Unspeakable Joy: My Summer in Kenya

Unspeakable Joy

            Coming to the close of my 6 weeks of living out in the hills of Kenya, it is hard to really put into words the overall experience. One of the people that has been here for 4 years and is on his way back to America put it like this: “You stay for a week and you can write a book; stay for a month and you can write a paragraph; stay longer and you can’t write anything”. My head has been swimming in ideas to process and what to share. Should I talk about toilets in the ground and eating raw sugar cane for the first time? Should I talk about sharing a room with a mouse? Should I talk about how amazingly beautiful the sunsets in the south east of Kenya are? Should I talk about the game of chicken that is driving in Kenya? I could compare for days the random occurrences and things I’ve gone through, the things I’ve missed (a hot shower for one) and things I will miss here (not beans and rice).

            Overall, there is just this sense of a presence I have felt at both campuses that is difficult to put into words. Each Oasis campus has about 70 kids that come from all different backgrounds and all kinds of issues/heart break that brought them to this place. One is set up family style where about 10 kids stay with a house mom on campus and go off campus to school. The other is a dormitory style where they stay in cabins and live on the side of a hill. They go to school right on campus with about 40 kids from the area. Both are uniquely different but entwined with the same feeling. That feeling is this unspeakable joy that just radiates through these places. 

“What’s on Netflix?” “Have you seen the latest movie?” “Can you floss?” “Did you hear what X said about Y?” “Check my insta! I’m bored”. These are all things I have never heard here. I spent most of my days living among the 60 kids and parents at a site called the valley. At first I was more of a consultant and worked one on one with the kids. Then took over teaching English for the lower elementary grades.

 To a western mindset the conditions might sound rough. The past 3 months they were completely without power and have never had running water or plumbing (power came back a few weeks ago). There isn’t a town outside of this rural hillside community of people and animals for miles of very bumpy roads (worse than a Michigan pot hole!). They collect rain water or river water almost daily for bathing, washing and drinking water.  The diet consists of ugali, maize, beans, and green grams (I lost weight). Goat meat on Friday nights and a boiled egg for breakfast on Sundays are the things to look forward to meal wise. Teachers also get a bonus of a donut called ndazi for morning snack. Avocados the size of your head are also in abundance. Most have never seen any other lifestyle to compare. Apart from differences from the western tradition, there is this communal joy that happens when all are going through life together and relating to each other. They don’t seem to need or even miss things they never knew they “needed” to begin with.     

Where certain things are lacking, the essentials are found in abundance. They are loved! They are taken care of! Their futures are being nurtured!  There is just this infectious joy that radiates from each place. It really has become an Oasis for these Orphans. I’ve heard a few of the stories that would break even the hardest of hearts. Yet, here they are, happily playing soccer or trying out volleyball, working hard at school and being respectful to each other (usually). The cohesion goes further as the kids all take care of the place. From making meals, washing clothes, carrying water, they all do their part. They are all growing in compassion and I regularly see them helping each other carry things or pick each other up when they fall.

A common western thought is to bring people out of their situation and they will be better off if we could just bring them home. Though there is truth in some of the situations, there is greater impact that can happen through these communities.  One morning before church at the Shelter, it dawned on my how much these kids have a chance to truly impact change. Many were made orphans through systemic issues. If we pull things out of the system, the system continues just with different kids. However, if we empower those within the system, they can truly effect positive change from within. It is one of my greatest prayers for these kids besides truly knowing Jesus is that they can grow up to be productive members of the Kenyan society to foster positive change for their future. How amazing would it be to have kids that society gave little hope and chance become the hope and chance for the future of their society?

I’ve come here this summer with an open mind to what I would experience. I  can say it wasn’t always easy especially for my “western comfort.” I greatly missed the food, my bed, AC and sit-down toilets with plumbing every single day I was here. At times I felt isolated and trapped within the walls. But within these moments, I found myself rechecking my own paradigm and trying to be more attune. Life really isn’t meant to be easy, its meant to be worth it. This experience has been worth all the minor discomforts.

Of course, I can’t finish a post without giving Oasis for Orphans a plug. I came at a time of transition and got to see the inter-working of an organization from inside. I have been blessed to see the impact by the teams on the ground here daily. They continue to grow and foster the love and care that each of these children receive. Also, they have become a positive light within their local Kenyan communities. The synergy of the Kenyans and the American missionaries has created strong impact in a short amount of time. There is a strong commitment by everyone to not grow complacent. I’ve been witness to some of the changes that they have done to continue to improve the mind, body, and spiritual health of over 300 children that Oasis services. Some of which are confined to hospitals but still given the same love and care. There are a few that have even gone onto college, reaching the next step in creating social progress here. There is a lot that’s been done and still a lot to be done. I am hopefully that God has been able to use me to be a small piece in the educational growth of the sites. I have been blessed to be able to connect them with Grapeseed which I taught in Japan and would love to see a continued partnership fostered. Yet, I know there is one way that we can help to keep the organization to grow and help others. There is a long waiting list to get in, many of the kids with similar issues but no space to be brought in. It breaks my heart to know there are people waiting to have a chance at an opportunity at a productive life.

 If you want to know more or feel led to donate, Oasisfororphans.org is a great resource and place that I know your money will be put to good use. I have seen it first hand and know some of the plans to bring it to the next level. I am both encouraged and excited to know that when I come back next, the place will be even better, and more kids will be further empowered to take control of their circumstances.    

Thanks for reading! If you want to know more feel free to message me or reach out, I can also connect you with people if you want to look at doing more for the cause.  Blessings!

PS I have over 1000 pictures and several videos. I don’t know how to sift through them all!! 

Outsourced to Kenya...for the summer.

 Want to partner with me on this journey?


I've all but forgotten about this blog over the last year or so as time has escaped me and Abilene, Texas has become my new normal. It's amazing though how quick and easy it has been to feel acclimated and at home in this town. I even recently bought a house. I think my head would explode if I tried to plan exactly what God was doing to even get me to that type of position. 3 years ago, I barely knew Abilene existed as I was sitting in a tiny apartment in Japan contemplating my future.

The greatest thing Abilene has afforded me is roots that I can truly grow and branch out from. For the longest time, I had this fear that I would feel like this tumble weed in the wind moving place to place never quite feeling connected and never establishing depth in relationships. However, I have reached a place for depth and am now ready to extend my branches to Kenya. (Ah yes that was the point of the post!)

It's been a weird intertwining testimony that has led me to Kenya. Let's see if I can make it short and sweet. Basically, I have a friend from college that have stayed in touch with who works for Oasis for Orphans in Kenya and I love a good adventure. I've always said I'd love to go. Most people say these kind of things: "I'd love to go to Europe!" "I'd love to see the Eiffel Tower!" "I'd love to go to the Sydney Opera House!" Usually that means it sounds good but I'm more focused on other things. For me, I've done all of those things and truly I can tell you none of them are that fulfilling in and of themselves. However, there is something that is far more fulfilling than seeing cool stuff. It's actively engaging in these places and making an impact. Hidden among the monuments and adventure are the lost and forgotten who are desperate to be reached, they are looking for someone to step in.

To further explain this, Isaiah 6 serves as my bread and butter. Put yourself in Isaiah's shoes for a second, you just saw God on a thrown and these majestic seraphim calling out. Rightly, you would be freaking out as Isaiah did at first exclaiming "woe is me! For I am lost; for I am a man of unclean lips..." It's easy for any of us to feel unworthy to be in that presence. The key point here lies in his ensuing interaction with God in ISAIAH 6:8.

God says, "who will go for me?" 

What do you say to the Creator of all things when he gives you something to do. If we truly search our hearts, it's not Isaiah's response. I've been in the twenty something to early thirty "Christian" world for a while now.

Our response usually is: "Clearly, he's asking someone else." "Maybe once I'm married, I'll have better perspective of what he's saying." "God you are great but I kinda want to do my own thing." "God I'd love to but I'm kinda busy with work, school, trying to figure out what I'm doing next...etc." "(silence)."

