My last two weeks here in Mizoram have been an all out blitz. Everyday I'm busy writing, editing, teaching, or traveling somewhere. Everyone here, including myself, is trying to make the most of my last few days here so I always feels as though I'm just coming from or about to go to an event. Monday, however, was a special event.
My alarm clock went off at about 4:45 am, much to my displeasure. Living in a place with no A/C, you cherish cool rainy nights because you actually get some good rest. However, I had to be awaken from pleasant slumber to hop in a car with the AICS chaplain so we could begin our travels out to a Bru (sp?) village.
The Bru are an ethnic minority here in Mizoram living mostly in small rural villages in the western part of the state. Either due to culture or location (I'm not sure which), these people have not modernized in the same way that those in Aizawl or Lunglei have. Or perhaps living in Aizawl, the capital city, has skewed my perspective. Either way, Rev. Zolawma wanted me to visit the Bru so I could be exposed to the way poor, rural people live in Mizoram.
The trip took about 5.5 hours to make as the chaplain and I had to navigate the difficult roads of Mizoram in his small car. Traveling on roads nearly washed out in something akin to a Pinto can be a little difficult but at about 10:30 am we reached the village. The village we visited, whose name escapes me at the moment, is the largest Bru settlement in Mizoram. Here there are about 600-700 huts. These huts are incredibly basic because they are modeled after the traditional homes.
A traditional Bru hut sits raised 3 or 4 ft off the ground on large bamboo posts. The four walls are made of bamboo thatch work (no nails or pegs) and the roof is composed of leaves. The inside is just one large room without an interior dividers. In one corner is a fireplace which is much more akin to a campfire than what you're probably imagining. Although I was invited into one of the homes, the chaplain marveled at the modernization of many of the huts. As I discovered, "modernization" meant some huts had tin roofs, four walls (the front of a traditional hut was left open), and some houses had televisions that ran off of batteries. I realized quickly the size of the scales which were over my eyes since I wouldn't have associated a tin roof with modernization (at least not in the past 100 yrs). Nevertheless, his remarks were quite accurate as you could see some of the effects of modernization and globalization amongst certain members of the community.
When we arrived, we were greeted by the faculty of the local Baptist High School which provides education to some 200 students ranging from kindergarten to high school. A lunch had been prepared for the chaplain and I which we were happy to take since we haven't eaten anything but some small crackers. There was little time for small talk though because all the children were waiting for us to visit the school (we arrived about an hour late). Although I didn't realize until I got there, the school had prepared a special reception for me.
As I walked into the large room, the children all stared in amazement at me. Not because of my dashing good looks but more because a 6'2" white man is not something you'll see often for the Bru (the chaplain actually described it as a 'once in a lifetime experience' for them). The chaplain and I were seat at the front of the room at a special table with the headmaster facing all the students. I must admit, I felt a bit odd considering the nature of my reception. I was treated as though I was a special dignitary from the United States on tour or something. I was humbled by the event as I didn't feel worthy of such a welcome.
These feelings came not only as I sat down, but as the program began. An 1-1.5 hr long program had been made for me to showcase the school. The kindergarten classes sang songs, elementary students recited Bible verses, junior high girls sang solos, the high school chior performed, and some high school students even did a traditional Bru dance. I did my best to take some pictures and videos as I also wanted to pay attention to the students.
After the performances, I was asked to say a few words to the students. In many ways, I repeated some of the things I told the students in Lunglei: work hard at your studies, you can be whatever you want to be, and maybe one day you can visit a far away place. I told them a couple stories about growing up in Texas and they loved my stories about feeding Texas longhorns. As a result, I've decided that if you are a Texan cowboy then everyone in the world loves you. Except the Yanks in America, but that's only because they're jealous haha.
Anyways, I wasn't done just with speaking because the chaplain got up and asked the kids if they would like to see some kung fu. The kids all cheered so I did a quick demonstration for them. As I began my demonstration, I noticed that the outside of the room was lined with villagers. Apparently, the parents of the children had requested to watch the event because they were just as interested to see a white person. I was glad to see them but it's an odd sensation to be the main event of someone's month. At any rate, I had a great time and at the end we passed out some candy we brought to give to the children.
After a quick tour of some parts of the village and some tea, it was back in the car for the chaplain and I. At about 1:45 pm, we began the journey home. Around 7:20, we finally made it back to AICS completely exhausted. The tough roads, heavy monsoon rains we encountered for most of the way home, and length of the day wore us both out. But I was really happy to make the trip.
Post-visit I have a lot of thoughts and comments which I don't have time to make here as breakfast will soon be served. Suffice it to say, I'm thinking about what it means to be "poor." "Poor" in America in no way captures the reality faced by most people in the world. I mean, think about it, are you poor if you don't own a car? Are you poor if you only have 3 pairs of shoes? Are you poor if you only own 7 shirts? are you poor if you don't own a TV? In Mizoram, if you have 7 shirts, 3 pairs of shoes, and a TV you're actually living pretty well. I had a faculty person say I had so much stuff here in Mizoram and yet everything I brought can fit inside the backpack I use for luggage. Think about it.
