We have been here a little over two months now and there have been many adjustments in every area of our lives. As I think about our time here, I am drawn to the fact that our lives are simplified. We all have a clear focus on our responsibilities and each of us is truly enjoying serving in this way.
Not only are our responsibilities simplified, so is our daily living. For many years, we became accustomed to going to the grocery store and buying what we needed for the upcoming week or two. Here that is not practical. For one thing, there are less preservatives in the foods so it does not keep as long. Also, we are limited to what we can carry back to the apartment at one time. Thus, I make more trips into the village. These more frequent trips (every 1-2 days) walking to the village stores and vendors have been a great opportunity for me to soak in the full experience of the village life. I am beginning to recognize some familiar faces along the way. I make sure to keep a smile on my face and pray that the people see the joy of the Lord through me. I have also enjoyed interacting with the fruit and vegetable vendors on a regular basis. I get the opportunity to practice my mandarin (especially my numbers when they say the price), and they often attempt one or two words in English. As I continue the frequent walks to the village, I pray the people who see me will see a difference in me. I pray their day is brighter and that God will reveal himself to them.
We love the simple life we have here and have enjoyed taking time to slow down and focus on the things that truly matter.