Then of course we have the second level: "I'd love to go...some other time" "Are you really asking me? I need to ask 12 friends and pray about it some more and get a clearer picture of what it is you are saying."

Then there's the questions: "How long will I be gone? Where am I going? What will it cost me? Can I afford it? What if I get sick? Is it dangerous? What if my family will miss me? Can I work it into my schedule? How will affect my current situation? What about the food?...I'm a gluten sensitive vegan. Will I get lonely? Who will be there? What do you want me to do when I get there?"

The list goes on and on. Hear me, I'm not saying discernment and prayer is bad! However, we really need to listen to the profound words of the man who was  just given coal to kiss by a six-winged man bird. Isaiah ignored all the questions that had to be in his head prior to being touched by the coal. He simply says, "Here I am! Send me."

We may never have such a dramatic and clear visitation such as Isaiah but the principle still is true. If the Creator of all things looks for volunteers, believers should be lining around the block. If Tom Brady (insert your favorite celebrity here) wanted me to quit my job so I could mow his lawn, I might think about it. Yet why do we push back against the One  who knew every hair on Brady's head, the one who created the world around his existence.

...My desire in going to Kenya is to simply follow in the path that has opened for me. I'm not really sure how it all will come together, yet I can see the vision of what has already been put in place.

 Last Spring, I had a conversation with my friend about helping their ESL program at Oasis for Orphans and their two Orphanages. Through this conversation, I was able to direct them to GRAPESEED, which is the program that was piloted at the school I taught at in Japan. (Feel free to read the rest of my blog for more on that experience!) From here, it was put in my mind to visit sometime. Later in the summer, I found out there was some interest in my moving out that way some day. By October, I asked about the logistics of me visiting next summer. Within a couple days, a plan was set in place and a green light was lit for the next steps on this journey of simply saying, "Yes if you need me, I will go!"

I pray that this journey is one that will truly bless those that God puts in my life as I am prayerfully able to help and assist their English program in any way needed. I pray most of all that these children that have been lost and now find themselves at these places will truly experience the presence of God and know him more and more each day. I pray that there is a greater outpouring of compassion for these children. I pray that God instills their testimonies on the hearts of millions around the world to simply take a step in the direction of Him.

If you would like to partner with me in on my journey, it would be a true blessing. If you are unable to give, I would greatly appreciate if you could partner with me in prayer throughout this journey.  Please take a second to check out my missionary page but also browse all the amazing things that God is doing with Oasis for Orphans.

Israel trip part 1: Why Israel?

When I decided last fall to take a mission trip to Israel, many friends and family questioned why I wanted to go there. Wasn't it dangerous? Aren't you scared? What kind of church brainwashed you into going to Israel? America also needs missionaries! 

To be honest there are times when these questions feel valid. Yet my biggest question that I have asked really since I moved to Japan is Why me? What makes me significant enough that God should care for and even call me to His people? Most believers could easily count reasons why they feel unworthy of God's love or really how they failed him. I could probably count 5 times in the last day that I fell short of the glory of God. We can get caught up in our shortcomings and lose sight of God's grace. Yet that is kind of the point.

Moses: This man had a speech impediment (Exodus: 4:10) and killed a man (Exodus 2:11-15)
Jonah: He had to get swallowed by a large fish (Jonah 1:17) in order to actually follow God's call.
David: He commits adultery and has the woman's husband killed to cover it up (2 Samuel 11:5-27
Paul: He was at times the worst of all because he actually persecuted followers of Jesus (Acts 8:3). Yet he wrote some of the most profound books of the Bible when God converted him.

This list can continue on and on but the truth of it is found in what aforementioned Paul says in 2Corinthians 12:9 (that's second Corinthians for Trump fallowers haha) "But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me."

These are just a few of the more well know examples found in the same Bible we Christians say we read. The point is we all fall short when comparing ourselves to Christ yet God chooses us in our weakness so that His strength is shown. He doesn't select the high and mighty. He selects the Davids of the world to take on the Goliaths AND WIN. Essentially this should answer the why me question for every single follower of Jesus. It's not our merits but His. Ok Greg's sermon part 1 is over. 

PART 2: Why Israel? 

Israel is a stew made from the same recipe. We're talking about a nation that is roughly the size of New Jersey. Yet, God calls Israel the"apple of His eye" in Zechariah 2:8. (Anybody every wonder where that phrase came from...mind blown? the Bible is full of great stuff). This is really an in depth question that my friends getting a masters in divinity could do a better job of answering than me. Simply, God chose Israel because His grace and love are magnified by his constant perfecting and pursuit of His people. Ask any teacher you know about that one student who finally did what you asked. An example will pop up right away and the intrinsic value the teacher felt will be unmatched. 

If I were to make an Old Testament for Dummies book it would be boiled down to this. God loves His people. Over the course of hundreds of years, these people are constantly on the pendulum of failing and turning away only to be brought back like the story of the prodigal son. 

Now let me flash forward for anybody that is still reading my thoughts, essentially I went to Israel because God loves his people. Because God loves me, He had the desire to share this joy for His people with me. One thing I've learned from Jonah is when God calls you don't let it go to voicemail. 

So what is this big majestic epiphany that God gave me because I listened and went to His holy land? It's pretty basic but not pumpkin spice latte basic (forgive me if you don't get the pop culture reference). It's a foundation principle basic. Because God loves me as He does you (reminder it's not about me but His love for me for those that skim read the beginning of this post), He wants to share with US his heart and the things He cares about. Picture sharing your favorite dessert with someone you love, it just makes it taste better. God has a love for Israel which is very evident through the Bible and through historical evidence for anybody that believes and reads about the history of Israel. 

In going to Israel, God shared His love for Israel with me and also renewed an understanding of the Bible in historical context. I could see and be at places that were Biblical but also empirically evident to those that don't believe. I often tried to look at places I went with atheistic eyes to see what a nonbeliever would see at these places. It's very difficult to connect places without the context of the Bible. Scripture speaks of locations and things that today are being unearthed by archaeologists. If the Bible has valid historical roots, then it must have validity historically. 

The other part of my journey was embracing God's Jewish communities and those that believe in Jesus as their savior. Getting a measure of understanding about the difficulty of what Israel calls being a believer in Israel, its truly remarkable to see people following the Messiah. Less than 1% of the country believes in Jesus. Yet, there is a beautiful and inspired heart that in that 1% that I got to meet. I look forward to seeing God's joy work through them as they grow. 

**This is the end of part one. I know some people really just wanted to know what I did while in Israel and wanted context to the "pretty pictures" I posted in Israel. But I thought it was important to give the context for the context. Reminder I'm just  a random guy who God inspired to search out His faith more deeply in the last 4 years. I understand if many of you scrolled through and thought this guy is crazy or lost touch with reality. I would say "yes" and "Thank you Jesus" to that. But I also pray that you take the time to truly take God, Jesus, the Bible and your faith into your hands truly whether or not you have ever believed. Pray, ask questions, visit more than just the church you grew up with. God appreciates discernment.The person you see on Sunday, can only take your faith so far and that person/church is not infallible. I often feel unsure about the direction God has in my life but am thankful for His compass. Remember God doesn't expect us to be perfect. Our imperfections are made more beautiful by His perfection. 

Stayed tuned for my thoughts on the trip!

     

My first year teaching in Texas

Hard to believe its been a year since that random trek to Texas and the 4th grade teaching job that just fell into place. I still remember the phone call from my principal. "Would you like to teach science and Texas history?" With the same spirit as a Texian who "remember(s) the Alamo", I decided to go all in and move to Texas. To be honest, looking back its truly amazing how clueless and even nervous I was to have this teaching job. Could I handle being the only male? Would I be put on a microscope because I'm new? Could I even make a proper lesson plan? Do I actually know anything about Texas?

Its funny how questions and anxieties can get the best of us but if we just keep pushing through in the direction we are led, they kind of disappear. I would say within the first month most of my random questions disappeared. I constantly went through the year going into events feeling clueless e until I showed up and just did them.