What about our lives is esssential? What about them are things we think are essential but actually aren't? If you have reliable and easy access to clean drinking water, sufficient food, basic education, and medical care are you still considered poor? What does it mean to be poor? That's the question of the day.
pax et bonum
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Friday, July 23, 2010
TNT & Samsara
Today was quite a different day than I usually have around Mizoram because I visited one of the Christian social work centers. The experience was enlightening, challenging, encouraging, disheartening, and sobering all at the same time. The site I visited was Thutak Nunpuitu Team (TNT), one of the most popular organizations here in Mizoram. Founded in 1988 by an itinerate evangelist and healer, TNT literally means "those who live by truth team." As one church leader described the organization, "TNT is a strong organization engaged in uplifting destitute and marginalized people. The association makes use of different approaches in its ministry."
TNT has a staff of 68 workers who serve the 1,000 recipients comprised of orphans, recovering drug addicts, special needs, and impoverished. The enormous number of people in which the organization serves makes the site incredible. TNT exists as a campus sitting in the hills outside Aizawl. I didn't take any pictures of the place because I didn't want to seem like a tourist so this account will serve as the memory I have.
My tour began with a glimpse into the kitchen where the cooks were getting their first break of the day. Cooking for the first meal of the day begins at 1 am as huge black pots rougly 4 ft in diameter and 3 ft high are used to make breakfast. My guide said that cooking will continue non-stop for the rest of the day as finishing one meal simply begins the task of preparing for the next meal. Which makes sense when you consider that 1,000+ people must be fed twice a day (Mizos traditionally do not take lunch).
Next, we moved to the rehab center TNT runs. The center is divided into two sections based upon the progress of the participants. When a new person arrives, they are moved into a dorm until there are 10 people and then the treatment process begins. The dorms are much like barracks: large buildings with two rows of bunks running the length of the room. Beds are basic: wooden frame, bamboo thatch work for a mattress, blanket, and pillow. Each day operates under a tight schedule posted outside the hostel encompassing breakfast, cleaning the area, lecture, counseling, sermon, cleaning, counselling, dinner, prayers, sleep. I assume the schedule helps keep the minds of those in rehab off the thoughts of addiction.
From the rehab center we walked down to the orphanage. The orphanage houses aproximately 400 children ranging from elementary to high school. TNT employs teachers (who work for very little money) to educate the children in hopes that upon leaving they can get a job to support themselves. Many children are either former street children or literal orphans placed here by extended family. When I was there, class had ended so the children were running around playing with balls made of plastic bags tied with plastic netting to make a softball sized ball.
The dorms for children were quite saddening to see. The dorms were again in barrack like fashion but slightly altered. For example, the boys dorm was a large building divided into three or four sections probably 20 x 30 ft. The sides of the sections had two large concrete slabs, one above the other like bunk beds. The slabs, as I found out, were the beds for the children. The boys get a thin blank to place on their section of the concrete slab and then a worn, thin comforter with pillow. Since the children were awake I didn't see anyone sleeping but I could only imagine 300 boys sleeping next to each other on these concrete slabs called beds. The girls' dorm had the same set up but seemed a bit cleaner.
After exploring the orphanage section (the different functions of the campus are quite literal sections with clear distinctions), we visited the special needs area. This area particularly struck a cord with me. Perhaps subconscious flashbacks to my time in Mexico in high school began to play. Regardless, we entered through the gate where a large amount of construction was being done to create a new building for the patients. Here is where the understaffing of TNT really began to be displayed (in case you missed it, 68 workers for 1,000 people are not good numbers). The special needs children and adults are basically left to sit around or wander in gated areas with one or two supervisors watching. Their sleeping conditions are the same as the children. I almost lost it as I walked past a man lying on the concrete slab wrapped in his blanket like a cacoon. I'm no expert on caring for those with special needs, but I feel I can confidently say that these people could use many more caretakers.
We concluded our tour by checking out the dorm for the ranchhands and farms that work at TNT. As I discovered, TNT raised their own chickens, turkeys,and cattle to feed the residents. In addition, they grow many of their own crops to consume. As a result, TNT seeks to be as self-sustaining as possible in regards to food consumption. A great idea although the wooden floor was so old and filled with holes I was worried the floor would give out from under me.
