The Day After Christmas!

This morning it is quiet.  The sky is really grey.  I could consider it gloomy but it sets the tone of a day I will enjoy, quiet and still.   I am staring at odds and ends 'leftover' from the celebrations of our Christmas.  Like many today the frantic activity towards "Christmas Day" is a memory and maybe a weariness.  It is quiet for most us, some are still celebrating and extending the holiday.  Hopefully, the toys that were so important are being played with and enjoyed. 

I have loved looking at Face Book, in particular, seeing snaps shots of families, moments in time of families who have come together to celebrate.    Ours was one of those.  To say I am blessed pales to the reality of what I have been given.  I know this and I truly savor this fact.  I do not take it for granted.  I do not deserve any of the blessings but I do treasure them in my heart.

I also am acutely aware that many in my world had a rough go on Christmas.

**Across the country from where I live,  my father was in the hospital, my mother fragile over the situation, my incredible sister who holds so much of the family together, is tired and weary but always willing to go the next mile for so many. 
**I have friends who have died this year and there was a hole in the family by their absence this year.
**I have friends who are fighting diseases and long to be here next year.
**I have friends who are angry with life.
**I have friends who have lost jobs and the future is uncertain.
** I have friends who spouses have been unfaithful, left them alone and vulnerable. 
**I have friends who live in 3rd world countries who need food.
**I have friends who live in dangerous places and because they are Christ followers could be killed.

Note that my friends, are plural not singular, in the issues I have shared.  This world is a rough place to do life.

As I share this blog,  I do so because life is not fair.  Some times we have blessings.  Some times we have burdens.  Those beautiful pictures we look at on Social Media are a moment in time. They are times to cherish.  If they are yours, cherish them!  If they are not, be happy for them! Remember life is fickle and uncertain.  If they are not your pictures, choose to find things to be grateful for.

Bitterness and resentment only hurt one person, and it is not the person we are resenting, it is us. Alan Stewart. 

 Gratitude is the healthiest of all human emotions. The more you express gratitude for what you have the more likely you will have even more to express gratitude for.  Zig Ziglar

Yesterday was Christmas, the day we should celebrate the birth of Christ.  He says this about His life.

" I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly."  Jesus 

(Bible, John 10:10)

 

If you did not have a 'picture' perfect Christmas you have been offered one magnificent gift, a forever, perfect gift. 

" I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly."  Jesus 

(Bible, John 10:10) 

WE MADE IT! So far so good!

Today marks 45 years of being married to the same man! The best part is that we still love and like each other! A blink and the years are gone!  A blink and the bodies have grown older!  A blink, a few stumbles and few 'hit them out of the park' home runs and it is December 19th for the 45th time since we said "I Do!"  Time, that fleeting gift we all seem to take for granted has been measured for me today by this anniversary, where has it gone?

I have some advice to share to those coming behind us in this covenant before God, called marriage.  It is advice I still need to finish the course well (and I hope it is a long course). 

Be grateful!  Even in the rough times find something to be grateful about.
Be gracious!  Always be kinder than you 'feel'.
Be wrong! Pride divides and opinions are just that 'opinions'.  You too are flawed.
Praise and affirm often.  Taking for granted even the smallest of things degrades the tasks of life.
Look for humor in the rough patches of life, humor vs anger makes the situations easier to bare.

Work hard on all of your relationships, when all is said and done they really matter.

I am grateful beyond words for the years I have had with Don.  Many were hard, life is hard.  Many were good, there is an abundance of good to be found in all of our lives!  Many were probably ordinary in the strictest  since of the word but I would not change what life has given to me.

Blessed I am.

Countdown to 45!

This blog on my 65th year is is fun.  I have not had the time to write as I would wish but as I can the reflections are humbling.  I am one blessed individual.

Countdown to 45 years of marriage is amazing to me!   December 19th we will have made it 45 years!  Amazing!  As a young girl I never expected to marry, for 'who would want me' was never far from my thoughts.  I was young when I met Don Erickson and in today's world most would say too young to marry him at age 20.  Perhaps in my world it was too young as well. However,  outside of choosing to make Jesus Christ, the Lord and Savior of my life, marrying Don was the best choice I ever made.  I love having done life with this man.

If my life today were exposed to the world on Facebook or on social media in general, there would be  'ugly' pictures or posts along the way.  Our journey has had valleys to include a child who was ill most of her life and died early, hospital and medical bills that were staggering, arguments, opposite opinions, a very tight income, old cars, getting 4.5 kids ;) into adulthood.  Add to this list, we are doing life in a fish bowl before a community and a congregation.  We are two people who are less than perfect and are still trying to figure it out.  

We are two people who are so opposite, we would flunk a marriage counselors compatibility test.  We have this in common, we love The Lord, each other and our children.  From there we both must navigate how to do the dance to make a marriage work.  Don loves details, routine and organization. I am 'Tigger'.  I am a BIG picture person that has A.D.D. I verbally process my thoughts, ideas and momentary wishes. He has spent our married life trying to quantify these messages hoping to please me or stay ahead of me, while I have most likely moved onto a different subject or thought.  He has spent most of our marriage looking for things I have misplaced, trying to bring order to my life when I really did not see the need for it at that moment.  (It is important ;) ).  He has supported my crazy ideas (most of the time) and he has challenged me as well.   He believes in me! No one else ever did that for me! 

I close this blog realizing that spouses or friends that have opposite personalities are really God's blessings in our lives.  They help to knock the rough edges off our personalities and force us to look at life through different filters.    We have learned to lean on each others strengths and forgive each others weaknesses. 

"Be completely humble and gentle; Be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the spirit through the bond of peace."   Ephesians 4: 2-3 (Bible)

And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you." Ephesians 4: 32 (Bible)

Sappy and Sad Moments - The Sixty Fifth Year

It is Monday a.m.  I should not be blogging, I have a to do list that is weighing heavily on my spirit, but hey the list will be completed in time but my thoughts will flee never to return in this form again.

