Simply This

It's been about two and a half weeks since I made it back from the Philippines. In these past two or so weeks, I am reminded of how much I miss the simplicity of living in the GK Village. And of how much I miss my Filipino brothers and sisters.

While we were in the Philippines, we were put on a media fast. This included no cell phones, iPod's, laptops, etc. Now, I know what you're thinking, "Oh my goodness that sounds terrible! How did you survive that long without your phone?" Well, you see, being on this media fast was actually nice. I wasn't worried about what others were doing, the latest celebrity gossip, (not that I typically care for that stuff anyway) who is dating who, the latest fashion trends... nothing. I knew nothing of anything, with the exception of those around me. I was completely cut off from the rest of the world; and it was nice.

Along with being on a media fast, we were also on a dating fast. Although it may sound silly, because we were only going to be together for a short amount of time... it was also nice. It was nice because we weren't worried about "oh I think this person likes that person." No, it wasn't like that at all. I didn't have worry about what I was wearing, putting on makeup, straightening my hair, or getting all "dolled up" to impress the cute guy on my team. Heck, I don't think I ever saw my face while we were in the village! Mirrors were so rare! But, it was nice. We were just a group of friends doing our to best spread the love and light of Christ to our brothers and sisters in the Philippines and attempt to get to know them more. Not just serve them "over the counter," but to actually become part of them. Something I think we achieved. After all, we were there to do Christ's work... not focus on each other.

Jayar and his adorable son Jhayz Lord

So I guess it's safe to say, that when I got back home, I was in culture shock. Bills, school, work, cars, money, fashion. That's all I heard about. I quickly went from not caring what I looked like to making sure each hair was in it's place! Why? Well heck, I really don't know!And the funny thing is, I didn't even realize it. I didn't realize it until I got the opportunity to hang out with one of my friends from the mission trip. We were eating lunch and talking about the cultural differences when he said "I shaved my beard, I have my contacts in. I can see you're wearing makeup and have straight hair..." When I heard that, it quickly made me realize how much I missed the lifestyle I had while we were in the Philippines. It made me want to jump on a plane and get back there! But as I drove home that night, I couldn't help but think, "well, why can't I live that lifestyle here?" Well, to be honest, that's quite impossible.

Joni leading a Boys vs Girls race

I really don't know how to end this post, so I'll end it with this very short, yet simple (fitting huh?) prayer from the wonderful St Therese of Lisieux: "Jesus help me to simplify my life by learning what you want me to be and becoming that person."