Thus was the end of my tour of TNT. By the time came to leave, my head and heart were swirling with a number of complex emotions. On the one hand, I was saddened to see the living conditions of the children, recovering drug addicts, and special needs people living at TNT. Yet on the other hand, I couldn't deny that although I would consider the conditions far beyond sub-standard or acceptable, this was the best that could be provided. I mean, where else would these people go? TNT is providing as best they can so I have to be thankful and appreciative of that. And although I know I cannot demand standards which simply don't exist here, I couldn't help but wish TNT was able to provide more. But I imagine these sentiments would be shared by the TNT staff as well. Most of the staff, by the way, are unpaid and live and work at TNT solely because they wish to help people. That's truly inspiring.
Nevertheless, my tour of TNT reawakened the unsettling emotions which I have managed to escape from in the past two months in Mizoram. My time at AICS and my trip to Lunglei all showed me the best that Mizoram has to offer. Yet Mizoram, just like anywhere else in the world, has its broken places as well. Seeing these places brought back the pain which my heart has grown accustomed too and social consciousness I've been trying to burn into my being. But perhaps it's best I explain what I'm talking about...
The Hindu tradition has a word called samsara which is central to its perspective. Samsara is Sanskirt meaning "flow" or "runaround." As Dr. Charles Ryerson writes,
To be more clear, the more I travel around the world and the more I study, the greater my dissatisfaction with the world. To compound my state, I seem to experience the reality of my own limitations and subsequent frustrations. To know that right now people are dying from diseases cured fifty years ago, mothers choosing drugs over caring for their newborns, people killing each other, oppressing one another...well, such consciousness is a bit over-whelming. Perhaps for this reason when my mom asked about certain experiences I had in Africa I told her, "you don't want to know. It's best you not know some of the things I saw." The same is true for Princeton, Houston, Beijing, Aizawl, and everywhere else I've traveled.
I am reminded today of both why I am joining the ministry and why I am not the same person I was a year ago. My grandparents told me it's good to be aware but that I must also learn to accept that I can only do so much. I think that last part of advice is something I'm still struggling with. When I envision my future, I some times see myself back in Houston working amongst the poor and helping the city that birthed me. Yet, at other times (esp days like today) I can't help but think that I need to travel abroad to places where the standard of living is so far below what is considered poor in America. I guess ever since I was a child I wanted to change the world. But perhaps the world is not enough, I wish I could change the fundamental essense of the universe. I wish I could make poverty an outdated concept or idea that people study in history class but lack the historical proximity to truly understand the meaning of poverty.
But this is a fantasy. Even Jesus tells me, "the poor will always be among you." I must admit I'm now catching myself, realizing I'm bearing my soul to some readers who have never met me. My apologies. Suffice it to say, at this point in my life I am grappling with the reality of injustice while at the same time attempting to discern what role I will play in combating the issue. All the while ever reminded that no matter what I do, the powerful play will go on.
I will now attempt to close this long blog post. Indeed, if you've made it this far I applaud your diligence. What I want to leave you with is this: tonight, tomorrow, this week, this month I want you to look past the veil that is over our eyes. Go visit your local soup kitchen one Saturday morning or participate in your local faith traditions' social work program. See what life is like, have that experience placed into your consciousness. Then go live a life of generosity, kindness, love, and peace. You don't have to sell everything you own or quit your job to work at a prison ministry (or maybe for you that's true), but you do need to live a life marked by serving others. Because as a wise man once told me, "the world is in no greater need of people who say 'love your neighbor as yourself.' But the world is in desperate need of people who actually love like that."
pax et bonum
TNT has a staff of 68 workers who serve the 1,000 recipients comprised of orphans, recovering drug addicts, special needs, and impoverished. The enormous number of people in which the organization serves makes the site incredible. TNT exists as a campus sitting in the hills outside Aizawl. I didn't take any pictures of the place because I didn't want to seem like a tourist so this account will serve as the memory I have.
My tour began with a glimpse into the kitchen where the cooks were getting their first break of the day. Cooking for the first meal of the day begins at 1 am as huge black pots rougly 4 ft in diameter and 3 ft high are used to make breakfast. My guide said that cooking will continue non-stop for the rest of the day as finishing one meal simply begins the task of preparing for the next meal. Which makes sense when you consider that 1,000+ people must be fed twice a day (Mizos traditionally do not take lunch).
Next, we moved to the rehab center TNT runs. The center is divided into two sections based upon the progress of the participants. When a new person arrives, they are moved into a dorm until there are 10 people and then the treatment process begins. The dorms are much like barracks: large buildings with two rows of bunks running the length of the room. Beds are basic: wooden frame, bamboo thatch work for a mattress, blanket, and pillow. Each day operates under a tight schedule posted outside the hostel encompassing breakfast, cleaning the area, lecture, counseling, sermon, cleaning, counselling, dinner, prayers, sleep. I assume the schedule helps keep the minds of those in rehab off the thoughts of addiction.
