Tonight was Bethlehem. The Hebrew meaning to this word is House of Bread as we commonly learn through Sunday School. Interestinly enough when it is also referred to as City of David, this is not a singular reference. David had many cities, this was simply one of them (however, probably one of the primary ones seeing as how David came from here).
We began New Testament today in class and it is truly phenomenal. Brother Draper aids my understanding of the scriptures so much, I am amazed at how they come alive. We discussed the introduction (the Gospels are not in order, the key principles to each book, etc.) as well as the beginning of the Nativity. This was particularly interesting because simultaneously we've been learning about the living conditions of the time and how they would have been living. Nazareth - a burg, Joseph - 18/19 yrs old, poor, Mary - 13/14 yrs old, poor, harsh social conditions with an oppressive king. Mary being thought to have compromised her virtue and having her entire family probably thinking lowly of her. Joseph feeling utterly betrayed for this 'consequence' from his espoused. An angel of the Lord, Gabriel coming to fix everything. She never had to travel to Bethlehem - only the men needed to make an accounting for, the women usually stayed behind. Mary deciding, although great with child and hence slowing the journey down, to go with Joseph because he out of everyone understood her the best (Gabriel enlightening). Jesus' birth was simple and ordinary like anyone elses - close family and midwives. The Draper interpretation of 'rogue' angels probably desperately wanting to celebrate the birth and so scaring the shepherds 'spitless' (of their hot chocolate of course). These shepherds realizing that the Jehovah of the Old Testament has just been born not too far away and their 'political king' they've been waiting for is here. (Wise men of course don't come for a few more years even though we depict them as coming the night of the birth) All these thoughts really touched home to me while we were in Shepherd's Field tonight. We had a small program (Once in Royal David's City with Channing and Emily Ward, Guard Him Joseph Catherine and Kristen Anderson, and First Noel Mike Henderson, Luke, and Spencer Wilcox and more) and afterwards contemplative time. I recalled a "psalm" I made at the beginning of July in 2006 and really felt the spirit strong, had an open gift tonight for writing, and was able to write a page similar to that psalm for where I feel I am right now in life and my feelings for the night. It really meant a lot to me. One part that was neat is that like the Big Dipper which hangs pouring completely on all the inhabitants of the Earth - the Lord blesses and loves us so fully. Bethlehem was very interesting to see - more pleasing to the ears due to the more quiet nature of the area versus the hustle of Jerusalem and Cairo.
Yes, while in Bethlehem we did go to the Church of the Nativity which was very interesting indeed. So many things remind me of pharaohs (Herod killing the children). I bought a fair share of olive wood carvings here (best wood, it's where all the other merchants get their items from, the merchants here are kinder and more honest, and much cheaper prices) but no baby blankets (white, knit, simple but beautiful). I've never seen it but I want to watch: on Christmas Eve around the world, everyone watches the multiple nations singing different carols in Manger Square? That'd be neat.
I still have the spirit with me although I'm nearly going to fall over in this chair I'm so tired. It's been a wonderful night. The contemplative time was very helpful indeed (and the writing I believe will help in the future as well), I was able to help prepare most of the musical program which made it mean so much more to me, I've been trying to near my God more and so am trying to listen to those promptings better. On listening I've found that I've got two areas the Lord knows I can identify (I'm rather dense sometimes and so simple things are good): 1)serving others is the best way to be a person of good cheer and happy, truly trying to love them. I've been trying to do this by taking care of other people but there's still more to be done in order to grasp a connection which I think is better than the physical serving and 2) It's even more difficult to aSk for help when you need it. Contemplating tonight I realized that I miss Tannon. I for some reason I was struck and needed to talk to somebody (Kristen Anderson) in confidence or call Mom and talk to Mom in confidence. Basically I needed a good cry and a chance to communicate forward thinking, forward faith - it's not the event that I dwell on but at times things hit a particular way. I decided that going outside my box would be to talk to Kristen and would be a way for me to listen to that prompting of how to grow closer to people around me. I appreciate that wonderful, beautiful, faithfilled girl so much. We have circumstances and personalities that make us very free and open in conversation especially with each other. I think the conversation was a way to help both of us in particular ways. We talked and talked and talked - and it was wonderful. About our families, the power of faith, loving others in order to act as God's tools, drawing close to others, Bryan and her friend who draw some of the best out in us, our frustrations and then our reconciliations with our natural man inside ourselves - it was simple beautiful. The chance to have that meaningful of a conversation truly this night part of why I won't forget it.
I love the Jehovah of the Old Testament. I love Tannon. I love Drew. I love Kristen. I love tenderness and kindness... and I love inspiration.
Friday, May 23, 2008
Sunday, May 18, 2008
back from Egypt - Habibi Nation
So it's 11:30 at night right now, I'll probably take an hour to finish this up, get my now-clean-once-rank-smelling laundry before bed, am working with repercussive "presents" from Egypt (if you've ever been you'd understand - and no, I didn't drink the water or eat the fruit), and feeling an overwhelming sense of duty to my classes which seem to be hitting all of us all at once (4 class periods and we're already having the final this week!), but I had a desire to get updated once more. It's been over a week since I've gotten on to update or anything but here it goes.