I love Christmas!  I love the 'why' of Christmas.  Jesus!  I love the music of Christmas, especially the music that tells the 'why' of Christmas.  The music can be carols of centuries past or new worship music, that tells the same story in a new, fresh way.  I also enjoy the 'sappy' secular tunes, they too can pull my heart strings because they remind me of my past.  I love the old Christmas movies and the 'sappy' Hallmark Christmas movies.  I love to see my home decorated to celebrate the season. 

The urgency for me to 'blog' on a Monday a.m. stems from the sappy side of my emotions.  Each Christmas old memories flood my brain and heart.  I recall the emotions of being a child, wild beyond excitement for Christmas day.  The anticipation was too much to handle, so I was the ultimate snoop and rarely surprised Christmas morning (but always happy).   I appreciate now how much my mom and dad (especially my mom) did to make our Christmas's the best day ever.  Money was tight and sacrifice was big and we were blessed. 

I recall my sweet daughter who now resides in heaven.  Her concern over not having a gift for Don and I on our anniversary (Christmas time) so she went to a neighbor to ask if she would help her buy us a gift.  The neighbor did just that.  I still tear up over this kind act as I look at the Holly Bush given to us from Kara (because of a neighbor who 'got it'). 

I remain acutely aware of my Zambian and Honduran friends who are starving, while I bake.  I can give and give (and I do) but it is never enough to fill all of the tummies with needed food.  I cry.

In experiencing of all these emotions that replay each year and I am glad they do, I know that Christmas is not about receiving.  It is never to be about receiving.  It is about giving!  Giving time and words of encouragement to one who is alone!  Giving time to serve someone or thing that needs help.  The need for help, encouragement, love and hope are greater than any wrapped gift under a tree.

It started with God's gift to us His son, Jesus, to cover my sins and payment so I will have eternal life. I do not have work for this gift, I just need to accept it and Him.  That is it!  

I do not have to decorate, bake or over buy in an effort to make someone happy for Christmas! Their happiness is not dependent upon me.  Their presence should never determine my contentment with Christmas. My focus on the giver of the  perfect gift, Jesus, is truly a good Christmas.

Here is what Jesus says about Christmas.  "I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep..."  John (Bible) 10-11.
  
^" For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. "  John (Bible) 3:16

In my sappiest moments of longing and wishing something was different than reality, I  must come back to the ultimate gift that affects my eternity and I am humbled.  The first Christmas and each one after that was all about us and the ultimate in gifts.  Savor your gift from Him, it is priceless. 

People!

December 1, 2015 - The Sixty Fifth Year....

I have moved into the second half of my 65th year with several months of non-blogging the adventures and the journey.  The adventures have been over the top and perhaps I will return to share about them at a later date.   Like each year of our lives, time just flies past us.  We are each given 24 hours in a day.  In my case those hours are not slow but a blur and a rush  The calendar pages turn too fast. 

I have so much to be thankful for.  I am blessed beyond words with family, friends and life's conveniences.  I have traveled the world this year.  I have been to places that were not even on my 'bucket' list,  but opportunity opened up and I jumped in.  But just now I am just not in a thankful place.

It is just past midnight and I cannot sleep. I have gone to bed, tossed and turned and tossed and turned and tossed and turned. I gave up and here I am, writing.  In spite of my blessings my heart is heavy.  One would ask why?  I lack for nothing! 

People!  People are the reason my mind won't shut off.  I generally love people.  I am a people person. I am energized by people.  I love to give to people.  I love to encourage people.  I love to help people.  So why am loosing sleep?

In my human effort to please people, I come up short every time.  This imperfect world that we try to make perfect,  leaves each of us longing, whining, striving, demanding, hoping that it will be just that, perfect.  It never will be perfect.  People will let us down, demand more than we can give, take us for granted, be fickle and leave those of us that try to please, weary. 

I turn to the one source that leads to me right thinking.  The Bible, God's written word to us.  He knows my journey here is temporary and I live in a broken creation.  He knows that I must come to the end of my self and seek Him before my perspective of the day to day frustrations will be understood.    Heaven will be my time to know contentment and until that time, I ask to be forgiven for my attitude and cling to this promise.

^"Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." Galatians 6:9 (Bible)

 “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33 (Bible) 

"I will lift up eyes to the mountains, where does my help come from? 
My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.  Psalm 121:1,2 (Bible)

Crazy it is!

It has been months since I last 'blogged'.  I have traveled to Israel, to Dubai and Zambia, to Honduras and have landed home for now.  Whew, I am still feeling the movement of the adventures.  I have not had time to deprogram or look at my pictures, my journals need their entries and attention too.  I am still surfacing from all of this, a bit tired still, but when asked if I would do it all over again, a resounding "YES".

I want so much to share you the hundreds of things learned, emotions experienced and perspectives I came home with but not today.

Today's focus is heavy.  I am going to focus on how I am coping in this crazy world we are finding ourselves in.  If you have not noticed everything is spinning and chaotic.  My head spins and I want to land somewhere that is sane and feels normal.  Even as sit in my comfortable, inviting home I sense that all is not right out there.

The news of evil people randomly shooting police officers, it seems on a weekly basis.  The stock markets of the world are teetering toward failure.  The abortion mills harvesting baby parts for sale, making millions of dollars.  The American political candidates who want to be the world leader, 'talking trash' and acting like junior high students.  Refugee's looking for a place to live, their Muslim brotherhood radicals have run them out of their homes, they too are Muslim. If they are followers of Jesus they are not refugees, for the most part, they are dead. The refugee who was 'looking' for freedom and given freedom, brutally rapes a 7 year old little girl. Do we let Muslims into our country to be attacked further???? What is the answer?   It just does not end.

So why am choosing to write about this today, when there are stories to tell and adventures to write about?  Because in this Face Book, social media world it is too easy to be caught up watching the world that we do not involve ourselves in the world.   We look at what others have that we might want and we are certain that 'thing they have or do' is the answer to our longing.  We ignore the horrible things going on in the world because it is painful to think about and to think about 'what if this were me or my family?'.  We shut down because we feel we are just one person and what can we do?  I understand each of these emotions and thoughts.

