After having a week off, we head back to school tomorrow. It's been good to have some time off, but now it's time to head back to work.
It was good to have a change of pace, and I've decided not to feel guilty that I haven't finished quite everything on my "to do" list. There was plenty of things to do: go swimming; bake muffins, bisquits, cookies, pizza; visit with other Niger wives, missionary women, visitors from the mission (ELCA); mark essays and assignments; read with Daniel; help Annette with a project; encourage Nat to practice the trumpet; teach youth at church about courtship; read for fun; revise my AP WH syllabus for the next few weeks; write up the minutes for the guesthouse board meeting; visit a Nigerian relative in the hospital; welcome Nat and Annette's friends for sleepovers (a total of 7 nights and three different guests)....see, it was a busy time!
I'm so glad I put that all in writing, I really don't feel any guilt now....maybe a little tomorrow when students ask about their essays!
Time to finish helping Annette with her Abraham Project.
Sunday, October 24, 2010
Saturday, October 2, 2010
Storing Up Treasures on Earth
A few weeks ago, when my husband was feeling overworked and rundown, he asked me to preach for him and the gospel text was from Matthew 6:19-24.
Living in Nigeria for nearly nineteen years has brought a variety of meanings to this text, but the one on my mind today relates to how my attachment to material things has been challenged over the years here.
I remember when I first came, I had to learn to keep my "treasures" in my bedroom because too often a visitor when see my abundance and request that I give one to him or her. I finally started to say, "When I leave, I'll try to remember your request." (That turned out to be a pretty good way to deal with it since I'm still here!)
Another thing I learned was to think twice before bringing a treasure from my childhood or youth when I'd have to risk getting it here. When I was first married, I carefully packed a china egg cup I picked up in London when travelling there with a sister. I wrapped it in the bottom of a sock and hoped it would make the journey: it made the journey ok, but not the unpacking. My new husband was helping me to unpack and had no clue why something would be in the bottom of a sock and when he shook it, the egg cup went flying across the room. I remember holding back the tears on that day, and have tried to learn to detach myself more and more from such material treasures.
(Over the years, my husband has proved to such a good cleaner that I had to teach his younger sister to check the rubbish pile after one of his cleaning episodes because he invariably throws one or another of my little treasures into the rubbish hole!)
Today I learned that lesson was more deeply learned than I would have thought. When I was in the USA over a year ago I decided to bring back another treasure. It was a special cut glass vase that I had gotten after a special event when I was in high school. I can't remember now if it was for a birthday or graduation or if it was from my parents or a sister, but I knew that the technique used to make it was nearly a lost art in our area so I had several special memories attached to it.
I brought the vase back and it was placed well in our previous house on a shelf in our bedroom, but here in the new house I put it on display in my study. I have noticed that it draws some attention and have held my breath a few times as it gets picked up and admired, but I think it must have somehow gotten placed on a lower shelf and too close to a curtain so when Nat pushed back the curtain when coming out of my bedroom, it some how got caught and came crashing down and became shards of glass on the cement floor.
Seeing it on the floor in many tiny pieces forced me to the edge of the bed and my first reaction was to want to cry, but a funny thing happened...I realized my reaction was not really one of tears or even to shout at Nat, instead I just wanted to retell the story and share with him how special the piece was to me and why. Nat took charge of sweeping up the mess and helped me pick out a few larger shards with designs on them to put away for a few memories and I realized that I had learned the lesson of detachment better than I had thought.
Treasures are nice, but memories and working together are far more important. I have memories of going to the Arnetz shop to purchase special gifts for others with my mom and of receiving one myself, and now I have memories of my teenage son helping me clean up the mess and share its memory with me. Annette will be sad too, she knew it was special to me...thank you Lord, for keeping my heart in tact and not worrying quite so much about material wealth.
Living in Nigeria for nearly nineteen years has brought a variety of meanings to this text, but the one on my mind today relates to how my attachment to material things has been challenged over the years here.
I remember when I first came, I had to learn to keep my "treasures" in my bedroom because too often a visitor when see my abundance and request that I give one to him or her. I finally started to say, "When I leave, I'll try to remember your request." (That turned out to be a pretty good way to deal with it since I'm still here!)
Another thing I learned was to think twice before bringing a treasure from my childhood or youth when I'd have to risk getting it here. When I was first married, I carefully packed a china egg cup I picked up in London when travelling there with a sister. I wrapped it in the bottom of a sock and hoped it would make the journey: it made the journey ok, but not the unpacking. My new husband was helping me to unpack and had no clue why something would be in the bottom of a sock and when he shook it, the egg cup went flying across the room. I remember holding back the tears on that day, and have tried to learn to detach myself more and more from such material treasures.
(Over the years, my husband has proved to such a good cleaner that I had to teach his younger sister to check the rubbish pile after one of his cleaning episodes because he invariably throws one or another of my little treasures into the rubbish hole!)
Today I learned that lesson was more deeply learned than I would have thought. When I was in the USA over a year ago I decided to bring back another treasure. It was a special cut glass vase that I had gotten after a special event when I was in high school. I can't remember now if it was for a birthday or graduation or if it was from my parents or a sister, but I knew that the technique used to make it was nearly a lost art in our area so I had several special memories attached to it.
I brought the vase back and it was placed well in our previous house on a shelf in our bedroom, but here in the new house I put it on display in my study. I have noticed that it draws some attention and have held my breath a few times as it gets picked up and admired, but I think it must have somehow gotten placed on a lower shelf and too close to a curtain so when Nat pushed back the curtain when coming out of my bedroom, it some how got caught and came crashing down and became shards of glass on the cement floor.
Seeing it on the floor in many tiny pieces forced me to the edge of the bed and my first reaction was to want to cry, but a funny thing happened...I realized my reaction was not really one of tears or even to shout at Nat, instead I just wanted to retell the story and share with him how special the piece was to me and why. Nat took charge of sweeping up the mess and helped me pick out a few larger shards with designs on them to put away for a few memories and I realized that I had learned the lesson of detachment better than I had thought.