Friday May 9th
the memorable part of this day was going to the Western Wall or as we say in the States, the Wailing Wall. Phenomenal - it was a temple experience as Alyssa and I found out due to the mood we got in. I've been asking people for their life stories lately. Alyssa and I had gotten into a good discussion one night and so the walk to the western wall was a follow-up and a way for her to get to know me better. I told her about Tannon and that experience I have in my life continually. This made us focus on our pasts and what beauty lays behind us. The future was present when we got to the wall and found so much life and hope for the new. The present lay with us as we touched the original west wall to the Old City where so many prayers were rolled up and placed in corners. The reverence and faith that was there as prayers were being offered up to our Lord. There was a division between the men and women's side which aided in the feeling of family because there were cultural barriers between us women. A group from a jewish university began singing songs and dancing, slow reverencing once as well as lively ones that welcomed in Shabat. We were there to observe them welcoming in Shabat and in turn were able to join in the celebration. Shabat should not be a mundane day where sleep is the primary concern. Although I am at fault for this it was very... rejuvinating? eye-opening? invigorating?... to wElCoMe iN the sabbath. I got a recording from it and am so thankful for that - a field recording to remember the beauty of the night.
Saturday May 10th
I was able to see Sister Cochran this morning before church and nearly flew out of my seat to give her a big hug. It was beautiful to be able to see her, a wonderful woman that I look up to in so many ways and respect so greatly. Emily Ward, Jenn and Deb Weiss, and Camille Finlinson sang a beautiful arrangement of a peaceful hymn today (be still my soul? nearer my god to thee?). Nursery was wonderful and is always keeping me alert for new ways in which to communicate and interact with dear children (not just my own beautiful niece, Halbert). We also today went to Orson Hyde Park as well as the Garden of Gethsemane. It was neat to be able to walk peacefully down the walk at Orson Hyde (I'm still looking for the prayer to review and read. I hear it's amazing and quite profound) and while in the Garden enjoy the simple, rather small area. I wasn't feeling the hottest so the rest was very enjoyable. It's been great to see how we each are taking care of each other and the reciprocation of action, making sure all are at least alright. A man let us into another portion of en fenced olive trees which was nice because it was our close group, able to study as we pleased, contemplate as we felt, and enjoy the beauty in a more silent manner. This is a really special group that I'm here with.
Sunday May 11th
Today was devoted to making our way to the Egypt border. The bus ride for me was primarily with Will Armstrong. We talked about much and enjoyed the window scenery as well (sleeping). We discussed Will's girl for quite some time which was very enjoyable to hear (I love hearing people talk about people they care for or have strong connection to). On the way we stopped at Avdat where some exploring was done, a Kibbutz where we toured and learned of a way of life we will one day live but I don't think really comprehend today - law of consecration, communism in the ideal stage, where we ate dinner and then another kibbutz later down the road right near the Jordan/Saudi Arabia border where we learned a little more about Abraham from Bro. Draper and Ostler, after which Nauvoo legpull, arm wrestling, and hand pull games were played (as well as some yoga by Sarah Rowley, tumbling, and even a small group of swing dancers)
Monday May 12th
Another day devoted to travel, with Will and Adri (my roomie for the next week). From here we crossed the Egyptian border in very good time, discovered what squatter potties were and what the next week would really be like - interesting bathrooms to say the least, no clean water, constant hand sanitizer, no fresh fruit or veggies and only cooked items, beautiful heat (it actually did get rather hot but I figure I avoided sunstroke with lots and lots of water and we were all sweaty/smelly together that nobody noticed), and the need to definitely avert eyes as a blonde, blue eyed, American woman. The stigma American women have is quite sad. The idea that we like to be taken advantage of was the worst - making you feel dirty every time leaving the bazaars (nothing more than a kiss on the cheek happened... to me at least... but that's also why we traveled in groups and I traveled I think always with a guy at least, my "husband or boyfriend" I decided by the end of the week). Crossing the Suez Canal was neat because we never once saw it - we went underneath and only once did we see a ship - to us it was on land. Africa by Vocalpoint became the theme song for the way to Cairo - suiting I figured.
Tuesday May 13th
By this point I feel rather fat because we seem to always be bussing around and eating for meals - well, I guess now is as good as ever to gain the freshman 15 I avoided so easily the last 2 years. We went to the Cartoche factory last night where I bought a beautiful gold and diamond ring... scary for my track record but it was my own money so who knows. The Egyptians definitely barter differently than elsewhere that is for sure... similar to Mexico - they'll nearly chase you down to try and get you to agree to a price (best phrase "hello, want to give me your money?" that made us laugh the most while in the bazaar). We toured a little more, visited the papyrus place where I learned later on what commission really is and how the best price is not offered when they trying to offer you "student price". We visited a few places of which I don't remember the names right now... at least I do remember we visited the the Three Great Pyramids of Giza (Khufu, Khafre, Menakaure) and the sphinx. Cairo is very dirty and the driving... really, when people say it's a 3-laned road but 5 lanes were made - that's veritable (and to think we were in ginormous buses too!). Tonight was when we took a flight to Luxor... for being so tight on security everywhere else it was interesting at this airport - I don't remember who I was but I definitely had a random ticket from somebody in our group. This flight was very enjoyable indeed because I was able to get to know Lexi a little better (she's not only drop dead beautiful, she's also a very drop dead beautiful girl on the inside as well!). Our hotels in Luxor were not as nice as the ones in Cairo but the Mercur Hotel was clean, had a pool which felt heavenly, was right on the Nile (the clean part of it versus the filthy part in Cairo), and near the bazaar.
