Roads go ever ever on,
Over rock and under tree,
By caves where never sun has shone,
By streams that never find the sea;
Over snow by winter sown,
And through the merry flowers of June,
Over grass and over stone,
And under mountains in the moon.
Roads go ever ever on
Under cloud and under star,
Yet feet that wandering have gone
Turn at last to home afar.
Eyes that fire and sword have seen
And horror in the halls of stone
Look at last on meadows green
And trees and hills they long have known.
I think that when I finally say goodbye to this town I will be leaving behind 28 fragments of my heart-one for each member of the CCSP community and a really giant one for the town itself. To say that these past few months have shattered me would not be an understatement. The best part of being torn apart is when people who love you glue you back together. The reading aloud, the kitchen dance parties, the stargazing, the imagining, the rugby playing, the sunrise runs-these are the moments that chipped away at my heart. The surprise ice creams, the handholding, the sneaky cereal eating, the silly game playing-these are moments that held my broken pieces together. Being broken isn’t always a bad thing. You can’t give pieces of yourself away if they are still attached. My goal in life isn’t to reach my deathbed fully intact. I want the end of each chapter of my life to leave me more tattered-my life a little more spent.
What I didn’t tell anyone is that before I left I decided to dedicate this semester to God. I wanted a new start, and most of all I wanted to find out what loving God is really all about. Each night I rededicate the following day. My theme of the semester has been discovering God and myself through giving everything back to Him. Have I stumbled? Of course. Have I failed? Every day. To be honest, I’m not sure what the result of my decision has been, but I do know that every moment of my life from this second forward is absolutely, breathtakingly exciting and full of possibility.
And so I begin to look forward to the reuniting. I’m excited for the running to loved ones, to the arms that could never be big enough. I look forward the words that won’t come out fast enough and to the ears that aren’t big enough to hear all those words anyway. I can’t wait to see the eyes that take in all my changes, but at the same time love the details that have remained. I look forward to the end of missing. But it’s not really the end of missing, it’s only the beginning. The hardest part of loving is the leaving. You never notice the leaving until love is in the mix.
Things that I have learned:
The most important things I have learned are lessons taught to me by my adopted family for the past 4 months
1. Jada-you taught me how to look at the world with fresh eyes. Thank you for sharing your joy and excitement. Thanks for showing me the beauty and wonder in the every day things.
2. Kendra-you taught me what it means to be a committed disciple of Christ. Your passion for God and His people is astounding. Thank you for picking me up when I was down, for showing me what it means to love someone like a sister.
3. Rebecca-you taught me what it means to be brave. You blaze trails in the dark, knowing that searching for light is better than walking in brightness with your eyes closed. Thanks for sharing your questions, your doubts, and your new discoveries.
4. Jessica-you taught me how to listen. I can see the openness of your heart through your eyes every time we talk. Thank you for the hugs and the smiles and the attentiveness that make me feel totally and completely worthwhile and whole.
5. Katie- you taught me how to laugh. I can see how happy you are and how much you love life. Thank you for your humor and up-beat attitude, it brightened so many of my days.
6. Chloe-you taught me how to show grace. The way you carefully look at every single situation through the lens of “is this gratifying to God” is amazing and beautiful. Thank you for opening up a whole new world of disputable matters.
7. Sam-you taught me how to be gentle. Your kind words and calm demeanor light up whatever room you are in. People can’t help but smile around you. Thank you for taking care of all of us when things got crazy.
8. Emma-you taught me how to let lose and be myself. You are always 100% yourself, all the time. Who you are is wonderful. Thank you for appreciating me when I am completely myself.
9. Allie L.-you taught me how to give 100%. Your ability to keep things running smoothly while still being an awesome friend is amazing. You are like super woman. Thank you for your love, support, funny stories, listening ear, and organization.
10. Courtnay-you taught me how to live with passion. You see a problem and work to fix it. Your heart beats for the forgotten and mistreated. Thank you for showing me how to squeeze the sponge and live life to the fullest.
11. Tyler-you taught me how to be a true and honest friend. You spent time with all of us, took the time to really get to know us, and gave thoughtful, heartfelt, and honest words when they were most needed. Thanks for being my fire-works hating buddy.
12. Adam-you taught me how important it is to go out of your way to connect with people. You have done an incredible job getting to know the Kaikoura community and our community-genuinely loving and being interested in every single person you meet. Thank you for the smiles and the laughs that made me feel truly cared about.
13. Ben-you taught me to love Taylor Swift (just kidding). You taught me how to embrace my emotions and run with it. You so passionately care for so many things-you let yourself love and hurt for the people, places, and ideals that surround you. Thanks for including me in those things that you care about.
14. Dan-you taught me how important it is to choose words wisely. Whenever you speak you have something meaningful, genuine, or funny to say. Thanks for making fun of me that one time while we were working on our vegetation guide.
15. Kooba-you taught me how to be excited about creation. We all experienced your joy over bugs and coffee and mud-but I just wanted to let you know how much that impacted me. So much of my new found excitement for life is modeled off the joy you show every day. Thanks for the late night conversations about airport reunions and for showing me funny pictures on your camera
16. Josh-you taught me how to be patient-how to be a teacher. Not only did you accomplish so much here, but you also taught so many people new skills (whether it be building a chicken coop or how to tie a fly). Thanks for looking out for me and for including me in new activities-for being a big brother.
17. Perry-you taught me that magic is real. I have never met someone with such a cool and creative imagination. Your comments and simplicity-break downs kept us all laughing and thinking. Thank you helping me see the world in a less serious, more colorful way.
18. Erica- you taught me what it looks like to be completely present in the present. You give your full attention to every activity-whether that’s homework or conversations. Thank you for showing me how to cut perfect sandwiches ☺
19. Karleigh-you taught me how to be inquisitive. I really enjoyed all the questions you asked and the points you raised. Thanks for keeping all of us informed-and also for keeping us entertained with super intense blitzing.
20. Krista-you taught me how to go with the flow. I never once heard you complain, gripe, or grumble once during the entire semester. Thank you for being you-for being sweet and understanding and for riding out the bumps with a smile.
21. Ashley-you taught me how to let go. Your story about bungee jumping really touched me, and I hope that I can experience that feeling of complete release one day. Thank you for the stories and the honesty and for the enthusiastic Yahtzee playing.
22. Kayla-you taught me how important it is to be there to support people. Whenever someone had a rough day, you were there to listen, to hug, to love, and to support. Thank you for holding my hand when I got a tattoo, for listening to my rants and raves, and for snuggling with me in the back of a cold car.
23. Danielle-you taught me how to conquer my fears. You always say that water scares you, but I have seen you snorkel like a pro. You are one tough chick that doesn’t let anything stand in her way. Thanks for being a source of inspiration.
24. Lauren-you taught me how important it is to let your creative juices flow. I have seen you make some absolutely incredible things-from hermit crab shells to trash fashion hats to crocheted beanies. Thanks for making this world a more beautiful place-and for being an awesome fale-mate in Samoa.
25. Luiza-you taught me how to hold a wonderful conversation. You have done such an amazing job of connecting with so many people-with asking insightful conversations and really listening to the answers. Thank you for talking me through tough stuff in Samoa and for not playing pool at the Adelphi ☺
26. Hannah-you taught me the importance of knowing my home. You know Maine so well, and I love when you share stories about the area that you live in. Thanks for being my homestay buddy, for good conversations in the spa, and for the giggles that brighten up the convent.
27. Caitlin-you taught me how to find the absolute best parts of life. You are one of the most genuinely funny people I have ever met and every moment I spend with you makes my heart feel lighter. Thanks for wobbly leg dances, for sharing your excitement about hecter’s dolphins, and for introducing me to the wide world of Cadbury chocolate.
28. Lisa-you taught me how to love even though you knew it would hurt. I can’t tell you how amazing it has been to have you as an adopted mom/sister in time of such big changes. Your light has shown through this place, and I know I wouldn’t be where I am without you. Thank you for the breakfast dates, the long walks, pizza on the lookout, and for the appreciation of my green calculator.
I know that is a lot, but it only scratches the surface of my semester. I love each and every one of the people I mentioned, and they have taught me far more than words can say. I hope that in the following weeks, months, and years I can take the things I have learned here and put them into action.
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Friday, December 3, 2010
The Home Stretch
"But it is not your own Shire," said Gildor. "Others dwelt here before hobbits were; and others will dwell here again when hobbits are no more. The wide world is all about you: you can fence yourselves in, but you cannot for ever fence it out."
-Gildor
Firstly, I would like to apologize for my lack of posts. Life has picked up speed, and it is only now that I have time to sit down and jot down some thoughts.
The past 3 weeks has mostly been made up of a road trip to the west coast and north central NZ. This was all a part of my Ecology class. I will try to keep this short, but that will be difficult because the west coast trip was by far my favorite experience in NZ.