Treasures are nice, but memories and working together are far more important. I have memories of going to the Arnetz shop to purchase special gifts for others with my mom and of receiving one myself, and now I have memories of my teenage son helping me clean up the mess and share its memory with me. Annette will be sad too, she knew it was special to me...thank you Lord, for keeping my heart in tact and not worrying quite so much about material wealth.
Saturday, September 25, 2010
Living in His Shadow
Our first quarter of school is coming to end. It's been a good start to the year, but as always, each year has it's challenges. The word I've come to use for this year is "intensive".
My day starts out with AP World History and it's like jumping into the frying pan. I'm fortunate that I have fourteen very serious students to work with. Each one is out to do well and, for the most part, are staying on top of their work and doing well. I find that it's much easier to work hard for students who are working hard to meet my expectations.
I enjoy my world history classes, American Government, and US History too. Most days I have energy to have some fun with them and the older students know me well enough to encourage me when I do have moments of stress.
For example, as I plan for this week's Independence Day Assembly that, as student council advisor, I'm in charge of, I've experienced some stressful moments. One day, after a rough class, I came back from lunch to find a luscious piece of cake with an encouraging note from one of my students.
In one of my previous blogs I wrote about getting to know students on a deeper level, but some days I feel like it's students who are reaching out to me! I guess that's why I chose this title, "Living in His Shadow". When we live in God's shadow we stay open to evidence of His handiwork in our lives; often when we least expect it.
May you too experience moments of His handiwork in your own lives.
My day starts out with AP World History and it's like jumping into the frying pan. I'm fortunate that I have fourteen very serious students to work with. Each one is out to do well and, for the most part, are staying on top of their work and doing well. I find that it's much easier to work hard for students who are working hard to meet my expectations.
I enjoy my world history classes, American Government, and US History too. Most days I have energy to have some fun with them and the older students know me well enough to encourage me when I do have moments of stress.
For example, as I plan for this week's Independence Day Assembly that, as student council advisor, I'm in charge of, I've experienced some stressful moments. One day, after a rough class, I came back from lunch to find a luscious piece of cake with an encouraging note from one of my students.
In one of my previous blogs I wrote about getting to know students on a deeper level, but some days I feel like it's students who are reaching out to me! I guess that's why I chose this title, "Living in His Shadow". When we live in God's shadow we stay open to evidence of His handiwork in our lives; often when we least expect it.
May you too experience moments of His handiwork in your own lives.
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
The new Year
Well we've been in the house a few weeks now and have had a week of school. I honestly can't believe how comfortable it is to be in this house and how well the school year has begun.
I guess I shouldn't be surprised; I prayed and God answered my prayers! It still amazes me when he does that!
Recently I wrote about the book, Story, that I'm reading. I decided to share it with my 1st period class for our daily devotions. My 1st period is AP World History so the students are juniors and seniors. I'm sure it's been awhile since someone read them a story, but I pray they will enjoy it as much as I am.
As the school year continues, my prayer is that I can keep up with the daily demands.
Dorthea
I guess I shouldn't be surprised; I prayed and God answered my prayers! It still amazes me when he does that!
Recently I wrote about the book, Story, that I'm reading. I decided to share it with my 1st period class for our daily devotions. My 1st period is AP World History so the students are juniors and seniors. I'm sure it's been awhile since someone read them a story, but I pray they will enjoy it as much as I am.
As the school year continues, my prayer is that I can keep up with the daily demands.
Dorthea
Thursday, August 5, 2010
Back to School
Another school year begins for me today as teachers head back for meetings and three days to plan for the new year. School officially starts on Wednesday.
Each year I try to set a new goal so this year's has been on my mind.
Last year I prayed that I would begin to enjoy teaching US History more; and it happened! First semester was still a challenge. I am fortunate to have a really good book and by their junior year students are pretty responsible to do their reading and other homework assignments on time, so I struggle with what to add. We always do current events and try to have discussions, but the films I show are getting more dated and after we get through the basics it's been a challenge to be creative with the end of the class time.
But then, students started to share some movies they had in their home collections and when we watched them after having studied that time period in the book and found that it really added to their understanding! Plus, by the end of the year we all needed something to look forward to so we watched several different movies and ended on such a positive note that I hope to continue the practice.
The year will still start out much the same since the movies I'm familiar with start with the Revolutionary War, but I'm also encouraged to find other ways to enhance the class and make it more relevant to students.
Now my goal for this year is to get to know students at a deeper level. These past few years I've realized that even though I feel I have a good relationship with most my students, there is a difference between being friendly and really knowing them.
We had a teacher here for just one year last year and when I saw how much he interacted with the students and how much they responded to him and were impacted him, it really hit me hard. I must admit, I was envious! Granted, working full time and raising three children does require me to divide my energies, but I still pray I can find ways during class, between classes, and during student council activities (I'm the StuCo Advisor) to connect more with students at a deeper level.
As a christian teacher I feel called to both teach and disciple my students so I pray I can do that in a way that will allow them to see Christ in me more and to relate more and sharing more of myself with them. It's not easy though, It's one thing to teach, and quite another to interact more socially. The latter is quite a challenge for me!
Please join my in praying that this goal might be reached during this year!
Each year I try to set a new goal so this year's has been on my mind.
Last year I prayed that I would begin to enjoy teaching US History more; and it happened! First semester was still a challenge. I am fortunate to have a really good book and by their junior year students are pretty responsible to do their reading and other homework assignments on time, so I struggle with what to add. We always do current events and try to have discussions, but the films I show are getting more dated and after we get through the basics it's been a challenge to be creative with the end of the class time.
But then, students started to share some movies they had in their home collections and when we watched them after having studied that time period in the book and found that it really added to their understanding! Plus, by the end of the year we all needed something to look forward to so we watched several different movies and ended on such a positive note that I hope to continue the practice.
The year will still start out much the same since the movies I'm familiar with start with the Revolutionary War, but I'm also encouraged to find other ways to enhance the class and make it more relevant to students.
Now my goal for this year is to get to know students at a deeper level. These past few years I've realized that even though I feel I have a good relationship with most my students, there is a difference between being friendly and really knowing them.