There's a million ideas circulating through my head on how to formulate this post so I figured I would do it question/answer style. A wise person once told me, "you can talk to yourself as long as you don't answer yourself. If you answer yourself you are crazy." Welp lets hope that doesn't apply to writing.

After teaching in Japan for 4 years, what is the difference from a teaching perspective between Japanese and American culture?

I could probably write a book on the differences if I took the time. Comparing Japanese schools, MeySen (A private Immersion English Academy), and my first year in Texas would be like comparing apples and meatloaf. Aside from good ol' Aunt Sally who put apples in her secret meatloaf, they just don't really compare. One thing to remember is Japan is the size of California. America is a large nation with every region so different much like the countries of Europe.

What were some differences you experienced?

In Japan, I taught kids who's parents were doctor, lawyers, professional athletes, etc. They really invested in making sure their students had the best of everything. That was actually a blessing and a curse at times. Parents were often competing with each other for who's child got the recognition and constantly watching every move. This honestly could be a similarity in some areas of the US. My Japanese students were also generally involved in a ton of extra curricular activities. They have a more busy planner than a CEO of a major corporation and they were in elementary school.  One of my students was even a professional violinist. I remember how hard she worked in everything she did, yet I could sense how much pressure she put on herself to be perfect in everything.

Teaching in America, there are few kids who are heavily involved but that's not always the norm. There are several kids who have more difficult home lives and they tend to assume a lot more responsibility in raising their siblings. There are also the few who would prefer video games and social media to actually doing things in this physical world. I recall being very surprised when I asked my Japanese students how much time they get to play video games, one boy raised his hand and told me he got an hour on the weekend and that was it. Probably the greatest difference between here and there is the diversity among the students in terms of background, interests, life experiences etc.

There are several other obvious differences. In Japan, I taught kids 6 days a week for about 300 days a year. At first, I really hated the idea of working on Saturdays but honestly got used to it pretty quickly. The job itself pretty much becomes your life. I did not really have much of a social life outside of where I worked and who I worked with. At times, it was a blessing but at times it was a curse. Honestly, the job itself was actually fun on most days so I looked forward to going to work. The other cool thing was when I left work, Peace Out...I was done.

In America, we teach about 180 days a year buuuut we put in countless hours outside of work. I spent most Sundays at Beltway Coffee grading or lesson planning as well as many other days trying to set things up. We get 50 minutes to plan but use the bathroom (finally), make a couple copies IF you don't have a meeting, phone call or e-mail  to make and all of a sudden its gone. Everything that really makes a classroom run smoothly is done on your own time and your own dime. Man do I miss having nearly 2 hours to plan and having essential supplies readily available.


What about discipline issues?

I had 16 kids in Japan. All of whom came from very similar backgrounds and usually had a strong intrinsic push to be successful. They had issues don't get me wrong but nothing even close to situations I have dealt with in America. Also, if I made a kid stand up for misbehaving that pretty much scared them from doing anything wrong.  I never once had a kid be disrespectful in  Japan.

In Texas, I had one kid in particular that told me pretty regularly "I hate school, school is boring, this class is boring." Other kids had a host of  issues I won't bring up on a blog post. There were so many unique situations this past year that made me go "What in the world?"

I feel as though I am painting out America in a bad light but let me reiterate how rewarding it is here. My Japanese kids had few issues and we enjoyed being around each other, there really wasn't much challenge in the day to day. When one of those kids in my American class who day after day misbehave all of a sudden make a complete shift, it is this feeling that I can't even explain.

One student in particular was melancholy day after day in my class and lived an emotional roller coaster. In the middle of the year after a really difficult incident, I  wondered why in the world am I putting so much effort into this kid. He slowly started doing better and better. One random day, he gave me a drawing that simply said "Mr. Z is the King of the World". He has never said one positive thing this whole year. I was ecstatic. These kids with all of their outside factors make teaching a challenge but such an incredible reward.

How is it being the only male in a school?

This truly has been a blessing being among my coworkers regardless of our gender difference. I honestly moved to Texas with nothing and no school supplies. By the beginning of the year, I had everything you could ever want and then some with very little paid for out of my pocket.  I am truly amazed at my coworkers day in and day out. The amount of work they put in outside of simply teaching their classes is just something to marvel at. On top of that, most of them have their kids with a full plate of activities. Some days I feel like I can barely take care of myself coming home from work. I can't even imagine having the energy to raise a family on top of everything else.

On top of all their involvements, they are some of the most selfless people I have met when it comes to serving others. Anytime there is a pregnancy (which we had a lot of), wedding, birthday, you name it, there were several people ready and willing to celebrate and pitch in to help. When something difficult happens in someone's life. They all are right there helping to make meals and do whatever they need to. Often extra jobs and tasks are picked up faster than they can even be offered at the school. I've honestly never seen a group of people that simply care quite like the women that I work with.

What do you miss most about your time in Japan?

It always comes down to the people. I really miss my students and not being able to see them grow. I miss friends I have made and just simply miss being a random American immersed in a different culture than my own. I also really miss having assistants. I forgot what it is like having to make my own appointments, actually having conversations with a doctor, and having a lady named Mia take care of all my emails and conversations with parents for me.

In the end, I am truly glad I had my time there but am so thankful to be exactly where I am at. I know God called me right to Abilene, Texas for a reason. A year ago, I had no clue. Right now, I feel present and engaged in the life I'm living. I'm heading to Israel in less than a month for a mission trip! Life is still an adventure and God is continuing to be faithful in growing me to become exactly who He wants me to be and exactly where He wants me to be. Like Farmer Fran tells Joe Dirt "Home is Where You Make it." I am home!

Christian and Muslim Coexisting My NZ New Years encounter

Especially at a time when there is such a heated debate about prejudice and hating people based on their beliefs. I found myself reflecting on my New Years Day encounter 2 years ago in Auckland, New Zealand. Disclaimer: Though the message is good don't do exactly what I did because the world is not always sunshine and rainbows.

New Years Day 2014

I was feeling the effects of having a dance club connected to my hostel in Aukland. I had stayed out until 3 and did not sleep nearly enough. The day after New Years I planned on flying out to Wellington to check out the LOTR sets and enjoy the city (side note:check out Te Papa museum if you are ever there.) Since my flight left at 6 am I got a really cheap hostel 5 mi from the airport. So in my exhausted state, I decided I wanted to go straight to my hostel and sleep the day away. I got to the hostel and was not at all what I expected. It was more like a motel that had random rooms spread along its campus. It was also run completely by people from India. I only note this to share that I just wasn't expecting to stumble into a hostel that is run by people not from New Zealand.

Anyway, I get to my room and barely listened to what he was saying I was so tired. The building he took me to had about 5 beds in a room and I was the only person there. I thought cool, I'm going to pass out and life will be great. The guy tells me to pick any bed or so I thought. I pass out on a bed in the middle of the room...

I wake up to an angry 40 year old middle eastern man glaring at me. I think I'm dreaming. He starts saying "What are you doing in my bed? That is my bed. Get out!" I was just in shock as I am sure he was seeing someone in his bed. Come to find out he was already there earlier and just didn't have his stuff on his bed. I quickly moved and contemplated about how I should probably avoid this guy. Now I'm stuck at this hostel apartment that fits about 20 people and its just me and the person who I rubbed my American germs all over his bed with nowhere to go. I figured I was really doing a great job of relieving stereotypes about Americans.

It was one the most awkward situations I found myself in during my travels. While I sat in the living area, I overheard this lady trying to fire this guy for being lazy and swearing at him on speaker phone. I felt like I had stumbled into this alternate reality. I went outside to avoid all his dirty laundry and couldn't help but laugh at the situation I had myself caught in.