From the rehab center we walked down to the orphanage. The orphanage houses aproximately 400 children ranging from elementary to high school. TNT employs teachers (who work for very little money) to educate the children in hopes that upon leaving they can get a job to support themselves. Many children are either former street children or literal orphans placed here by extended family. When I was there, class had ended so the children were running around playing with balls made of plastic bags tied with plastic netting to make a softball sized ball.
The dorms for children were quite saddening to see. The dorms were again in barrack like fashion but slightly altered. For example, the boys dorm was a large building divided into three or four sections probably 20 x 30 ft. The sides of the sections had two large concrete slabs, one above the other like bunk beds. The slabs, as I found out, were the beds for the children. The boys get a thin blank to place on their section of the concrete slab and then a worn, thin comforter with pillow. Since the children were awake I didn't see anyone sleeping but I could only imagine 300 boys sleeping next to each other on these concrete slabs called beds. The girls' dorm had the same set up but seemed a bit cleaner.
After exploring the orphanage section (the different functions of the campus are quite literal sections with clear distinctions), we visited the special needs area. This area particularly struck a cord with me. Perhaps subconscious flashbacks to my time in Mexico in high school began to play. Regardless, we entered through the gate where a large amount of construction was being done to create a new building for the patients. Here is where the understaffing of TNT really began to be displayed (in case you missed it, 68 workers for 1,000 people are not good numbers). The special needs children and adults are basically left to sit around or wander in gated areas with one or two supervisors watching. Their sleeping conditions are the same as the children. I almost lost it as I walked past a man lying on the concrete slab wrapped in his blanket like a cacoon. I'm no expert on caring for those with special needs, but I feel I can confidently say that these people could use many more caretakers.
We concluded our tour by checking out the dorm for the ranchhands and farms that work at TNT. As I discovered, TNT raised their own chickens, turkeys,and cattle to feed the residents. In addition, they grow many of their own crops to consume. As a result, TNT seeks to be as self-sustaining as possible in regards to food consumption. A great idea although the wooden floor was so old and filled with holes I was worried the floor would give out from under me.
Thus was the end of my tour of TNT. By the time came to leave, my head and heart were swirling with a number of complex emotions. On the one hand, I was saddened to see the living conditions of the children, recovering drug addicts, and special needs people living at TNT. Yet on the other hand, I couldn't deny that although I would consider the conditions far beyond sub-standard or acceptable, this was the best that could be provided. I mean, where else would these people go? TNT is providing as best they can so I have to be thankful and appreciative of that. And although I know I cannot demand standards which simply don't exist here, I couldn't help but wish TNT was able to provide more. But I imagine these sentiments would be shared by the TNT staff as well. Most of the staff, by the way, are unpaid and live and work at TNT solely because they wish to help people. That's truly inspiring.
Nevertheless, my tour of TNT reawakened the unsettling emotions which I have managed to escape from in the past two months in Mizoram. My time at AICS and my trip to Lunglei all showed me the best that Mizoram has to offer. Yet Mizoram, just like anywhere else in the world, has its broken places as well. Seeing these places brought back the pain which my heart has grown accustomed too and social consciousness I've been trying to burn into my being. But perhaps it's best I explain what I'm talking about...
The Hindu tradition has a word called samsara which is central to its perspective. Samsara is Sanskirt meaning "flow" or "runaround." As Dr. Charles Ryerson writes,
The dominant metaphor for this word is water, either the ocean or a river. Samsara is what one must be liberated or saved from. In this view, as a person becomes more conscious, and consciousness is a key term, one feels more the frustrations and limitations of life. The deeper one thinks and feels, the more one finds that one is in pain because one longs for what the phenomenal world cannot give. This becomes genuine suffering on the deepest level.Although I am not a Hindu, I think that this description properly describes a feeling that has developed in me over the past year. Indeed, before leaving for India I had a long conversation with my grandfather. He told me, "Austin, I feel as though you are not the same happy go lucky person that you were last summer. You have changed, become more serious." His remarks were not alone as a friend told me the same before I left Princeton. I went on to explain to my grandfather my experiences around the world which have been incredibly difficult for me to experience and process. Indeed, my growing awareness and meditation on the conditions of people around the world have lead to a growing cynicism and seriousness in my approach.
To be more clear, the more I travel around the world and the more I study, the greater my dissatisfaction with the world. To compound my state, I seem to experience the reality of my own limitations and subsequent frustrations. To know that right now people are dying from diseases cured fifty years ago, mothers choosing drugs over caring for their newborns, people killing each other, oppressing one another...well, such consciousness is a bit over-whelming. Perhaps for this reason when my mom asked about certain experiences I had in Africa I told her, "you don't want to know. It's best you not know some of the things I saw." The same is true for Princeton, Houston, Beijing, Aizawl, and everywhere else I've traveled.
