I have attempted to write another blog for the last week and a half. What is it I want to share? I have been asking myself what am I learning here. I want to share more than just the weather and day by day activities. That obviously takes a little more thought and I have to make time to do this.
So I have now been here for 6 weeks. I feel like a different person and yet for the life of me I haven't yet been able to put my finger on how I am different. One of my friends was asking what I felt like the theme was that God is teaching me and the one word I guess that comes to mind is OBEDIENCE.
I came over here with the idea of helping missionaries through physical therapy and massages. Many of the mission trips I have been on before I had a plan of jobs to do and ended up doing something totally different. Be flexible. What I have found here though is God gave me His plan and this time I am to stick to that plan. I have many opportunities to work with the kids in primary school, musical, and even help with kids on weekends. I have opportunities to play sports throughout the week. I have done these things. But in the last couple of weeks I have noticed some of these things on top of the therapy I have been doing seem to drain me. There has been a steady rise in physical therapy patients. After much prayer I have added another half day to my schedule at the clinic and backed off on the other places for the need in the clinic is GREAT! I truly do enjoy working with my patients and just know being obedient to God's voice brings the greatest reward.
That brings me to the next thing. Our pastor here, Tim Schlatter, has been truly encouraging. One of the things he speaks of is taking care of ourselves as missionaries. If we do not take care of ourselves how can we begin to encourage and take care of those we are ministering? That has also been something I see as an act of obedience for me. The therapy during the day requires a lot of physical activity. I would say 90% of my patients need and receive deep tissue massages which is a full body work out. I have to be rested and in shape to be strong enough to administer continuous treatments. Unlike back in the States, I go to bed at a reasonable hour. I have time to workout in our weight room, and weekends are off limits for any type of therapy so I am rested when needed. That is a huge thing for me in learning to be obedient to God's voice. What I have found is that I once again have way more energy, the pain I have had in my back and such is practically non-existent, and I enjoy being able to give of myself for encouragement through therapy.
I have also been pre-occupied some about what I will be doing when I return home in 8weeks. I have tried not to think about it, but must admit while I love doing things last minute, I am quite a planner or well visionary is a better word. I have contemplated so many possibilities. I could move to Michigan, I could go back to school for something totally different, I could plan another mission trip, I could...
In another act of obedience I finally quit guessing and tried to be quiet. Instead of trying to do all these amazing things and this and that, I believe God has shown me that at this particular all those would only cause added stress and chaos. After much practiced quietness, my decision is to stay in Little Rock for the next few months and spend time enjoying my friends and family. There will be many special events taking place through the summer and fall. I am so thankful I will be celebrating with them.
How can you pray?
I ask that you pray for wisdom for me on how to treat my patients and that I remember I am here not only for therapy but to also encourage them in their daily lives and walk with Christ.
I will be on a panel next week for high schoolers for career day, I ask that I answer honestly and can be encouraging for some of those who want to practice therapy.
I mentioned some men in my church I attended growing up who were struggling with illnesses. Jerry Jordan passed away on Feb 19th. I ask you pray for his family and friends, he was loved!! He has a wife, 2 daughters, 2 son-in-laws, and 2 grandchildren. I am pretty sure his mother is still living as well.
I have not heard much about Tom Dedman, but I ask that you continue to pray for his healing. I know we do not get to see much healing these days, but I am hopeful and know we have a God who wants us to ask Him still for such miracles.
Please pray for both of these families that they are able to see and know God and His power.
I do not have any updated information on my aunt's sister-in-law, but please keep them in your prayers as well.
Thank you so much for taking the time to read my blogs. I hope in some way you are encouraged as I am knowing others are reading this blog and praying for me.
Until next time,
Angie :)
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Monday, February 16, 2009
Another Update
So things here in Ukarumpa are good. I stay quite busy throughout the week. I am so thankful for my previous trainings because it absolutely prepared me for the type of patients I am seeing. It has been a month today since I have been in Ukarumpa which means I have been working in the clinic for 3 weeks. The patients are showing real progress and some have stopped coming because they are 100% better which is such a good thing because there are new patients who are trying to come and we have been having difficulty finding them appointments. This is a good thing, but I am praying that God will send someone to continue the work after I leave.
