By So the ship’s about to sail and this SE Asian travel term is coming to a close (plane leaves march 24th). Soon we’ll all be back in the comforts and familiarity of the big yellow house in the river side town of St. Stephen’s, N.B. This has been a journey to remember.
On Feb 3rd we left the cold and probably snowy weather in the Maritimes and were welcomed by greenery, palm trees and hot sunshine in Manila, Philippines a day or two later. That alone was awesome. It was also great to go on the many adventures that would soon await us. This included an island hopping beach day, white sandy beaches, snorkeling, mountain hike, 4×4 sand dune jeep runs, jungle adventures, waterfall swims and so on. Yes, most of us got to do all of these things and much more throughout our time in SE Asia! But hey, this is the agenda of most run of the mill tropical tourists. We came here for other reasons. And though I’ll remember those experiences with joy, and gladly partook in it all, I valued what I consider the heart of this trip more so: cultural exposure, education, God and community – not sure how to properly order that list.
This included: living with home stay families (different cultures doing life together, including spending 2 days in a Muslim village), eating their local/ethnic food. Attending SE Asian universities, learning about their political and economic struggles, and observing the effects of these first hand. Seeing the aftermath of European colonialism, its benefits and catastrophes. Venturing out into the agricultural lands, seeing an organic jungle/forest farm operational and producing well, going against popular thought. As well, researching and doing presentations on current events/human rights issues that are impacting this region. Being exposed to extreme poverty and riches all in the same neighborhoods. Exploring the remains of ancient kingdoms, sitting down and talking to Buddhist monks, walking through historic churches, visiting orphans, group devotions, and standing under the stars on hotel roof tops contemplating how God is moving in these foreign lands. Experiencing it all with good friends and leaders.
I think it’s fair to say that in life people have experiences that change their lives, and for me, this has definitely been one of them. Praise the Lord, and thanks to SSU for valuing this form of education.
P.S. I hope the puck is still dropping this Thursday in St. Stephen’s.