So now what?  I go to only place I know to turn, God.  He is not a popular 'turn to' resort.  In fact those of us who are Christ Followers are mocked and marginalized as unworthy.  That is not a new trend, it is a trend throughout the ages.   If there is no God then there is no hope!  Man is really a mess and has no answers.   I rest in my knowledge of the one true God and there in is my hope! I leave you with this passage from the Bible.

 

Isaiah chapter 55: 6-11

  "Seek the LORD while he may be found; call on him while he is near.

    Let the wicked forsake his way and the evil man his thoughts. Let him turn to the LORD, 

    and he  will have mercy on him, and to our God, for he will freely pardon. 

 

"For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," declares the LORD. As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.   As the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater, so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it. 

When you are tired of doing well.

I have been home a little over a week from Zambia.  My sleep schedule has improved greatly, but this week, every day seemed like a Friday.  I will own I am still a bit off on my sense of time.   I responded to an email that had an issue needing to be addressed, stating I would get on it Monday.  I still had two work days in which to get the requested task done.  Monday...what in the world was I thinking?  (I did take care of the issue.)  

This Sixty Fifth Year blog, is for me a time to stay aware and engaged in all that is around me.  I long to be part of a change, a good change.  A change where a well is dug, and that well brings fresh water to a village of 800-1000 people. The well's clean water will improve their lives.  A change where I make others aware that they too can make a difference, even if they never travel the world.  A change where I encourage people to not settle for lesser goals because their main goal might be hard to achieve.  A change where I challenge those in our country who complain about a piece of meat,  served to them in a beautiful restaurant, that has not met their critical 'taste' standards, to be grateful for the meat! 

Why the title "When you are tired of doing well"?  Because I am!   I don't want to be.  I want to remain encouraged about the progress I saw in our little village of Lutendee.  I want to be encouraged by those here in my country who have decided to stop being so self absorbed and too give back.  I want to wake up tomorrow and have a sense of 'all is right in the world".

I leave a 3rd world country whose people are proud of their heritage, want to make life better for their children, but do not know how. I  come home to my country who has gone crazy.  People hate it, disdain it, they devalue all life but their own and they mock it.   The sad thing is that my African country was looking to our country for stability and hope. 

I am grateful for all of the adventures, misadventures, travel opportunities, interaction with people opportunities and life experiences that have come my way. The experiences and exposures have opened up my eyes to the world.   If I were to die tonight, I have been blessed above most. I am most grateful for my curiosity of life that permeates my soul and drives me to keep going.

So, what do you do when it is easier to quit, give up, worry, complain?  

 Keep going! 

 If you or if I  make a difference in just one persons life, we have blessed them in their hard journey. 

 Great works are performed not by strength but by perseverance.

Samuel Johnson 

 I live my life based upon The Bible.  I answer to a higher being than myself or  my government. I am called upon to give and to serve those in my realm of influence.  Yes, it is tiring.  Yes, it can be discouraging and seemingly futile.  However, as I head to my bed shortly, to rest this weary body, I know that tomorrow will bring to me opportunities to make a difference in the life of another human being.  I am not here to please man but to please my God.  

"Don’t be misled: No one makes a fool of God. What a person plants, he will harvest. The person who plants selfishness, ignoring the needs of others—ignoring God!—harvests a crop of weeds. All he’ll have to show for his life is weeds! But the one who plants in response to God, letting God’s Spirit do the growth work in him, harvests a crop of real life, eternal life.

So let’s not allow ourselves to get fatigued doing good. At the right time we will harvest a good crop if we don’t give up, or quit. Right now, therefore, every time we get the chance, let us work for the benefit of all, starting with the people closest to us in the community of faith." Galatians (Bible) 6:7-10

The King

Note his chair and scepter.

My last blog post shared one aspect of my special opportunity to visit a king!  I have been fascinated with the whole protocol of kingship since my first visit on his property two years ago.  Two weeks ago on Saturday we were given the privilege of meeting him.

His name is Libosi Imwiko II.  He is part of the Lozi tribe a people, who migrated from the Congo several hundred years ago.  He is popular with his people though economic issue remain. 

The cultural traditions of his people have been maintained, for the good or the bad. (Perspective). 

The traditions are fascinating, foreign to me. Twice a year he moves.  During the rainy, summer season he lives in Mongu proper. (Photo below)  In the dry season he moves to the flood plain of the Zambzi River.

The regalia of him moving locations,  is festive and very expensive for the people, but they love it and hold on to this experience.  The king has one large canoe, his wife another!    We visited the grounds on the flood plane this time.  It is very, very modest and run down but, the tradition remains.  We were not allowed to photograph his residence on the flood plane.The pictures of the king below I snagged from Google. :)

The tribal attire is bright and beautiful the red hat denotes he is chief as well.  Chiefs of every village sport their red hats.  In future blogs of Zambia you will see reds hats abound.

The King's  land in Mongu has Lozi's renting from him.  I asked how one got to 'be' on the Kings land.  As in all cultures, it is political, whose village do you belong too, for example.  It also costs a lot of money...I guess we would consider it the high rent district.  The Zambzi river connects him to both of his homes.  The photo below is the incredible sunset where the Zambzi forks onto his property.

A little chief in the making.

He sits in within the striped area to greet the people. His home is behind the wall.

Sunset on The Kings property.

Women heading home for the evening. They live on the kings property

 

 

 

When a tradition gathers enough strength to go on for centuries, 

you don't just turn it off one day.

Chinua Achebe

 

An Appointment with The King

I am back in 'my world'.  The world of ease and conveniences. I am coming out of my jet-lag fog and want to catch up on the stories of the past two weeks.

Do you ever feel your life is surreal at times? Mine is!  When I decided to blog about the year 65 in my life I had no idea just how incredible, random and unpredictable  the experiences would be.

I have set out to make note of all things 'life'.   Ignoring sunrises and complaining of rain, ignoring kind gestures and noting the opposite, groaning over inconveniences rather than embracing the luxuries I do have have, all come into focus as I realize what blessings abound in my life.