I have settled into a small group of girls which I am so thankful. Last week we had a time of worship and in the middle of it I realized I was the only American in the group. This verse popped in my head, "And He (JESUS) will be exalted among the nations. He certainly was 6 different nations were singing together praising the name of Jesus. How incredible!!
I met with the primary school music teachers on Wednesday and have begun working out the choreography for their musical, it's about King Josiah. It is really cute and will be lots of fun. The musical is March 12-13th which is the end of the school sememster.
Things here are pretty good. I do miss the folks at home, but God has provided much needed friends. I pray that He would continue to strenghten my friendships here and that I would be an encourager to everyone I come in contact.
Just talked to mom and dad and I ask that you please be in prayer for some folks back at home who are struggling with terminal illnesses. Two of the guys are from my church back in Camden. They both are such neat men and I pray for God's healing presence in their lives. There names are Tom and Jerry. I grew up with their children. Also for Karen who is my aunt's sister in law just that God would bring healing as only He can. Thank for you for your continued prayers here in Ukarumpa that God would continue to give me the knowlegde of how to treat these patients and that my time would be spent wisely and that i not worry about anything, but in prayer present my requests to God.
Thanks!!
I have settled into a small group of girls which I am so thankful. Last week we had a time of worship and in the middle of it I realized I was the only American in the group. This verse popped in my head, "And He (JESUS) will be exalted among the nations. He certainly was 6 different nations were singing together praising the name of Jesus. How incredible!!
I met with the primary school music teachers on Wednesday and have begun working out the choreography for their musical, it's about King Josiah. It is really cute and will be lots of fun. The musical is March 12-13th which is the end of the school sememster.
Things here are pretty good. I do miss the folks at home, but God has provided much needed friends. I pray that He would continue to strenghten my friendships here and that I would be an encourager to everyone I come in contact.
Just talked to mom and dad and I ask that you please be in prayer for some folks back at home who are struggling with terminal illnesses. Two of the guys are from my church back in Camden. They both are such neat men and I pray for God's healing presence in their lives. There names are Tom and Jerry. I grew up with their children. Also for Karen who is my aunt's sister in law just that God would bring healing as only He can. Thank for you for your continued prayers here in Ukarumpa that God would continue to give me the knowlegde of how to treat these patients and that my time would be spent wisely and that i not worry about anything, but in prayer present my requests to God.
Thanks!!
Sunday, February 8, 2009
What I am Learning
Well it has been about a week since I have written. I must say my schedule has stepped up quite a bit. The word has gotten out that I am in town and most of my slots for seeing patients is full each day. I am grateful for my Wednesdays at the Primary school and my weekends to give my hands and body the rest it needs to fulfill next weeks duties.
I am grateful for some advice I was given on the way over here to remember that it's ok to say no to people and that rest is important. I was asked just this morning at church to work with someone today and was able to say no, but maybe tomorrow. God does desire us to be productive and do the work which He has called us to, but as a friend told me once, sometimes the godliest thing you can do is a take a nap. I must admit I have taken a couple this week which I am not accustomed to doing back home. I have been better for it.
When I am working in the clinic, I have been blessed with hearing people's hearts, how God brought them to Ukarumpa and hear about their desires and concerns. I have often said not only am I a therapist but also a counselor. I have enjoyed the listening ear as well while I am helping these folks get better.
In my readings and in my work I do here day to day, I am finding truth and the connection of being healed spiritually and physically. Many times in God's Word He asks if a sick person believes He, Jesus, can heal them. He tells them their sins are forgiven. He wants them to ask for His help in faith that He can heal. The beauty of God is He does not stop with spiritual healing but continues on with physical healing. I think the main theme is that we believe and have faith in His healing.
I have one specific patient who is an amazing person. This patient has been dealing with lots of pain and has seen lots of therapist and doctors. I realized though as I was working with this patient that until he believes that God wants to heal him then there is nothing I can do. Sure he may feel good for a day, but what God wants from us is to trust in His healing to trust in His love and faithfulness. I believe with the changes in his thought process he will experience healing.
This has been just one of the many things I am personally learning. Learning to truly believe God even when there is no evidence or "cloud in the the sky" that God is working this out. I have to have the faith. I must continue to petition God in prayer and know that He hears.
Knowing that in all things God works for the good of those who love the Lord who have been called according to His purpose. God promises to supply all of our needs. He who began a good work will be faithful to complete it.