I am reminded today of both why I am joining the ministry and why I am not the same person I was a year ago. My grandparents told me it's good to be aware but that I must also learn to accept that I can only do so much. I think that last part of advice is something I'm still struggling with. When I envision my future, I some times see myself back in Houston working amongst the poor and helping the city that birthed me. Yet, at other times (esp days like today) I can't help but think that I need to travel abroad to places where the standard of living is so far below what is considered poor in America. I guess ever since I was a child I wanted to change the world. But perhaps the world is not enough, I wish I could change the fundamental essense of the universe. I wish I could make poverty an outdated concept or idea that people study in history class but lack the historical proximity to truly understand the meaning of poverty.
But this is a fantasy. Even Jesus tells me, "the poor will always be among you." I must admit I'm now catching myself, realizing I'm bearing my soul to some readers who have never met me. My apologies. Suffice it to say, at this point in my life I am grappling with the reality of injustice while at the same time attempting to discern what role I will play in combating the issue. All the while ever reminded that no matter what I do, the powerful play will go on.
I will now attempt to close this long blog post. Indeed, if you've made it this far I applaud your diligence. What I want to leave you with is this: tonight, tomorrow, this week, this month I want you to look past the veil that is over our eyes. Go visit your local soup kitchen one Saturday morning or participate in your local faith traditions' social work program. See what life is like, have that experience placed into your consciousness. Then go live a life of generosity, kindness, love, and peace. You don't have to sell everything you own or quit your job to work at a prison ministry (or maybe for you that's true), but you do need to live a life marked by serving others. Because as a wise man once told me, "the world is in no greater need of people who say 'love your neighbor as yourself.' But the world is in desperate need of people who actually love like that."
pax et bonum
Monday, July 19, 2010
Dinners & Perspectives
Unlike previous weeks here in Mizoram, this past week seemed to move by very slowly. Of course, considering that the summer is suppose to be my break from the stresses of academic life I can't really complain. The ease of the week was due in part to my supervisor, Rev. Zolawma, being gone and Principal Hnuni leaving as well. As a result, I spent most of my week meeting with people and preparing for my classes.
Although I was sad to see Principal leave, her absense has opened new doors for me. While she was at AICS, Principal always had me join her and her family for meals. Now that she is gone, other faculty members and even students are inviting me to eat with them. So that's been a fun experience. Everyone here is so impressed that I'm able to eat Mizo food without problems and that I take my meals by using my hands like everyone else.
One night, Professor Ronmingliani had myself and another student over for dinner. She studied for about 5 yrs in the UK so she made a "Western" meal for us one night. We had chicken, mashed potatoes, corn with green beans, and peas. For a moment I thought I was back in the South haha. Afterwards, the three of us had a long discussion on the role of women in the church. I never realized how much of a feminist I am until I arrived here and have been an advocate for women in the ministry. I also didn't realize how much random information is stuck up in my head. I feel like the computer who wore tennis shoes. Students will ask me about the history of the decline of the church in Europe, my theology of Scripture or missiology, the changing view of marriage in the US, etc. I'll begin to answer talking about cultural trends, theological shifts, key leaders, etc. then stop and think to myself, "how did I know that?" Guess I actually did pay attention in class all those years at Baylor. Naw, I probably just saw that stuff on TV haha.
I've also eaten with the students in the dorm (or "hostel" as it's called here) a couple times. That's been an interesting experience and opened my eyes up a lot. The first funny thing is how quiet the students are when they eat. Mizos, as I've noticed, are much more comfortable sitting in silence with one another than Americans are. The cafeteria is no different as students eat silently then rush off to the next event. The daily schedule here is so packed that student eat very quickly (15-20 mins) then head off to class or worship service.
In the States, I think students really take for granted all the services that are provided for them. At PTS, I've really made it a point to get to know the cafeteria staff, cleaning people, etc. because I am thankful for all their work. But being here takes my gratitude to another level. Students at AICS are responsible for serving the food, preparing and cleaning the dining hall, and washing dishes. That's on top of the gardening (which entails literally cutting the grass with knives because there are no lawn mowers here), picking up trash, helping with building projects, and more. I would imagine that US students would not attend a seminary where the students did all the maintenance work (admittedly I might not be soo keen on the idea) but here everyone does the work because that's what you have to do in order to get an education.
So the next time you're walking around the office, at your house, the mall, or wherever, stop and take the 30 secs required to say hello and thank you to the people who make your life work. The security guard, the cleaning people, the gardeners, etc. Just like you, they're doing a tough job and probably so you don't have to. So say thanks at least. But even better if you get to know them. When you treat everyone with dignity and respect, the world will look a whole lot different.
