There is a phenomenon of giving directions in China that I still don’t understand: people will only give you directions to the next block. For example, “Go straight ‘til the next intersection, then turn left.” Now, you as a Westerner might think that means that after you turn left, you’ll be there. Oh no, my friend. This is just the beginning. If you don’t see what you’re looking for after you turn left, you ask someone else, and get the next set of directions. You will keep doing this, block after block, until you arrive at your destination. This happened to V. and I when we were in Chengdu for training. I needed to get to Tiffany & Co.* to get some jewelry cleaned, and he came with me. I didn’t know where Tiffany was exactly, but I figured it was downtown near the other big shops. Turns out it was in a new shopping plaza built a little zig-zaggy ways away from where we were. It took four sets of directions to get us there. Yup, that’s about right. Also, be aware: you will alw...
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The lady that I am working with has challenged me with this homework for the next week, I pass the challenge on to you as well. Each day, in that journal I sent you I want to you take 5-10 minutes and write down all the positives from your day. We tend to focus on the negatives, by forcing ourselves to view the positives and acknowledge them we are also altering our thinking patterns. Soon we will focus on positives more than negatives.
I know you are up to the challenge.
We'll compare notes next week!!!
You are going to be so very proud of yourself at the end of this experience. You will look back and say WOW I DID IT!!!! Don't rob yourself of that moment my friend.
(((((((((hugs)))))))))))
Hi Puff! Stay away from Chinaman! When will you be home? We miss you honey. We got your postcard but we can't read your return address. Email your address to Rhonda or Rod so we will have it.
We Love and miss you Hurry Home!!
Grandma & Grandpa
The following is from Rhonda:
Hi Reb. Thanks for the postcard. Sorry I haven't written, life is busy with children and grandchildren. Kenzie surprised me with a plane ticket to CA this month and I enjoyed 4 days with them and little Kieran. Jeremy and Catherine think they will be in DC next year but they don't know yet. How's your Chinese language coming? Love, Aunt Rhonda
-Damien
I'm keeping you in my prayers. I can't even imagine the difficulties you're dealing with. Remember that even if you feel like you're not making a difference overall, to one or two people, you are changing their lives. That's awesome and amazing.
Love you,
Sarah
You've gotten lots of sage advice so I shall just say "listen to them but listen to your heart too".
Life is too short for regrets of any kind.