I am so thankful to have God's Word in my heart. I am so thankful that anytime I want I can pick it up and find direction, peace, comfort, TRUTH, love. I am thankful to be assisting with Bible translating behind the scenes. It is only right that the people in Papua New Guinea and in all the nations of this world have God's Word to learn that there is a God who loves them. A God who sent His Son to die for their sins, who rose and is able to be our own personal Savior, all we have to do is ask and believe. He never forces it, just like when healing in the Bible, the people asked for healing and then they believed and Jesus healed them. I am so blessed to be a part of what God is doing and how He is healing so many spiritually and physically.
I am so thankful for those who are praying and continue to pray that God's will be accomplished in me while I am here in PNG! Thank you for your continued prayers!!!
I am grateful for some advice I was given on the way over here to remember that it's ok to say no to people and that rest is important. I was asked just this morning at church to work with someone today and was able to say no, but maybe tomorrow. God does desire us to be productive and do the work which He has called us to, but as a friend told me once, sometimes the godliest thing you can do is a take a nap. I must admit I have taken a couple this week which I am not accustomed to doing back home. I have been better for it.
When I am working in the clinic, I have been blessed with hearing people's hearts, how God brought them to Ukarumpa and hear about their desires and concerns. I have often said not only am I a therapist but also a counselor. I have enjoyed the listening ear as well while I am helping these folks get better.
In my readings and in my work I do here day to day, I am finding truth and the connection of being healed spiritually and physically. Many times in God's Word He asks if a sick person believes He, Jesus, can heal them. He tells them their sins are forgiven. He wants them to ask for His help in faith that He can heal. The beauty of God is He does not stop with spiritual healing but continues on with physical healing. I think the main theme is that we believe and have faith in His healing.
I have one specific patient who is an amazing person. This patient has been dealing with lots of pain and has seen lots of therapist and doctors. I realized though as I was working with this patient that until he believes that God wants to heal him then there is nothing I can do. Sure he may feel good for a day, but what God wants from us is to trust in His healing to trust in His love and faithfulness. I believe with the changes in his thought process he will experience healing.
This has been just one of the many things I am personally learning. Learning to truly believe God even when there is no evidence or "cloud in the the sky" that God is working this out. I have to have the faith. I must continue to petition God in prayer and know that He hears.
Knowing that in all things God works for the good of those who love the Lord who have been called according to His purpose. God promises to supply all of our needs. He who began a good work will be faithful to complete it.
I am so thankful to have God's Word in my heart. I am so thankful that anytime I want I can pick it up and find direction, peace, comfort, TRUTH, love. I am thankful to be assisting with Bible translating behind the scenes. It is only right that the people in Papua New Guinea and in all the nations of this world have God's Word to learn that there is a God who loves them. A God who sent His Son to die for their sins, who rose and is able to be our own personal Savior, all we have to do is ask and believe. He never forces it, just like when healing in the Bible, the people asked for healing and then they believed and Jesus healed them. I am so blessed to be a part of what God is doing and how He is healing so many spiritually and physically.
I am so thankful for those who are praying and continue to pray that God's will be accomplished in me while I am here in PNG! Thank you for your continued prayers!!!
Saturday, January 31, 2009
What a week in Ukarumpa
This week has been so full of exciting things and I once again am reminded how blessed I am for this opportunity in another country.
Lilah and me went to visit with Mandy Pherson and her kids while her husband is away in one of the villages for 3 weeks. Mandy is so much fun to visit with. One of the cutest things, Mandy's daughter Ella asked her mom before we came when the customers were coming. She is I think 4 years old or younger, she is very cute. Mandy has 2 older boys as well.
On Tuesday I worked at the clinic and then visited with the Wycliffe Associate folks for a potluck and Bible Study. They do this every week. I visited with Marsha, who is the music teacher at the primary school. She is heading up the 4-6th grade musical and asked how I could help. I declined the backdrop/set design and costumes because let's just be honest that is not an area I have been given much talent. Marsha was like well how about choreography? I was like yes. I love it, so now I am going to help out with that. Later in the Bible Study we studied Romans 6. It was a good discussion, I was exhausted by the end of the night.
Wednesday was half day of primary school volunteer. I started my day with 1st grade math. Good times, then headed to help out at the library. I then assisted Lilah, asst principal and art teacher with kindy (kindergarten) art classes. We worked with modeling clay. The kids were very cute and creative. That night I went to David and Anne's house (WA volunteer coordinators) and worked with David on some massage techniques. He showed me some trigger points and the book to go along with it. We worked on Anne on the dining room table. Lots of fun.