I eventually went back and sat in the living area and the guy sits down across from me. I was thinking about how this couldn't have gotten any more awkward. All of a sudden, he starts talking to me. He explained the situation on the phone and offered some bread and mozzarella cheese. Forgetting my lesson about not taking things from strangers I just jumped right at it. He asked me for advice about a new business venture and asked me to send an e-mail for him on his computer in English because he always makes mistakes. Then he told me he would take me around town and show Auckland.

In my mind, I was thinking about the ways I could politely say nope. Its usually the set up for a joke or a news story: Christian man gets in a car with Muslim. He told me he had to run some errands and would come back and pick me up. I told him I was fine just staying there.

He came back about an hour later and said he was ready to go. Against any better judgement and to this day I think why in the world would I ever get in a strange man's car especially given all prejudices perpetuated by the media and Donald Trump, but lo and behold I got in the car. He told me he wanted to introduce me to his Iranian friend. I realize my passport is in my pocket. Internally, I'm thinking I survived a 9.0 earthquake and this is where I meet my maker. On the outside, we started chatting and had honestly great conversation. His friend wasn't home so we just drove around town. We discussed similarities of Islam and Christianity and talked about how it's important to care about people even when they don't share the same beliefs. We both had very different beliefs yet we could coexist and even become friends.

I look at all that is in the media and feel the fear perpetuated about people that are different from us. This constantly shown from several examples: the shootings of black teens by police officers and both sides see it in two different eyes. People fearing others because they have different beliefs. Democrats and Republicans keeping the country from true progress because they can't play nicely. Yet the truth that gets brought out by my New Years hangover story is that beyond all our stereotypes and hatred if we just take time to sit and break bread with people we may not agree with, then we can peacefully coexist and potentially help each other out. I pray that 2016 is a year that we can all not simply set aside our differences but honestly embrace them, share them, and beyond that realize we don't have to agree to care for and help each other as human beings. 

Having a Thankful heart

In this season of thanksgiving, I find myself realizing I have so much to be thankful for much like my favorite song we sang at Praise Community Church 感謝の心 "Thankful Heart".  Often it's so easy to overlook blessings. When things go good, we become accustomed to it and almost desensitized.

It reminds me of my first year in Japan. We were celebrating Tanabata (it's a huge summer festival especially in Sendai where I lived). At the end of the festival, there are fireworks. Well in this year particularly, Sendai went through a tragedy in the form of an Earthquake, tsunami, not to mention a nuclear meltdown down the road (several miles). So many people were lost and so many tears were shed in this area. Through this, Sendai endured and reached this celebratory festival. I say all this to reach my small point...we had fireworks for literally an hour and a half!!

 I'm not just talking random fireworks but grand finale style fireworks. Most people that have never experienced this would think wow that's amazing. But after about 30 minutes you start feeling desensitized to the amazingly beautiful display going on overhead. You start going to the bathroom, getting food, having conversations with friends all but ignoring the abundant work of cosmic art above your head.

When things are in abundance, it's so easy to forget about thankfulness. How often am I simply thankful for water? How often am I thankful for air that passes though my body as I sit here? It's so easy to be blinded by blessings or start to expect them as one of those "unalienable rights" our founding fathers talked about.

Yet when I find myself lost at sea yearning for freshwater to drink and spot a random case of Aquafina floating in the distance, I'm two stepping my thanks and praising Jesus as it comes closer.

It is through these moments that I continually need to humble myself before the LORD and simply be thankful for his grace.

For several years, I have felt so lost which is partially why I moved to Japan in the first place. Wondering why everyone around me seems so settled and life seems to just flow for them. Yet for me, I felt alone, lost and wondering what my place in this world was. It was through these moment that I felt Him saying stop worry you are exactly where you need to be.

There have been so many things I have second guessed or things I wish I had done differently that it's easy to get caught up in the pain of hindsight and not see the beauty beyond the fog ahead.

I sit here in my apartment ahead of my first Thanksgiving in America in 5 years, ready to celebrate it with people I never knew existed months ago. I vividly remember wondering and worrying about moving to Texas thinking that I had completely gone crazy deciding to move here. Yet I can look back at so many moments and things in the few months I have been here and simply say "WOW".

It's so easy to be caught up in the fear of the unknown but today I choose to be thankful for the journey He has put me on. It's crazy to look at the adventures and the things I've been blessed to experience and share with people. I'm thankful for His grace in those moments of fear and panic that pull me away. His steadfast hand keeps pushing me forward into these situations that I embrace building up the amazing journey that is life.


“Praise the Lord, all nations! Extol him, all peoples! For great is his steadfast love toward us, and the faithfulness of the Lord endures forever. Praise the Lord!”
‭‭Psalm‬ ‭117:1-2‬ ‭ESV‬‬

Kansha no Kokoro 感謝の心

Updates "Jesus is amazing Y'all"

Ok so I have yet to naturally say the words "y'all" without throwing a "yeeha" or "there's a snake in my boots" reference but I have slowly gotten accustomed to this world I now live in. One day in particular, I was walking into Wal-Mart  (forgive me its convenient) wearing a sweatshirt and thought man its getting cold. I looked at the temperature...80 degrees. 80 in Michigan, I would be at the beach with an ice cold beverage singing Kumbaya. On top of that along with several hundred dollars, my license plate now says Texas on it. I'm really just missing a pair of cowboy boots and nice Ford pick-up truck.

As I get used to my surroundings, I've been reflecting on the journey  God has brought me through in life, growing up in Michigan to randomly move to Japan after graduating, a devastating Earthquake, 4 years in a foreign culture and randomly resting myself here in Abilene, Texas. Honestly, its still hard for me to believe that I took this job here without ever even setting foot in Texas. I vividly remember a conversation with my brother, Ryan, last March before I left Japan wondering where life will lead us to at the same time next year. It seems to be the journey I don't foresee is exactly where I'm supposed to be.

The greatest growth I have felt within me even often at the cost of my pride and desires at times has been in the direction of the LORD.  Please don't read the last sentence as me being prideful thinking I am so great but truly amazed at His renewal that has etched its way into me. Often Jesus was found through the trials, earthquakes, loneliness,  and anxiety but always consistently, patiently waiting for me to just simply say "Here's my life Lord and let your will be done." Unfortunately, pride gets its way in front of that statement thinking I deserve something else when foolishly I realize that there is really nothing else better than a relationship with Him. I mean this apart from politics, religion and how your neighbor thinks you should believe...a real genuine place. It reminds me of this song "You have me" by Gungor.  Check it out if you haven't heard it.

If you find yourself extremely bored, you can see the transition God brought through my blog in which my first post in Japan in 2011 was "Day 1: Man These Toilets are Awesome!" and somewhere through the sarcasm and random posts I found myself writing about my pursuit of God. My whole point here is that God has taken me on a journey in this life and will continue to take me further along in that journey and I pray that my pursuits in life lead me closer to a stronger relationship with Him and truly be a man of Christ and not just somebody who talks about it. In recognizing this, I made the decision that this Sunday I will be Baptized. This in noway takes away from my Christian pursuits before this baptism but holds firm that ground I walk on as this journey of life continues to shine as I outwardly celebrate through baptism the faith that has been built up within me. I pray that this step helps me to continue to walk on the water that is belief. I could definitely use prayers as this is only but a step in life God has called me to. 

Outsourced in the Country of Texas

Well its been a long time since I posted anything on here. For a while, I thought I'd stop but enjoy randomly coming back and reading it like a journal that friends and family can see if they want.

TRANSITION:

Its been a lot of transition in this whole moving back to America. For the first month or so it was really hard. Japan kind of became what I knew and America was like this foreign land. I actually kind of liked not being able to understand what others around me were saying for the past 4 years. It makes things a little more peaceful.

I took some time to travel right before coming home as an extended layover style ticket which I felt was super smart and cost me next to nothing. I flew from Tokyo to Atlanta to Orlando to Grand Rapids all for about the same price as flying to Michigan.