The first week was spent with Dr. Eric Lindquist of Messiah. His motto was "You can sleep when you die". He is one of my favorite people of all time. And for that first week and a half, I did not sleep. We stayed a few nights in Charleston, a "quaint" motor lodge next to an absolutely gorgeous lagoon. We spent some time hiking and learning about the natural habitat of NZ. We eventually packed up our gear and headed off to Bruce Bay, where we stayed in a maurea (i can't spell it, it's pronounce mur-i). We stayed on a beautiful beach, lined with stone towers. We hiked to a glacier, skipped rocks on a lake in the middle of a beach, and went kiwi-birding! Man it was so cool to slink through the dark, trying to be as silent as possible. We heard a few kiwis, but didn't see any. We did learn a fun game though-i fondly call it "use a lazor pointer to spot possums then hit them with a van". It's a good game-we wracked up a few points (and saved the environment at the same time)
Another long car ride and we headed inland through Arthur's Pass to Cass. Here we stayed at the University of Canterbury's field research station. This is one of my favorite places in the world. I can't even describe the scenery other than to say it was literally like living on the Lord of the Rings set. I saw some beautiful sunrises and sunsets, read the Hobbit on the roof, learned about Kea research, ran through a hill of flowers that smelled like peaches, and prayed on a ledge that overlooked the entire valley. Oh we also went caving! We hiked for an hour or so through a river that ran through a pitch black cave! The water was at times chest high-but that only made it more awesome. We climbed another mountain and did more kiwi-ing (with no luck). Every morning (or just about) we woke up with the sun to go normal birding. We really never did sleep :)
Dr. Lindquist left and in came Dr. Sheldon. We began our independent research projects, which meant lots of time in the field (getting sunburned and scratched). More kiwi-ing, more hiking, and more plant identification.
Since returning to Kaikoura, I have seen some amazing stars, played in another rugby game, turned in my last undergrad paper, built an awful birdhouse, and eaten a fantastic thanksgiving dinner. Now, with less than a week left, things are falling into place. I'm slowly becoming more excited about coming home, although the pain of leaving is still very real. I expect this next week to be a roller coaster of emotions.
ps. i went hunting and it totally rocked (even though i didn't shoot anything)
Things I learned:
1. Sleep when you die, squeeze the sponge, what would make the best story? All of these sayings push you to live a more exciting life (in moderation :) )
2. board games are fun
3. one of the keys to being happy is to love where you are when you are there. learn from the past and look forward to the future, but be present in the present.
4. don't let thanksgiving left overs sit in the trashcan for a week.
5. doing chores as a group can really bring people together
6. using a pocket knife while listening to country music makes you feel really BA
7. Kaikoura is not my home. My room in the Convent is not my room-it will belong to someone else next month. I look forward to "home"
that's really all :) it is late and tomorrow is a long day!
-Gildor
Firstly, I would like to apologize for my lack of posts. Life has picked up speed, and it is only now that I have time to sit down and jot down some thoughts.
The past 3 weeks has mostly been made up of a road trip to the west coast and north central NZ. This was all a part of my Ecology class. I will try to keep this short, but that will be difficult because the west coast trip was by far my favorite experience in NZ.
The first week was spent with Dr. Eric Lindquist of Messiah. His motto was "You can sleep when you die". He is one of my favorite people of all time. And for that first week and a half, I did not sleep. We stayed a few nights in Charleston, a "quaint" motor lodge next to an absolutely gorgeous lagoon. We spent some time hiking and learning about the natural habitat of NZ. We eventually packed up our gear and headed off to Bruce Bay, where we stayed in a maurea (i can't spell it, it's pronounce mur-i). We stayed on a beautiful beach, lined with stone towers. We hiked to a glacier, skipped rocks on a lake in the middle of a beach, and went kiwi-birding! Man it was so cool to slink through the dark, trying to be as silent as possible. We heard a few kiwis, but didn't see any. We did learn a fun game though-i fondly call it "use a lazor pointer to spot possums then hit them with a van". It's a good game-we wracked up a few points (and saved the environment at the same time)
Another long car ride and we headed inland through Arthur's Pass to Cass. Here we stayed at the University of Canterbury's field research station. This is one of my favorite places in the world. I can't even describe the scenery other than to say it was literally like living on the Lord of the Rings set. I saw some beautiful sunrises and sunsets, read the Hobbit on the roof, learned about Kea research, ran through a hill of flowers that smelled like peaches, and prayed on a ledge that overlooked the entire valley. Oh we also went caving! We hiked for an hour or so through a river that ran through a pitch black cave! The water was at times chest high-but that only made it more awesome. We climbed another mountain and did more kiwi-ing (with no luck). Every morning (or just about) we woke up with the sun to go normal birding. We really never did sleep :)
Dr. Lindquist left and in came Dr. Sheldon. We began our independent research projects, which meant lots of time in the field (getting sunburned and scratched). More kiwi-ing, more hiking, and more plant identification.
Since returning to Kaikoura, I have seen some amazing stars, played in another rugby game, turned in my last undergrad paper, built an awful birdhouse, and eaten a fantastic thanksgiving dinner. Now, with less than a week left, things are falling into place. I'm slowly becoming more excited about coming home, although the pain of leaving is still very real. I expect this next week to be a roller coaster of emotions.
ps. i went hunting and it totally rocked (even though i didn't shoot anything)
Things I learned:
1. Sleep when you die, squeeze the sponge, what would make the best story? All of these sayings push you to live a more exciting life (in moderation :) )
2. board games are fun
3. one of the keys to being happy is to love where you are when you are there. learn from the past and look forward to the future, but be present in the present.
4. don't let thanksgiving left overs sit in the trashcan for a week.
5. doing chores as a group can really bring people together
6. using a pocket knife while listening to country music makes you feel really BA
7. Kaikoura is not my home. My room in the Convent is not my room-it will belong to someone else next month. I look forward to "home"
that's really all :) it is late and tomorrow is a long day!
Friday, November 12, 2010
Off again
"No great leap for a man, but a leap in the dark. Straight over Gollum's head he jumped, seven feet forward and three in the air; indeed, had he known it, he only just missed cracking his skull on the low arch of the passage."
Tomorrow I leave for the west coast of New Zealand for my ecology class. During that time I will again be without internet or access to a phone. This program is certainly keeping all of us on our toes with all of this traveling. I anticipate lots of long car rides, rain-filled plant filled identification, glacier exploration, and very little sleep.
This past week marked the week of marine ecology. Each day we had class in the morning and then spent from after lunch until dinner observing marine life on the coast of the Kaikoura Peninsula. We some sweet stuff: anenomes, sea stars, hermit crabs, brittle stars, decorator crabs, and white bate. We even got to go snorkeling and spear fishing! Get this-I saw a real live, ginormous (it's a word) octopus! That was the coolest thing ever. I really do enjoy snorkeling. I was having so much fun I didn't quite realise how cold it was (we had wetsuites on). By the time i got out of the water my entire body was shivering. It's alright, group hugs help.
This week also includes my absolute worst case of senior-itis to date. I realized that this is more or less my last class of undergrad and somehow that greatly prohibited me from doing work (or maybe it was the sunny 75 degree weather, not sure). Either way, I probably could have done better in class this week :) But hey, life isn't all about getting 100% on every exam. Sometimes life is about throwing a roll of masking tape into a toaster or planning the making of a documentary about documentaries or sleeping on the grass or almost dislocating your shoulder trying to catch a frisbee while doing a handstand. Life is about a lot of wonderful things.
I think the biggest thing of all is that I have left than a month left in this amazing place. Perspective certainly changes when you realize time is not infinite. Sleep is suddenly less important. Watching the sunrise and the moonset is suddently more important. There is a lot left to do here and not nearly enough time (I don't think there would be enough time if i spent my whole life here)
What I learned this week was really just one thing: I really like people. I like talking to them, getting to know them, being around them. I actually enjoy becoming attached to people even though it is scary. Life is so much better when you take the risk and put yourself out there.
Tomorrow I leave for the west coast of New Zealand for my ecology class. During that time I will again be without internet or access to a phone. This program is certainly keeping all of us on our toes with all of this traveling. I anticipate lots of long car rides, rain-filled plant filled identification, glacier exploration, and very little sleep.
This past week marked the week of marine ecology. Each day we had class in the morning and then spent from after lunch until dinner observing marine life on the coast of the Kaikoura Peninsula. We some sweet stuff: anenomes, sea stars, hermit crabs, brittle stars, decorator crabs, and white bate. We even got to go snorkeling and spear fishing! Get this-I saw a real live, ginormous (it's a word) octopus! That was the coolest thing ever. I really do enjoy snorkeling. I was having so much fun I didn't quite realise how cold it was (we had wetsuites on). By the time i got out of the water my entire body was shivering. It's alright, group hugs help.
This week also includes my absolute worst case of senior-itis to date. I realized that this is more or less my last class of undergrad and somehow that greatly prohibited me from doing work (or maybe it was the sunny 75 degree weather, not sure). Either way, I probably could have done better in class this week :) But hey, life isn't all about getting 100% on every exam. Sometimes life is about throwing a roll of masking tape into a toaster or planning the making of a documentary about documentaries or sleeping on the grass or almost dislocating your shoulder trying to catch a frisbee while doing a handstand. Life is about a lot of wonderful things.
I think the biggest thing of all is that I have left than a month left in this amazing place. Perspective certainly changes when you realize time is not infinite. Sleep is suddenly less important. Watching the sunrise and the moonset is suddently more important. There is a lot left to do here and not nearly enough time (I don't think there would be enough time if i spent my whole life here)
What I learned this week was really just one thing: I really like people. I like talking to them, getting to know them, being around them. I actually enjoy becoming attached to people even though it is scary. Life is so much better when you take the risk and put yourself out there.