Thursday wasn't quite so busy at the clinic. I was very tired so was thankful for a slow day. Since I did not have many patients, I watched and X-ray and also counted meds for the pharmacist. I went home after that and was in bed by 8:45pm (that hasn't happened since I was 6 years old haha!) . I did not sleep the night before, was tired of taking Ambien to sleep and tried it, but tossed and turned all night Wed night, was given some Melatonin (non prescription and easier on the body) , supposed to aid with sleeping. I also added another mattress to my bed to help.
Friday morning I woke up very refreshed. This was the first night I had slept well without my prescription medication and I was so thankful. Glad to have slept for I had a full caseload. I had 6 patients and spent about an hour with each. Sonya and I met together for lunch, we had been trying to catch up with each other all week so it was nice to talk and have real quality conversation. Those of you who know me, know this was something that rejuvenated me for my top love language is quality time. We shared some things God was doing in our lives and asked for accountability and prayer. Very good for me. Friday evening, Lilah and I headed to the Parkers for hamburgers and movie. It was lots of fun to get to know this family. They have 2 boys and a girl. The youngest is Dan, we enjoyed looking at a cake decorating book (he even goes to sleep with this book) and he picked some we could make together soon. :)
Today I slept in a little and just relaxed this morning. I headed to meet the group to go to the drop in center at 130pm, they joked with me because when I arrived it was on time and no one else was around. They laughed and were like you know she has not been here long showing up on time and such. Ha! We headed about 3km out of the center and set up for kids to arrive. I loved loved loved playing with the children all afternoon. The center provided guitar lessons, tambourine lessons, drawing, table tennis, Frisbee, and soccer for the children. I did a little of all of it. It was probably one of the best times I have had since I have been here. The kids just love hanging out with us. Technically this center is for kids 12 and up, but they all want to be involved so when asked some will say they are 12 years old when they may not even be 5 years old, it is quite hysterical to me. We need more volunteers to have enough for all ages, but today worked out nicely and wasn't a problem. Tonight we had some folks over for dinner and a round of Spoons, one of the all time best card games. We had a blast and I just enjoy being around folks and being relaxed.
This has been my week, very full! It has been such a blessing to help the folks in pain with their issues and see them coming back feeling better. It has been great to hear how people are praying for me and my time here. I am so thankful to be sleeping soundly. I am thankful for new friends who love Jesus and who love to serve in His Name! This coming week I will be going out tomorrow morning into a village for church service. On Monday will be visiting a new Bible Study with girls some my age and some older. I also will be working with another couple on massage techniques. Thank you for your continuous prayers. God is doing some amazing things here!!
Lilah and me went to visit with Mandy Pherson and her kids while her husband is away in one of the villages for 3 weeks. Mandy is so much fun to visit with. One of the cutest things, Mandy's daughter Ella asked her mom before we came when the customers were coming. She is I think 4 years old or younger, she is very cute. Mandy has 2 older boys as well.
On Tuesday I worked at the clinic and then visited with the Wycliffe Associate folks for a potluck and Bible Study. They do this every week. I visited with Marsha, who is the music teacher at the primary school. She is heading up the 4-6th grade musical and asked how I could help. I declined the backdrop/set design and costumes because let's just be honest that is not an area I have been given much talent. Marsha was like well how about choreography? I was like yes. I love it, so now I am going to help out with that. Later in the Bible Study we studied Romans 6. It was a good discussion, I was exhausted by the end of the night.
Wednesday was half day of primary school volunteer. I started my day with 1st grade math. Good times, then headed to help out at the library. I then assisted Lilah, asst principal and art teacher with kindy (kindergarten) art classes. We worked with modeling clay. The kids were very cute and creative. That night I went to David and Anne's house (WA volunteer coordinators) and worked with David on some massage techniques. He showed me some trigger points and the book to go along with it. We worked on Anne on the dining room table. Lots of fun.
