Rock climbing has been a great way to clear my mind and invest my body in something completely different and absolutely physical. It keeps my heart healthy and my biceps lookin' good... It also has been a great social outlet. I've met some fellows from Britain and one, Cameron, has taken it upon himself to really immerse me in Colombian culture, beginning with a game of futbol (aka soccer).
Colombia vs. Paraguay. The stands are solid yellow with splashes of red and blue (Colombia's colors) the fans go wild, they jump up and down, (how they get and sustained this enegry I do not know) they shake their hands in sync with their vulgar chants, it was pure madness and absolutely amazing. Even though Colombia is terrible at futbol, the stands were packed and the fans were devoted. On the big TV billboard, they do not do instant replays or show the game, they advertise beer, beautiful beer models and other futbol games. They had about 100 policemen, dressed in black, with plastic shields strategically placed around the field for crowd control.
Being the first 'missionary' with the Episcopal Church in Colombia is working out to be a lot of 'just being.' Observing and absorbing the different missions around the area. They want me to see everything they have worked so hard to achieve with the Diocese, they are so proud. Many of the planned visits do not end up working out due to communication, or weather. Patience is difficult and I am working on trying to find my own balance within this experience. It takes a lot of strength, faith and confidence. I feel as if I am growing more personally than I am giving, and am hoping this will balance out over the year.
I still do random translating for the Bishop, and try bulk up my Spanish vocabulary. On Thursday(10/16) I am traveling to Medellin, 'City of Eternal Spring and food that sits in your stomach like a brick.' Apparently the food is pretty heavy and they have strongly advised me to take Alka-Seltzer. On the bright side the climate is just lovely with an average of 70 and sunshine. I will be staying with a Padre and his family in Medellin, visiting different churches, missions and tourist sights. I am so excited.
3 comments:
Hey Audra,
Just thought I might pitch a book idea: "becoming human" by Jean Vanier. Or "Letters to Marc about Jesus" by Henri Nouwen. The first one especially talks about "just being." The second is just good.
I don't know what kind of access you have to books there, but just a thought. . .
Seth
As we grow up we change and that is what is happening for you. I am glad that you have the chance to sit back and observe as we learn so much from doing that. You will find as you grow in patience you view on the world changes with it. Jesus Christ is the best example of patience and he was always kind and giving he taught many with he example. Our prayers are with you and have a great mission. Love YA!!! Aunt Sue
What a wonderful opportunity you've been given to preach the gospel with more than and less than words. Enjoy the moments and thank you for taking me along:) Not ever having dreamed of something so "scandalous"/outrageous when I was a young woman I am living vicariously through your posts.
I use the word "scandalous" because I've just returned from the Diocesan Convention in Spokane with a theme of "Living a scandalous Gospel" you are an example of doing just that - taking yourself out of your comfort zone to "be" where God calls you to be now:)
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