Monday, November 8, 2010
Broken Machine
I wonder if we shall ever be put into songs or tales. We're in one, or course; but I mean: put into words, you know, told by the fireside, or read out of a great big book with red and black letters, years and years afterwards.
-Sam
The past 9 days have been devoted to adventure! We had “spring” break and were basically kicked out of the convent. Here is an account (although “brief” and incomplete) of said adventure.
The over arching goal of our trip was as follow: to kick the butt of the Milford Track (said to be one of the world’s most beautiful hikes). Kayla, Ben, Josh, and I boarded a bus bound for Christchurch. We hiked across the city with bags in tow and picked up our rental car (a beautiful Nissan Sunny). From the time we picked up the car we had roughly 18 hours to complete an 8.5-hour drive. Off we went! Into the sunset! Driving on the “wrong” side of the road! We had many adventures that evening: stopping at Salmon World, watching the sunset over a lake surrounded by mountains, and getting stared down in a bar in a town called Twizel.
That night we “slept” in the car that night. And if you know anything about sleeping in cars, you know that it actually means kicking people, losing circulation in your legs, and not any actual sleeping. We gave up around 6 am and headed off for Milford. We were just on time to catch the bus from Te Anau to the ferry. We spent an hour of the ferry (and stole some toilet paper since we forgot ours). We disembarked and the adventure began! Day one was a short hike (made longer by our curiosity-driven detours). We met a soldier from the Israeli army, named Maya. We bird watched, cross swing bridges, and were mesmerized by crystal clear streams (full of giant trout). That night we met a true bushman named Peter. He carried a dead stoat in his pocket and played a flute alone in his hut. We saw glow worms that night and were blown away by how much they looked like stars.
The next day was marked by an eleven or so mile hike. The boys fished and the girls explored. Our track took us through a valley with sheer cliffs and water falls as far as the eye could see (which wasn’t all that far because there were also a ton of huge trees). We walked through avalanche zones and saw a kea (the alpine parrot). When Kayla and I got to the hut we claimed our beds and rushed down to the lake. We laid down on the helicopter landing pad and just passed out. The boys eventually showed up (without fish). The evening was filled with freezing cold bird watching, fly-tying, reading, and eating. The following day was the longest but the coolest. We climbed the McKinnon Pass. The top was beautiful. We had a snack in a hut and were disappointed by “the bathroom with the view”. We saw the second highest waterfall in the southern hemisphere and were completely soaked as we tried to touch it. That night Kayla and I swam in a freezing cold river (while Ben laughed). Josh caught a fish (after stalking a bikini-clad woman)! It was a good night. The next day we headed on our merry way, another 11 miles to go. More fish, more birds, more laughs, more trees, more waterfalls. What a good trip ☺
But wait! That’s not all! We still had many days left of break! That night we slept in a hostel. We ate lots of pasta and ice cream. Ben left his Taylor Swift poster attached to the bunk bed. And we made chocolate chip and strawberry pancakes for breakfast. We made it back to Queenstown, ate at Fergburger (and were disappointed), ran into some friends, and watch Kayla Jones bungee jump! Twice! She may be the coolest person I know. That night we hung out with Kooba and waited patiently for El Taco Trucko, which never came! We waited so long for that darn truck that we couldn’t find a campground and ended up sleeping in the car once again. The next morning we set up a tent, napped, and then ate really bad chips and salsa (purchased in frustration after the lack of taco trucko). That night we made it to Dunedin. We checked into our haunted hostel, burned some pizza, and watched fireworks on the roof overlooking the entire city. Our night ended with reading LOTR out loud.
Man this is really long-sorry y’all! (PS I’m saying y’all now in preparation for the Country Music Half Marathon). The next morning we headed out to the Otago peninsula to see us some penguins. Major fail: it costs 45$ to see penguins and we were just not into that. We looked at some cliffs and then headed back. Josh and Ben dropped Kayla and I off in the city and went looking for Josh’s missing camera (what they did during those 2 hours I’m not sure: it involved talking to prisoners I believe, but no finding of a camera). Kayla and I ate lunch and did a lot of walking through second hand shops. We headed off to Moeraki to see some sweet round boulders. Kayla tried her hand at driving and totally rocked it. We collected shells, saw some round rocks (with dinos inside), bought more chips and salsa, and headed off to our next campground. We actually found a campground! No more car sleeping! We pitched a tent by a lake and made a fire. That night was awesome. We ate decent chips and salsa by a fire and began reading the Hobbit out loud (also Ben discovered that he actually had Josh’s camera in his bag). We awoke refreshed and began our drive back to Christchurch! We stopped once more to try and see penguins. Another fail. Why is it so expensive to see penguins? Josh and I took matters into our own hands, scaling some walls and fences in an attempt to spot us some chubby, flightless birds (no luck).
The rest of our trip was relatively uneventful. A car ride and a bus ride stood between Kaikoura and us. Tyler picked us up and we hugged him exuberantly. We were happy to be home.
Things I Learned:
1. There is no need for TV. Not when you have a roll of tape or a piece of old floss (NOT string!)
2. When we move out on our own we probably won’t eat super well at first, but we won’t starve.
3. Sleeping in a car is awful.
4. I think I’ve said this a lot-but friends make EVERYTHING better.
5. You can’t really appreciate having a place to call home until you don’t actually have a place to call home.
6. The extreme beauty of one place doesn’t negate the beauty of other places. Don’t be sad to leave because it just means you will be free to see other amazing things.
7. I didn’t really come up with anything profound at all on this trip ☺ but I had a blast and learned a lot of little things about being adult.
8. Tolkien is awesome.
-Sam
The past 9 days have been devoted to adventure! We had “spring” break and were basically kicked out of the convent. Here is an account (although “brief” and incomplete) of said adventure.
The over arching goal of our trip was as follow: to kick the butt of the Milford Track (said to be one of the world’s most beautiful hikes). Kayla, Ben, Josh, and I boarded a bus bound for Christchurch. We hiked across the city with bags in tow and picked up our rental car (a beautiful Nissan Sunny). From the time we picked up the car we had roughly 18 hours to complete an 8.5-hour drive. Off we went! Into the sunset! Driving on the “wrong” side of the road! We had many adventures that evening: stopping at Salmon World, watching the sunset over a lake surrounded by mountains, and getting stared down in a bar in a town called Twizel.
That night we “slept” in the car that night. And if you know anything about sleeping in cars, you know that it actually means kicking people, losing circulation in your legs, and not any actual sleeping. We gave up around 6 am and headed off for Milford. We were just on time to catch the bus from Te Anau to the ferry. We spent an hour of the ferry (and stole some toilet paper since we forgot ours). We disembarked and the adventure began! Day one was a short hike (made longer by our curiosity-driven detours). We met a soldier from the Israeli army, named Maya. We bird watched, cross swing bridges, and were mesmerized by crystal clear streams (full of giant trout). That night we met a true bushman named Peter. He carried a dead stoat in his pocket and played a flute alone in his hut. We saw glow worms that night and were blown away by how much they looked like stars.
The next day was marked by an eleven or so mile hike. The boys fished and the girls explored. Our track took us through a valley with sheer cliffs and water falls as far as the eye could see (which wasn’t all that far because there were also a ton of huge trees). We walked through avalanche zones and saw a kea (the alpine parrot). When Kayla and I got to the hut we claimed our beds and rushed down to the lake. We laid down on the helicopter landing pad and just passed out. The boys eventually showed up (without fish). The evening was filled with freezing cold bird watching, fly-tying, reading, and eating. The following day was the longest but the coolest. We climbed the McKinnon Pass. The top was beautiful. We had a snack in a hut and were disappointed by “the bathroom with the view”. We saw the second highest waterfall in the southern hemisphere and were completely soaked as we tried to touch it. That night Kayla and I swam in a freezing cold river (while Ben laughed). Josh caught a fish (after stalking a bikini-clad woman)! It was a good night. The next day we headed on our merry way, another 11 miles to go. More fish, more birds, more laughs, more trees, more waterfalls. What a good trip ☺
But wait! That’s not all! We still had many days left of break! That night we slept in a hostel. We ate lots of pasta and ice cream. Ben left his Taylor Swift poster attached to the bunk bed. And we made chocolate chip and strawberry pancakes for breakfast. We made it back to Queenstown, ate at Fergburger (and were disappointed), ran into some friends, and watch Kayla Jones bungee jump! Twice! She may be the coolest person I know. That night we hung out with Kooba and waited patiently for El Taco Trucko, which never came! We waited so long for that darn truck that we couldn’t find a campground and ended up sleeping in the car once again. The next morning we set up a tent, napped, and then ate really bad chips and salsa (purchased in frustration after the lack of taco trucko). That night we made it to Dunedin. We checked into our haunted hostel, burned some pizza, and watched fireworks on the roof overlooking the entire city. Our night ended with reading LOTR out loud.