Anyways, aside from my sermonette, this week Rev. Zolawma has returned so life might return to a quick pace. I have a lot of trips to make in the next 3 weeks before I leave. I hope to visit some rural villages and also visit the social work programs around Aizawl. Also, I need to finish editting my paper for the faculty-student seminar. Then in a month, I'll be standing in front of the Taj...my life is ridiculous. Well, I guess that's all the updates I have for you. Have a good week.
pax et bonum
Although I was sad to see Principal leave, her absense has opened new doors for me. While she was at AICS, Principal always had me join her and her family for meals. Now that she is gone, other faculty members and even students are inviting me to eat with them. So that's been a fun experience. Everyone here is so impressed that I'm able to eat Mizo food without problems and that I take my meals by using my hands like everyone else.
One night, Professor Ronmingliani had myself and another student over for dinner. She studied for about 5 yrs in the UK so she made a "Western" meal for us one night. We had chicken, mashed potatoes, corn with green beans, and peas. For a moment I thought I was back in the South haha. Afterwards, the three of us had a long discussion on the role of women in the church. I never realized how much of a feminist I am until I arrived here and have been an advocate for women in the ministry. I also didn't realize how much random information is stuck up in my head. I feel like the computer who wore tennis shoes. Students will ask me about the history of the decline of the church in Europe, my theology of Scripture or missiology, the changing view of marriage in the US, etc. I'll begin to answer talking about cultural trends, theological shifts, key leaders, etc. then stop and think to myself, "how did I know that?" Guess I actually did pay attention in class all those years at Baylor. Naw, I probably just saw that stuff on TV haha.
I've also eaten with the students in the dorm (or "hostel" as it's called here) a couple times. That's been an interesting experience and opened my eyes up a lot. The first funny thing is how quiet the students are when they eat. Mizos, as I've noticed, are much more comfortable sitting in silence with one another than Americans are. The cafeteria is no different as students eat silently then rush off to the next event. The daily schedule here is so packed that student eat very quickly (15-20 mins) then head off to class or worship service.
In the States, I think students really take for granted all the services that are provided for them. At PTS, I've really made it a point to get to know the cafeteria staff, cleaning people, etc. because I am thankful for all their work. But being here takes my gratitude to another level. Students at AICS are responsible for serving the food, preparing and cleaning the dining hall, and washing dishes. That's on top of the gardening (which entails literally cutting the grass with knives because there are no lawn mowers here), picking up trash, helping with building projects, and more. I would imagine that US students would not attend a seminary where the students did all the maintenance work (admittedly I might not be soo keen on the idea) but here everyone does the work because that's what you have to do in order to get an education.
So the next time you're walking around the office, at your house, the mall, or wherever, stop and take the 30 secs required to say hello and thank you to the people who make your life work. The security guard, the cleaning people, the gardeners, etc. Just like you, they're doing a tough job and probably so you don't have to. So say thanks at least. But even better if you get to know them. When you treat everyone with dignity and respect, the world will look a whole lot different.
Anyways, aside from my sermonette, this week Rev. Zolawma has returned so life might return to a quick pace. I have a lot of trips to make in the next 3 weeks before I leave. I hope to visit some rural villages and also visit the social work programs around Aizawl. Also, I need to finish editting my paper for the faculty-student seminar. Then in a month, I'll be standing in front of the Taj...my life is ridiculous. Well, I guess that's all the updates I have for you. Have a good week.
pax et bonum
Monday, July 12, 2010
Fresh I Stay
So another week has come to a close here in Mizoram. As I think about what to write, I feel as though all I have to say is "same old, same old." But perhaps that thought is the new topic to write about for the week. It seems that after about a month and a half, I have slowly become adjusted to my life here in Mizoram. Driving through the streets of Aizawl, eating in local resturaunts, no A/C, showering with a bucket, etc have all become part of my normal life. It's crazy to think that many things I felt were standard parts of my lifestyle have become non-essentials now.
I've grown accustomed to concrete walls, Indian television stations, daily monsoon rains, and broken english. But I've truly enjoyed my time here thus far and it is still shocking to think that in 4 weeks I will leave here for mainland India. My time here has been filled with lots of self-reflection which has provided me with a better understanding of myself and my interactions with the world. After my first year of seminary I had a lot to process, I think I finally got a chance to do that which has been a blessing.
In the past month I've read the prophets Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Amos, and Obadiah. I've been challenged by their social vision, words on forgiveness, and boldness in truth. I think their words have shaped my outlook as well and I have to be thankful for that.
This week my life in Mizoram takes a shift as Principal, her son John (whose become a good friend of mine), and her daughter Judith (who has been a new friend as well) all leave to travel to Canada for Judith's wedding. Since I have shared almost every meal with this family, it will be quite different to not have them around. In addition, Judith lives in Canada so today will be the last time I see her. Principal and John return the first week of August which happens to be the last week I am in Mizoram. I am sad that our time together is coming to a close but I am very thankful for all the time we have had together. Principal took me into her home like family and I am grateful for that.