Thursday wasn't quite so busy at the clinic. I was very tired so was thankful for a slow day. Since I did not have many patients, I watched and X-ray and also counted meds for the pharmacist. I went home after that and was in bed by 8:45pm (that hasn't happened since I was 6 years old haha!) . I did not sleep the night before, was tired of taking Ambien to sleep and tried it, but tossed and turned all night Wed night, was given some Melatonin (non prescription and easier on the body) , supposed to aid with sleeping. I also added another mattress to my bed to help.
Friday morning I woke up very refreshed. This was the first night I had slept well without my prescription medication and I was so thankful. Glad to have slept for I had a full caseload. I had 6 patients and spent about an hour with each. Sonya and I met together for lunch, we had been trying to catch up with each other all week so it was nice to talk and have real quality conversation. Those of you who know me, know this was something that rejuvenated me for my top love language is quality time. We shared some things God was doing in our lives and asked for accountability and prayer. Very good for me. Friday evening, Lilah and I headed to the Parkers for hamburgers and movie. It was lots of fun to get to know this family. They have 2 boys and a girl. The youngest is Dan, we enjoyed looking at a cake decorating book (he even goes to sleep with this book) and he picked some we could make together soon. :)
Today I slept in a little and just relaxed this morning. I headed to meet the group to go to the drop in center at 130pm, they joked with me because when I arrived it was on time and no one else was around. They laughed and were like you know she has not been here long showing up on time and such. Ha! We headed about 3km out of the center and set up for kids to arrive. I loved loved loved playing with the children all afternoon. The center provided guitar lessons, tambourine lessons, drawing, table tennis, Frisbee, and soccer for the children. I did a little of all of it. It was probably one of the best times I have had since I have been here. The kids just love hanging out with us. Technically this center is for kids 12 and up, but they all want to be involved so when asked some will say they are 12 years old when they may not even be 5 years old, it is quite hysterical to me. We need more volunteers to have enough for all ages, but today worked out nicely and wasn't a problem. Tonight we had some folks over for dinner and a round of Spoons, one of the all time best card games. We had a blast and I just enjoy being around folks and being relaxed.
This has been my week, very full! It has been such a blessing to help the folks in pain with their issues and see them coming back feeling better. It has been great to hear how people are praying for me and my time here. I am so thankful to be sleeping soundly. I am thankful for new friends who love Jesus and who love to serve in His Name! This coming week I will be going out tomorrow morning into a village for church service. On Monday will be visiting a new Bible Study with girls some my age and some older. I also will be working with another couple on massage techniques. Thank you for your continuous prayers. God is doing some amazing things here!!
Monday, January 26, 2009
more village pics
just a few pics from the village, yes the little kid is carrying a bush knife, the house with opening and cover is the former "Starbucks", my friend Sonya in picture with me!
10 Days in Ukarumpa
Hello!
Wow it's hard to believe I have only been in Ukarumpa for 10 days. I have seen so much and I have done so many new things since I have been here.
Work in the Clinic
Our clinic is staffed with 4 doctors, 2 dentists, 1 pharmacist, 2 lab techs, x-ray tech, clinical manager, housekeeper, building maintenance man, assistants to all these depts, and me the physiotherapist. We are equipped to see patients from the Center and in the villages.
My current caseload has been the missionaries on center which here are called ex-pats. These past 10 days as far as the clinic goes, I have met all the staff, had a meeting with the manager, and managed to work in some physical therapy appointments. I have seen about 7 patients in all. I must admit it is nice being my own "boss" and I have access to and Ultrasound machine, a partly working TENS unit, and some ice packs. I have transformed the overhead cervical traction unit into shoulder pulleys because that is more of a need. It has been a great journey thus far in the clinic.
Ukarumpa Village
I had the opportunity when David Smith, WA volunteer coordinator, returned from conference to tour Ukarumpa Village with some other new folks. I arrived early Friday morning to begin what I thought was tour of the center(thinking for orientation) to my surprise and delight we were going out to the village. I was approached kindly by the coordinator's wife that i should have worn a skirt (Here in the center pants are acceptable) , but we came to the conclusion that my shirt was covering plenty and not to worry. Most times when I'm being a bit of a rebel I realize it, but here I am trying to obey all the rules and sheesh i'm busted. As we started our hike into the village, I was thankful for the pants. We trekked through grass up to our hips. We saw lots of vegetation banana trees, coffee beans drying, and things of the sort. Many of the houses resemble my prayer cards. One room huts with fireplace in the center. We ran across many of the villagers and they were anxious for their pictures to be taken and very friendly. We were instructed to kindly greet them with "morning(soft g)". A few sights were quite interesting a preschooler carrying a bush knife as tall as he was, apparently here they learn young. David pointed out the former Starbucks :) One of the villagers had served coffe and then had customers, but it like some recently in the United States has shut down. I also saw an older man walking around with a bow and arrow. (NICE) He followed us around a bit, but was friendly. I have pictures of the trip and will post next time.