Wednesday May 14th
Luxor is much cleaner and more beautiful. We shopped in the small bazaar the first day... well I went a number of times to the bazaar for water, shopping, the large bazaar - you name it. I definitely found my homework good in prices - scarves should be bought for no more than 25 Egyptian Pounds (I should have been able to get the price down more), the linen scarves I found for 5-6, check real silver for the official stamp after which they shouldn't charge you more than 4 pounds for 1 gram (although everyone does), don't go down the people's market - kind of creepy as a girl even when you have a guy with you, tourist market is much better. We went to the Temple of Karnak which was beautiful and enormous beyond belief... really, I don't think I yet believe it, after which we went to the Luxor Temple... not as large but I guess that's all relative since to Ramses II and all those pharaohs building edifices, obelisks, statues 15-20 meters high was of no real importance hahaha. The camel and faluka ride were exceptional by the way (I really want to see what it's like to have a camel take off in a controlled run - comparable to a horse?)
Thursday May 15th
This was our earliest wakeup call which at first they said was going to be 3:15am... it was ironic the rejoicing that went on when the finally changed it to 4am. We went to the valley of the kings were we were able to go inside Ramses the II's tomb, 2 more and the ultimate favorite - King Tut's (he was small! about 5'-2" max height!). Out of here we stopped by an Alabaster Factory which was nice, informational, but I learned the best prices are definitely found on the market as long as you know what to look for. By this point in the trip we'd had a number of people not feeling too hot off and on but nothing serious to the point of hospitalization. We had quite the time for freetime and so mass shopping occurred before we had to meet and get on the train back to Cairo. The train ride wAs bumpy but I really enjoyed it (up until waking up - getting the "sea legs" back was difficult). Erin Ladle had the accident of the trip - getting her fingers smashed in the door of somebody's room because there was just such a large group at the dance party. Turns out two of the three fingers were broken - interesting Egyptian souvenir! It was nice tonight because not only were the train compartments reminding us of Hogwarts Express and Anastasia but Adri (I love her!) and Laurens Call and Thompson's room opened into ours. We played a rousing few rounds of Phase 10 with Will Armstrong after which we got ready for bed and Kevin Lang came by to talk and give us a "bed-time" story. I love getting to know people slightly better and understand what makes them tick. He told us of 3 of his 9 siblings after which the real story (at which point Adri fell dead asleep) came from a spiritual thought about a man giving a blessing to a black man before the blacks could hold the priesthood saying he would one day help ordain somebody to high authority - first presidency was contacted and replied to simply keep quiet until the day came, day came and later down the road that man did help in the ordination showing God has a time and way for everything to be fulfilled. It really isn't our time but the Lord's we've been given to use at this time!
Friday May 16th
We arrived in Cairo about 5 in the morning, ate breakfast in the hotel and had church in a meeting room there. It was different because it was in a setting more similar to a forum. I've enjoyed how church isn't according to the day or the setting in which we are in. I remember a time when we held church in someplace we vacationed at with Tannon on what looked to be a ranch, relaxation place. As long as proper authority has been given and the proper ways are carried out, church is anywhere we make it! Becky, Channing, and Mike Hansen spoke with a large musical group arranged by Jenn Weiss in which I participated in. It was a wonderful experience. However, like the rest of the trip - we weren't about to start resting now. From here we were given a few minutes to spruce up and hit the buses to go tour the Egyptian Museum in Cairo which was nice but now I was joining my fellow compatriots in feeling a little less than beautiful with Egypt Presents and such. The Museum was definitely memorable with the amazing artifacts. After this we went to the main bazaar... which for our group turned out to be less scary (although more protection was taken here because it's a high problem here) than Luxor. Bartering was much easier here for cheap jewelry and I found that traveling with Bruce Steed and Randy is always very nice because they are two of the largest guys in our group making the local men simply say hello to them and comment on their three wives or girlfriends (really, and I thought I needed to be Mormon in order to receive polygamist comments!). Sleep was welcome but not until after we had an amazing dance party with a native girl coming in and showing us what real dancing was (I've never seen anyone shake like that before - it was amazing, even more precise than Tahitian).
Saturday May 17th
A testimony is really found in the serving of others. We left early in order to get back by 10 in the evening and snorkel in the Red Sea. Kevin sat next to me and wasn't feeling so hot... as in really feeling sick I think. I found that by trying to make him feel better any way possible (similar to what I'd already done to Ashley Cooper and others) caused me to love him more (again, similar to the others I had already tried to help). Yes, I had unpleasant presents from Egypt but I was actually feeling quite alright which is a blessing for my body to have reacted so well as to not give me pain or extreme discomfort. Checkpoint took longer than we expected because we are supposed to be "tourists" (that's our visa anyways) but we had all similar bags and some had books in them giving the impression we were students... tricky tricky. We swam and snorkeled in the Red Sea just on the other side of the border which was nice for the experience, was beautiful (Cancun was better) but the physical activity was part of the best I think because we'd gotten so little and the swimming felt good on our bodies. Afterwards Kevin and I sat together again and I learned quite a deal about his family as well as he about Tannon. It was very nice because we were able to talk for a good 2 hours about our lives, spiritual matters, I was able to ask some questions, we talked a lot about blessings and the power of the priesthood (I asked him questions Dad would that are deep and definitely take internal thinking "what are you feelings on being able to be a barer of such a power?" and such - it shocked him but was very nice indeed). At this point I realized that I really appreciated being able to talk to him and have reciprocal communication (what happens every time someone opens up a small part of their life to you) from someone I respected. I really am with quite the amazing group. I've learned about so many of the girls and now I am learning about the guys - wow. This bus trip was exceptionally good not only from the amazing conversation we were able to have but also because we slept nearly the entire time else (if not then I was working on Old Testament reading which was nice too). Theme songs on the way back while Kevin was asleep were Africa by Vocalpoint and my piano mix from Jessi Cheney. It was interesting for the remaining 2 hours of the drive when we were winding down from talking and getting rather tired because as seatmates we fell asleep to reggae - I like a lot. ps - I'm glad I'm not too tall and have to deal with seats that don't have enough leg room because these seats weren't conducive to tall people very much as a number of people vocalized.
