Immersion

Immersion. Some friends used this word to describe entering back into the Asian country in which they work having spent time in their country of origin recently. The sounds, the smells, the language, the food….at once both familiar and foreign.

“Wherever you are, be all there,” goes the saying. Wherever you are, immerse yourself.

When in Queenstown in winter wear thermals under your jeans and five layers on top. Don’t forget the beanie because (as the advertisement said) “You lose 99% of your thoughts through your head.” Drink beer with your fish and chips. Learn all the snowboarding slang you can so that at least you can sound as though you can ride switch, work the box and land some sweet freestyle moves in the park.

When in Cambodia eat rice. Use your spoon in your right hand and keep your fork in the left. Greet your elders’ politely. Speak to strangers.

Immersion. I have crashed back into Cambodia these past ten days. It is as though there is everything to catch up on- relationships, current work, plans for future commitments. But there is a joy and energy in colliding into this foreign, familiar place. I’ve loved going out to different Provinces and helping to do training for youth involved in the Big Brothers and Sisters program. I’ve found fresh motivation for language learning. I’ve been given a new hunger for revelation truth, divine love, bold vision and for His joy to be my strength. Maybe I just needed a holiday. Maybe it is divine grace. Either way, bring it on!