The rest of my week finds me going about the usual itinerary. I have four English classes to teach, a pre-emptive sermon to prepare, and a backpacking trip to plan. English class is still going well, I've now started to switch the focus from grammar to speech so hopefully the students continue to grow from that. Also, in about 2.5 weeks I'm suppose to present a 10-11 page research paper at the AICS Faculty-Student Day. Since copies of my paper will be given to all students and faculty in addition to it undoubtedly being used as a model for everyone, I've decided to edit a research paper I wrote previously so that my work will be good quality.
So as you can see, a "normal week" actually encompasses a lot. Yesterday I counted that in the month I've been here I've spoken 13 times(7 sermons, 6 messages). Rev Zolawma told me that I've spoken more times in one month than he has in a year haha. Come to think of it, I probably need to prepare for my classes tomorrow. I hope all is well back in the states. And if you're a Spanish futbol fan or a Miami Heat fan, I'm sure you're week is going very well.
pax et bonum
I've grown accustomed to concrete walls, Indian television stations, daily monsoon rains, and broken english. But I've truly enjoyed my time here thus far and it is still shocking to think that in 4 weeks I will leave here for mainland India. My time here has been filled with lots of self-reflection which has provided me with a better understanding of myself and my interactions with the world. After my first year of seminary I had a lot to process, I think I finally got a chance to do that which has been a blessing.
In the past month I've read the prophets Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Amos, and Obadiah. I've been challenged by their social vision, words on forgiveness, and boldness in truth. I think their words have shaped my outlook as well and I have to be thankful for that.
This week my life in Mizoram takes a shift as Principal, her son John (whose become a good friend of mine), and her daughter Judith (who has been a new friend as well) all leave to travel to Canada for Judith's wedding. Since I have shared almost every meal with this family, it will be quite different to not have them around. In addition, Judith lives in Canada so today will be the last time I see her. Principal and John return the first week of August which happens to be the last week I am in Mizoram. I am sad that our time together is coming to a close but I am very thankful for all the time we have had together. Principal took me into her home like family and I am grateful for that.
The rest of my week finds me going about the usual itinerary. I have four English classes to teach, a pre-emptive sermon to prepare, and a backpacking trip to plan. English class is still going well, I've now started to switch the focus from grammar to speech so hopefully the students continue to grow from that. Also, in about 2.5 weeks I'm suppose to present a 10-11 page research paper at the AICS Faculty-Student Day. Since copies of my paper will be given to all students and faculty in addition to it undoubtedly being used as a model for everyone, I've decided to edit a research paper I wrote previously so that my work will be good quality.
So as you can see, a "normal week" actually encompasses a lot. Yesterday I counted that in the month I've been here I've spoken 13 times(7 sermons, 6 messages). Rev Zolawma told me that I've spoken more times in one month than he has in a year haha. Come to think of it, I probably need to prepare for my classes tomorrow. I hope all is well back in the states. And if you're a Spanish futbol fan or a Miami Heat fan, I'm sure you're week is going very well.
pax et bonum
Monday, July 5, 2010
Life Moves Pretty Fast Sometimes
Well, it certainly has been a busy time since my last post. Let's see if I can bring you up to speed without writing a book:
This past week we had a seminary volleyball tournament. Each class year formed a team and played each other over the course of the week. The probationary pastors (graduated students returning for a semester of classes after doing a year of ministry before ordination) needed some players so I got drafted to help play in a couple games. All the students enjoyed watching me play as I have very little actual volleyball skills. Granted, I can jump to block and from time to time can set someone up but I have no understanding of the rules or strategy of volleyball. At any rate, I enjoyed playing and I got some good time just hanging out with students which was good. The students are finally comfortable enough to sit and have conversations with me so I am really enjoying their insights and thoughts.
Classes are going well and I am gaining a new respect for teachers. Jamie, Sara, & Co. wow, you have a much tougher job than I expected. I mean, I've always had respect for teachers but you don't realize how much time it takes to plan, teach, and do the grading for a class until you actually do it. But I don't mind as I really enjoy my classes and teaching. Learning English for these students is a tool to greater empowerment so I'm happy that I can offer something to help them achieve their dreams (as sappy as that sounds). It's crazy to think that I only have five more weeks of teaching classes though. Time is flying by.
The past four days here have been a marathon of speaking engagements. On Friday, I was asked to speak at Divine Intervention School. DIS is a non-denominational school teaching over 200 students from levels ranging from 1st grade to 12th grade. Before arriving I had intended to share the same message I did with the high schoolers in Lunglei. However, when I stepped into the room I realized that the students were mainly elementary school. So I quickly had to make up a 20 min speech off the top of my head that would be engaging to children. I managed to pull that off and to teach some kung fu as well which the kids loved.