In my 4th Zambian trip some things have rarely changed, but little changes are poking their heads up through this sandy forsaken place.   Each trip looks a bit different as we focus on the people and projects that are part of our over site. This time there were more local paved roads in Mongu. They lead us to dusty paths but it is progress! This time our visits with dignitaries seemed a bit more hopeful.  This time the weather was cooler (70 degrees) their winter.

But one tradition remains part of the African culture, The King. Here in the Western Provence of Zambia he still plays a significant role in the lives of the people. I had been on his property one other time.    His cement walled home is old but distinct, when surrounded by the grass huts of those who pay to live on his property.  It borders the river and it is a tranquil part of Mongu.  Guards, walls and rules are what one experiences upon arrival.  Protocol of where to walk, when to talk, what to do is immediately thrust upon us as we arrive.

Perhaps no one will be reading this but as I write, it helps me to keep the experience forged into my brain.  How many people get to experience this?  As white women from across the globe, born in Oregon, living in Chicago, finding myself in Mongu, sitting before a king, I am in awe. Many of his subjects have never had this privilege, they watch him from a far!   Wow and why me?

I will write another blog post about this king adventure,  but for now protocol is my focus.  Upon our arrival our  instruction on what to do, how to do it and when, was very serious! Our American chatter was discouraged. We were subject to his rules.  We were introduced to a world very foreign to our way of thinking and doing life. 

Women play a lesser role (understatement) in this world.  Both men and women have a protocol that is strictly adhered too.   No one is ever 'higher' than the king.  No one ever 'turns their back' on the king.  Women enter through a side and back entrance, men go directly in.  We ultimately did meet together in the reception room.   At several junctions we were instructed to kneel down and clap.  Women have a different clap/beat than the men.   I am not catholic but it reminded me a bit of stations of the cross. There were specific places where we had to stop, kneel and clap.

In the past my friend (a woman) had to crawl into the king.  I had been hoping we would do this just for the experience.  As it turned out we did not crawl and given the distance (any distance) I would have had to be wheeled out or remained prostrate during our time. In this instance my 'old' bones would have revolted.

The room where we met, was a cement stone building next to his residence.  A modest but large residence by Zambian standards.  The floor had bamboo woven mats, the windows were openings within the cement block wall,  in the back a nice conference table, in the front his 'throne/chair' and prominent side chairs. We were given chairs to sit on.   Those who directed us on protocol sat on the floor.  Those on the floor were awaiting direction of what we were to do 'next'.  The king directs the conversations.

Kingship is foreign to our/my thinking and so when I see one who embraces his role very seriously and expects the same from others, it is to be taken note of.   Since we do not serve a 'king' and our culture is irreverent,  I pondered the experience and tried to put my self in the place of those who have a 'king'.  I was on his land, in his Provence, in his presence. Observe and learn were my thoughts.  We had no idea what to expect but our time turned out to be delightful.

The work of Hands of Hope had come to his attention a couple of years back.  Hands of Hope does excellent work on each of our projects, be they wells, schools or the clinic.  We expect excellence and the results are obvious to all who see the projects.  (http://www.handsofhopeonline.org/).    The Western Provence is the poorest in all Zambia so what we do is noted on so many levels. The quality of the projects completed is superior, the location choices (the middle of no-where) and we keep coming back to help have made a bold statement to this king.  None of it makes sense to those observing but it is changing lives.

Vicky Wauterlek and The King

The Kings entry was solemn, but he turned out to be very cordial with us.  Laughing at our weak pronunciation of 'Mongu' and our American blunt/direct approach to things.  He listened and heard our concerns over the lack of help from the government in getting school books to his people, medicine for the clinic, etc. He was shocked at the blatant resistance we have received these past years in getting projects completed by government officials.  He became an advocate for us!

He allowed Vicky (president of HOH) to sit next to him.  This is huge on two accounts.  One, she is a woman! Two, she was allowed the chair that only the Prime Minister sits in.

(Take note of his scepter. It is a beautiful carved piece of ivory.  It has leather fringes (my word) on the end.  This day is served to swat flies. )

Our team with the King of Western Zambia!

Today,  I am sitting here in a home grander than this king's.  I am sitting here with all creature comforts known to man.  I am for the moment free to share what I think, hope for and feel. However, I am humbled to have had this privilege for though his 'reign' has no impact on me, he rules his people and I hope justly. 

Reaching my destination - Mongu

Adventures continue to abound.  Not adventures for the indulged or whiners! Not adventures for the faint of heart but for those who choose to live in the moment and take in the sights, sounds, smells and textures of what is around you.

My entry into Mongu (means pumpkins) kicked the adventure into high geer.  No hotel room!  We were exhausted and hungry and dirty and just plain ready to drop into a bed.  Our rooms had been given away (sold) to someone who probably came with cash and a good story.  5 rooms gone, potentially 9 for the rest of those coming in and out this week.  

Amazingly, a calm overroad all of the other emotions and as we waited I pondered the pluses vs the obvious minuses.  The night was beautiful, the stars magnificent.  The weather, Zambian winter, perfect.  No snow, no rain, no thunder, no lightening, no wind was where I started.  Next, I knew that there are a ton of churches with in walking distance that could be opened up to us for a rest on a bench.  Not my choice of beds but better than a mat on the ground. I have no idea where I would have found a mat.  

A short two hours later we were driven to a remote (new) hotel. As we entered our new abode the power went down (normal occurance here) and we had to scramble for light, IPhone lights were used  to locate our flash lights to locate our bed, etc.  Fortunately the power was down just for a short time.  Fortunately, because when the lights came on, our roommate a very LARGE spider made himself known.  Large like bigger than a 50 cent coin!  A noble driver smashed him for me. I chose to ignore the fact as I dropped into a very nice bed that he probably had a family.  