Sunday May 18th
We got home the night before (my bus at least) just before 10pm to go in for dinner at the Oasis and sleep. Sleep was very blessed. I found in the morning that there was an odd repugnant smell to our clothes I hadn't smelt before... more presents from Egypt. Classes were difficult this morning because we are simply so exhausted from the constant go go go but I made it through Old Testament with a breeze and learned about David's fall, NES was alright (hadn't done the reading but he gave today as a grace and so I have to do it before class on Tuesday), Muslim was slightly too long with out enough clear direction but from what I got out of it the French and British reorganized and realigned boundaries after WWI. Food is amazing but I'm still not hungry at all. I slept... for 3 hours today. I caught up on some Old Testament, still have a lot more though, and finished off my night loading all my pictures from Egypt (ps - check out picasa - there's some pretty good ones even though I didn't edit all in detail) while watching The Great Escape with Bryan, Jenna, Jonathon, Randy, Mike Hansen, and a number of others.
Alright, I believe I've finally caught up. With just one more though to go I am going to bed because my stomach is disagreeing having stayed up so late
from Channing's talk in church Friday "ask the Lord for those mountains that you may climb and conquer with his help... while we are kings and queens [in this life]. Those mountains are the paramountal changes in our lives sometimes"
Friday May 9th
the memorable part of this day was going to the Western Wall or as we say in the States, the Wailing Wall. Phenomenal - it was a temple experience as Alyssa and I found out due to the mood we got in. I've been asking people for their life stories lately. Alyssa and I had gotten into a good discussion one night and so the walk to the western wall was a follow-up and a way for her to get to know me better. I told her about Tannon and that experience I have in my life continually. This made us focus on our pasts and what beauty lays behind us. The future was present when we got to the wall and found so much life and hope for the new. The present lay with us as we touched the original west wall to the Old City where so many prayers were rolled up and placed in corners. The reverence and faith that was there as prayers were being offered up to our Lord. There was a division between the men and women's side which aided in the feeling of family because there were cultural barriers between us women. A group from a jewish university began singing songs and dancing, slow reverencing once as well as lively ones that welcomed in Shabat. We were there to observe them welcoming in Shabat and in turn were able to join in the celebration. Shabat should not be a mundane day where sleep is the primary concern. Although I am at fault for this it was very... rejuvinating? eye-opening? invigorating?... to wElCoMe iN the sabbath. I got a recording from it and am so thankful for that - a field recording to remember the beauty of the night.
Saturday May 10th
I was able to see Sister Cochran this morning before church and nearly flew out of my seat to give her a big hug. It was beautiful to be able to see her, a wonderful woman that I look up to in so many ways and respect so greatly. Emily Ward, Jenn and Deb Weiss, and Camille Finlinson sang a beautiful arrangement of a peaceful hymn today (be still my soul? nearer my god to thee?). Nursery was wonderful and is always keeping me alert for new ways in which to communicate and interact with dear children (not just my own beautiful niece, Halbert). We also today went to Orson Hyde Park as well as the Garden of Gethsemane. It was neat to be able to walk peacefully down the walk at Orson Hyde (I'm still looking for the prayer to review and read. I hear it's amazing and quite profound) and while in the Garden enjoy the simple, rather small area. I wasn't feeling the hottest so the rest was very enjoyable. It's been great to see how we each are taking care of each other and the reciprocation of action, making sure all are at least alright. A man let us into another portion of en fenced olive trees which was nice because it was our close group, able to study as we pleased, contemplate as we felt, and enjoy the beauty in a more silent manner. This is a really special group that I'm here with.