We had a teacher here for just one year last year and when I saw how much he interacted with the students and how much they responded to him and were impacted him, it really hit me hard. I must admit, I was envious! Granted, working full time and raising three children does require me to divide my energies, but I still pray I can find ways during class, between classes, and during student council activities (I'm the StuCo Advisor) to connect more with students at a deeper level.
As a christian teacher I feel called to both teach and disciple my students so I pray I can do that in a way that will allow them to see Christ in me more and to relate more and sharing more of myself with them. It's not easy though, It's one thing to teach, and quite another to interact more socially. The latter is quite a challenge for me!
Please join my in praying that this goal might be reached during this year!
Saturday, July 31, 2010
A Good Read
This summer I've been reading the book Story:recapture the mystery by Steven James.
When I first started reading it I found it so delightful that I thought I rush through it and absorb it like a sponge, but then I decided to take it slowly and just soak it in in bits.
I find it to be a delightful summary and synthesis of the Bible as it relates to today.
Here is what I read today:
"Jesus isn't interested in admires. He never was. And that's why his invitation was not 'Admire me' but 'Follow me.' That's why he was so blunt with crowds. Jesus didn't want a fan club. He wanted a spiritual revolution." p. 112
One thing I appreciate about this book is that the author processes and ponders the Word of God as it relates to today and asks questions that I might. His thoughts are not traditional, but common and random in a fresh and honest way.
Today I consider what I read and am reminded of how easy it is to go through the motions and and start looking at my feet as I go about the day and lose sight of what is going on around me. When I do that, the result is often miscommunication with my husband and children, boredom in my classroom and rising stress within me.
The thoughts in this book help me remember to look up and rediscover God's word.
Today I pray that you might also "look up" and rediscover God's handiwork.
When I first started reading it I found it so delightful that I thought I rush through it and absorb it like a sponge, but then I decided to take it slowly and just soak it in in bits.
I find it to be a delightful summary and synthesis of the Bible as it relates to today.
Here is what I read today:
"Jesus isn't interested in admires. He never was. And that's why his invitation was not 'Admire me' but 'Follow me.' That's why he was so blunt with crowds. Jesus didn't want a fan club. He wanted a spiritual revolution." p. 112
One thing I appreciate about this book is that the author processes and ponders the Word of God as it relates to today and asks questions that I might. His thoughts are not traditional, but common and random in a fresh and honest way.
Today I consider what I read and am reminded of how easy it is to go through the motions and and start looking at my feet as I go about the day and lose sight of what is going on around me. When I do that, the result is often miscommunication with my husband and children, boredom in my classroom and rising stress within me.
The thoughts in this book help me remember to look up and rediscover God's word.
Today I pray that you might also "look up" and rediscover God's handiwork.
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Moving Day cont.
We moved a few more things today and tomorrow a few more. Here are a few pictures of the front room with our new furniture, two of the back rooms, and the kitchen.
The house is more American than we've lived in before. It will be a treat. Tomorrow we'll move the dining table, a desk for our room which you can see through the doorway of the second picture. A few other pieces will be moved too. I put a few more pictures up today. On Thursday I hope to check in the store of furniture in hopes that we can find a few odds and ends like bookshelves, small cupboards, chairs, etc. I'll post some more pictures as the days go.
We're trying to connect the light so we can pump water too.
Keep checking in for updates!
Monday, July 12, 2010
The Slow Move Has Begun
Today I unpacked the first carton in the new house, hung up a few clothes, made sure there is soap and toilet paper in the bathroom (My late Daddy drilled me on the importance of that one!), moved a few of Dan's toys over, and enjoyed first cup of coffee in our new house.
But before any of that, I went from room to room saying a multitude of prayers for our new life there. I pray it is a home of comfort, security, fellowship, and peace.
Since the kids and I are on holiday for about another month there's no reason to stress about moving in haste. I'll do a little each day while the kids are at soccer camp. Tomorrow we'll move some furniture and the new refrigerator and the tailor measured for curtains today.
I put up a picture of my parents too. Little by little it will all be done.
I look forward to setting up a new place, but it's kind of overwhelming to go through all the nooks and crannies and know what to move and toss, but as I said the other day, it will all get done one way or another.
Maybe in a few days I'll post a few pictures, but it will take awhile before it will start to look like our home. Maybe I'll find some more pictures to set around. Stay tuned!
But before any of that, I went from room to room saying a multitude of prayers for our new life there. I pray it is a home of comfort, security, fellowship, and peace.
Since the kids and I are on holiday for about another month there's no reason to stress about moving in haste. I'll do a little each day while the kids are at soccer camp. Tomorrow we'll move some furniture and the new refrigerator and the tailor measured for curtains today.
I put up a picture of my parents too. Little by little it will all be done.
I look forward to setting up a new place, but it's kind of overwhelming to go through all the nooks and crannies and know what to move and toss, but as I said the other day, it will all get done one way or another.
Maybe in a few days I'll post a few pictures, but it will take awhile before it will start to look like our home. Maybe I'll find some more pictures to set around. Stay tuned!
Saturday, July 10, 2010
Back Home
We arrived back in Jos a few hours ago. One thing that hit me hard is how much clutter we have. That was one thing I enjoyed about being in our Yola house...no clutter!
It's amazing how easy things add up. Even now, I need to unpack, but since we're moving soon I don't really want to unpack, only to pack up again soon. I'm tempted just to run my suitcase over to the new house on Monday and just unpack it there. I'll still find stuff to wear, especially after our clothes are washed.
I think I will try to be selective about what I take to the new house and then look at what's left and decide if I really need it or not. It's easy to give away things that don't fit the kids anymore, or things they have grown out of, but it's really hard to start giving away books, things I MIGHT need one day and so on and so forth. At the same time, I look forward to the opportunity to have a fresh start.
It is a good time to scale back...I'm sure I could find good homes for some of the things and I'm sure there are some things I should just toss out.