Morning broke through and we were uncertain where we would be sleeping last evening.  We were taken to place for our breakfast. Options for breakfast are: Eggs in three forms, boiled, fried or an omlette.  Baked beans and sausage come next with white toast, no butter or spread but a jam of sorts. Macaroni salad was a new introduction this year. My guess is that they did not have the normal fill up the plate stuff so they used what they had.  Powdered/instant coffee, Tang, tea or soft drinks were/are our beverage choices. Water of course is available.    We languished over breakfast about 4 hours while we awaited our next place of rest.   The morning ended well, we are back at the Dolphin Lodge for the duration of our stay!

The adventure continued with our visit to the King.  I will describe that in my next blog for it could be a book chapter in itself.

It is Sunday a.m. and we are about to head to church. Don was asked to preach when we got here so he will do so via an interpreter.  We are eager to worship with the Zambian followers of Jesus.  Our worship styles are different and always interesting to me.  We love and serve the same Lord.

So I end this blog and want to get posted before the power shuts off again and I am beckoned to leave.

I encourage you the reader to slow down, yes slow down and observe your surroundings and your life.  You are among the blessed of the world.  

Luska Zambia

Another blog without photos.  Lusaka is the capital of Zambia.  It is a 3rd world country trying so very hard to come into being more in tune with the first world.   It is an old and tired city with hope.

A six plus hour flight from Dubai turned out to be awesome.  We were miracously upgraded to business class.  Ahhhh my favorite quote "A Luxuary once tasted becomes a necessity." , has come to be true again.

In my last blog post I mentioned 'class' distinction within the Arab world and thus within Emerits.  Remember, I was not unhappy with coach, my standard seat placement found within most of my air trips.  In fact, I was impressed with my 'back of the bus station' and service.

Overnight the world changed.  We arrive back at the airport after a nights rest.  Bonus from years past!   We check in.  All of sudden it appears that there is a mix up on my ticket.  My thoughts of what usually happens to me are, "my reservation is missing", "I am singled out to be 'searched'", etc.  Ask my family...these things do happen to me.  She then hands to me a new pass and says Mrs. Erickson you have been upgraded.  I looked at Don and thought, "Oh can I really leave him behind in coach and not feel bad?".  I did not have to wait long to decide, he too got an up grade.  This is a perk of grand proportions.

Boarding...a class distinctive for certain.  Like Heathrow you board a bus to arrive at your plane.  Coach goes first in a nice transport.  Next Business Class is called, the transport has leather seats, that rival any luxuary vehicle. There are a few of us and life is pretty cool!  I am not going to ask what the First Class transport was like, for there is no need to know.  Life had definately changed!

Ahhh...the trip to Lusaka was grand!  I will now savor this event and not complain upon my return trip home. It is all good!

Upon our arrivel into Lusaka's International Airport (modest is a good word to describe it) reality begins.  We find we have been summoned by the Vice President of the country for a meeting.  There is a long story behind this meeting but for now I will share that politics is not too different around the world.   The Presidental Offices probably were built in the early 1900's.  They are very old and dank and I know that this is their best.  Her office was quite nice by Zambian standards.

We left knowing that the answers to the questions she asked will probably not be resolved.  But I pray that is a wrong assumption.  We could not bring in medication for our clinic but they would allow us to bring a hospital bed.  Seriously, how many airlines allow for baggage of such grand proportions.  Then, if in fact we were able to fullfill that request, how do we get it to Lutendee.  We could not bring in more than $500 per person before customs slapped a heavy fee onto us.  The list goes on and the people we want to help go without.

In about one hour we embark on the longest day trip ever.  I am praying for a quick day.  There are no places to stop and eat.  Bathrooms now become squatty potties and as we enter the national park, we will pay a Kwacha to pee. We will use a cement hole vs a dirt hole.  I am also praying that I get to see elephants, a zebra and other wild life that is supposed to live along our road.  4 round trips back and forth from Lusaka to Mongue have not been too successful for these sightings in the past.  Hope is good and like a child it will give me something to focus upon.

I do not know when I will be blessed with internet access again.  The Dolphin Inn where we stay is supposed to have it...hmmmmm we will see if it works this time around.

I am blessed and humbled to be part of this trip.   Hands of Hope does bring Hope to these people.  The magnificent garden fair in our surreal world raises money for those who have no hope.  We can only put a small bandaid on the gaping wound of poverty but perhaps in time those villages we serve will grasp that they can care for their own.

Dubai

This entry will be void of photos as I recount our few hours in Dubai.  I usually do not use my IPad for anything other than reading....I know 'over kill'.  When I travel (and I had to travel very light with personl items this trip) I have to IPad it.  This long trip is going to force me into using more of tools that this was designed for.

Dubai...the last place I ever wanted to visit.  However, I rarely turn down an offer for a new experience.  One never knows the 'why of an invitation' or the 'why God might direct you to a place or activity' or the 'what might I miss out on if I decline'.  In this case the air fare to Zambia required that we choose Emerits via Dubai.  The journey to this place was decided for me.

One very important  thing I often forget is that ones perception is not always reality.  At this ripe old age of 65 I still am in awe of how much I must learn and process to be honest in my dealings of life.

Some observations of this adventure so far:
1. Dubai has become the center of the world.
2. Dubai is a very long, long way from the United States of America. 13 + hours from Chicago.
3. Emerits airlines is amazing!  Even coach (back of the bus, for class is noted in this world, even for us Americans who think otherwise) was incredible.  The flight attendants are all beautiful and groomed to their standards.  The male attendants (few) are equally well groomed.
    a. Sub point, the restrooms are maintained through out the flight!!!!!  Bonus!
    b. Jet Blue partner...lots of goodies and satellite viewing of just about everything!
4. If you have been in Texas you know 'Big' is the by-word.  If you have been in Los Vegas, you know over the top is the norm.  If you have been on any Disney property you know amazing is the norm.  This pretty much sums up Dubai for me.   Our taxi driver who shuttled Don and I from the hotel to the heart of the city commented to our amazement, "it is all fake".  It was built from the desert and with out money it will go back to being just that.
5.  As far as airports go and that I have experienced, Dubai's is massive, opulent and down right jaw dropping. It is a city within the city.
6. The Dubai Mall is a shoppers, entertainment seekers and foodies dream.  From an American perspective, there is not an upscale store missing.  Cheesecake Factory, Red Lobster, Sushi, Texas Roadhouse, 5 Guys, Gino's Pizza to name a few restaurants you might know abound.  Of course Starbucks (no free wifi :( ), etc.  Ice Rink (in the desert), theaters, waterfalls, fountains abound.
Stores that I need to move the decimal point 6 places to the left before I could consider purchasing anything also abound.
7. For the moment all religion is tolerated but Islam is dominant