Sunday May 11th
Today was devoted to making our way to the Egypt border. The bus ride for me was primarily with Will Armstrong. We talked about much and enjoyed the window scenery as well (sleeping). We discussed Will's girl for quite some time which was very enjoyable to hear (I love hearing people talk about people they care for or have strong connection to). On the way we stopped at Avdat where some exploring was done, a Kibbutz where we toured and learned of a way of life we will one day live but I don't think really comprehend today - law of consecration, communism in the ideal stage, where we ate dinner and then another kibbutz later down the road right near the Jordan/Saudi Arabia border where we learned a little more about Abraham from Bro. Draper and Ostler, after which Nauvoo legpull, arm wrestling, and hand pull games were played (as well as some yoga by Sarah Rowley, tumbling, and even a small group of swing dancers)
Monday May 12th
Another day devoted to travel, with Will and Adri (my roomie for the next week). From here we crossed the Egyptian border in very good time, discovered what squatter potties were and what the next week would really be like - interesting bathrooms to say the least, no clean water, constant hand sanitizer, no fresh fruit or veggies and only cooked items, beautiful heat (it actually did get rather hot but I figure I avoided sunstroke with lots and lots of water and we were all sweaty/smelly together that nobody noticed), and the need to definitely avert eyes as a blonde, blue eyed, American woman. The stigma American women have is quite sad. The idea that we like to be taken advantage of was the worst - making you feel dirty every time leaving the bazaars (nothing more than a kiss on the cheek happened... to me at least... but that's also why we traveled in groups and I traveled I think always with a guy at least, my "husband or boyfriend" I decided by the end of the week). Crossing the Suez Canal was neat because we never once saw it - we went underneath and only once did we see a ship - to us it was on land. Africa by Vocalpoint became the theme song for the way to Cairo - suiting I figured.
Tuesday May 13th
By this point I feel rather fat because we seem to always be bussing around and eating for meals - well, I guess now is as good as ever to gain the freshman 15 I avoided so easily the last 2 years. We went to the Cartoche factory last night where I bought a beautiful gold and diamond ring... scary for my track record but it was my own money so who knows. The Egyptians definitely barter differently than elsewhere that is for sure... similar to Mexico - they'll nearly chase you down to try and get you to agree to a price (best phrase "hello, want to give me your money?" that made us laugh the most while in the bazaar). We toured a little more, visited the papyrus place where I learned later on what commission really is and how the best price is not offered when they trying to offer you "student price". We visited a few places of which I don't remember the names right now... at least I do remember we visited the the Three Great Pyramids of Giza (Khufu, Khafre, Menakaure) and the sphinx. Cairo is very dirty and the driving... really, when people say it's a 3-laned road but 5 lanes were made - that's veritable (and to think we were in ginormous buses too!). Tonight was when we took a flight to Luxor... for being so tight on security everywhere else it was interesting at this airport - I don't remember who I was but I definitely had a random ticket from somebody in our group. This flight was very enjoyable indeed because I was able to get to know Lexi a little better (she's not only drop dead beautiful, she's also a very drop dead beautiful girl on the inside as well!). Our hotels in Luxor were not as nice as the ones in Cairo but the Mercur Hotel was clean, had a pool which felt heavenly, was right on the Nile (the clean part of it versus the filthy part in Cairo), and near the bazaar.
Wednesday May 14th
Luxor is much cleaner and more beautiful. We shopped in the small bazaar the first day... well I went a number of times to the bazaar for water, shopping, the large bazaar - you name it. I definitely found my homework good in prices - scarves should be bought for no more than 25 Egyptian Pounds (I should have been able to get the price down more), the linen scarves I found for 5-6, check real silver for the official stamp after which they shouldn't charge you more than 4 pounds for 1 gram (although everyone does), don't go down the people's market - kind of creepy as a girl even when you have a guy with you, tourist market is much better. We went to the Temple of Karnak which was beautiful and enormous beyond belief... really, I don't think I yet believe it, after which we went to the Luxor Temple... not as large but I guess that's all relative since to Ramses II and all those pharaohs building edifices, obelisks, statues 15-20 meters high was of no real importance hahaha. The camel and faluka ride were exceptional by the way (I really want to see what it's like to have a camel take off in a controlled run - comparable to a horse?)
Thursday May 15th
This was our earliest wakeup call which at first they said was going to be 3:15am... it was ironic the rejoicing that went on when the finally changed it to 4am. We went to the valley of the kings were we were able to go inside Ramses the II's tomb, 2 more and the ultimate favorite - King Tut's (he was small! about 5'-2" max height!). Out of here we stopped by an Alabaster Factory which was nice, informational, but I learned the best prices are definitely found on the market as long as you know what to look for. By this point in the trip we'd had a number of people not feeling too hot off and on but nothing serious to the point of hospitalization. We had quite the time for freetime and so mass shopping occurred before we had to meet and get on the train back to Cairo. The train ride wAs bumpy but I really enjoyed it (up until waking up - getting the "sea legs" back was difficult). Erin Ladle had the accident of the trip - getting her fingers smashed in the door of somebody's room because there was just such a large group at the dance party. Turns out two of the three fingers were broken - interesting Egyptian souvenir! It was nice tonight because not only were the train compartments reminding us of Hogwarts Express and Anastasia but Adri (I love her!) and Laurens Call and Thompson's room opened into ours. We played a rousing few rounds of Phase 10 with Will Armstrong after which we got ready for bed and Kevin Lang came by to talk and give us a "bed-time" story. I love getting to know people slightly better and understand what makes them tick. He told us of 3 of his 9 siblings after which the real story (at which point Adri fell dead asleep) came from a spiritual thought about a man giving a blessing to a black man before the blacks could hold the priesthood saying he would one day help ordain somebody to high authority - first presidency was contacted and replied to simply keep quiet until the day came, day came and later down the road that man did help in the ordination showing God has a time and way for everything to be fulfilled. It really isn't our time but the Lord's we've been given to use at this time!
