Reflection

Today I took a walk and some time to reflect. I walked along the ocean and talked to the Father about what His will is for my life and about future decisions I need to make. One very important decision that I need to make is whether or not I will return to Qingdao for the next school year. A friend called me last week and I shared with him how when He calls us he doesn't make a guarentee that this is going to be easy. The fishermen gave up everything in order to follow Him. This story has taken on a whole new meaning for me. Before, I wasn't able to actually relate to the disciples. After living in China for a year, I realize and can relate to how difficult it is to leave everything you know- your family, hometown, friends, job, etc... It also means "missing out" on things that are happening back home- birthdays, holidays, weddings, get-togethers, etc. This has definitely not been easy for me. There are many advantages to following His call- I have had opportunities that I would never had, had I not made the decision to come here. I have been placed in a beautiful city with the opportunity to teach 13 beautiful children from other countries about Him and work in an environment where people lift you up and keep you accountable. Where we start every morning with singing and sharing.

After my walk, I put in a cd from College Wesleyan- The message was on Sacrifice- how fitting. It talked about how everytime He changes a heart, he provides more than enough. It was about how the Israelites were stuck in the brickyards making bricks for the Pharoah and when they left Egypt how they built a house for Him, not bricks. He spoke on how do you want your life to count? Do I want to measure it by the applause I am given, fleeting pleasures, or by investing in what He wants to do in people's lives long after I am gone. I have the opportunity here to invest in the lives of children that have the potential share what they learn with people in different countries, that I may never see. It is an awesome responsibility!

Sky of Blue and Sea of Green....
Yesterday, Christy and I made what may be our last trip to Shi Lao Ren beach. The weather here has been fabulous! It starts out around 65 and ends up being around 85! Much different then the autumn in Maine. October holiday is coming up soon. This year, we will again go back to Lao Shan for an all staff retreat, but, unlike last year, we will return only to leave the next morning for a conferene in Beijing. (Last year, we went to Thailand over Thanksgiving) It will be a busy "vacation" but it will also be a time to see friends that I came over with that are living in another city. I am looking forward to catching up with them and hearing what is happening in their city.

The BER Months
Christy and I have been enjoying our collection of Christmas Cd's... yes, I know it is only September... but I have begun a new tradition since moving to Qingdao. In the Philippians, where my roommate grew up, they begin listening to Christmas music in the BER months- September, October, November, December! I think this is a great idea! I love Christmas music and have adapted Christy's tradition as my own.