At least I know some places that can use some things and I can think of a few people who might be interested in some of the other stuff. It's summer break and a good time to scale back and examine priorities. Wish me luck...or better yet, pray for discernment between things that would be wise to save and those that are just clutter at this time in my life. Perhaps you want to join me in this effort!
It's amazing how easy things add up. Even now, I need to unpack, but since we're moving soon I don't really want to unpack, only to pack up again soon. I'm tempted just to run my suitcase over to the new house on Monday and just unpack it there. I'll still find stuff to wear, especially after our clothes are washed.
I think I will try to be selective about what I take to the new house and then look at what's left and decide if I really need it or not. It's easy to give away things that don't fit the kids anymore, or things they have grown out of, but it's really hard to start giving away books, things I MIGHT need one day and so on and so forth. At the same time, I look forward to the opportunity to have a fresh start.
It is a good time to scale back...I'm sure I could find good homes for some of the things and I'm sure there are some things I should just toss out.
At least I know some places that can use some things and I can think of a few people who might be interested in some of the other stuff. It's summer break and a good time to scale back and examine priorities. Wish me luck...or better yet, pray for discernment between things that would be wise to save and those that are just clutter at this time in my life. Perhaps you want to join me in this effort!
Friday, July 2, 2010
Holiday in Yola
HI, we've been in Yola for over two weeks. It has been a wonderfully restful time. I've had time to read novels, magazines, a few devotional books and had time to bake. The kids and I have enjoyed time with our extended family here in Adamawa. Amson's cousins and their families are here and his mom spent two weeks with us.
We are really blessed to have this home here. I really love all the space we have and we've gotten to know one neighbor better, they have two boys Daniel enjoys.
Now we just have a few days left before we head back to Jos and move into a new house. As much as I have enjoyed our time here, I'm ready to head back...besides, my novels are all read and I only have one devotional book left and the magazines are fun, but I much prefer relaxing with a good book.
Amson arrives today to spend our last weekend with us and then we head home on Tuesday...we are so rich to have more than one home we can enjoy!
I have often wished I could share some of the various thoughts I have pondered on these past few weeks: thoughts on living more simply, rediscovering my faith in God, enjoying my children and family in Yola, and just being able to slow down. It has even been good to have less access to the internet.
Well, it's time to sign off. I've been on internet while Nat is taking confirmation class....more about that another day. Now it's time to go.
Hope you too are enjoying some downtime this summer!
We are really blessed to have this home here. I really love all the space we have and we've gotten to know one neighbor better, they have two boys Daniel enjoys.
Now we just have a few days left before we head back to Jos and move into a new house. As much as I have enjoyed our time here, I'm ready to head back...besides, my novels are all read and I only have one devotional book left and the magazines are fun, but I much prefer relaxing with a good book.
Amson arrives today to spend our last weekend with us and then we head home on Tuesday...we are so rich to have more than one home we can enjoy!
I have often wished I could share some of the various thoughts I have pondered on these past few weeks: thoughts on living more simply, rediscovering my faith in God, enjoying my children and family in Yola, and just being able to slow down. It has even been good to have less access to the internet.
Well, it's time to sign off. I've been on internet while Nat is taking confirmation class....more about that another day. Now it's time to go.
Hope you too are enjoying some downtime this summer!
Saturday, June 12, 2010
Schools Out!
Well, we've been on break for two weeks now. The past few days haven't been so fun since I've been sick, but I am feeling better again.
It's been a bit busy too. Last Sunday I preached on Mark 8:28-34. It was a good experience and I felt the Spirit's guidance.
Now we're getting ready to pack up from the "Blue House" in a few days and then head to our home in Yola, or Jimeta as the locals call it (not to be confused with Yola Town where the traditional ruler has his palace).
Staying in this house has had it's ups and downs, but then I guess that's just life in a nutshell. No matter, I'm ready for this chapter to close.
We'll have three weeks in our house in Yola and then come back to start moving into the compound where there are other ELCA (Evangelical Lutheran Church of America) missionaries. It will be good for us to be on a larger compound again, I like having a little more life around us, even though I tend to be a homebody.
I also look forward to having a larger community to be a part of, I know the kids have missed that a lot. It will be different though, we've never lived around other Americans here in Nigeria, but at least one of our neighbors will be Nigerian/American like us so that will be good.
It's hard to explain how that makes a difference, but I guess it is kind of a tribal thing...though our husbands are from opposite ends of Nigeria. I've been in Nigeria long enough to know that while tribal tendancies can be dangerous, they're also quite understandable....and comfortably familiar.
Perhaps that's what I've missed most these past months, feeling at home in my home. I pray that as we move to our new house it won't take long to feel at home. In December 2008, when we spent a month in our brand new home in Yola, it was home from the moment we walked in the door. I pray that might happen again.
Well, it's time to turn off the gen and go to bed so I'll sign off.
I pray that as you read this, you too feel at home where ever you are.
Dorthea
It's been a bit busy too. Last Sunday I preached on Mark 8:28-34. It was a good experience and I felt the Spirit's guidance.
Now we're getting ready to pack up from the "Blue House" in a few days and then head to our home in Yola, or Jimeta as the locals call it (not to be confused with Yola Town where the traditional ruler has his palace).
Staying in this house has had it's ups and downs, but then I guess that's just life in a nutshell. No matter, I'm ready for this chapter to close.
We'll have three weeks in our house in Yola and then come back to start moving into the compound where there are other ELCA (Evangelical Lutheran Church of America) missionaries. It will be good for us to be on a larger compound again, I like having a little more life around us, even though I tend to be a homebody.
I also look forward to having a larger community to be a part of, I know the kids have missed that a lot. It will be different though, we've never lived around other Americans here in Nigeria, but at least one of our neighbors will be Nigerian/American like us so that will be good.
It's hard to explain how that makes a difference, but I guess it is kind of a tribal thing...though our husbands are from opposite ends of Nigeria. I've been in Nigeria long enough to know that while tribal tendancies can be dangerous, they're also quite understandable....and comfortably familiar.
Perhaps that's what I've missed most these past months, feeling at home in my home. I pray that as we move to our new house it won't take long to feel at home. In December 2008, when we spent a month in our brand new home in Yola, it was home from the moment we walked in the door. I pray that might happen again.