So, to sum up a million of my thoughts: From a worlds perspective and observing mans efforts Dubai is impressive.  To sum up God's thoughts on mans work:

"What does it profit a man/women if he/she should gain the whole world but lose his/her soul" Mathew 16:26 Bible  Mark  8:36 Bible    Luke 9:25 Bible

Do not lay up for yourselves treasure here on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal.  But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal.  For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also."

Mathew 6:19-21 Bible

Where in the world is Mongu?

Once upon a time I was a little girl who wanted to travel.  I am many years past that time and The Lord has granted to me desires beyond anything my little mind could have fathomed. 

In a few short hours I leave the beautiful, luxurious creature comforts of my home.  I went to lunch with my granddaughters.  The menu was filled with wonderful food selections, too many to make my decision easy.  I had a long refreshing shower as I changed into my traveling clothes.  I had too many clothes packed to make the airlines weight load requirement.  My creature comforts like shampoo, lotions, tooth paste, etc. are neatly tucked into my baggage.   Nibble food for the journey is in my back pack. 

Off I go across the world.  7,242 miles from O'Hare, Chicago to Dubai, United Arab Emirates a 10 hour flight.  A nights stay and then another flight to Lusaka, Zambia , 3,348 miles.  7 hours and 10 minutes.  Then...the longest part of the journey for me is the 10 hour drive from Lusaka to Mongu, 383 miles.  Mongu almost the end of the world from here and the drive is pretty boring. Those luxuries I experienced this morning do not exist in the world I am going into.  Each mile pulls me further from this mornings luxuries.

Mongu, a place where the Lozi people group live.  Mongu, a place that time and people have forgotten.  Mongu, the last place you would choose for a destination vacation. 

I look forward with anticipation to see those faces we have met before.  To have the ladies show us their gardens, to see the students who are now able to go to a school in their village.  To see our 'chief' and the wells we placed.  I love that we have not abandoned these people like so many before.  Their lives are hard.  The women in the remote villages are just above animal status, their food is scarce but their gratitude and fight to live is amazing.


As you go to bed to night, touch and feel your clean sheets, your fluffy pillow and nice mattress.  When you drink your water notice how clean it is and how easy it is to get it!  When you go to your refrigerator and decide what you might want to eat, know that Nishima (corn - grits) will be the menu of the villagers in Mongu and it might just be the only meal for the day.   Be grateful your daughters and grand daughters do not walk to get their dirty water each day.  Just be grateful!

I am humbled by my blessings.  I know that what God has blessed me with is not mine to hoard but to share.  I am in awe that I get to see how those who have blessed these villages are making little changes in the lives of those who have nothing.

As I squish into my airplane seat (coach) I will not complain!! How amazing is it that one can be propelled around the world in such a quick span of time. This always amazes me.

I hope that I have Internet connections enough to share my adventure with you while on the ground. Internet is spotty at best.  I am hoping for the best. :)    If not...I will just have to reminisce upon my return.

I leave you with my favorite quote.  A luxury once tasted becomes a necessity.  

Do you have a bucket list?

June 21 in our hemisphere is the longest day of the year.  I love it!  My least favorite day comes six months from now.  I love the warmth, the day light, I love summer and all is good.  This summer is over the top with travel. I love to travel.  I am tired.  I am stiff!  I am almost packed and ready for my next adventure.

When life looks busy on a calendar, it is crazier in real life.  My life is crazy, but I am delighting in the opportunities this year.   Some were on my bucket list, the others happened without making it on to the list!

A  bucket list  is the things one desires to do or see before they 'kick the bucket' or in simpler terms die. I hope I have a long list of things yet to do, when God takes me on my best trip ever, eternity.  No day should be boring.  Here is my schedule for spring and summer. 



Israel Trip -
May 26- June 7, 2015 - Check - Fabulous! Go! It is safe!
Hands of Hope Garden Faire -Annual event! Fabulous, exhausting and worth while.
A major fundraiser for a marvelous life changing work in Zambia. June 19-20, 2015 - Check
Zambia Trip - Mongu, Western Provence
June 23 - July 6, 2015 - Leave Tuesday.
Honduras Medical Missions Trip -
 July 25- August 1, 2015
A wedding in between Zambia and Honduras just for kicks.

Why?  Well, I say why not?  When life gives you an opportunity for an adventure I say go for it.  No one gets younger, tomorrow never arrives  and each day is a gift from The Lord!  I ache, I need the adrenaline that used to allow me to put in supernatural hours, just to make it through a normal day.  I will be honest and say there is no ideal anything in my world.  Just do "it".  No excuses!

I desire to embrace the opportunities.  Adventures, travel, just changing your routine offer you so many growing experiences.  Do not be a slave to a routine, a tradition, or a fear.  If you are, you are shortchanging your self!

When we engage with others who are of a different culture, race, religion, economic background we are forced to own and to think about our personal beliefs.  Oh, I will own that  it can be uncomfortable at times but it is also freeing and humbling. Do not be trapped by the mindset of:

"My mind is made up, do not confuse me with the facts."    

Adventures give your life color and beauty.  They help one become a better person.

"Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry and narrow-mildness "

Mark Twain 

What is on your bucket list? 

 

 

I am free!

Last Saturday, June 6, I was entering through the Lions Gate into the Muslim quarter of the old city of Jerusalem.  I was walking with those in our group, laughing, enjoying the adventure.  As we were about to enter the gate my eye caught a woman in a black burka, sitting alone  in the back seat of the car.