Friday May 16th
We arrived in Cairo about 5 in the morning, ate breakfast in the hotel and had church in a meeting room there. It was different because it was in a setting more similar to a forum. I've enjoyed how church isn't according to the day or the setting in which we are in. I remember a time when we held church in someplace we vacationed at with Tannon on what looked to be a ranch, relaxation place. As long as proper authority has been given and the proper ways are carried out, church is anywhere we make it! Becky, Channing, and Mike Hansen spoke with a large musical group arranged by Jenn Weiss in which I participated in. It was a wonderful experience. However, like the rest of the trip - we weren't about to start resting now. From here we were given a few minutes to spruce up and hit the buses to go tour the Egyptian Museum in Cairo which was nice but now I was joining my fellow compatriots in feeling a little less than beautiful with Egypt Presents and such. The Museum was definitely memorable with the amazing artifacts. After this we went to the main bazaar... which for our group turned out to be less scary (although more protection was taken here because it's a high problem here) than Luxor. Bartering was much easier here for cheap jewelry and I found that traveling with Bruce Steed and Randy is always very nice because they are two of the largest guys in our group making the local men simply say hello to them and comment on their three wives or girlfriends (really, and I thought I needed to be Mormon in order to receive polygamist comments!). Sleep was welcome but not until after we had an amazing dance party with a native girl coming in and showing us what real dancing was (I've never seen anyone shake like that before - it was amazing, even more precise than Tahitian).
Saturday May 17th
A testimony is really found in the serving of others. We left early in order to get back by 10 in the evening and snorkel in the Red Sea. Kevin sat next to me and wasn't feeling so hot... as in really feeling sick I think. I found that by trying to make him feel better any way possible (similar to what I'd already done to Ashley Cooper and others) caused me to love him more (again, similar to the others I had already tried to help). Yes, I had unpleasant presents from Egypt but I was actually feeling quite alright which is a blessing for my body to have reacted so well as to not give me pain or extreme discomfort. Checkpoint took longer than we expected because we are supposed to be "tourists" (that's our visa anyways) but we had all similar bags and some had books in them giving the impression we were students... tricky tricky. We swam and snorkeled in the Red Sea just on the other side of the border which was nice for the experience, was beautiful (Cancun was better) but the physical activity was part of the best I think because we'd gotten so little and the swimming felt good on our bodies. Afterwards Kevin and I sat together again and I learned quite a deal about his family as well as he about Tannon. It was very nice because we were able to talk for a good 2 hours about our lives, spiritual matters, I was able to ask some questions, we talked a lot about blessings and the power of the priesthood (I asked him questions Dad would that are deep and definitely take internal thinking "what are you feelings on being able to be a barer of such a power?" and such - it shocked him but was very nice indeed). At this point I realized that I really appreciated being able to talk to him and have reciprocal communication (what happens every time someone opens up a small part of their life to you) from someone I respected. I really am with quite the amazing group. I've learned about so many of the girls and now I am learning about the guys - wow. This bus trip was exceptionally good not only from the amazing conversation we were able to have but also because we slept nearly the entire time else (if not then I was working on Old Testament reading which was nice too). Theme songs on the way back while Kevin was asleep were Africa by Vocalpoint and my piano mix from Jessi Cheney. It was interesting for the remaining 2 hours of the drive when we were winding down from talking and getting rather tired because as seatmates we fell asleep to reggae - I like a lot. ps - I'm glad I'm not too tall and have to deal with seats that don't have enough leg room because these seats weren't conducive to tall people very much as a number of people vocalized.
Sunday May 18th
We got home the night before (my bus at least) just before 10pm to go in for dinner at the Oasis and sleep. Sleep was very blessed. I found in the morning that there was an odd repugnant smell to our clothes I hadn't smelt before... more presents from Egypt. Classes were difficult this morning because we are simply so exhausted from the constant go go go but I made it through Old Testament with a breeze and learned about David's fall, NES was alright (hadn't done the reading but he gave today as a grace and so I have to do it before class on Tuesday), Muslim was slightly too long with out enough clear direction but from what I got out of it the French and British reorganized and realigned boundaries after WWI. Food is amazing but I'm still not hungry at all. I slept... for 3 hours today. I caught up on some Old Testament, still have a lot more though, and finished off my night loading all my pictures from Egypt (ps - check out picasa - there's some pretty good ones even though I didn't edit all in detail) while watching The Great Escape with Bryan, Jenna, Jonathon, Randy, Mike Hansen, and a number of others.
Alright, I believe I've finally caught up. With just one more though to go I am going to bed because my stomach is disagreeing having stayed up so late
from Channing's talk in church Friday "ask the Lord for those mountains that you may climb and conquer with his help... while we are kings and queens [in this life]. Those mountains are the paramountal changes in our lives sometimes"
Thursday, May 8, 2008
Joshua, son of Nun
For today, although it is the Israeli 60th Independence Day, I had just too much work to catch up on (still do actually) and too much to do before Shabat and the Egypt so I decided to stay in Jerusalem while half the group decided to go to Tel Aviv and join in festivities there. I did get out to grab some Egyptian Pounds (not worth much - about 5.3 to $1 without commission), see my olive wood trader friend (I'm his "sister" now - I like him and I think that although he doesn't have extremely good quality, I'll be able to get a fair exchange when I do actually purchase) across the way from Shaban's Ali Baba shop in the bazaar (which was slightly -understatement - crowded today due to the holiday I suppose), grab a falafel with Bryan and Randy, and... oh, grab some bug repellent, travel size, so we don't end up get nasty bulbous, yellow pustules in Egypt. Before we braved the crowds, there was good study time going on, catching up on some of my Old Testament reading. Here's a thought that really hit me that I emailed to my friend Caleb Vandehueval
====================================================================
Man though, I've loved getting to study and learn so much about the Bible this... past week? I have only 7 more weeks left but no worries - my schedule is definitely jammed full between sporadic 2 hour classes, field trips in the "mobile classroom", and our excursions as students into the city to learn more about it with each other. Between learning about Mount Moriah (Jehovah's teachings?) to having an epiphanal moment this morning (it's five in the afternoon) about Joshua, son of Nun, this experience is one that'll catch in the archives of my sticky brain. Did you know that Joshua, son of Nun is the same Joshua that:
1. led the Israelites into battle while Moses held is rod in the sky?