Well, it's time to turn off the gen and go to bed so I'll sign off.
I pray that as you read this, you too feel at home where ever you are.
Dorthea
Saturday, April 10, 2010
Inner Peace
Life in Jos, Nigeria continues on. School is in its last quarter and is going fine, kids are managing fine with their own school work, staying in touch with friends they see only on the weekends, church activities are going fine....everything is going on well, in spite of occasional outbursts around town, the state, or nation.
As I was making supper last night I found myself aware of the inner peace I was feeling and giving a word of thanks for it.
Most afternoons I head home tired from the day at school, and it doesn't take much stress added to the tiredness to where I feel exhausted and overwhelmed, but at the end of the week the load of work and family was feeling much more manageable.
It's amazing how much difference a positive attitude transforms life's challenges to become minor inconveniences.
At school this week I wrapped up a chapter on WWII in one class and discussed the Great Depression and earlier revolutions in others so perhaps that's part of why my own life's challenges seem so minor at the moment. Survivors of these events endured so much and lived to share their experiences.
When the kids and I were on spring break last week it was wonderful to take note of their frequent smiles and enjoyment of the restful week. I thank God that in spite of the many things, life is good and His love and care is ever present. May it also be apparent in your own life.
As I was making supper last night I found myself aware of the inner peace I was feeling and giving a word of thanks for it.
Most afternoons I head home tired from the day at school, and it doesn't take much stress added to the tiredness to where I feel exhausted and overwhelmed, but at the end of the week the load of work and family was feeling much more manageable.
It's amazing how much difference a positive attitude transforms life's challenges to become minor inconveniences.
At school this week I wrapped up a chapter on WWII in one class and discussed the Great Depression and earlier revolutions in others so perhaps that's part of why my own life's challenges seem so minor at the moment. Survivors of these events endured so much and lived to share their experiences.
When the kids and I were on spring break last week it was wonderful to take note of their frequent smiles and enjoyment of the restful week. I thank God that in spite of the many things, life is good and His love and care is ever present. May it also be apparent in your own life.
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Spring Break
After a good weekend of fun with the family in Abuja we are back in Jos and will be at the guesthouse for the next week. For the rest of the week I don't have any big plans. I did sit down and make a list today, but I don't feel compelled to exhaust myself with lots of baking or stress myself thinking about the reports I collected last week.
I do hope to do some baking. I have two pumpkins waiting to use and today I bought some cheese for pizza, but I think I'll put it off a day or two. I may do some marking too, time will tell. For now though, I just feel the need to rest and enjoy a few things I don't always have time for. Writing a few blogs, watching some mystery/detective shows on TV, reading for pleasure, tickling my kids...those kinds of things.
Tomorrow I will meet a longtime friend who has been inviting me for a lunch date since my birthday in October. When I realized I had no big plans I sent her a note and look forward to spending some time with her.
I have another lunch out planned too, but that one is a little sadder. One of my fellow Nigerwives is leaving Nigeria. Her children have pressured her to move back to her country of origin. I pray that it will be a good move and that her husband will follow. I also thank God that my family understands my calling to Nigeria.
Nigeria, and Jos in particular, continue to be full of uncertainties but we are still here and pray God will give us courage to trust Him. Uncertainties or not, I still feel God has work for us here in Jos.
I do hope to do some baking. I have two pumpkins waiting to use and today I bought some cheese for pizza, but I think I'll put it off a day or two. I may do some marking too, time will tell. For now though, I just feel the need to rest and enjoy a few things I don't always have time for. Writing a few blogs, watching some mystery/detective shows on TV, reading for pleasure, tickling my kids...those kinds of things.
Tomorrow I will meet a longtime friend who has been inviting me for a lunch date since my birthday in October. When I realized I had no big plans I sent her a note and look forward to spending some time with her.
I have another lunch out planned too, but that one is a little sadder. One of my fellow Nigerwives is leaving Nigeria. Her children have pressured her to move back to her country of origin. I pray that it will be a good move and that her husband will follow. I also thank God that my family understands my calling to Nigeria.
Nigeria, and Jos in particular, continue to be full of uncertainties but we are still here and pray God will give us courage to trust Him. Uncertainties or not, I still feel God has work for us here in Jos.
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Living for the moment...
For the past two months we have continued to spend the week at the house on the other side of town and the weekends at our home at the guesthouse.
In between the longing for a normal routine in the midst of our constant state of flux I try to imagine that going between two homes is a luxury Truth be told, I miss knowing where I left my book, not worrying about leaving the kids' school stuff at the other house, having the right spices or cookbook when I need it, and the list goes on.
I've been thinking a lot about living for the moment; these days in Jos the dynamics of daily life often change with little notice. Last Monday, for example, there were rumours of possible riots so soon after lunch there was an announcement at school that parents were being called to collect all children and in about an hour everyone was on their way home. School resumed the next day, but that night many of us heard shooting and several received messages that attackers were coming from outside the state. In the past few days more then one group of suspected attackers have been discovered, some even today.
On Thursday students' attention was claimed during the morning while the Christian women of Jos marched past the school during a peace march. Some how my student's managed to finish their essay test, but it took a fair amount of effort...but then most school assignments demand an extra effort to be able to concentrate these days.
Even within our own family we live by the moment. Yesterday we had planned to spend the weekend in the Blue House, but soon after Amson arrived he suggested we go to the guesthouse compound and within twenty minutes we were on our way.
Living for the moment and being ready for any change...that's where we're at now. It can be exhausting and emotionally draining, but we trust God's steadfastness will sustain us.
Today, Saturday, we had some fun at school as the annual Carnival was held. It was five hours of fun for the younger kids as they enjoyed the zip line, horse rides, dirt bike and motorcycle rides, water slide, kiddie pool, time to chat for adults, and other games for the middle school kids. All was organized by the sophomore class and their sponsors and parents. For a few hours we parents just worried about our kids having fun and not getting sunburns.