Luckily, though it wasn't easy coming home, I had so many people that stepped up and just helped me out without thinking twice about it. Its hard to have to humble yourself for a month or two after living on your own in a different culture for the past 4 years. Yet, there were so many people who opened their homes to me. I felt truly blessed and was able to accomplish something I longed for while in Japan. That was to spend quality time with great people I missed the last 4 years.

"So you lived in Japan for 4 years? Why did you leave? You're moving to Abilene, Texas from Michigan? Why don't you just teach in Michigan?"

I've heard a million different spins to these questions pretty much every time I meet somebody. I've tried to think of some interesting answers. But the truth is really simple, It is time and the move just kind of felt right.

Coming home, I really had no clue what I wanted to do. Should I go back to school? Should I move to a new country? Should I teach or try something else new?

Just to have a glimpse of my thought process here are job offers/opportunities that appeared out of thin air that I turned down for different reasons: teach in Korea, teach in Egypt, work for AAA travel agency, work for a traveling health program for kids, teach in Dubai, teach in Korea again (they must really need teachers). Honestly, coming home I didn't truly know I wanted to be an elementary teacher. But I thought it was worth pursuing. I also knew that I wanted to get outside of my hometown and live in a new place. So I applied all over the place for teaching jobs pretty much haphazardly looking for good schools in areas as well as international education opportunities. I also strongly believe its not what you know but you know in pursuing a job so I reached out to friends that were teachers in other states.

 Low and behold there was a teaching opportunity in Abilene, Texas. I should mention I knew very little to nothing about this area before I applied.  I just knew it was in Texas and had friends that went to college there. That's honestly it. But I did research the school and the area a little bit as I found out I got an interview (I'm not that crazy). The interview went well enough that I got the job a few days later. I took the weekend to think about it but I never found myself passing it up. So that brings me to sitting here in Abilene preparing for the new school year as a 4th grade Science and Social Studies teacher.

I'm slowly trying to figure out my classroom while at the same time trying to figure out why they have these roads that ride parallel to the highway everywhere and what exactly is in the green dip sauce at the grocery store. It's a lot to take in and a new adventure for sure. I could definitely use prayers in this transition and settling down here in this country they call Texas. I'll update y'all soon! 

Things I've Learned Living as a Bachelor

I wrote this a couple years ago but never posted it.

Before moving to Japan, I've always lived with roommates, family etc. There's always been someone around. In that absence at the end of the day,  you discover a lot about yourself and how to function. Here's a few random things I've learned in the two years I've lived alone.

1.Dishes suck! No matter how many times I tell myself I'm going to wash my dishes right after I use them, they inevitably sit in their own filth until it smells like a baby crawled over to your sink and threw its diapers down your drain.

2. There are many very useful household items that can serve other purposes when you can't find a clean one (see above):

•  The handle of a spoon or fork makes a great knife. Not only can you eat your cereal but you can butter your toast with the same utensil.  
• Speaking of cereal, if its round and holds milk, it can be a bowl. Also, if it can be a bowl it can be a cup. 
• Chairs make great clothing racks. If you got a Japanese closet like me there is not enough space for hangers. 

3. There is a reason your mom separates your lights from your darks. Trust me. I have enough brownish, faded dark shirts or greyish white shirts to realize this. Yet I still throw it all in together and hoping the laundry fairy will magically wash them separately. Also, bleach isn't that scary.

4. Check expiration dates when you shop. Usually they put things that will expire soon toward the front of the shelf when you can have a whole extra week before it smells bad in your fridge if you dig for the back ones. (Don't forget to check expiration dates before you eat the food too.)

... now the real stuff

5. You get to discover who you are not who people think you are. Its really easy to get caught up in what people think about you and trying to portray yourself in a way that makes you fit with what people want you to be like. But when you are living alone, you can see your real side both good and bad. Sometimes you will discover that you are good at things. Sometimes you realize how lazy you really are. 

6. You get to grow. So often when I get caught up in other peoples perception of me. I get used to being what others think of me than who I really am. But when you find out what you're like when no one is watching you can start to grow on your own. For example, if you are lazy and out of shape. If you can get yourself motivated to run without anybody telling you to, then you will actually do it consistently.

New horizons: my decision to move on

I have made the decision to move on after 4 years of  working at an an amazing job that I have been so blessed to work at. It's definitely not a decision I have taken at all lightly and honestly took me a year or two to come to. 

After being blessed with a job that had truly provided so much for me both professionally and personally, I feel ready to seek new challenges reach new heights and grow more in the path God has set before me. 

As I look back, I am speechless at what an opportunity basically popped out of thin air. I still remember the feeling going into this job having no clue what I'd be doing but knowing that it would be a great adventure.

Flash forward 4 years and I have traveled more cities and countries than I would have dreamed of 5 years ago. I've had so many unique experiences with cultures that I could write books about. I've had the amazing blessing of working with so many great people that have shaped the man I am today and the person I see in the horizon.  I have also been afforded the opportunity to work with so many amazing students over 4 years that I am so proud to say I have taught and hope that I have somehow helped them grow into truly decent members of society as they continue. 

The funny thing is I have always thought going into this job that I'd be here a year not 4. But Meysen has really made it a difficult place to leave...in the best ways possible. One would be hard pressed to find a job that truly takes care of the person better than here in our amazing English utopia we call Meysen Academy in the middle of Sendai, Japan.

Japan has also become more of a home to me than I had ever expected. I've developed a deep appreciation for the order, respect and genuine humbleness that the society as a whole reflects. I feel I will always compare cultures I see in the future to that of Japan. 

I had always thought that I would leave having clear direction and knowing what I'm doing. However, God has really worked on my heart to understand the beauty is actually in the unknown. I have nothing to hold me back from truly doing anything next. I can honestly move to any country and do anything. That is exciting and a true blessing! I continue to pray that I am open to new opportunities and adventures and I follow God's lead to the right one. I also have several months to seek out the right opportunities.

I would also like to have some time  to truly be home and visit people who have always cared though I have seen and talked to so sparingly in four years. It's been wonderful getting to know my brother Ryan, his wife Sarah and their son Zachary out here in Japan the past few years and I'm excited to see how the rest of my family is doing first hand for a little while. I'm also looking forward to taking my friends up that have joked about having a room for me to stay in...haha

The truth is I have no clue what the next step or job will be for me and though it is frightening to not have this safety net of job security I've had, it's a truly exciting moment for me to see what The Lord puts in front of me.

Thank you all that have prayed for and supported me as I finish out my 4 year degree in World immersion. I pray that travels and adventures continue and that I can come back to Meysen and Sendai, Japan someday and visit. Thanks to everybody that has enjoyed/ suffered through reading all of my posts from my adventures as an outsourced teacher. God Bless! 

Starting a 4th year in Japan????...update on life

If you asked me when I first decided to come to Japan where I would be in 4 years, I definitely wouldn't have said Japan. The funny thing is I never in a million years planned on ever coming to Japan. Not that I didn't want to but that it never really crossed my mind. Then a job fair happened and all these little things falling into place that led me to exactly where I sit. Though it was never in my plans, I know God has led me all along the way. I'm only now scratching the surface of understanding it all. (feel free to read about my decision to stay here)

Without getting too wordy (hopefully),  I have a bunch of random life updates. I've constantly thought about posting something here or there. Usually, it'd be something I felt God put on my heart but then I felt awkward about sharing it with random people. I know He is tugging on me to be more open especially about my walk with Him simply because He is just that Amazing. Hopefully someday, I will feel more comfortable being open as I hope to grow closer to these verses:

Romans 12:2 " Do not be conformed to this world but be transformed by the renewal of your mind..."

Basically don't follow what society tells us is normal and follow what Jesus lays on your heart to do as you follow Him. I also take it as don't try to please others and care too much about their opinions because there is only ONE opinion that matters.

James 1:12 "Blessed in the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of  life, which God has promised to those who love him."

Right here is my struggle, I tend to pray and feel God saying something but doubt myself and end up anxious and awkward.

My simple goal is to trust more and follow better. Trust me, it may be simple but it is definitely not easy.