I  glanced and then glanced back.  I could see only her eyes and I noticed they were blue.  I nodded and she waived at me. I looked her in the eye and waived back. We truly connected for just a brief moment in time.

That moment has not left my thought process. Her religion has relegated her to being known only by her eyes.  She had watched us walk up the hill to the Lions Gate entrance.  That brief interchange of our eyes connecting and our waves told me that she was longing to be known, to be free, to be unfettered.  I do not know her story.  I do know that I won't forget her.  Her eyes spoke volumes to me.

My freedom to enjoy the world unfettered by a covering, a set of rules that hopefully would get me into heaven if I do enough of them accurately, never knowing for certain if I truly made the cut brings me to tears and is a gift beyond value.

I live in a country where I am valued as a woman. I am free to be who God made me to be.  I am married to an awesome man who values my opinion and honors me as a human and his wife.  I was free to choose who I married and not assigned a mate at the age of 13. 

My brief encounter with this woman last week has changed me.  I wish I could have talked to her.  I now pray for her. I pray for so many who are trapped not just in burkas but in journeys that take them from knowing freedom and The Lord, who alone can give us hope and true freedom.

Those who deny freedom to others deserve it not for themselves. ~Abraham Lincoln

Why Me?

Have you ever wondered why you were born into this time of the worlds history, your country of origin, your ethnicity or your gender?    I often ponder this as I travel to different places in the world.  I am humbled to realize how truly blessed I am, why me?

Why was I born in America and not in a low cast system of India, Pakistan, or in the remote area of Mongu, Zambia?  As a female in the US I have been educated, been given freedom to become whatever I desire or have the ability to achieve.  What would I be like if my situation was that of so many women who are basically a step above an animal, married off as a child bride, sold into slavery?

 I ponder this often and know that I am here today because I am to make a difference in the lives of those who need help.  My luxuries, my blessings, my knowledge of what exists in other places of the world require I do something to help others.  I do not need another hand bag, pair of shoes, trinket for my home.  I do not need a bigger home, a new car or for that matter just about anything else.

I am a Christ follower.  This statement is not about a religion, it is about knowing who my creator and savior is!  It is about knowing that this path here on earth is temporary and heaven is forever.  I am to bless those who come into my life who need someone to love them, to show compassion to them, to pass on to others the blessings that have been given to me as I can. 

I know I cannot change the world.  I know that often the kindnesses I show are but a bandage on a gaping wound that needs radical surgery.  I also know that the giving and the kindnesses shown are a reflection of what Jesus Christ did for me/us.  He gave to me salvation from eternal death and He continually provides for me here on earth.  I want others to know this too.

I am happiest when I give.  I am blessed by the gratitude of those I can gift.   I have no clue as to how long I will remain on this earth for each of our days are numbered.  I do know that hording our things, our  time and our  abilities strangles the joy that God intended us to experience by giving back to others.      The most miserable people I know are those who do not give to others and think only of themselves.  Want to be happy, give and stop thinking about yourself.  It works!

Let us not be satisfied with just giving money. Money is not enough, money can be got, but they need your hearts to love them. So spread your love wherever you go.  

Mother Theresa

Reentry

I have have been unplugged and off line for almost two weeks.  It was not my choice but as I traveled to Israel, I could not log in.  Others traveling with me had better success than did I.  After a few frustrating  attempts I just let it go.  It was a great choice and one I recommend.

How many of us in this high tech world do that any more? We are taking pictures of food, fashion, friends, friends events, family (everything). As we stand behind our Smart Phones, Cameras, Texting devices documenting life are we truly engaged in it?

I found that in this forced 'tech' exile,  I reentered a world of sight, sound, senses I ignored as I was behind the lens trying to capture, 'something'.  I reentered a world of genuine conversation with the intent to listen not document.  How much have I missed because I allowed 'photo's' tell a story rather than words?  How do those I engage with know I care more about them than our surroundings?  Is it really okay to not photograph 'something' awesome? 

I love the photos, the quips and the ability to capture life through a lens.  However,  I personally grow and I am blessed when these devices are not the #1 priority in my adventures.  A picture may be worth a thousand words but the sound of the voice of a friend, a spouse, a child, a loved one can never be recovered in a photo.

Treasure your relationships, not your possessions. Anthony D'Angelo

The Sixty Fifth Year - Tomorrow?

Today's post has taken a bit of a turn from what I thought I would write about. A couple of  weeks ago,  we received a delightful postcard, a hand written note from a long time friend. He was a childhood, college friend and fellow soccer player of Don's.

Two things were unique about this postcard.  First, it is rare for a male to reach out using this form of communication to a friend.    Second, the time lapse of communication had been a long one.  Both of these were subconsciously noteworthy, for the postcard has remained sitting out these past weeks.

This friend retired to shift focus in his life to helping others outside of our country.  He was excited about this next chapter.   Everything from an outside perspective looked awesome.  His beautiful family grown and financially he was in a good place.  Yesterday afternoon we received a phone call that this friend, while working out at the gym, dropped dead of a heart attack

We are stunned over the news.  The thought still is foreign to us, he was just a bit younger than me.

He will not have a Sixty Fifth Year! 

As I write this I am finishing up packing for an adventure.  We head to Israel for a 12 day trip.  Exciting and we are planning to leave tomorrow.  Tomorrow.

None of us has a guarantee of tomorrow.  We can plan, they can be great and grand plans.  Our friend had done that, he had grand plans.  There was no warning that our friend was not going be part of a Memorial Day celebration today.  I am quite certain he had lots of tomorrow plans. 

As I take this blog journey using the written word,  I am once again brought into reality that life is so very precious.  Our friend is truly in heaven with The Lord.  I know that.   

For death is no more than a turning of us over from time to eternity. 
~William Penn

If you knew that you would not have a tomorrow what would change in your life? I head to bed anticipating a tomorrow.  I am sure you the reader are thinking the same thing.  However, there is not a promise of this 'day'.  If you are gifted with tomorrow, make it count!  If you are gifted with tomorrow, are you ready for eternity?