Living for the moment...or perhaps I should not say "for" the moment, we live trying to concentrate on the most pressing demands so that the larger issues of security and stability do not overwhelm and consume us. Granted, those issues are vitally important, but as a mother and teacher I find I need to focus more on caring for the immediate needs of those closest to me, that is where my attention must go first.
In between the longing for a normal routine in the midst of our constant state of flux I try to imagine that going between two homes is a luxury Truth be told, I miss knowing where I left my book, not worrying about leaving the kids' school stuff at the other house, having the right spices or cookbook when I need it, and the list goes on.
I've been thinking a lot about living for the moment; these days in Jos the dynamics of daily life often change with little notice. Last Monday, for example, there were rumours of possible riots so soon after lunch there was an announcement at school that parents were being called to collect all children and in about an hour everyone was on their way home. School resumed the next day, but that night many of us heard shooting and several received messages that attackers were coming from outside the state. In the past few days more then one group of suspected attackers have been discovered, some even today.
On Thursday students' attention was claimed during the morning while the Christian women of Jos marched past the school during a peace march. Some how my student's managed to finish their essay test, but it took a fair amount of effort...but then most school assignments demand an extra effort to be able to concentrate these days.
Even within our own family we live by the moment. Yesterday we had planned to spend the weekend in the Blue House, but soon after Amson arrived he suggested we go to the guesthouse compound and within twenty minutes we were on our way.
Living for the moment and being ready for any change...that's where we're at now. It can be exhausting and emotionally draining, but we trust God's steadfastness will sustain us.
Today, Saturday, we had some fun at school as the annual Carnival was held. It was five hours of fun for the younger kids as they enjoyed the zip line, horse rides, dirt bike and motorcycle rides, water slide, kiddie pool, time to chat for adults, and other games for the middle school kids. All was organized by the sophomore class and their sponsors and parents. For a few hours we parents just worried about our kids having fun and not getting sunburns.
Living for the moment...or perhaps I should not say "for" the moment, we live trying to concentrate on the most pressing demands so that the larger issues of security and stability do not overwhelm and consume us. Granted, those issues are vitally important, but as a mother and teacher I find I need to focus more on caring for the immediate needs of those closest to me, that is where my attention must go first.
Saturday, February 6, 2010
Still in Transition
It is now nearly three weeks since our last crisis started and we have been in our new flat for over two weeks. The house is comfortable with plenty of space; in typical African fashion we are only using two rooms as the kids and aunties choose to all sleep in one room. The only thing we miss is more frequent light. Rarely is there light in the morning and often we only have a few hours in the evening.
The kids like that it is easier to get to school on time and it will be much easier when Nat starts after school discipleship and when Nat and Annette have after school sports, but I find I have less time at school for planning and marking since we now go home together. Once I get home it takes a lot of effort to finish my work, but I finally set up a study space for myself so it's getting a little easier.
With all the adjustments it is finally hitting me that I still have some emotions to deal with. Since we live on a smaller compound now I noticed we spend more time together as a family. While that is good, it also means that I have not had much space to deal with my emotions The curfew is now 6:00 pm to 6:00 am so Amson is usually in the house by 5:30 pm and the kids and I are often home by 4:30 pm.
Sundays we have been spending the day at Dogon Dutse. The church is on the same compound so we attend church, have lunch and the kids have some time with their friends. With all the police checks we allow at least 1 1/2 hours to get across town. Before we could take the same route in about twenty minutes, but now there can be delays on the way.
School has resumed well. All students are back and classes are going strong again. I find it is taking me more effort to concentrate, but the first week back went well. I was lucky that I had done most of my planning already so it I only had to make a few adjustments the first week. The kids are doing fine in their classes too.
We continue to pray that calm remains and that we will eventually be tempted to take the peace for granted, but for now, security is still a priority that requires one's attention. Please pray with us that people of Jos and Plateau State will be able to trust one another again and not be tempted to fear one another. Without forgiveness, reconcilation, and the efforts of the government many wonder how peace will reign. As Christains, we are fortunate that we know the bringer of peace and that we can be at peace in God's hands. I also pray that opportunities to share the God of Peace will occur so that more will come to know Him.
The kids like that it is easier to get to school on time and it will be much easier when Nat starts after school discipleship and when Nat and Annette have after school sports, but I find I have less time at school for planning and marking since we now go home together. Once I get home it takes a lot of effort to finish my work, but I finally set up a study space for myself so it's getting a little easier.
With all the adjustments it is finally hitting me that I still have some emotions to deal with. Since we live on a smaller compound now I noticed we spend more time together as a family. While that is good, it also means that I have not had much space to deal with my emotions The curfew is now 6:00 pm to 6:00 am so Amson is usually in the house by 5:30 pm and the kids and I are often home by 4:30 pm.
Sundays we have been spending the day at Dogon Dutse. The church is on the same compound so we attend church, have lunch and the kids have some time with their friends. With all the police checks we allow at least 1 1/2 hours to get across town. Before we could take the same route in about twenty minutes, but now there can be delays on the way.
School has resumed well. All students are back and classes are going strong again. I find it is taking me more effort to concentrate, but the first week back went well. I was lucky that I had done most of my planning already so it I only had to make a few adjustments the first week. The kids are doing fine in their classes too.
We continue to pray that calm remains and that we will eventually be tempted to take the peace for granted, but for now, security is still a priority that requires one's attention. Please pray with us that people of Jos and Plateau State will be able to trust one another again and not be tempted to fear one another. Without forgiveness, reconcilation, and the efforts of the government many wonder how peace will reign. As Christains, we are fortunate that we know the bringer of peace and that we can be at peace in God's hands. I also pray that opportunities to share the God of Peace will occur so that more will come to know Him.
Friday, January 22, 2010
Crisis 2010
This is day six of the most recent crisis in Jos. This is my second time around so I don't feel the stress quite as much and yet our life has been turned upside down a bit.
This was our second day at a new residence. My husband is concerned that we live so far away from the school where all the kids attend and where I teach so we have moved to a different Lutheran compound and may be here awhile. When we drove here yesterday the drive that usually takes under 25 minutes took about three times that.