Man this is really long-sorry y’all! (PS I’m saying y’all now in preparation for the Country Music Half Marathon). The next morning we headed out to the Otago peninsula to see us some penguins. Major fail: it costs 45$ to see penguins and we were just not into that. We looked at some cliffs and then headed back. Josh and Ben dropped Kayla and I off in the city and went looking for Josh’s missing camera (what they did during those 2 hours I’m not sure: it involved talking to prisoners I believe, but no finding of a camera). Kayla and I ate lunch and did a lot of walking through second hand shops. We headed off to Moeraki to see some sweet round boulders. Kayla tried her hand at driving and totally rocked it. We collected shells, saw some round rocks (with dinos inside), bought more chips and salsa, and headed off to our next campground. We actually found a campground! No more car sleeping! We pitched a tent by a lake and made a fire. That night was awesome. We ate decent chips and salsa by a fire and began reading the Hobbit out loud (also Ben discovered that he actually had Josh’s camera in his bag). We awoke refreshed and began our drive back to Christchurch! We stopped once more to try and see penguins. Another fail. Why is it so expensive to see penguins? Josh and I took matters into our own hands, scaling some walls and fences in an attempt to spot us some chubby, flightless birds (no luck).
The rest of our trip was relatively uneventful. A car ride and a bus ride stood between Kaikoura and us. Tyler picked us up and we hugged him exuberantly. We were happy to be home.
Things I Learned:
1. There is no need for TV. Not when you have a roll of tape or a piece of old floss (NOT string!)
2. When we move out on our own we probably won’t eat super well at first, but we won’t starve.
3. Sleeping in a car is awful.
4. I think I’ve said this a lot-but friends make EVERYTHING better.
5. You can’t really appreciate having a place to call home until you don’t actually have a place to call home.
6. The extreme beauty of one place doesn’t negate the beauty of other places. Don’t be sad to leave because it just means you will be free to see other amazing things.
7. I didn’t really come up with anything profound at all on this trip ☺ but I had a blast and learned a lot of little things about being adult.
8. Tolkien is awesome.
Friday, October 29, 2010
To my Left and my RIght
The world is changed. I feel it in the water. I feel it in the earth. I smell it in the air. Much that once was, is lost, for none now live who remember it.
-GALADRIEL
The past two weeks have flown by, faster than any other time of my life. As usual, I will try to update you all on my on-goings.
These past two weeks have been devoted to my God and Nature class. Our two professors have flown in from Canada where they teach at Regent. The title of my blog is an excerpt from our morning prayer (Christ all around me, to my left and my right). We spent our 5 hours a day of class talking about the Christian call to stewardship, examining the corrupt food market of America, and working on research projects. It was a compelling week. I probably won’t eat meat when I get back to the US, but as some have pointed out, that isn’t really much of a change.
On Wednesday I had one of the greatest experiences of my life. We had the chance to swim with wild dusky dolphins in the Pacific Ocean as the sun rose over snow capped mountains. Mind blown. We geared up in full wetsuits (hood, socks, gloves, snorkel, mask, etc) When I say swim with dolphins, I literally mean dive down and swim in circles as 4 or 5 dolphins play within 2 inches of you. I mean being accosted by a fur seal with bared teeth. It was so great to be in the freezing water with such amazing creatures, creatures that actually are what they were meant to be. We got to sit on the back of a speeding boat, flippers hanging out into the ocean. After our dive was over we changed and moved to the front of the boat. We raced albatross and hutting’s shearwater as the dolphins did back-flips next to the boat. Everything about the experience was exhilarating and amazing.
Class this week was intense, mostly because we watched some powerful documentaries and had a huge research paper to accomplish. We also had our first rugby game. Although we lost 7-4, we still had a blast. All of that is building to our 9-day “spring” break. Kayla, Josh, Ben, and myself (what is the proper grammatical structure for that anyway?) are heading out to hike the Milford track. We are renting a car and road-tripping there and back--camping, bungee jumping, and exploring along the way. Needless to say, I have never been more excited for anything else in my whole life. Every moment of life is exhilarating.
Some things I have learned:
1. Sometimes you really, really need to act your shoe size and not your age (thanks Lisa ☺)
2. Seals are scary.
3. Living in a community is extremely difficult yet incredibly rewarding. Who knew doing the dishes produced by 30 people could be so much fun?
4. The only way we can truly be ourselves is by offering all we have up to God.
5. Loving people you like is great. Loving people you don’t like is more difficult. Loving people you know are only passing through your life is one of life’s greatest challenges.
6. The only bad part about New Zealand is the massive amount of man-thigh visible.
7. Lavender and honey ice cream is the best ice cream in the entire world.
-GALADRIEL
The past two weeks have flown by, faster than any other time of my life. As usual, I will try to update you all on my on-goings.
These past two weeks have been devoted to my God and Nature class. Our two professors have flown in from Canada where they teach at Regent. The title of my blog is an excerpt from our morning prayer (Christ all around me, to my left and my right). We spent our 5 hours a day of class talking about the Christian call to stewardship, examining the corrupt food market of America, and working on research projects. It was a compelling week. I probably won’t eat meat when I get back to the US, but as some have pointed out, that isn’t really much of a change.
On Wednesday I had one of the greatest experiences of my life. We had the chance to swim with wild dusky dolphins in the Pacific Ocean as the sun rose over snow capped mountains. Mind blown. We geared up in full wetsuits (hood, socks, gloves, snorkel, mask, etc) When I say swim with dolphins, I literally mean dive down and swim in circles as 4 or 5 dolphins play within 2 inches of you. I mean being accosted by a fur seal with bared teeth. It was so great to be in the freezing water with such amazing creatures, creatures that actually are what they were meant to be. We got to sit on the back of a speeding boat, flippers hanging out into the ocean. After our dive was over we changed and moved to the front of the boat. We raced albatross and hutting’s shearwater as the dolphins did back-flips next to the boat. Everything about the experience was exhilarating and amazing.
Class this week was intense, mostly because we watched some powerful documentaries and had a huge research paper to accomplish. We also had our first rugby game. Although we lost 7-4, we still had a blast. All of that is building to our 9-day “spring” break. Kayla, Josh, Ben, and myself (what is the proper grammatical structure for that anyway?) are heading out to hike the Milford track. We are renting a car and road-tripping there and back--camping, bungee jumping, and exploring along the way. Needless to say, I have never been more excited for anything else in my whole life. Every moment of life is exhilarating.
Some things I have learned:
1. Sometimes you really, really need to act your shoe size and not your age (thanks Lisa ☺)
2. Seals are scary.
3. Living in a community is extremely difficult yet incredibly rewarding. Who knew doing the dishes produced by 30 people could be so much fun?
4. The only way we can truly be ourselves is by offering all we have up to God.
5. Loving people you like is great. Loving people you don’t like is more difficult. Loving people you know are only passing through your life is one of life’s greatest challenges.
6. The only bad part about New Zealand is the massive amount of man-thigh visible.
7. Lavender and honey ice cream is the best ice cream in the entire world.
Saturday, October 16, 2010
Clarence Reserve
“Come! We will go now. Leave all that can be spared behind! We will press on by day and dark!”
-Aragorn
Man, New Zealand just gets better and better! This past week brought about “Environmental Literature” class. I opted out of this elective, as did a few other people. Instead, I spent the week backpacking in the Clarence Reserve with Josh and Dan. Here is a run down from one incredible week.
Tuesday:
We woke up at 6 am and Tyler dropped us off at the base of the mountain by 7:30. We stepped out of the van and were lost immediately. Somehow, in our tired daze, we missed the trail markers and began wandering. An hour later we finally figure out where we are and find our way to the start of the track. Tired and slightly frustrated we began the ascent. The climb was beautiful, but very difficult. We stopped often, taking a few naps. We hiked through rolling hills and green meadows, along snowy ledges and down muddy mountains. Approximately 21 km and 8 hours later (accounting for getting lost) we finally arrived at Warden Hut. It was an incredible hut. Clean, new, with lots of big windows. Dan read, I napped, and Josh fished until it was time for dinner. We made dinner and read “The Two Towers” out loud as the sun went down.
PS Massive sunburn occurred (I’m sorry mom).
Wednesday:
Another early morning-We woke up at 6, made breakfast, and were back on the trail by 7:30. The morning was freezing and the river crossings were especially frigid. We walked silently along the riverbed, crossing a river every 10 minutes. After a series of confusing signs we headed up from the rivers into the hills. Cows crossed our paths and the sun finally broke over the mountains in the valley. We crested the hill and saw the most incredible blue river I have ever seen (we also realized that we had taken the wrong path). We eventually found our way to Seymour hut. It had only taken us 4 hours, so we had the rest of the day ahead of us. Once again, Dan read, I slept, and Josh fished. I spent an hour or two exploring the river and surrounding waterfalls. Hours crept by, sunburn intensified, and the three of us really had a good time. Dinnertime rolled around and as we were reading aloud from LOTR, two DOC officers (department of conservation) arrived in their SUV. They were cleaning up the trails through the Clarence with their bulldozer. We had a great chat with them as they cooked dinner. The two men told us they were surprised to see footprints and guessed from their size that they were from “two blokes and a kid”. The night was filled with laughter and the smell of Cheezls.
Thursday:
I woke up around 6:30, Josh was fishing, and Dan was still asleep. I spent my morning eating breakfast and talking with the DOC officers. I decided that if my heart wasn’t in PA, I would totally move to NZ and become a DOC officer. These guys were just so awesome! They packed up and were on their way. After lunch, Josh constructed a hat for me to wear (out of a survivor buff and a cardboard box). The three of us headed out through the valley, along the river, back to Warden Hut. We made a pit stop at an old slab hut, but made good time back. The evening was filled with reading out loud, cooking, and climbing foothills to see the view. Exhausted and nervous about the next days hike, we blew out the candles, closed the book, and went to bed.