 

Memorial Day during the Sixty Fifth Year

It is Saturday of a long anticipated weekend for most Americans.  Some leave for their vacation homes, or spots to visit. Some use it as a time to get ready for summer, cleaning out their garages, gardening but most people have some expectation of a life being a bit different than the other weeks that have lead up to this time.

I walked over to the cemetery, a short walk from our home, to where our daughter Kara is buried. I decided to share with her some of the beautiful roses from my birthday.  (Actually the deer will love this 'salad dinner tonight'.)   The weather is idyllic!  I decided the walk was needed to keep this body in motion!  My agenda became empty today and I am restless as I withdraw from a crazy week. 

Everything around me was quiet. This cemetery is a beautifully sculpted and void of 'live' people today.  For some it may feel eerie, for me it felt reverent. Flags abounded in the cemetery.  Those who had served our country were honored!  The landscape was somber, beautiful and humbling.  The quiet surroundings evoked many emotions.

When I walk through a cemetery I am always aware of my mortality.  When will I be laid to 'rest'?  Will my life have made made a difference to another?  Is someone better off because our paths crossed?  No one who was buried in this or any other cemetery was insignificant! They were someones son, daughter, sister, brother, mother, father, grand parent.  Their lives impacted others.  I would like to think the impact was for the better but I know the reality of this 'wish' is not always the case. 

As I leave to return home I am reflective.  I am but one person.  You the reader are but one person.  How will I be remembered?  How will you be remembered?  As my countdown to leaving this earth continues (as does yours) what can I do to make another person's journey a bit easier or a bit kinder? 

I want this Sixty Fifth Year to make someone else's life better, easier and less about me.  As a follower of Jesus Christ, I am given this commandment.  These are wonderful words to live by.

“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. ³ This is the great and first commandment.  And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself.   Matthew 22:37-38 - Bible 

It Begins!

Over the past few years I have kept a simple blog going with a focus upon my human endeavors to help change lives particularly in Zambia, Africa.  I won't keep two blogs going this year, I will just include my thoughts and adventures with in the confines of this blog.  It is much simpler and I do not know if either will be read.  (I am obviously talking to my self.  I find I am a very good listener.) 

The actual 65th year has begun!  Yikes!  It has really begun!  That illusive number that no one aspires to BUT, if God blesses you with life here on earth,  we all make there.  Since I have chosen to make a 'bigger deal' about this age, than is my normal approach to life,  this open diary will serve as reminder that we all are called to  something greater than ourselves!  Each of our days has a number assigned to it.  Make them count!

In the next 10 weeks I will be traveling to Israel, Zambia and Honduras.  Crazy for certain.  Each country is unique in every aspect!  It is crazy because my pockets are not deep and God is the provider of these adventures.  It is crazy because there appears to be no logical, connect the dots to these trips, God set the itinerary.   It is crazy because airline seats, in coach, are designed for shorter, thinner people.  It is crazy because 13 hour flights, 50 hour-get-to-the destination, time changes, culture changes and airport food are less than ideal. 

To quote a famous Hobbit, The world is not in your books and your maps, it is out there! Your 'out there' will look different than mine, but get 'out there' and live!

I desire to help you, the reader, (optimistic I am) to step outside of what is comfortable and live!  As a collector of quotes one of my most used, so that must make it a favorite, comes from Corrie Ten Boom, a Holocaust  Survivor.  She was not Jewish but helped to hide and rescue Jewish people.  I will quote her often for she 'got it'.  Life is not about us!

An excuse serves only to help the one giving it. (this is a paraphrase but it makes the point) Corrie Ten Boom. 

I close today asking you to take an inventory of your life.  What excuses do you make to keep you from giving to others,  to taking an adventure, to remain selfish and self focused?  The happiest people I know are those who abandon self and serve others.  Are you ready?

May 21, 2015 

It Begins - The Sixty Fifth Year

May 20, 2015, the calendar page has turned and BAM, I am now 65 years old!!  Wow, that is an age I really didn't  see coming!  Old people are 65! Aren't they?  I have never let a birthday bother me, it is just a day among many that generally treats me with a great cake or pie or dinner out!   So, why post anything about it now?  Why announce this date to my 1000 closest Face Book friends?  I am not looking for birthday greetings. So, why not just ignore it and perhaps it will go away!!

Why? Because it is a marker in our culture in the walk called life!  But, what difference does one day make? 

Well,  I am discovering that checking off this particular 'next' day, on the calender makes a difference! It is crazy but this day is different!!! Because:

*I must now be signed up for Medicare!    Seriously?  

I have a physical tomorrow.  I will now see how easy this transition is or if things change because the government is now part of my health care. 

*I am eligible for Senior Discounts at Movie Theaters and I guess other things too. I just discovered that 15 years ago I could have begun this money saving adventure.  (Those of you behind me, begin to check out the freebies!)

*When I fill out forms and need to check off my age, I have now been bumped up into the next 'age range'. The 'old' age range.

I am certain there are more things to note but for today this is enough for me to process.

So now what?  I do not know!  I have decided that a number, a date on a calendar, is not going to define me.  Oh, I might have to comply with laws and government regulations but life will go on.

God gives to each of us a certain number of days.   Each day is a gift from Him to experience His blessings and plans for me/us.  I do not want to waste one of them!

This blog The Sixty Fifth Year will hopefully inspire my peers to do more.  To those coming behind me I hope that you will  be careful not to judge those older than you. Sooner than you can blink your 'Sixty Fifth Year' will sneak up on you too.   If anyone follows this blog (an open diary) , I hope that you will chime in and share your story or your wisdom, or your hopes and let us journey together.  


 What does this age afford me?  I am going discover the answer to this question.  Perhaps soon, I will have more to say on this #65, but for today it will be Wednesday, May 20, 2015. Just another day among many. Oh yes,  I will get to eat some awesome desert :)


No one can confidently say that they will be here tomorrow. Euripides 

(God) Teach us to number our days that we might gain a heart of wisdom.  Psalm 91:12 (Bible)