Sunday I spoke twice: once at Gilead Church to about 30 people and then another time at DIS again. At Gilead I preached about forgiveness in the church, based upon Matthew 18:21-35. Rev. Zolawma said my sermons have been getting better and that I did a great job of contextualizing my sermon. I think my sermons have improved because I finally feel like I have a sense of the people here in Mizoram so I'm more comfortable in letting myself speak more directly to them rather than a very neutral message. At DIS, I spoke on Rom 12:2;9-21 and about not allowing the images of success we see in the media (sex, drugs, money) make us chase after lifestyles that are damaging to us. If I get enough requests to see the sermons I can post them for you but since they'd be so long for this post I just decided not to since I wasn't sure how many people would be interested. Again at DIS I had to change my sermon on stage since I had planned for young kids again but the weekend crowd was mainly JHigh and HS. If you speak in international contexts, always be quick on your feet because you might have to change your sermon as you preach.
Tonight I'm scheduled to preach again, this time to the High School students at Rompelnaut. Last time I put them to sleep talking about the ressurection of the dead so hopefully this time my message will keep them awake. Lately I've been doing well keeping the young people engaged so let's hope I can redeem myself here. Other than that, I have a full week of teaching classes, preaching on Sunday, and will probably start some para-church ministry visits in the next week or so. Looking at the calendar, July feels like it's just going to fly by. I'm both sad and excited about that. I'm sad because I really love being here and have really enjoyed my summer at AICS. On the other hand, ending here means I will begin my 3 week tour of mainland India which is incredibly exciting. But I'm trying not to think about all that too much. As a wise man once said, "Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop every once and while to take a look around, you might miss it."
Spend some time living in the present this week friends. Go to a park, go dancing, have an adventure. Until next time...
pax et bonum
This past week we had a seminary volleyball tournament. Each class year formed a team and played each other over the course of the week. The probationary pastors (graduated students returning for a semester of classes after doing a year of ministry before ordination) needed some players so I got drafted to help play in a couple games. All the students enjoyed watching me play as I have very little actual volleyball skills. Granted, I can jump to block and from time to time can set someone up but I have no understanding of the rules or strategy of volleyball. At any rate, I enjoyed playing and I got some good time just hanging out with students which was good. The students are finally comfortable enough to sit and have conversations with me so I am really enjoying their insights and thoughts.
Classes are going well and I am gaining a new respect for teachers. Jamie, Sara, & Co. wow, you have a much tougher job than I expected. I mean, I've always had respect for teachers but you don't realize how much time it takes to plan, teach, and do the grading for a class until you actually do it. But I don't mind as I really enjoy my classes and teaching. Learning English for these students is a tool to greater empowerment so I'm happy that I can offer something to help them achieve their dreams (as sappy as that sounds). It's crazy to think that I only have five more weeks of teaching classes though. Time is flying by.
The past four days here have been a marathon of speaking engagements. On Friday, I was asked to speak at Divine Intervention School. DIS is a non-denominational school teaching over 200 students from levels ranging from 1st grade to 12th grade. Before arriving I had intended to share the same message I did with the high schoolers in Lunglei. However, when I stepped into the room I realized that the students were mainly elementary school. So I quickly had to make up a 20 min speech off the top of my head that would be engaging to children. I managed to pull that off and to teach some kung fu as well which the kids loved.
Sunday I spoke twice: once at Gilead Church to about 30 people and then another time at DIS again. At Gilead I preached about forgiveness in the church, based upon Matthew 18:21-35. Rev. Zolawma said my sermons have been getting better and that I did a great job of contextualizing my sermon. I think my sermons have improved because I finally feel like I have a sense of the people here in Mizoram so I'm more comfortable in letting myself speak more directly to them rather than a very neutral message. At DIS, I spoke on Rom 12:2;9-21 and about not allowing the images of success we see in the media (sex, drugs, money) make us chase after lifestyles that are damaging to us. If I get enough requests to see the sermons I can post them for you but since they'd be so long for this post I just decided not to since I wasn't sure how many people would be interested. Again at DIS I had to change my sermon on stage since I had planned for young kids again but the weekend crowd was mainly JHigh and HS. If you speak in international contexts, always be quick on your feet because you might have to change your sermon as you preach.
Tonight I'm scheduled to preach again, this time to the High School students at Rompelnaut. Last time I put them to sleep talking about the ressurection of the dead so hopefully this time my message will keep them awake. Lately I've been doing well keeping the young people engaged so let's hope I can redeem myself here. Other than that, I have a full week of teaching classes, preaching on Sunday, and will probably start some para-church ministry visits in the next week or so. Looking at the calendar, July feels like it's just going to fly by. I'm both sad and excited about that. I'm sad because I really love being here and have really enjoyed my summer at AICS. On the other hand, ending here means I will begin my 3 week tour of mainland India which is incredibly exciting. But I'm trying not to think about all that too much. As a wise man once said, "Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop every once and while to take a look around, you might miss it."
Spend some time living in the present this week friends. Go to a park, go dancing, have an adventure. Until next time...
pax et bonum
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