Its in following these verses that led me right on this path I am on to stay here, even in the face of doubt and discouragement as I looked toward the end of the year. Yet, I still felt God telling me to stay. I received a major blessing at the beginning of February:

One thing that had been on my heart if I stayed this next year was to get a vehicle. Now most people think this is A crazy or B a longterm commitment. I choose C (well A too). I wanted to feel like I lived here in this next year. A car is one way to allow me to freely navigate Japan and feel a little more normal here. Its something that you don't really understand until you get one. I had thought that I would wait until April and buy one even though it would have been a real stretch to have enough money to do it.

However, one random Sunday at church, my friend Bryan came up and said "hey, I might have a car for you its about $1000." My first reaction was to be in disbelief and go whats wrong with it, does it run? I have a really hard time accepting straight up blessings. This was one. The catch was that I had to decide and buy it by that Wednesday. Long story short, I got the car and its exactly what I need. It gets me where I need to go and I can afford to get rid of it, if I feel led to leave this country. Everytime I get in that car, I think "Wow God, you are amazing!" Trust me its nothing fancy, no Beemer or Lexus and its definitely got its share of issues... just like me! Thats what I like about it.

Another change this last March was saying goodbye to friends that made the initial journey here with me. Friends that have been through the earthquake, travel stories, life with me. My friend Aaron, I can honestly say one of my best friends I've had and even someone I look up to as a man even though he is younger than me. Its amazing to see how God has grown him over these years and his relationship with his fiance Mallory. Its another one of those things where I look at the two of them and just go "wow, God you are amazing!" I realize this is a friendship that no matter how long we go without talking, things go right back to like they were before we left, just like my great friends from home.

In keeping up with the life changes, I also had to make a change. I've always wanted to teach 1st grade since coming to Japan. I loved working with this age when I got the chance to sub back home. They have such a passion to learn and understand things at this age which makes it a lot of fun to teach.

On top of teaching first grade, I will also be teaching 3 year olds and the first year of Premier High School. For many, toddlers is their first exposure to English, its even when they learn their English names. For me, it means I can be super ridiculous and get an energy boost to start my day.  Premier High School will be more of a normal 7th grade English class you'd see in America. The pioneer class just graduated in March from 6th grade. It should be an interesting challenge.


My goal is to stay busy, positive, and focused. Above all, I pray to grow in my walk and keep my heart focused on God's plan for my life. I've got a lot of changes coming up and am both excited and nervous to see where this year takes me! Please keep my sanity (haha) and focus in your prayers as I take on these challenges.

side note...For spring break I also went to Kyoto and Osaka and had a good time seeing all the great sites in the rain. If I have time, I try to post about it someday soon!

For people that know my brother Ryan and his wife Sarah, they are also doing great out here. He's leading the 4th grade and she is leading the K4 kindergarten.  Their son Zachary is starting in the Japanese Kindergarten K4 program. He is like a local celebrity and speaks better Japanese than I do. I am Jealous.
Its definitely been another "wow God you are amazing!" things to enjoy having family here in Japan going through the same situations as me.

I think thats all the random updates.
Hope to see many people in October when I'm home for a week!!

The Church That Meets In a Bar

I've lived in Japan for 3 years now and have grown older, grayer, balder, and some might even say wiser. But the greatest growth internally for me is clear. Its my understanding of God's relationship with me. If it weren't for my relationship with God, there is no way I would have stayed longer than a year. Honestly, I would have never returned after the earthquake.  Yet I feel a strong connection in my walk with God still here in Japan.

It may seem odd because 99% of Japan does not claim to be Christian. In America, it would be hard to travel around and not see a church. Some places feels like there is a church on every corner. Yet here in Japan, there is a distinct absence. To me, its that absence that makes the presence so much more real. Often, I find the relationships that you have to seek and strive for are worth the most. In Japan, churches are not very easy to come by. So as a Christian, you have to be diligent in your search for the right one for you. For me its clear:

• A Genuine heart for God and worship of Him. 
• Bible Centered
• A passion and vision to build up its members and positively enrich the worldly community in a way that Jesus would. 

Its an interesting change for me. When I sought God as an after thought, my list would have been:

• short and sweet
• later start time
• not too preachy/judgemental

The simple change for me happens when I made the shift from church being a duty, something you gotta do before you fall asleep watching the Detroit Lions break your heart on Sundays, (Good luck Caldwell!) to a true joy. Church has become like a medicine for me. I show up and can feel refreshed. Its easy to make the excuses not to go but when you are actually looking forward to God's presence and worship, church feels less like a chore. All of a sudden you start looking for churches to check out when on vacation. Quick plug: visit The Street City church if you're ever in Wellington.

Now to the point of the post. Church doesn't matter where you meet or whether you have 5 or 500 people in the seat as long as it follows those first 3 steps. Since last January, I made the conscious effort to check out Praise Community Church for a month. I've been here for over 2 years at that point so I had heard of it and checked it out on multiple occasions. Some of my best friends here go there so it made sense to give it a real shot and apply myself there. 

One thing that was always evident there is a true heart and warmth for Jesus. 7 nights a week, this place is a Japanese/motown style bar. You walk in and see alcohol and tons of MoTown posters from years ago along with a DJ table. But the feel on Sunday mornings is very different. Its a place of worship. Its a place that welcomes anyone. As you get into church, you tend to forget the surroundings and feel His presence. 

Its also a place that dives into the Gospel. Taka, the pastor, thinks through his sermons and develops a message over several weeks. Its not the same old story every week. He also seamlessly blends great real life examples that can bring out the message from the Bible. I often am there and feel like something in the message is speaking directly to me. Sometimes its eerie... One time, I had just talked to a friend about the meaning of a Bible verse the day before(Matthew 6:21) and I thought about it just as I got out of the subway. I waltz in to church late (whoops) and as I settle in awkwardly, that exact verse gets explained. God likes to make my brain explode with "coincidences" haha.  The other great truth is that the message would be the same whether 5 or 500 people are there. I think Taka would stand up there and give the same effort if there was just one person besides himself showing up. 

It is this heart and drive that makes PCC special. At the heart of the church is an accepting soul that invites anyone to come. One day, a drunk guy even stumbled off the subway and came to church. I actually had to poke him everytime he started snoring so that I could hear the message. The church welcomed him with open arms regardless of his afflictions. PCC also has been plugged into the community in a God centered way to help and share God's love by regularly visiting homeless communities, people that have suffered through the tsunami damage, and English conversation times. These things are done with no strings attached but to simply show God's love to others. 

Through these strengths, I have seen both the vision and heart grow in this church so much over the past year. It's becoming a usual occasion to run out of seats on Sundays. I seem to see new faces that continue to return each week. Its been a truly amazing blessing to see this growth. With the growth, I've seen so many people take on leadership roles to take this church even further with God's blessing. I am excited to see the direction for this church which is a strong reason why I stayed for another year!  

* I also want to share that there are many other churches doing amazing things for the Sendai community and Japan. I believe that each is unique and has its strengths and a true heart for God.

Please keep the strength of all the churches here in Japan in your prayers.

   

If you're ever visiting the Sendai area, feel free to visit Praise community church. Heres the Facebook link that tells you when and where: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Praise-Community-Church/184494033495

New Zealand/How I spent my Christmas vacation

Every year since I moved to Japan, I've gone home for Christmas. Its almost become an expectation with my family and friends. It makes my life easy: the school pays for it, most of my friends are in the area, I celebrate my favorite holiday with the people I love. This year, I had it stuck in my mind that I didn't want to go home for Christmas. My parents came to visit in the summer and I was partially convinced that I wasn't going to stay here for another year (whoops). I started thinking of the main countries I wanted to visit before going back home and having that normal life. I came down to two countries: New Zealand and Italy. Italy because of all the historical cities and culture, and well because I think Italian women are beautiful ;). New Zealand because it gives me the image of a true backpackers paradise, so much country to roam and activities to do PLUS they speak English!  Long story short, I found a really cheap flight that left on Christmas to New Zealand so I went. 