Living in Ukarumpa Center
My living accomadations are better than I anticipated. I am very comfortable and am glad to say I have slept soundly the last couple of nights. Thanks Dr Hodges for the Ambien. I tried first few nights without anything without success. My housemate is very delightful, humorous, helpful, and creative. Lilah has been here for 18 months and will be headed to Bible college sometime after June. In Australia it is a requirement to do long term missions. She has introduced me to life in Ukarumpa including bush dancing, Kath and Kim nights (Aussie thing), the weight room, and other events. There are a few singles on sight and they get together on weekends and play cards and other games. Nice mixture of nationalities.
Cooking
Yes ladies and gentleman, I have been cooking, not your box meals in the microwave oh no, cooking from scratch. There are no fast food restaraunts or any restaraunts of any kind for that matter. I have been encouraged if I want to eat I have to cook. I am happy to say I am quickly becoming a domestic diva. Tonight I made pancakes for supper and banana bread. My greatest accomplishment so far was my flour tortillas, of course, I had Lilah helping me in that arena. It's quite fun and at home never made time for it. When I get home I will be ready to whip you up something special.
Spiritually
There are opportunities to attend Bible Study and Church in the Center. I have participated in one that was at my house this past Tuesday night and tomorrow night I will attend the WA Bible Study. I have heard of some others, but really haven't heard of nights they are offered.
For me personally it has been a good time of studying and anticipating hearing God's voice. I have completed a book by Joy Dawson called Ruined for the Ordinary. This book was very encouraging and teaches different ways we hear God's voice. It encourages to not do so halfheartedly and to be aware of the ways Satan tries to throw us off and believe it's God when it is not. Also how to obey the voice of God. Really great. I have been able to journal daily and am enjoying how God is constantly telling me things one day at a time. That keeps me in His Word and on my toes. I studied a bit before I left on healing and am currently reading a book on healing by Jim Glennon. It has been quite an eye opener. I have wondered about this topic for sometime. Will let ya know how that book goes.
Overall, the last 10 days have been so encouraging to me as a person and a woman attempting to live for Jesus. I have had to rely on Him in ways never before reminding myself He is my Strength, Provider, Comforter, Partner, and Hope and so much more. I look forward to what next 3 months will bring.
Prayer Requests
I have been blessed with giving massages to a few of the folks here and was especially excited to work with Robert and Melody Harmon. They left for POC, which is a training for heading out to villages and village life. Pray for them as they are starting a whole new adventure.
Pray that I will find someone to assist me with language, I have a phrase book, but I know a person would really help the progression of learning for me.
I decided to spend some of my time working in the primary school on Wednesdays. Please pray for me as I work with these students that I will be aware of their needs and be the encourager they need and that the teachers will be less stressed.
Pray that I would spend my extra time wisely and in the way God intended. I can easily see how I could get comfortable with the same folks and I know I am here to encourage many instead of few, but also know when to say no so that the time I do give is quality.
Thank you so much for praying for me and supporting me. I am so blessed to be a part of this furthering of the gospel.
Angie :)
Wow it's hard to believe I have only been in Ukarumpa for 10 days. I have seen so much and I have done so many new things since I have been here.
Work in the Clinic
Our clinic is staffed with 4 doctors, 2 dentists, 1 pharmacist, 2 lab techs, x-ray tech, clinical manager, housekeeper, building maintenance man, assistants to all these depts, and me the physiotherapist. We are equipped to see patients from the Center and in the villages.
My current caseload has been the missionaries on center which here are called ex-pats. These past 10 days as far as the clinic goes, I have met all the staff, had a meeting with the manager, and managed to work in some physical therapy appointments. I have seen about 7 patients in all. I must admit it is nice being my own "boss" and I have access to and Ultrasound machine, a partly working TENS unit, and some ice packs. I have transformed the overhead cervical traction unit into shoulder pulleys because that is more of a need. It has been a great journey thus far in the clinic.