Friday:
6 am and the alarm goes off once again. We packed up and hit the road! Back up the 1200m mountain! The way up wasn’t nearly as bad as we expected. The snow had melted and a cloud settled in. We hiked through the mist, stopping little. We arrived at the car park around noon, ate lunch, and napped. Tyler arrive 4 hours later (much to our dismay) and took us to the base of Mt. Fyffe. At 5pm, after 18 km of hiking (approx. 11 miles) we began our ascent up the 1600 m Mt. Fyffe (Hannah and Tyler now with us). This hike was brutal, almost exclusively a 45 degree angle and very, very hot. We arrived at the hut around 7:30, exhausted. We made dinner, read out loud, and watched the sun set over a cloud covered Kaikoura.
Saturday:
4 am! Time to get up! With two headlamps the five of us tramped through the pitch black to the summit of Mt. Fyffe (with the intension of seeing the sunrise). The weather was beautiful and the stars were incredible. We made it to the top in an hour and sat to watch the sun rise. For those of you who heard my story of the summit last time, this time it was completely different. There was no snow, no wind, and the ground below was covered in cloud. We explored and took pictures as the sun rose. It was a beautiful, incredible, awe-inspiring morning. I couldn’t ask for more. Our hike down was painful-6km of steep drops, that eventually led to jogging, took a toll on our feet and hamstrings. By the time we got home all we were able to do was eat ice cream and watch “Into the Wild”. What a good week
Things I learned:
1. Always, always, always wear sunscreen. Even if you got a base tan in Samoa, even if it is cloudy, wear sunscreen!
2. I should live every day so intensely that when I finally reach my bed at night I cheer and run to it.
3. No matter how old you are, reading out loud is one of the most fun things ever (even if your Elvish is rusty).
4. Peanut butter, dry oats, and chocolate chips make the best snack (or breakfast or dinner)
5. We have so much to learn from other people. Other people’s life experiences are so fascinating and have much to offer-we gotta make sure to listen.
6. Get your feet wet, your clothes dirty, and your legs sore. Laugh hard, eat lots of good food, and experience all of life all the time.
7. Fish are bigger and more elusive in rivers that look like ones from Lord of the Rings.
8. I can’t begin to retain all that I have learned. But that won’t stop me from learning-it will all be worth it if even one thing sticks.
9. A sunrise on a mountain is pretty. A sunrise on a mountain with friends that you have spent a week hiking, climbing, stinking, and laughing with is amazingly, awe-inspiringly, heart lift-ingly (yeah, it’s a word) beautiful.
10. Tolkien actually had Josh, Dan, and myself in mind when he wrote LOTR. I’m pretty sure Legolas, Aragorn, and Gimli were based on us.
-Aragorn
Man, New Zealand just gets better and better! This past week brought about “Environmental Literature” class. I opted out of this elective, as did a few other people. Instead, I spent the week backpacking in the Clarence Reserve with Josh and Dan. Here is a run down from one incredible week.
Tuesday:
We woke up at 6 am and Tyler dropped us off at the base of the mountain by 7:30. We stepped out of the van and were lost immediately. Somehow, in our tired daze, we missed the trail markers and began wandering. An hour later we finally figure out where we are and find our way to the start of the track. Tired and slightly frustrated we began the ascent. The climb was beautiful, but very difficult. We stopped often, taking a few naps. We hiked through rolling hills and green meadows, along snowy ledges and down muddy mountains. Approximately 21 km and 8 hours later (accounting for getting lost) we finally arrived at Warden Hut. It was an incredible hut. Clean, new, with lots of big windows. Dan read, I napped, and Josh fished until it was time for dinner. We made dinner and read “The Two Towers” out loud as the sun went down.
PS Massive sunburn occurred (I’m sorry mom).
Wednesday:
Another early morning-We woke up at 6, made breakfast, and were back on the trail by 7:30. The morning was freezing and the river crossings were especially frigid. We walked silently along the riverbed, crossing a river every 10 minutes. After a series of confusing signs we headed up from the rivers into the hills. Cows crossed our paths and the sun finally broke over the mountains in the valley. We crested the hill and saw the most incredible blue river I have ever seen (we also realized that we had taken the wrong path). We eventually found our way to Seymour hut. It had only taken us 4 hours, so we had the rest of the day ahead of us. Once again, Dan read, I slept, and Josh fished. I spent an hour or two exploring the river and surrounding waterfalls. Hours crept by, sunburn intensified, and the three of us really had a good time. Dinnertime rolled around and as we were reading aloud from LOTR, two DOC officers (department of conservation) arrived in their SUV. They were cleaning up the trails through the Clarence with their bulldozer. We had a great chat with them as they cooked dinner. The two men told us they were surprised to see footprints and guessed from their size that they were from “two blokes and a kid”. The night was filled with laughter and the smell of Cheezls.
Thursday:
I woke up around 6:30, Josh was fishing, and Dan was still asleep. I spent my morning eating breakfast and talking with the DOC officers. I decided that if my heart wasn’t in PA, I would totally move to NZ and become a DOC officer. These guys were just so awesome! They packed up and were on their way. After lunch, Josh constructed a hat for me to wear (out of a survivor buff and a cardboard box). The three of us headed out through the valley, along the river, back to Warden Hut. We made a pit stop at an old slab hut, but made good time back. The evening was filled with reading out loud, cooking, and climbing foothills to see the view. Exhausted and nervous about the next days hike, we blew out the candles, closed the book, and went to bed.
Friday:
6 am and the alarm goes off once again. We packed up and hit the road! Back up the 1200m mountain! The way up wasn’t nearly as bad as we expected. The snow had melted and a cloud settled in. We hiked through the mist, stopping little. We arrived at the car park around noon, ate lunch, and napped. Tyler arrive 4 hours later (much to our dismay) and took us to the base of Mt. Fyffe. At 5pm, after 18 km of hiking (approx. 11 miles) we began our ascent up the 1600 m Mt. Fyffe (Hannah and Tyler now with us). This hike was brutal, almost exclusively a 45 degree angle and very, very hot. We arrived at the hut around 7:30, exhausted. We made dinner, read out loud, and watched the sun set over a cloud covered Kaikoura.
Saturday:
4 am! Time to get up! With two headlamps the five of us tramped through the pitch black to the summit of Mt. Fyffe (with the intension of seeing the sunrise). The weather was beautiful and the stars were incredible. We made it to the top in an hour and sat to watch the sun rise. For those of you who heard my story of the summit last time, this time it was completely different. There was no snow, no wind, and the ground below was covered in cloud. We explored and took pictures as the sun rose. It was a beautiful, incredible, awe-inspiring morning. I couldn’t ask for more. Our hike down was painful-6km of steep drops, that eventually led to jogging, took a toll on our feet and hamstrings. By the time we got home all we were able to do was eat ice cream and watch “Into the Wild”. What a good week
Things I learned:
1. Always, always, always wear sunscreen. Even if you got a base tan in Samoa, even if it is cloudy, wear sunscreen!
2. I should live every day so intensely that when I finally reach my bed at night I cheer and run to it.
3. No matter how old you are, reading out loud is one of the most fun things ever (even if your Elvish is rusty).
4. Peanut butter, dry oats, and chocolate chips make the best snack (or breakfast or dinner)
5. We have so much to learn from other people. Other people’s life experiences are so fascinating and have much to offer-we gotta make sure to listen.
6. Get your feet wet, your clothes dirty, and your legs sore. Laugh hard, eat lots of good food, and experience all of life all the time.
7. Fish are bigger and more elusive in rivers that look like ones from Lord of the Rings.
8. I can’t begin to retain all that I have learned. But that won’t stop me from learning-it will all be worth it if even one thing sticks.
9. A sunrise on a mountain is pretty. A sunrise on a mountain with friends that you have spent a week hiking, climbing, stinking, and laughing with is amazingly, awe-inspiringly, heart lift-ingly (yeah, it’s a word) beautiful.
10. Tolkien actually had Josh, Dan, and myself in mind when he wrote LOTR. I’m pretty sure Legolas, Aragorn, and Gimli were based on us.
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Prayer and medicine
We must take a hard road, a road unforeseen. There lies our hope, if hope it be. To walk into peril — to Mordor. We must send the Ring to the Fire.
-Elrond
Just a quick update. I am feeling much better, though not 100% yet. I went for a run and ate breakfast this morning without feeling sick, which was a good sign. The cool thing about New Zealand for me is that it has really been revealing the power of prayer to me. I know this healing wasn't all medicine alone (although I think it helped greatly). Maybe it's the lack of pollution or the hole in the ozone layer, but God's work is much clearer to me here.
The quotation I chose summed up last weeks Sustainable Community Development class. It is basically a call to be a true follower, not just believer, of Christ. Even when the journey is difficult (because I know I won't always be having an amazing time in NZ, the real world will hit sooner than I would like) I still need to be a follower and a servant.
For this next week, Josh, Dan, and myself will be heading off to the Clarence Reserve for some backpacking and fishing (and when I say fishing, I mean Josh and Dan will fish and I will probably read). Friday Tyler and Kayla will pick us up and hopefully we will tackle Mt. Fyffe once more!
