theneener

East Asia 2008: Part II.

By neener | April 28, 2008

>> In case you need to start from the beginning < <
Part I: April 14-16

April 16 (cont): We arrived at our destination city and went straight to our hotel. My roommate and team leader, Molly, went with Carrie to shop for some clothes since her luggage was still missing. I decided to take the time to get acquainted with my room. I watched a strange version of Family Feud (in a different language), sat on the bed (and it was rock hard, no lie) and figured out how to turn on the A/C using this remote:
Foreign A/C remote

I also wrote this encouragement verse from Kristen Horton, a member of YOOJ! that helped fund my trip. “Look among the nations, and see; wonder and be astounded. For I am doing a work in your days that you would not believe if told.” I had read this verse while passing the endless mountains during our plane ride and was excited to be even more excited.
Habakkuk 1:5

We met with our guides that evening. We were so tired, we barely said a word. For dinner we had “green beans, corn w/pine nuts, beef plates, broccoli, little things tasted like donuts.” It seemed like we hadn’t gotten to really “work” yet, but I think the whole traveling process is work in itself. It was almost like a purifying fast, removing all comforts, and getting to see where everyone’s hearts were. We were definitely emptied out!

April 17: I used a verse that my close friend, Jenna, gave me to me. Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you. Through the “cleansing, traveling process,” the junk in my heart surfaced so I wanted to be sure that I dwelled in excellence and purity.
Philippians 4:8-9

We ate breakfast at a place recommended to us but which had no English menus. Our first major encounter with the language barrier. I’m sure they had awesome breakfast, but we ended up just pointing to whatever pastries they had available. The boys and I went to McDonald’s down the block for even more breakfast. We ended up eating there every morning for the duration of our stay!

The day was somewhat relaxed, the guides had pity on us and decided to just let us see some sights and to also share their hearts and visions with us. We went to a ethnic-themed park, took pictures, and ate lunch in one of these things:
A yurt!

It was as small as it looks, but it held nine of us quite well. We had amazingly seasoned lamb and other assorted goods. We had an old traditional song performed for us as well. The best part was to hear the hearts and goals of our guides. “Such a bold faith” and “unashamed,” I journaled. “Big dreams, big hopes.”

Though it was windy, we spent a majority of our day “talking to Dad” and walking. We did this at the park, a city hall, a square, and towards a medical school and factory. It’s one thing to pray for the nations, but it’s another thing to actually see what you’re praying for - to give it a picture, a smell, a feel.

We ate a Hot Pot dinner and for those of you who are unfamiliar with this meal, it is one you cook yourself at the table. There is a giant boiling pot of water/broth in the middle and you dump your assorted meats and vegetables, then fish ‘em out when you think they are done. A little risky, but totally worth it. We met some locals who are “part of the family” and were able to hear their awesome stories and encourage them. They were so humble and shy about sharing, but I’m glad they did because their stories encouraged me.

People at the park singing to us during lunch:
songs in the yurt

Oh, and did I mention Jeremy talked me into riding a camel?
me and a camel

Hot pot in action (Jeremy on the left, Molly on the right):
Hot Pot

Asia

6 Comments

By Kelly Lawson, April 28, 2008 @ 9:52 am

LOVE the camel shot! Fabulous!
By Shannon McCuaig, April 28, 2008 @ 7:57 pm

Another wonderful post! I love your tender heart!
By Magen Roberson, April 28, 2008 @ 8:01 pm

Love reading about your adventures! We missed you in Lubbock this past weekend. Thanks for your sweet words about Anna Grace. I am so excited about her! She will more than likely be an August baby like me and you!
By neener, April 29, 2008 @ 12:54 am

Kelly, I have no idea how people travel by camels. It is much like riding a mechanical bull on a low level. A stinky mechanical bull with attitude.