trip. I finally caught on by day three that I wasn’t ever really going to know what the day would have in store for us.
We were led by our Sherpas into the woods to a spot that consisted of a wooden platform with a swinging rope vine a couple feet away. Our goal? Being a few feet out of arms length from the rope we had to grab it and each swing across - not touching the ground - to the platform where we all had to be on. Barely into day two and already our group had to begin to work as a team and learn to communicate and trust each other.
Next, we were brought to a low ropes course. Where we had to balance on a thin steel cord using only each other most of the time for support. Because of the weather, the rope was rather slippery. Tightly we clung to each other, so not to fall off, and quickly barriers were broken, and we, from then on, became a tight group. The day had just begun, it wasn’t even lunch time.
Later on the day, as the sun finally broke out, we hopped into a van, drove, and walked up a trail with a very nice incline - she says with much sarcasm . Twice I had to stop and use my inhaler. I then began to freak out, was this what it would be like the entire trip? Me being totally unfit and inadequate to do the physical challenges of La Vida?
At the top we were meet with a nice rock wall which we would all attempt to climb. Our group all took turns climbing, most were able to get to the top. Authentic, genuine encouragement was shared greatly. When it came for my turn to climb the rock wall, what an experience it was. I got halfway - half more than I ever expected myself to even climb - when I got stuck. And stuck I was. For the next who knows how long I would get a good grip, pull myself up, and slip. The cycle continued for a rather long time. My group encouraged and tried to give me advice. I hold it dear to my heart, but unfortunately, I still couldn’t get myself up the wall.
I could tell that time was running short and we would have to get going soon. Eventually I had to go back down. While my attempt to finish rock climbing to those around me had shown determination, persistence, and endurance, I had viewed my efforts, as well, a fail. This would be the beginning of my learning to define success as God sees it, not as the world sees it. I had to allow God’s grace to be sufficient for me, because I was having trouble having grace upon myself.
A lovely thing to keep in mind about having to go uphill is that in the end you get to go downhill. I slept good that night.
Sunday, July 4, 2010
Where do I begin?
I don't even know where to start. For one, typing on this laptop feels REALLY weird (12 days without electricity can take a toll on you). But boy, that shower was heavenly (12 days with no soap, shampoo, or razor can take its toll on you). La Vida was incredible! I feel I can't even quite yet articulate, nor describe the experience well enough. However, it will forever be ingrained in my heart as 12 beautiful days where I grew wonderfully close with my Creator, meet 12 new strangers who I now consider my La Vida family, and was stretched beyond expectations of myself.
I can now paddle a canoe, set up a solo tarp, portage, make a butterfly knot, and use the great outdoors as my toilet with much ease. The 12 day outdoor expedition involved me, 9 other students (incoming and current Gordon students), 2 Sherpas (our leaders), and one plastic horse (our "team mascot"). I climbed half a rock wall, completed a high ropes course (me in a harness high up in the trees, balancing on a rope or a small platform with Jesus), canoed many miles, portaged a good chunk of miles as well, fasted for two days as part of my "Solo," and half jogged and walked an 8 mile distance. During this experience I grew as an individual, a friend, a leader, and as a child of God. I learned valuable lessons, such as "Be Here Now" (more on that later), and I got to witness even more in depth the beauty that is the Body of Christ. With a new nickname - "K-Train" - I now feel all the more ready for Gordon - I got God on my side and friends to await me.
I promise I will go more in depth on my experience soon, but for now I must go and soak in this wonderful experience some more.
- K-Train
I can now paddle a canoe, set up a solo tarp, portage, make a butterfly knot, and use the great outdoors as my toilet with much ease. The 12 day outdoor expedition involved me, 9 other students (incoming and current Gordon students), 2 Sherpas (our leaders), and one plastic horse (our "team mascot"). I climbed half a rock wall, completed a high ropes course (me in a harness high up in the trees, balancing on a rope or a small platform with Jesus), canoed many miles, portaged a good chunk of miles as well, fasted for two days as part of my "Solo," and half jogged and walked an 8 mile distance. During this experience I grew as an individual, a friend, a leader, and as a child of God. I learned valuable lessons, such as "Be Here Now" (more on that later), and I got to witness even more in depth the beauty that is the Body of Christ. With a new nickname - "K-Train" - I now feel all the more ready for Gordon - I got God on my side and friends to await me.
I promise I will go more in depth on my experience soon, but for now I must go and soak in this wonderful experience some more.
- K-Train
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