Thank you all for your prayers and supports. I miss you all greatly. And also, happy 22nd birthday Jason :) After all, it is the 11th here already!
-Elrond
Just a quick update. I am feeling much better, though not 100% yet. I went for a run and ate breakfast this morning without feeling sick, which was a good sign. The cool thing about New Zealand for me is that it has really been revealing the power of prayer to me. I know this healing wasn't all medicine alone (although I think it helped greatly). Maybe it's the lack of pollution or the hole in the ozone layer, but God's work is much clearer to me here.
The quotation I chose summed up last weeks Sustainable Community Development class. It is basically a call to be a true follower, not just believer, of Christ. Even when the journey is difficult (because I know I won't always be having an amazing time in NZ, the real world will hit sooner than I would like) I still need to be a follower and a servant.
For this next week, Josh, Dan, and myself will be heading off to the Clarence Reserve for some backpacking and fishing (and when I say fishing, I mean Josh and Dan will fish and I will probably read). Friday Tyler and Kayla will pick us up and hopefully we will tackle Mt. Fyffe once more!
Thank you all for your prayers and supports. I miss you all greatly. And also, happy 22nd birthday Jason :) After all, it is the 11th here already!
Friday, October 8, 2010
Reflections and Antibiotics
This past week has been a bumpy one for me. In Samoa it seems that you are constantly running on adrenaline, thriving on little sleep, bad food, and a constant language barrier. In normal life you would be expecting the onset of some various virus but not in Samoa! We landed in NZ, celebrated the cold weather and quickly settled into the routine. But that is when your body gets you! It’s tricky-staying strong in high stress situations but crumbling once it knows it’s in a safe environment. Anyway, enough of the ideological and back to the reality. I had started to feel ill the second to last night in Samoa. When I got back my mild stomach pain and nausea turned into stomach pain so intense I couldn’t breathe well. So it was off to the hospital in Kaikoura. A diagnosis of mega-super-ultra acid reflux (that’s the official name, just kidding), a prescription, and a couple hundred dollars later, I was back in the convent feeling mildly better. I awoke the next morning to discover that my lip was swollen, painful, and oozing just a small amount of pus. It was back on my bike and off to the hospital once again. Lo and behold, I have a staph infection on my lip. Another couple hundred dollars and a dose of penicillin and I am on my merry way.
But the good news is that the week was actually pretty awesome. I went for a few good runs (slowly, as to avoid making myself sicker) learned to play rugby, practiced rugby, and planned some pretty sick trips (details to come). This week also marked the second week of sustainable community development. The focus of this week was on the practical application of caring for the impoverished. Mick recognized that most people will not go into mission work and so we discussed the ways in which to care for the emotionally and spiritually impoverished.
I’m pretty sure that God is super crafty, because he tied in my “illnesses” with this week of class seamlessly. After Mick’s first class and my trip to Samoa I doubted whether I was capable of caring for the poor in the way we had discussed. Those of you who know me well, or just know me at all, know that interpersonal skills are not exactly my strong points nor is patients. The combo of this week’s practical application and my ecstasy over taking modern medicine pointed me more firmly back to the path I have already started to build. I think what I finally realized is that since I am not an ordinary person, I will not live an ordinary life. I can still be pretty darn radical even if I get my PhD and work in a lab. I can still get married, buy a house, drive a car, and run recreationally and be a follower of Jesus. I still don’t know where I’m going, but I plan to go where I am most needed.
Things I learned (apart from the above paragraph):
1. I really do think antibiotics are incredible.
2. I miss and love my family and friends so much. But I can’t live for my family.
3. How you behave at your lowest shows who you really are.
4. No matter where you go, there will always be stress. Life isn’t about eliminating stress, but learning how to deal with it. (or maybe see things as not stressful?)
5. Doodling in class is still ridiculously fun.
*PS. For more stories about my semester check out www.ccspsouthpacificfall2010.blogspot.com
*PPS. I apologize to every geography teacher I ever had. I do know that Africa is a continent ☺
But the good news is that the week was actually pretty awesome. I went for a few good runs (slowly, as to avoid making myself sicker) learned to play rugby, practiced rugby, and planned some pretty sick trips (details to come). This week also marked the second week of sustainable community development. The focus of this week was on the practical application of caring for the impoverished. Mick recognized that most people will not go into mission work and so we discussed the ways in which to care for the emotionally and spiritually impoverished.
I’m pretty sure that God is super crafty, because he tied in my “illnesses” with this week of class seamlessly. After Mick’s first class and my trip to Samoa I doubted whether I was capable of caring for the poor in the way we had discussed. Those of you who know me well, or just know me at all, know that interpersonal skills are not exactly my strong points nor is patients. The combo of this week’s practical application and my ecstasy over taking modern medicine pointed me more firmly back to the path I have already started to build. I think what I finally realized is that since I am not an ordinary person, I will not live an ordinary life. I can still be pretty darn radical even if I get my PhD and work in a lab. I can still get married, buy a house, drive a car, and run recreationally and be a follower of Jesus. I still don’t know where I’m going, but I plan to go where I am most needed.
Things I learned (apart from the above paragraph):
1. I really do think antibiotics are incredible.
2. I miss and love my family and friends so much. But I can’t live for my family.
3. How you behave at your lowest shows who you really are.
4. No matter where you go, there will always be stress. Life isn’t about eliminating stress, but learning how to deal with it. (or maybe see things as not stressful?)
5. Doodling in class is still ridiculously fun.
*PS. For more stories about my semester check out www.ccspsouthpacificfall2010.blogspot.com
*PPS. I apologize to every geography teacher I ever had. I do know that Africa is a continent ☺
Saturday, October 2, 2010
Lord of the Rings didn't go to a tropical island, so i don't have a quotation :)
The past two weeks have absolutely flown by. Much of my experience can’t be told through electronic media. The best way to really find out about my time in Samoa is probably to spend some time with me when I finally make my way back to America J However, I know that my return is still a few months away so I will do my to convey my experience through this limited blog post and a few pictures on facebook.
Apia:
We flew from Christchurch to Aukland to Apia (the capital of Samoa, on the smaller island of Upolo). After crossing the International Date Line, we arrived at sunrise on Friday morning. It was already warm and humid. We boarded a groovy bus, painted pink with some sweet spray paint art. Dazed and confused, we traveled 40 minutes to the Tatiana Motel in the heart of Apia. This motel wasn’t quite the same as an American motel. Chickens and cockroaches roamed freely through the hallways and rooms and roosters crowed 24-7. They did have showers, although they were ice cold. We spent the next 3 days or so in Apia. We explored the markets, bought a ton of ice cream, hiked part of Mt. Vaea, and visited National University of Samoa. We also go to snorkel in the most incredible place. I have never seen fish like this in the wild, although multiple trips to That Fish Place with my dad have exposed me to some in captivity J. I went snorkeling twice in those few days.
Apia is fairly westernized compared to the rest of the island, but we still wore lavalavas (long, wrap skirts that we bought at the marker). We all learned how to tie and wear the lavalavas, even the boys. There is mostly fried, processed food in the capital (so many of us ended up with stomach aches). While in Apia, I ate my first fresh coconut, took my first foreign taxi ride, and attended a church service completely in Samoan.
Safua Hotel:
So on Monday morning we headed to the ferry in order to get to Savi’i. The ferry was surprisingly nice (a gift from Japan). It had air-conditioning and even a movie playing. I spent most of my trip on the top deck, watching the waves and landmasses go by. An hour and a half later we landed on the larger of the two islands, Savai’i. Another groovy bus picked us up (This one had “<3 the playa, h8 the game written on it). It took us to our next destination, Safua Hotel. To me, this is where our experience really began. Safua provided amazingly delicious breakfasts and dinners for us every night. Tons of taro, bananas, bread, chicken, soup, and coconut everything. Every night was capped with a live band, dancing, and hanging out with people (Samoan and American). Our accommodations were a bazillion times better than at Tatiana. Six other girls and I shared a cabin (called a fale). We had our own bathroom and really nice beds, although the roosters did still crow throughout the night.
During the day we had “class”. In other words, we toured the island on a groovy bus. We saw lava fields and a town destroyed by the lava flow. We went to the blow holes and sea arches. We spent some time on the most westernly point in the world and took a walk through the canopy of the jungle. We also had culture day where we went to a meeting fale (Samoan for house, pronounced fa-lay), participated in a Ava ceremony, learned to weave baskets and climb coconut trees, and even help make a traditional Samoan meal (think: killing a pig, grilling an octopus in its own ink, and all the taro you could want). It was really interesting. We picked up a little of the language and made a few new friends, but eventually we had to leave.
Faga (Fong-a) Village:
After over a week of palagi (European foreigner, pa-long-y) activities we began our home-stays. Lauren and I were placed together in a beach fale. The water crashed about 10 feet from us as we slept in a completely open platform with a roof. While Lauren and I slept in the same place, we had all our meals separately. I was placed with Faamafa (the dad) Seloulele (the mom), Nora (12 year old daugher), Silea Jr (Nora’s 1 year old nephew), and Silea Sr. (Nora’s grandfather). I ate all meals at their fale in the jungle. As a guest, they would fan me and wait for me finish eating before they started. This was extremely uncomfortable but an impassable part of their culture. Nora spoke pretty good English and I spent most evenings talking with her, going on walks, and helping her with her homework. My host parents and grandparent spoke very little English; we spent most of our time talking about food, weather, and what my family was like. Silea Jr. was possibly the cutest baby I have ever met and when he said my name for the first time I melted. I even got to work on the plantation, weeding taro for the day.