2. was 1 of 2 spies out of the 12 sent to bring a report on people living in the promised land, that came back with a positive faithful answer.
3. went up to Mt. Sinai the first time with Moses (the first 40 day one)4. was present when Moses saw God face-to-face (Exodus 33:11)
4. "fit the battle of Jericho"
5. 5 kings, destroy-all-except-those-that-submit-themselves-as-slaves, Gibeonites, stopped sun, stopped moon, hale storm sound familiar?
ReAlLy! He's pretty amazing. And then to have the mantle passed to him and become a great commander/prophet is so... he seems like he really filled that potential that God had for him. It's funny, I've been studying the Bible for years but never very deep. Now however, being able to sudy and make these correlations - it made me so excited and energized because of the pieces that were fitting together that I never knew were puzzle pieces. I memorized the scripture Exodus 33:11 - face-to-face - back in seminary... sophmore year of high school? and I never knew why it stated "son of Nun" - it seemed superflous to me, unnecessary. NoW - wOw, it was there so we could make these correlations! The Bible is a book written by men inspired by God. ====================================================================
The experiences here are just getting better and better! I fear the "square wheels" on the overnight train ride in Egypt, but overall our safety is being watched and cared for by very attentive people. I think I might want to take up a career in spulunking after going through Micah's Caves yesterday on our geography field trip - so much like a big kid's playground "Mcdonald's Galore". The border closed yesterday? between the east and the west and the only problem that affected us was that we had class cancelled (Dr. Musallum teaches at Bethlehem University). I've got a few more hours to study hard, catch up, eat, and go to the celebrations in West Jerusalem so I'll adieu.
====================================================================
Man though, I've loved getting to study and learn so much about the Bible this... past week? I have only 7 more weeks left but no worries - my schedule is definitely jammed full between sporadic 2 hour classes, field trips in the "mobile classroom", and our excursions as students into the city to learn more about it with each other. Between learning about Mount Moriah (Jehovah's teachings?) to having an epiphanal moment this morning (it's five in the afternoon) about Joshua, son of Nun, this experience is one that'll catch in the archives of my sticky brain. Did you know that Joshua, son of Nun is the same Joshua that:
1. led the Israelites into battle while Moses held is rod in the sky?
2. was 1 of 2 spies out of the 12 sent to bring a report on people living in the promised land, that came back with a positive faithful answer.
3. went up to Mt. Sinai the first time with Moses (the first 40 day one)4. was present when Moses saw God face-to-face (Exodus 33:11)
4. "fit the battle of Jericho"
5. 5 kings, destroy-all-except-those-that-submit-themselves-as-slaves, Gibeonites, stopped sun, stopped moon, hale storm sound familiar?
ReAlLy! He's pretty amazing. And then to have the mantle passed to him and become a great commander/prophet is so... he seems like he really filled that potential that God had for him. It's funny, I've been studying the Bible for years but never very deep. Now however, being able to sudy and make these correlations - it made me so excited and energized because of the pieces that were fitting together that I never knew were puzzle pieces. I memorized the scripture Exodus 33:11 - face-to-face - back in seminary... sophmore year of high school? and I never knew why it stated "son of Nun" - it seemed superflous to me, unnecessary. NoW - wOw, it was there so we could make these correlations! The Bible is a book written by men inspired by God. ====================================================================
The experiences here are just getting better and better! I fear the "square wheels" on the overnight train ride in Egypt, but overall our safety is being watched and cared for by very attentive people. I think I might want to take up a career in spulunking after going through Micah's Caves yesterday on our geography field trip - so much like a big kid's playground "Mcdonald's Galore". The border closed yesterday? between the east and the west and the only problem that affected us was that we had class cancelled (Dr. Musallum teaches at Bethlehem University). I've got a few more hours to study hard, catch up, eat, and go to the celebrations in West Jerusalem so I'll adieu.
Monday, May 5, 2008
Photos
p.s. - for anyone that wants to look at more photos and the ones that have been touched and finished visit http://picasaweb.google.com and look for the public folder of user nickidi7
Jerusalem
Alright, so I've done very poorly on filling the blog out... not gonna lie though, it was difficult trying to sort through the Hebrew writing just now in order to find where to post this new blog.
Anyhow, Sam, I'm taking your advice and just going to go on a stream of consciousness so please no minding the structure at all.
