1. Just like I’ve heard happens with the pain of childbirth, I’d blocked out just how bad the air is here. When I landed in Chongqing, I couldn’t see the ground until we were right on it. It looked like Oklahoma during the Dustbowl. The locals call it ‘fog.’ I can’t figure out if that’s a mistranslation or wishful thinking. 2. But anyway, I’m home! It just feels good to be back in my own apartment, walking these familiar streets, back into my routine of veggie market, fruit market, bus rides to visit friends, crowded sidewalks to navigate, and of course, the really delicious, spicy street food. Yum. I start classes next week. 3. From Beijing to LAX I had the best spot on the airplane that is not first class: last row in the front section of the plane before the exit, aisle seat, right next to the bathroom. Lots of space, no one kicking my seat, and easy access to the bathroom, perfect! (I always request an aisle seat.) On the way from LAX to Beijing, I got stuck clear in the back, ...
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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.