It was by far the strangest Christmas I had ever experienced even looking back I kind of forget that it was Christmas. I stayed in a hostel at Haneda Airport then flew out to Taipei, Taiwan at 7AM. There I was met by the guy who trained myself and several others when I first came to Japan. He is currently working as a missionary in Taipei. He took me around showed me the 101 tower and the night market. We also got a chance to talk about the foundation of the school I am a part of. I got to know the real heart behind everything we do. I can tell you first hand my school is run by people that truly believe in God and whose focus is to spread His message through the Bible. We had some very interesting conversations which I think was probably my favorite part of Taiwan.

• A few quick notes about Taiwan: The food is cheap and sometimes strange. You can have drinks and food with snake venom in it. Its supposed to make you feel younger. I was afraid to try it with my ensuing flight. The people are friendly and courteous. When I visited China on layovers, it was common to feel pushed around yet in Taiwan it was quite the opposite. 

Sooo there's a million ways I can go about writing about my time in New Zealand and the random stuff I did but I've heard lots of people tell me how they always wanted to go there so I figured it would be nice to give some tips from my adventure.

First some numbers: Here is what I did travel wise: Haneda Airport (Japan) to Songshan (Taiwan) 12 hour layover to Taoyuan (Taiwan) to Sydney (that was a surprise) to Auckland. Bus to Hamilton to Waitomo to Otoronga to hamilton to Rotorua to Auckland. Fly to Wellington and back. I stayed in and changed hostels 9 times. Used 4 different currencies. Visited 4 different Time Zones. Experienced America's Christmas in four different countries. 

TIP #1:  Have lots of time. Most people I met have been traveling New Zealand for months and some even began working there. Its not easy to get around when you are on a time crunch. 

TIP #2: Rent a car. Busses are pretty hard to come by and to fit your exact schedule. If you are looking to meet people and have lots of time then there are busses that can do your whole travel plans which is cool. Other than that, if you get a car you can go where you want and when you want. There is SO MUCH beautiful countryside/coastal area that you would never see if you weren't in a car. 

TIP #3: If you want a good central location in the north island that is easy to do pretty much anything you want, then choose Rotura. Its right by the beach and a nice touristy town and easy to walk around. It does smell like sulfur though. 

TIP #4: Have a general idea of what you want to do but don't be too locked in. Upon getting to places, I found myself wanting to change my plans but didn't want to lose a hostel i paid for or a bus ticket I bought. New Zealand is the perfect place to just go with the flow.

TIP #5: Make your own food. Everything is expensive. A candy bar cost $3. A bottle of water (tap is free) costs $3. An average dinner will set you back around $30. Pancakes or French Toast for breakfast at most places with coffee will be about $20. If you want a full meal for less than $10 look for Mc Donalds but even there lots of meals are around $15.

TIP #6: There is no such thing as coffee. If you want to make a barista's head explode just order a straight up run of the mill coffee. The first question they will ask is "What kind?" Coffee to New Zealanders is Espresso either as a long black, flatt white, americano, or a mocha all for about the exact same price. The only place I saw regular drip coffee was at Mc Donald's and Starbucks. Bonus tip: The best place for free wifi is Mc Donalds. Or if you are in Wellington, go to TePapa Museum. 

There's millions of random moments and stories I could share here about my experience. New Zealand as a whole is a beautiful country. The food is pretty great and reminds me more of American style restaurants. The tough thing coming from Japan is that I dive right in to the food that I never get in Japan which can be expensive. Seeing a Mexican restaurant is like Christmas for me.

My favorite thing I did was black water rafting. This is in Waitomo. I rapelled 30 meters into a cave then took a zipline from one part to another only to tube through these glow worm caves. Then I finished by free climbing up two waterfalls. Its definitely not something for the person that is claustrophobic but it was great!  My favorite was the free climb. I've developed an interest since rock climbing in Thailand last spring. The climb wasn't super dangerous but if you fell you'd get hurt. It kind felt like a grown up's jungle gym.

In Rotorua, I went and saw a geyser shoot off (no not some old man, the water volcano) along with lots of really cool looking springs. Also, I had a chance to beat both Aaron and Mallory (my soon to be married friends and coworkers also in New Zealand) in miniature golf. I had to throw that in there to rub it in. Unfortunately, we only spent 3 days together as we did different things and went opposite directions most of the time but it was good to have people I knew around. 

In Wellington, I went to see where they shot lots of Lord of the Rings movies. It is also where the movie premiered. Peter Jackson and James Cameron now live there so Wellington is becoming a second Hollywood. The tour itself was interesting. They took us to where they shot scenes and then took pictures of volunteers reenacting them. Like Katniss Everdeen, I volunteered of course (btw go see the second hunger games). 

Honestly though, one of the great things about this vacation was my ability to just travel and do what I wanted by myself. Traveling alone can be kind of scary. For me it wasn't so much fear of people taking advantage of me. It was more fear of having no one to talk to and to share experiences with. But it seemed everywhere I went I met somebody and made a friend at least in the moment of the event. I met tons of people from all over the world, mostly Germany. Many people joked that you can get around speaking German around New Zealand with all the tourists. Everybody has their unique story. Like this one guy who is literally riding his bike around the world or the guy who moved to New Zealand to open a Kebab shop but now wants to pursue his love of cars. But most importantly, it was a great opportunity for me to see that the world is beautiful and that there are friends everywhere you go even if you haven't met them yet.

 

Living intentionally: Staying for a 4th year

I'm sure we all know the guy that stuck around high school a little bit too long after graduation. He's 30 years old thinks he's cool because all the high schoolers come to his house for all the parties. He talks about how his time in high school  were the glory years. Or the 8th year senior in college that is still changing his major but really just isn't ready to face the real world. Both of these guys have issues. They are trying to hide from reality. But what exactly is reality?

Now some people will tell me that life here in Japan is not exactly reality and I'm just biding my time until I go back to America and have a "normal life." There have often been times in the past few years where jobs have come up and people have told me, "you can come home and apply for this job!" But the truth is the more I see the world the more I want/need to see the world. Of course, it would be nice to be somewhat settled in my day to day type world but there is so much adventure to be had.

This past year for me has been the hardest to truly decide to stay. If you asked me if I was going to stay in June, I would have said NO. I even talked with my bosses in the summer and told them that I was probably leaving this next year. However, summer vacation gave me hope. It was the first time I got a chance to really see Japan in all its beauty. My brother's family and I road tripped around Japan and I saw actual Japan. There is nothing quite like the views of Japanese countryside. There are these amazing mountains, waterfalls, and towns that are just all over the place. Yet, its so easy to get caught up with the day to day of this job and truly miss the beauty of the life God has given me here in Japan.

I have a job with bosses that truly care about me and want nothing more than me to succeed and a school that is deeply founded in Christian principles that have even helped me to grow as a Christian. After the huge earthquake in 2011, they were the only ones that told me exactly like it was. Not America's embassy, not Japan but MeySen. It would be very difficult to find a school that treats you as well as MeySen does.

There are definitely struggles that go along with this too and the longer you are here the more those things can eat at you. But I think that is true with any job. I've had so many times in this past year where I questioned what I was doing with my life. If I stayed too long already and all kinds of negative thoughts. Pushing through all that, I have grown a true appreciation for what I have been given here and also how amazing God has been to me here. Not just at Meysen but in the position my life is in.

Just like most single 28 year olds, I think aw crap what am I doing with my life. I should be settled down with the picket fenced house and 2.5 children (yes point 5, and I  love him the same). But when you get caught in the should be's you tend to miss that greatness of the moment you are in.