Staying Faga was an eye-opening experience. Most of the mornings and afternoons were spent snorkeling, writing papers, or napping (as per the request of our host families). The children of Faga were at times very over whelming. They constantly chased us, screaming “palagi!”, “what’s your name!” and, “do you have a boyfriend?!”. Those are pretty much the only words the younger ones know. The kids could be rough, but in the end they were incredibly sweet and loving. My experience in Faga is so complex that even as I write this I remember more and more details. Please ask me any questions you want in emails or in person when I get back. It is difficult for me to explain a culture so radically different than our own, especially one that has such a great impact on me. In the end, my family told me that they loved me and considered me a daughter. It was a blessing to be a part of a family again, if even for a short time. I miss that unconditional love.
Today we trekked back across the ocean (thoroughly enjoying the airplane with movies, music, and video games). I am loving the weather and food of New Zealand (although I am slightly sad not to have gone all the way home). The coming week brings round 2 of Sustainable Community Development with Mick. I look forward to what this class will teach me.
(Some) Things I learned:
- The brain is the best camera and the eye is the most amazing lens. Life is better when you live through the perfect lenses God gave you.
- I hate roosters.
- Every culture has something amazing to offer and an area where they desperately need to grow.
- Fish are brighter, ice cream is better, and the sun isn’t quite so hot when you are with friends.
- When you are hungry, Ramen noodles make a great breakfast (even for 5 days in a row)
- America and Africa are not the only countries. There is a world in between.
- Being a part of a family is the greatest feeling in the world. There is nothing like it and I really don’t have the words to explain it.
- You may just end up in a perfectly clear waterfall pool in the middle of the rain forest, so make sure you have a Frisbee on hand.
- Sometimes, Samoan girls think your boyfriend is really cute and so they steal a picture of him.
- Our planet is so perfectly balanced. We aren’t hopeless, but in order to change we actually have to want to change.
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
But what about second breakfast?
The past week and a half has brought about two major events: My first week of class and my first homestay.
My First Week of Class:
At CCSP, we take our classes one at a time. Each week we take one class (9-12:30 and then 7:30-9:30 every day). Last week we took Sustainable Community Development I with professor Mick Duncan (an awesome Kiwi with an even more awesome story). We discussed why, as Christians, we are called to social action and how evangelism played a part. We discussed different tactics used to build sustainable communities (this included skits we acted out, movies we watched, and a debate on pacifism v. just war). That week we had a bunch of reading, 4 essays, and a test all due Friday at 4 pm.
I came into this program with what I will fondly call a “10-year, white picket fence” plan. I know what I want, I know how to get it, and I am going after it. This class may have just demolished all my plans in one short week. The heaviness of heart I felt during this week was tremendous. I am not ready to pack my bags and fly to a Third World nation, but I am very willing to consider shirking the life of 2 cars, TVs, and day dreaming about the weekend. My job right now is to find how my gifts can best serve God. Where can I go that I will be giving until it hurts? Where do I fit into God’s kingdom?
Homestay:
Friday at 4 pm, after the test was completed and the papers handed in, I (along with another girl, Hannah) was picked up by a lovely woman named Margaret. Margaret is 80 years old (going on 45) and lives with her grown daughter, Niki in a B&B on the Kaikoura Peninsula
Margaret not only runs this B&B, but chops sheds full of wood, raises chickens, and gardens. Her home is beautiful. Hannah and I had some really great talks (and really long walks-we may or may not have saved a sheep’s life). Margaret took us to her Anglican church Sunday morning where I had wine for communion for the first time. The service was much like those at First Pres. so I felt comfortable and at home. Plus, everywhere you go in NZ there are constantly tea and biscuits. It was a good and relaxing weekend.
Random bits:
-We also went to a sheep farm and learned to shear sheep.
-We went to a Maurae, the local gathering place of the Maori people and were welcomed in a traditional ceremony. We saw some amazing artwork and learned about some amazing history.
-I got to skype with Jason for the first time. I still haven’t stopped smiling.
-We saw a double rainbow (all the way across the sky)
-We started a new Wednesday tradition: running and yoga on the beach as the sun rises over the ocean. (Today’s participants included Kayla, Erica, Josh, Danielle, and myself)
-We leave for Samoa on Friday morning and will not be back for 2 weeks. During that time I will have no access to Internet or phone (I believe I will be back October 3rd)
Now it seems I should continue doing a list of things I learned, as people seem to enjoy that.
- Jason is always right. I should have believed him when he said white picket fences are scary.
- To know where to help you have to know God’s story and know that the
Kingdom ofGod - If you are napping during an important movie, God might just wake you up in time to see the very sad, very powerful ending.
- Food made from scratch is so incredibly good. Get ready, family-I hope you like homemade bread and yogurt.
- Running with other people is really fun and a great motivator.
- It is important to speak up and be heard. People aren’t always mean or cruel or out to get you-but they can’t read your mind.
- The only way to break down the barriers that stop us from realizing that someone else is just as human and worthwhile as our own personal self is to really, truly get to know them.
- You need to clean the bathroom regularly or it gets really nasty.
- The idea that people will walk in and out of your life shouldn’t be a deterrent for you to commit to a relationship (friendship). We will all be together again, eventually.
- When prayer doesn’t seem to be working, keep pushing (Lisa taught me that one)
- Finally, if you don’t write a blog very often, the ones you do write will be epically long.
Sunday, September 5, 2010
My Weekend Away
"We cannot pass over a mountain. Let us go under it! Let us go through the Mines of Moria."
First and foremost, for those of you that heard about the Earthquake in Christchurch, I (an all the rest of the group) are alright. I felt the earthquake in a tramping hut in Kowhai Valley, but no damage was done. We are all safe and sound.
This past weekend we were all kicked out of the convent to explore New Zealand, needless to say it was one of the best weekends of my life. I will try to convey as much as possible here. Adam, Kooba, Josh, Ben, and myself headed out for a three day tramping trip through the Mt. Fyffe track.
Thursday 2:45 PM
We are dropped off by a staff member at the base of Mt. Fyffe. Each laden with a 40lb pack. We climb up in the heat and arrive at the hut in the cold. When we arrive at 5 pm, two people are already in the hut and have started the fire. The boys set up tents, hammocks, and tarps in an attempt to stay outside. Due to a mischievous oppossum and some very cold weather, 2 boys found their way back inside.
Friday 5:00 am
We wake up to watch the sun rise and get ready for the day. We pack our bags and begin climbing up Mt. Fyffe (at least the very top of it) The ground is covered in snow and the wind begins to pick up. By the time we reach the top the temp has dropped to 18 degree F and I suspect the wind was over 50 mph. We crawled across snow covered ridges, clinging to anything we could get. We eventually made it to the top, but discovered that our path down the other side is too dangerous. The mountain defeated us, so we must go down to the Valley. We begin our decent, slipping, sliding, and laughing the whole way down. We stop for lunch at the hut and are are on the trail by 11:30. We descend the mountain, running into wild boar wallows and various pricker bushes. We climb through forests (where pigeons live in trees) and finally make it to the way to the Kowhai River (prononced ko-fye). From there we hike for another hour and a half until we reach the river crossing.
2;45 pm
For me the river crossing was terrifying. Josh and I got stuck up river where the water was fast and deep. With a little help from a friend (mainly Josh who made sure I didn't wash away down the river) we all made it across and were at the hut by 3:15. Around 4 clouds moved in and it began to hail. Rain followed and that turned to snow. We sat nice an comfy in the hut, eating food, playing cards, and just hanging.
Saturday 4:30 am
We were awakened by an earthquake rocking our hut. We sat up in bed, determined that it was an earthquake, wondered about rock slides and Big Foot, and then went to sleep. At 7:00 we woke up and ate breakfast. By 9:30 we were off to climb a waterfall we could see from our cabin. Two of the boys (who will remain nameless for their mother's sakes) climbed to the very top...probably around 10 stories. Myself and the other two boys climbed half way (maybe 6 stories) up the slippery wet rock and just hung out. Later that day we sun bathed since it was warm and went for another day hike with many river crossings. The day ended with a game of home run derby, yoga, and washing dishes in the river.
Sunday 7:00 am
We wake up and begin our long trek home. We crossed many rivers (and i needed a lot of help) After 6 hours of hiking, we finally arrived tired, but very happy.
Here is what i learned from this weekend:
1. I am a lot stronger than I thought. The human body is an amazing thing, capable of great feats.
2. I am not strong enough to do this on my own. I needed help, and learning to ask for help was greatly liberating.
3. I am strong enough to give help. I should help more often.
4.Our bodies are meant to be used, bruised, and a little broken. We live in fear of destroying ourselves, but really we are destroying our bodies by doing nothing with them.