Ukarumpa Village
I had the opportunity when David Smith, WA volunteer coordinator, returned from conference to tour Ukarumpa Village with some other new folks. I arrived early Friday morning to begin what I thought was tour of the center(thinking for orientation) to my surprise and delight we were going out to the village. I was approached kindly by the coordinator's wife that i should have worn a skirt (Here in the center pants are acceptable) , but we came to the conclusion that my shirt was covering plenty and not to worry. Most times when I'm being a bit of a rebel I realize it, but here I am trying to obey all the rules and sheesh i'm busted. As we started our hike into the village, I was thankful for the pants. We trekked through grass up to our hips. We saw lots of vegetation banana trees, coffee beans drying, and things of the sort. Many of the houses resemble my prayer cards. One room huts with fireplace in the center. We ran across many of the villagers and they were anxious for their pictures to be taken and very friendly. We were instructed to kindly greet them with "morning(soft g)". A few sights were quite interesting a preschooler carrying a bush knife as tall as he was, apparently here they learn young. David pointed out the former Starbucks :) One of the villagers had served coffe and then had customers, but it like some recently in the United States has shut down. I also saw an older man walking around with a bow and arrow. (NICE) He followed us around a bit, but was friendly. I have pictures of the trip and will post next time.
Living in Ukarumpa Center
My living accomadations are better than I anticipated. I am very comfortable and am glad to say I have slept soundly the last couple of nights. Thanks Dr Hodges for the Ambien. I tried first few nights without anything without success. My housemate is very delightful, humorous, helpful, and creative. Lilah has been here for 18 months and will be headed to Bible college sometime after June. In Australia it is a requirement to do long term missions. She has introduced me to life in Ukarumpa including bush dancing, Kath and Kim nights (Aussie thing), the weight room, and other events. There are a few singles on sight and they get together on weekends and play cards and other games. Nice mixture of nationalities.
Cooking
Yes ladies and gentleman, I have been cooking, not your box meals in the microwave oh no, cooking from scratch. There are no fast food restaraunts or any restaraunts of any kind for that matter. I have been encouraged if I want to eat I have to cook. I am happy to say I am quickly becoming a domestic diva. Tonight I made pancakes for supper and banana bread. My greatest accomplishment so far was my flour tortillas, of course, I had Lilah helping me in that arena. It's quite fun and at home never made time for it. When I get home I will be ready to whip you up something special.
Spiritually
There are opportunities to attend Bible Study and Church in the Center. I have participated in one that was at my house this past Tuesday night and tomorrow night I will attend the WA Bible Study. I have heard of some others, but really haven't heard of nights they are offered.
For me personally it has been a good time of studying and anticipating hearing God's voice. I have completed a book by Joy Dawson called Ruined for the Ordinary. This book was very encouraging and teaches different ways we hear God's voice. It encourages to not do so halfheartedly and to be aware of the ways Satan tries to throw us off and believe it's God when it is not. Also how to obey the voice of God. Really great. I have been able to journal daily and am enjoying how God is constantly telling me things one day at a time. That keeps me in His Word and on my toes. I studied a bit before I left on healing and am currently reading a book on healing by Jim Glennon. It has been quite an eye opener. I have wondered about this topic for sometime. Will let ya know how that book goes.
Overall, the last 10 days have been so encouraging to me as a person and a woman attempting to live for Jesus. I have had to rely on Him in ways never before reminding myself He is my Strength, Provider, Comforter, Partner, and Hope and so much more. I look forward to what next 3 months will bring.
Prayer Requests
I have been blessed with giving massages to a few of the folks here and was especially excited to work with Robert and Melody Harmon. They left for POC, which is a training for heading out to villages and village life. Pray for them as they are starting a whole new adventure.
Pray that I will find someone to assist me with language, I have a phrase book, but I know a person would really help the progression of learning for me.
I decided to spend some of my time working in the primary school on Wednesdays. Please pray for me as I work with these students that I will be aware of their needs and be the encourager they need and that the teachers will be less stressed.
Pray that I would spend my extra time wisely and in the way God intended. I can easily see how I could get comfortable with the same folks and I know I am here to encourage many instead of few, but also know when to say no so that the time I do give is quality.
Thank you so much for praying for me and supporting me. I am so blessed to be a part of this furthering of the gospel.
Angie :)
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