There were many security checks as we passed through the areas where the crisis began. As we drove through the check points most passengers had to get out of their cars and walk, with their hands above their heads, until the got to the other side of the check point. Our police escort and the military we passed allowed us to stay in our car.
This new compound is just across the street from the school so I feel like Amson is quite relieved that we are here but the kids miss their friends and it's an adjustment to be uprooted. One nice thing is that my sisters-in-law came with us and the two other families on the compound have kids the similar ages to our kids so they can connect.
The other changes we're dealing with are that is that the flat we are staying in doesn't have light so by 7:00 pm it's dark. We are fortunate that the upstairs' neighbors are open to us charging laptops, cell phones and hanging out at their house.
There is still no news about when school will start. The first few days there was a 24 hour curfew and now it's from 5:00 pm to 10:00 am so it's a little hard to start school between those hours, though I suppose we could get creative if the curfew doesn't change soon!
Even though it's not easy on our family to be spread out between two compounds, our main concern is that peace can be maintained and that those who have been completely displaced and are left with only the clothes on their back, literally, can have their needs met and can heal from the terror they experienced.
I also reiterate what I said in my previous blog, in spite of all the craziness in the world I still believe that God is in control. I think it was during the second day of the crisis when one colleague called to see how we were and asked if I felt safe. I replied, "I feel safe in God's hand, but not man's." Perhaps those who have lived through a natural disaster have another impression, but I pray that they too can look to God for hope.
This was our second day at a new residence. My husband is concerned that we live so far away from the school where all the kids attend and where I teach so we have moved to a different Lutheran compound and may be here awhile. When we drove here yesterday the drive that usually takes under 25 minutes took about three times that.
There were many security checks as we passed through the areas where the crisis began. As we drove through the check points most passengers had to get out of their cars and walk, with their hands above their heads, until the got to the other side of the check point. Our police escort and the military we passed allowed us to stay in our car.
This new compound is just across the street from the school so I feel like Amson is quite relieved that we are here but the kids miss their friends and it's an adjustment to be uprooted. One nice thing is that my sisters-in-law came with us and the two other families on the compound have kids the similar ages to our kids so they can connect.
The other changes we're dealing with are that is that the flat we are staying in doesn't have light so by 7:00 pm it's dark. We are fortunate that the upstairs' neighbors are open to us charging laptops, cell phones and hanging out at their house.
There is still no news about when school will start. The first few days there was a 24 hour curfew and now it's from 5:00 pm to 10:00 am so it's a little hard to start school between those hours, though I suppose we could get creative if the curfew doesn't change soon!
Even though it's not easy on our family to be spread out between two compounds, our main concern is that peace can be maintained and that those who have been completely displaced and are left with only the clothes on their back, literally, can have their needs met and can heal from the terror they experienced.
I also reiterate what I said in my previous blog, in spite of all the craziness in the world I still believe that God is in control. I think it was during the second day of the crisis when one colleague called to see how we were and asked if I felt safe. I replied, "I feel safe in God's hand, but not man's." Perhaps those who have lived through a natural disaster have another impression, but I pray that they too can look to God for hope.
Friday, January 15, 2010
A Good beginning
We started our second semester at school and one thought that has often been on my mind is how God provides what we need, when we need it...
As I was preparing for the semester one of the things on my mind was how I could improve my course on government. I've taught the course a couple of times, but never made it a high priority since I was struggling with other courses; but the time finally came.
For the past several months I've been reading a book titled Steppingstones to Curriculum by Harro Van Brummelen (I ponder a lot when I read so sometimes I can only digest a few pages as I go) and as I read a few more pages during the break they really helped as I planned for the new term. I pray that the insights will make class content more real and meaningful to my students.
I'm the kind of teacher who is very comfortable lecturing the whole classtime, unfortunately students often get bored with that approach so I am TRYING to be creative, but it can be really hard. The government course will require more student involvement in presentations of activities and current events. I hope they enjoy it. They can also take the chapter quizzes anytime during the week so I hope they enjoy that freedom. Essay tests will be over a unit so that should also be easier on me, plus, by then they should have more to say!
This idea that God provides what we need, when we need it is something that has become more real to me as I get older and the African setting has probably intensified it too. As a missionary and an expatriot it can be really easy to isolate oneself or become insular. At times I think it is necessary, but other times it becomes a dangerous temptation as one might develop a superior attitude. Often I find that God provides a needed opportunity or interruption just when I need it so that I can grow more and be stretched in ways that deepen my relationship with Him and those around me.
May you too be stretched and challenged to deepen your relationship with God and those around you. Remember, God calls most of us to live in a community.
As I was preparing for the semester one of the things on my mind was how I could improve my course on government. I've taught the course a couple of times, but never made it a high priority since I was struggling with other courses; but the time finally came.
For the past several months I've been reading a book titled Steppingstones to Curriculum by Harro Van Brummelen (I ponder a lot when I read so sometimes I can only digest a few pages as I go) and as I read a few more pages during the break they really helped as I planned for the new term. I pray that the insights will make class content more real and meaningful to my students.
I'm the kind of teacher who is very comfortable lecturing the whole classtime, unfortunately students often get bored with that approach so I am TRYING to be creative, but it can be really hard. The government course will require more student involvement in presentations of activities and current events. I hope they enjoy it. They can also take the chapter quizzes anytime during the week so I hope they enjoy that freedom. Essay tests will be over a unit so that should also be easier on me, plus, by then they should have more to say!
This idea that God provides what we need, when we need it is something that has become more real to me as I get older and the African setting has probably intensified it too. As a missionary and an expatriot it can be really easy to isolate oneself or become insular. At times I think it is necessary, but other times it becomes a dangerous temptation as one might develop a superior attitude. Often I find that God provides a needed opportunity or interruption just when I need it so that I can grow more and be stretched in ways that deepen my relationship with Him and those around me.
May you too be stretched and challenged to deepen your relationship with God and those around you. Remember, God calls most of us to live in a community.