It's truly beautiful here and I really love getting to spend time here. Here's a journal entry I typed up on May 1st:
It's been interesting being here in Jerusalem. For some strange reason I don't feel as though I am in a foreign land. This might be attributed to my traveling to other countries but I haven't grasped that the different architecture all made of limestone, the different languages being spoken all around me, the two warring factions living with each other and yet apart, that all this should be foreign to people from a land that is relatively free from strong political shifting turbulence, English is the predominant language spoken everywhere, and all the houses are made of different material, different looks - part of our culture is to choose what type of large spacious edifice you want to live in and what type of unique design caters to your taste. I think what has catered to me is that they are people just like me. They eat food that I am not completely foreign to; with the relations the Jerusalem Center has built up, the people are relatively friendly and greet us with smiles and hellos; they have their problems in theft and assault that even Pleasantville Provo has. I believe the most shocking to me is how much like home it will feel to me, faster than I will justifiably be able to identify that home-comfort-security feel in myself. I love this land. It is rich with life. As was stated in one of our classes - it is rich with culture. This is a beautiful day to be alive! 
As you can tell from the picture above, we have been trying to catch up on this thing called jet lag but I don't know if I've quite got it down yet. For some reason, the first time in my life, I had a difficult time going to bed the other night and spent 2 hours more than I wanted to up, mind racing with so many things all about me... my roommates have similar sleeping habits to mine (and if you know me well enough to understand this last comment... it's slightly frightening) but the last few nights have been bad between not being able to go to sleep and working on homework till the early hours. The picture just above is the first glimpse we had of the Israeli coast from the plane.
This is the view from my porch on the 4th floor, we live on the Mt. Olives... I believe, it's right next to Mt. Scopus (I know this because Hebrew U is right on the jogging path I set together - on top of Mt. Scopus). The view is phenomenal here... just about anywhere you go though so it's basically one of those medicinal treatments for urban sick eyes. To get an update here's what I've been up to for the past week that I've been here... wow... tomorrow morning makes a full week...hmmmm... and so much has already happened.
We've been on either tours provided by the "mobile classroom" (i.e. our teacher is our field guide, touring parts of the land... while we take avid notes... if you've ever seen the freshman with the headphones on walking around the HBLL at BYU Provo for their English class - that's what we look like: 40 students with headphones in mass groups around one figure point, looking where he says look, listening to everything over his headset due to our size), groups have gotten together to go see things (I'm part of the in-Jerusalem-committee... basically I'm utilizing my loud voice and love to plan things for seeing the city in all different aspects that it holds), as well as just a few of us going out to go see things (of course never less than the required 3 people.. and I usually prefer a guy in the group. Let's just say that it's similar to Mexico except slightly altered - different culture so no catcalls but definitely interesting individuals). On our last tour we were able to see where Bethlehem is (it's in the background valley)-
we've been to the Agusta Victoria Tower (/hospital/chapel), Judean Plain, Naabi Samwill (Prophet Samuel's grave), The Church of the Holy Sepulcher (one of the holiest places viewed in Christendom), 
I walked the Via Delorosa where it is thought Christ made his way with the cross until Calvary at night with some friends and then again in the day time in order to go into the different stopping sites such as the Church of Flagellation, the Old City bazaar (just about everyday too), Golgotha (where they think it is), the Garden Tomb (both these last two on our Shabat - church services which fall on Saturday)
Today we went to the Haredim District which was quite interesting. It's the Ultra-Orthodox Jewish sector where the men have banana curls, wear knit kippah or hat, black coats (in all seasons!), and have a very different society than what we are accustomed to. 
I felt the most safe in this district than I have around many of the areas where many men are because we received very few stares (it's not in their societal ways to stare or catcall) but the people were very distant.
The experiences here will last for some time I believe. The friendship I've built with the money changer Alladin (he's who the Jerusalem Center students usually go through - we were joking around for a good 10 minutes while he was able to do probably only 2 transactions!), the interesting nature some of the sellers have towards tourists (negatively - grossly inflated prices) or from the positive air given because they just want to build a good reputation (allowing a lower price settlement and giving us a few more trinkets as we're leaving as it is), and the amazing people I am on this study group with will last me quite some time. I was able to learn everyone's name within the first 48 hours (although I still have a few slips here and there) enabling me to be friends with so many wonderful people and get to know more people on an intimate basis. The ages are from 19 to 26, predominantly 23ish allowing for a good maturity to the group on average (hey, we still know how to be kids though). I love the friendships developed and the amazing qualities of people here.
I truly have felt the spirit when I realize that God loves EACH OF US. That means although we have our quirks that are not exactly easy to live with at times, if that ignorant attitude is done away with we're able to remember that God loves all equally and so we shouldn't be the ones to judge how much we should love one over another. Honestly. I love this place so much and I'm starting to feel the place speak to more as I try to learn more and more. We learned the other day that the only way to be humble is by loving yourself fully. Not in a prideful manner but in the way God loves you. If this inward ability is accomplished, an outward change is developed and all negative light dissaporates from your mind. I've never had a real problem with self-confidence but I'm really seeing by loving others, I'm loving myself more. By not worrying about things or letting things get to my head, I'm loving myself more. By trying to do everything I'm supposed to, I'm loving myself more. Everyone needs the opportunity to talk to someone in need of a good, intimate conversation each day... oh, and 3 hugs a minimum each day too. Even if some things are forgotten at the end of the day, at least you feel accomplished for having forgotten yourself for a moment and having used your personal abilities in someone else's benefit. I love.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