5. God is an amazing creator and protector. He loves what he has made and he protects it at all times.
6. Tuna straight from a can tastes better when you have hiked all day.
7. Being homesick in an amazing country is a testament to what a loving, amazing, incredible support system i have back home
8. Big Foot just might be real, and he might be gnawing on boar legs outside of huts in the backwoods of NZ
9. Friends are amazing, even if you don't know them well yet.
10. Always bring extra socks and 4 strong men when going tramping (kiwi for backpacking)
First and foremost, for those of you that heard about the Earthquake in Christchurch, I (an all the rest of the group) are alright. I felt the earthquake in a tramping hut in Kowhai Valley, but no damage was done. We are all safe and sound.
This past weekend we were all kicked out of the convent to explore New Zealand, needless to say it was one of the best weekends of my life. I will try to convey as much as possible here. Adam, Kooba, Josh, Ben, and myself headed out for a three day tramping trip through the Mt. Fyffe track.
Thursday 2:45 PM
We are dropped off by a staff member at the base of Mt. Fyffe. Each laden with a 40lb pack. We climb up in the heat and arrive at the hut in the cold. When we arrive at 5 pm, two people are already in the hut and have started the fire. The boys set up tents, hammocks, and tarps in an attempt to stay outside. Due to a mischievous oppossum and some very cold weather, 2 boys found their way back inside.
Friday 5:00 am
We wake up to watch the sun rise and get ready for the day. We pack our bags and begin climbing up Mt. Fyffe (at least the very top of it) The ground is covered in snow and the wind begins to pick up. By the time we reach the top the temp has dropped to 18 degree F and I suspect the wind was over 50 mph. We crawled across snow covered ridges, clinging to anything we could get. We eventually made it to the top, but discovered that our path down the other side is too dangerous. The mountain defeated us, so we must go down to the Valley. We begin our decent, slipping, sliding, and laughing the whole way down. We stop for lunch at the hut and are are on the trail by 11:30. We descend the mountain, running into wild boar wallows and various pricker bushes. We climb through forests (where pigeons live in trees) and finally make it to the way to the Kowhai River (prononced ko-fye). From there we hike for another hour and a half until we reach the river crossing.
2;45 pm
For me the river crossing was terrifying. Josh and I got stuck up river where the water was fast and deep. With a little help from a friend (mainly Josh who made sure I didn't wash away down the river) we all made it across and were at the hut by 3:15. Around 4 clouds moved in and it began to hail. Rain followed and that turned to snow. We sat nice an comfy in the hut, eating food, playing cards, and just hanging.
Saturday 4:30 am
We were awakened by an earthquake rocking our hut. We sat up in bed, determined that it was an earthquake, wondered about rock slides and Big Foot, and then went to sleep. At 7:00 we woke up and ate breakfast. By 9:30 we were off to climb a waterfall we could see from our cabin. Two of the boys (who will remain nameless for their mother's sakes) climbed to the very top...probably around 10 stories. Myself and the other two boys climbed half way (maybe 6 stories) up the slippery wet rock and just hung out. Later that day we sun bathed since it was warm and went for another day hike with many river crossings. The day ended with a game of home run derby, yoga, and washing dishes in the river.
Sunday 7:00 am
We wake up and begin our long trek home. We crossed many rivers (and i needed a lot of help) After 6 hours of hiking, we finally arrived tired, but very happy.
Here is what i learned from this weekend:
1. I am a lot stronger than I thought. The human body is an amazing thing, capable of great feats.
2. I am not strong enough to do this on my own. I needed help, and learning to ask for help was greatly liberating.
3. I am strong enough to give help. I should help more often.
4.Our bodies are meant to be used, bruised, and a little broken. We live in fear of destroying ourselves, but really we are destroying our bodies by doing nothing with them.
5. God is an amazing creator and protector. He loves what he has made and he protects it at all times.
6. Tuna straight from a can tastes better when you have hiked all day.
7. Being homesick in an amazing country is a testament to what a loving, amazing, incredible support system i have back home
8. Big Foot just might be real, and he might be gnawing on boar legs outside of huts in the backwoods of NZ
9. Friends are amazing, even if you don't know them well yet.
10. Always bring extra socks and 4 strong men when going tramping (kiwi for backpacking)
Friday, August 27, 2010
Dangerous Business
Remember what Bilbo used to say: it's a dangerous business, Frodo, going out your door. You step onto the road, and if you don't keep your feet, there's no knowing where you might be swept off to
Hey all,
This is my first time on the Internet in NZ. I don't have much time, so I will hit the major points.
I arrived at the Old Convent in Kaikoura, NZ late Wednesday night. I was assigned a room with a view of Mt. Fyffe (and on quiet nights you can here the ocean) Since arriving I have:
1. Had fish and chips on a black pebble beach under the shadow of the Southern Alps
2. Had a scavenger hunt in Kaikoura
3. Gone running as the sun was rising over the mountains
4. Played frisbee
5. Hiked through a colony of seals
6. Tried authentic Kiwi (NZ) food like mince meat pies and "cheerios" (sausage)
7. Sat in natural hot springs
8. made new friends from Christian schools all over the the country (and Canada)
9. Fallen more deeply in love with God and his Creation
10.Seen more sheep than i new existed.
I am sorry this is so short, but the internet cafe closes in 8 minutes so i must be brief. For those of you who have a facebook, I am uploading pictures as we speak! If you don't have one, ask someone who does :)
I love and miss you all! (Jason, the beaches are made of rocks perfect for skipping. There are even whales...so you could chop off a flipper)
Hey all,
This is my first time on the Internet in NZ. I don't have much time, so I will hit the major points.
I arrived at the Old Convent in Kaikoura, NZ late Wednesday night. I was assigned a room with a view of Mt. Fyffe (and on quiet nights you can here the ocean) Since arriving I have:
1. Had fish and chips on a black pebble beach under the shadow of the Southern Alps
2. Had a scavenger hunt in Kaikoura
3. Gone running as the sun was rising over the mountains
4. Played frisbee
5. Hiked through a colony of seals
6. Tried authentic Kiwi (NZ) food like mince meat pies and "cheerios" (sausage)
7. Sat in natural hot springs
8. made new friends from Christian schools all over the the country (and Canada)
9. Fallen more deeply in love with God and his Creation
10.Seen more sheep than i new existed.
I am sorry this is so short, but the internet cafe closes in 8 minutes so i must be brief. For those of you who have a facebook, I am uploading pictures as we speak! If you don't have one, ask someone who does :)
I love and miss you all! (Jason, the beaches are made of rocks perfect for skipping. There are even whales...so you could chop off a flipper)
Thursday, August 12, 2010
The First Post
The Road goes ever on and on
Down from the door where it began.
Now far ahead the Road has gone,
And I must follow, if I can,
Pursuing it with eager feet,
Until it joins some larger way
Where many paths and errands meet.
And whither then? I cannot say.
-The Fellowship of the Ring
I think writing a blog is a lot like getting dressed in the morning. It’s all about presenting ourselves in a genuine, yet positive light. Ironically, we are more concerned with the perceptions of strangers and passers-by than by those closest to us. I’ve never been good at getting dressed, finding far too much comfort in sweatpants and a ponytail. My intention for this blog is to be as genuine as possible and to direct my thoughts and ideas towards the people I love most. I don’t want to try too hard or not hard enough, although I will inevitably fall into one of those categories at times.
That being said, I leave for Kaikoura, New Zealand in one week and three days. I still have much packing to do, although all the major purchases have already been made. My flight leaves from Philly International at 4pm August 23rd and I arrive in New Zealand sometime in the morning of the 25th. While in New Zealand I will be participating in the Creation Care Study program, learning lots of neat stuff about God, nature, and the community (or at least that is what I am told). I will be living in a house with about 25 other students and my professors—we won’t have heat, washing machines, or internet while we are there. Trips into town to visit the internet café are how I plan to keep in touch.
I also have a website where I will post pictures (since I don’t intend on unloading them all on facebook). I apologize ahead of time for not being in more pictures (mom) and for not using the flash when I should (dad).
http://www.flickr.com/photos/allieoberholtzer/
Down from the door where it began.
Now far ahead the Road has gone,
And I must follow, if I can,
Pursuing it with eager feet,
Until it joins some larger way
Where many paths and errands meet.
And whither then? I cannot say.
-The Fellowship of the Ring
I think writing a blog is a lot like getting dressed in the morning. It’s all about presenting ourselves in a genuine, yet positive light. Ironically, we are more concerned with the perceptions of strangers and passers-by than by those closest to us. I’ve never been good at getting dressed, finding far too much comfort in sweatpants and a ponytail. My intention for this blog is to be as genuine as possible and to direct my thoughts and ideas towards the people I love most. I don’t want to try too hard or not hard enough, although I will inevitably fall into one of those categories at times.
That being said, I leave for Kaikoura, New Zealand in one week and three days. I still have much packing to do, although all the major purchases have already been made. My flight leaves from Philly International at 4pm August 23rd and I arrive in New Zealand sometime in the morning of the 25th. While in New Zealand I will be participating in the Creation Care Study program, learning lots of neat stuff about God, nature, and the community (or at least that is what I am told). I will be living in a house with about 25 other students and my professors—we won’t have heat, washing machines, or internet while we are there. Trips into town to visit the internet café are how I plan to keep in touch.
I also have a website where I will post pictures (since I don’t intend on unloading them all on facebook). I apologize ahead of time for not being in more pictures (mom) and for not using the flash when I should (dad).
http://www.flickr.com/photos/allieoberholtzer/
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