Thursday, January 7, 2010
A New Year
I'm feeling melancholy tonight; usually I try not to write when I feel this way so that I don't come across depressing. But here I am...
The break has been good. I did wear myself out some with baking before Christmas and managed to make a nice meal for Christmas Eve...then I crashed for a few days. Then I baked, packed, and cleaned for about thirteen hours straight before getting a few hours of sleep. The next morning we headed off to Adamawa, our home state, for New Years.
Our time in Jimeta and Bilachi was very restful. We love our house in Jimeta. It is so spacious and comfortable that we immediately feel at home. Our time in the village was good too. Amson was busy visiting friends and family while I took it easy.
Nat and Annette were out a lot with friends, new and old, and Daniel was in and out too as uncles went around with him a little. I had a little time with my mother-in-law, but since it's a challenge to communicate, we don't try much. She's a very hard worker, especially as my two sisters-in-law that live with us had to head back for classes before we left and Mama was left without all her helpers.
One afternoon I spent a little time with her washing a few dishes and watching her clean and smoke fish. It was amazing to realize how quickly the fresh fish dries up in her smoker; the fish caught that morning was dried before evening.
We came back yesterday and now I am trying to think about what I want to do before school starts. I don't want to stress myself too much, but we do have to celebrate Daniel's birthday.
His sixth birthday is actually today, but we will celebrate it two days late. I'm glad I have tomorrow to do the baking. Today I had a few brainstorms about what to do and what to make so I'll bake tomorrow. Amson promised to look for the remote control car he's been asking for; I couldn't find one before Christmas and the car I did find only lasted a few hours before starting to break apart after the first time it was dropped on the floor.
Nat was happy with the games he got to play on his PlayStation and Annette could hardly believe she got the phone. (Let's hope it lasts, it's already on its second life since it was dropped in the latrine in Adamawa, but somehow continues to work.) I'm enjoying the wall clocks my husband bought me. (Not very romantic, but I did ask him to buy one as our bedroom clock that had been a wedding present finally got hit once too often by a bouncing ball and couldn't be taped up again.)
This mood I'm in has been hanging around for several days, I started thinking about my Dad and sister Mary when the kids and I were playing Monopoly. (Mary and I often played board games when cousins came for a holiday.) Later I realized that the day we were playing was actually the same day my Dad had died two years earlier. Mary died in 2001, just after Thanksgiving. I know one thing that is hitting me more this year is how important it is to not stress so much that I forget to enjoy the moment.
With school starting up again I hope I can remember that. I always get so busy when school is in session and the pace seems more draining this year...I guess that's why I have allowed myself to work less at home.
Well, it's after midnight here in Nigeria and I still plan to get up before the kids to have devotions and get my baking started. I'm always in a better mood when I get up before anyone else and can have some quiet time before the TV comes on and everyone starts waking up.
One thing I have been very thankful for is a peaceful holiday season. After rumors of unrest in Jos, and some problems in a neighboring state it has been a relief to have calm where we are. I truly believe God is in control of our lives and even if He allows trouble to occur, I also believe He provides us with the fortitude to withstand life's challenges. May this year be a year where you turn more fully toward God and trust his control.
The break has been good. I did wear myself out some with baking before Christmas and managed to make a nice meal for Christmas Eve...then I crashed for a few days. Then I baked, packed, and cleaned for about thirteen hours straight before getting a few hours of sleep. The next morning we headed off to Adamawa, our home state, for New Years.
Our time in Jimeta and Bilachi was very restful. We love our house in Jimeta. It is so spacious and comfortable that we immediately feel at home. Our time in the village was good too. Amson was busy visiting friends and family while I took it easy.
Nat and Annette were out a lot with friends, new and old, and Daniel was in and out too as uncles went around with him a little. I had a little time with my mother-in-law, but since it's a challenge to communicate, we don't try much. She's a very hard worker, especially as my two sisters-in-law that live with us had to head back for classes before we left and Mama was left without all her helpers.
One afternoon I spent a little time with her washing a few dishes and watching her clean and smoke fish. It was amazing to realize how quickly the fresh fish dries up in her smoker; the fish caught that morning was dried before evening.
We came back yesterday and now I am trying to think about what I want to do before school starts. I don't want to stress myself too much, but we do have to celebrate Daniel's birthday.
His sixth birthday is actually today, but we will celebrate it two days late. I'm glad I have tomorrow to do the baking. Today I had a few brainstorms about what to do and what to make so I'll bake tomorrow. Amson promised to look for the remote control car he's been asking for; I couldn't find one before Christmas and the car I did find only lasted a few hours before starting to break apart after the first time it was dropped on the floor.
Nat was happy with the games he got to play on his PlayStation and Annette could hardly believe she got the phone. (Let's hope it lasts, it's already on its second life since it was dropped in the latrine in Adamawa, but somehow continues to work.) I'm enjoying the wall clocks my husband bought me. (Not very romantic, but I did ask him to buy one as our bedroom clock that had been a wedding present finally got hit once too often by a bouncing ball and couldn't be taped up again.)
This mood I'm in has been hanging around for several days, I started thinking about my Dad and sister Mary when the kids and I were playing Monopoly. (Mary and I often played board games when cousins came for a holiday.) Later I realized that the day we were playing was actually the same day my Dad had died two years earlier. Mary died in 2001, just after Thanksgiving. I know one thing that is hitting me more this year is how important it is to not stress so much that I forget to enjoy the moment.
With school starting up again I hope I can remember that. I always get so busy when school is in session and the pace seems more draining this year...I guess that's why I have allowed myself to work less at home.
Well, it's after midnight here in Nigeria and I still plan to get up before the kids to have devotions and get my baking started. I'm always in a better mood when I get up before anyone else and can have some quiet time before the TV comes on and everyone starts waking up.
One thing I have been very thankful for is a peaceful holiday season. After rumors of unrest in Jos, and some problems in a neighboring state it has been a relief to have calm where we are. I truly believe God is in control of our lives and even if He allows trouble to occur, I also believe He provides us with the fortitude to withstand life's challenges. May this year be a year where you turn more fully toward God and trust his control.
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