The one thing I plan to do differently in this next year is actually live like I live here. Often, us teachers tend to treat this job as a step to the next place. Then we find ourselves here for a longer time and wonder why we know no Japanese and still haven't taken the time to enjoy the culture we live in. So this next year, I plan on studying more Japanese, getting a car and living intentionally. Does that mean I will stay longer than a year? No, but it doesn't mean that I won't. In this next year I just plan to grow more as a person and in my walk with God, truly enjoying the life God gave me here.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart
    and lean not on your own understanding;
6 in all your ways submit to him,
    and he will make your paths straight
-Proverbs 3:5-6


With this decision, the hardest part is how much I truly miss my friends and family that have cared about me through this whole experience and wait for me to come home. I would love nothing more than to see everybody and be home to visit everybody. Its honestly, the hardest part of committing to stay knowing I will not see many people and special events in their lives. Just know that if you are a person that still calls yourself my friend or family you will always be that to me no matter where I live and I can't wait until we can all see each other again!!!

random thoughts on God and indecision

When we struggle and deal with issues and uneasiness we tend to assume God is working in that to tell us to go out and get out of the situation, when in reality he may want to work on us internally so that we don't get uneasy in trying times and trust him more.

When I feel lost out here (which anybody that lives abroad can do) I constantly wonder why and assume God is telling me I need to go home and or find something new. I look for answers externally and try to find what's safe. When in reality God may want me to change my perspective on an issue or trust him more in the trying times. Does worry pain and anguish truly come from God? Are those feelings we get a device for him to tell us to go back and do what's safe? Or  is he trying to take us through the worry and issues so that we can be strengthened? 

Why do athletes lift heavy objects...so that they are stronger to perform the skills they have been gifted. Maybe the burdens on our shoulders are only placed so that when lifted you have greater power and other burdens seem inconsequential. Carrying around a sack of potatoes all day makes the weight of a loaf of bread feel like a feather. 

If we don't go through that internal strengthening we are left weak to handle adverse situations. And there are always more to come in life. But the stronger our faith grows in adversity the greater our trust grows in God,  the greater he provides for us. Not necessarily a new Car/house/money (sorry Olsteen followers) but in a true sense of his presence that is a joy like no other. The greatest reward.

By the end of October I need to decide essentially what my plan is for next year starting next April. If you know me well enough, you know that I struggle to know what I'm doing next weekend let alone several months from now. If I had it my way I could just float through from one exciting adventure to the next and continue to grow and experience new things. However, its important to have that balance. What's your next adventure can quickly seem the same as what did you have for breakfast? It becomes normal and you reach a plateau. 

The great thing is I know God is going to be in on my decision to stay or go home either way. But to be completely honest, I at times am lost in knowing which direction is truly right for me. I try to find signs in everything as to whether I should stay or go and the one thing I realized in doing that is if you are looking for signs for something you will always find them. We want to say "Alright if I walk by someone eating a tuna fish sandwich (random I know) on my way to work, then God is telling me I should do A but if I dont then I should do B." The truth is God works in so many amazing ways that right where you end up is right where you should be regardless of whether you want some ridiculous sign. 

I guess the point of this post is that we shouldn't let our own fears and doubts get in the way of what God has planned for us. If you ask God to carry you through the storm, its important not to jump out of the boat as its still floating or you may never reach that beautiful place he wants to carry you to.

A few of my favorite verses:

Proverbs 3:5

5 Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding;

Isaiah 12:2

2 Surely God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid. The LORD, the LORD, is my strength and my song; he has become my salvation."

Philippians 4:6-7

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.  And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Matthew 6:27
Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?

Zietlow Family Japancation

One of the great things in life is family. Its something, I've learned to appreciate more when I moved 6000 miles away nearly 3 years ago.  As kids, we went on two vacations that I remember. We went to Sea World in Ohio and then Chicago the next year. Nothing too crazy. This summer I got the chance to spend vacation in Japan with my family. As most people that might read this know, my brother, Ryan and his wife and 3 year old son also live here. I never thought I'd be able to talk my parents into finally coming to Japan but they made it!

We spent the weeks traveling around Japan and seeing the beauty of the road trips and flights that I had never taken the time to see. On the trip, there were many little hiccups in the road. Traveling with me is always an adventure.  Some people are even afraid to travel with me because they think I'm cursed. I disagree, sometimes the best stories are the ones when things don't go according to plan. Its easy to get frustrated and down when things don't fit your exact plan but really what can you do about it? So instead of a long wordy blog about my vacation, I thought I'd share the "interesting parts" and the glass half full way of looking at it. 

Wave 1 Greg 0

1. The very first day of vacation, I decided to go surfing.  This particular day had some monstrous waves. On that very first wave I took, I fell off my board and slammed my head into the shallow sand as the wave dragged me. I ended up with a huge gross looking cut. Glass half full: Outside of pain, my head and neck were ok and my face healed relatively well in a few days. Falling on my head could have ended a lot worse.

2. That Saturday, we decided to go to the beach in Yunohama on the other side of the island. On the way back, we got on the highway and started to run out of gas as there were no gas stations around. We were weaving in and out of mountains dreading the idea of pushing the car somewhere. Glass half full: We never actually ran out of gas and made it to a gas station.

3. Sunday afternoon, after the issues of Saturday we decided to take a road trip 5 hours away to Yokohama. I still can't believe we decided to do that! I packed my bags quickly making sure not to forget anything...only to get to Yokohama and realize I left my bag in another car. I had nothing but the clothes on my back for 3 days. Glass half full: There are lots of great department stores in Yokohama and I could also borrow clothes from Ryan (even if they were a little big haha).

My parents came in Tuesday night  and had no problems getting through customs aside from almost leaving their bags at Nagoya! The next few days we spent around Sendai with no major issues I can remember.

Temporary Housing for 100 families.

4. Saturday morning, we had planned to go to Ishinomaki  for a party with people in temporary housing from the tsunami of 2011. Its about an hour away.  As we got on the highway, our van started to fall out of gear. It was just the opposite of the movie "Speed" we couldn't go faster than 50 KMH. So we had to pull over and then drive the car slowly back to Takamori. Glass half full: The car didn't completely break down.. We took another car and made it out there after lunch.

Monday was great! We had no problems and just relaxed.

5. Tuesday, we were planning on flying to Osaka for a few days. My dad had to stay with me because we couldn't all fit in my brother's car. Our flight was out at 9:15 AM. We got a later start and nearly missed our subway to get us to the train we needed. Because we were late there was only one train that would get us there on time, if we missed it we were screwed. We had to sprint across traffic in order to make the subway. Then we got to Sendai station, got a little lost. We should have actually missed the train but it was inexplicably delayed 10 minutes. Because of the delay, we missed the train to the airport, the next one would have got us there too late so we took an expensive taxi. Meanwhile, Ryan drove what should have been an hour car ride in two because of traffic. Glass half full: Even though at the time it didn't feel like it was going to happen, we all got there in plenty of time for our flight.

6. Upon getting on a 90 minute train ride from the airport to our hotel, we realized that theres no way we would make our 7:15 AM flight Thursday morning with this train. Because of this we had to cancel our last night in the hotel (a pain) and then book a hotel at the airport. This also meant that we had to bring our bags with us the next day wherever we went. Glass half full: This one was pretty annoying. But we did get to get a glimpse of Osaka Castle, Universal Studios, and Osaka Aquarium. 

The moral of the story is that life is always going to throw obstacles in your way. Its easy to sit back complain and say "whoa is me." But ultimately, that just keeps you from experiencing anything. For some reason, I tend to experience more travel issues than most but its taught me great lessons on both trusting that God will get you through anything and worrying and complaining doesn't stop what happened. So you might as well keep pushing forward. I'd hate to not travel out of fear that an issue "might" happen.

I remember vividly, when I went home for a friends wedding and my flight was cancelled on my way back to Japan. I was so annoyed and upset that it completely ruined my day. Instead of enjoying a great day with my family in America, I was upset I couldn't get back on time and there was nothing I could do. I felt horrible that I wasted the day God gave me to be with my family in America because I was annoyed I didn't make my flight. Of course inconveniences suck. Life doesn't go exactly as you plan it. But if you embrace those moments that life hands you, you'll be stronger for it and have a great story in the end. As John Lennon says "Life is what happens when you are busy making other plans."