JANUARY 29, 2009
Busy busy week at school—we have had midterm exams…two a day and then supervise the students afterward. Been a little chaotic for old-fashioned me! But the week is almost over—only Saturday with two more exams, and then we start the new semester on Monday, Feb. 2
I will be teaching English 9A, 11A, and 12B classes. The classes are very small, so I look forward to being able to work with them closely. The classes only last 50 minutes…I so miss those wonderful 90 minutes classes at PNG.
I got invited to go eat with the young girls again on Thursday night—Kristen, Trish, Bethany and they also invited Tameka…the young granddaughter of Dr. Theo and Marge—who work at the school. Dr. Theo is the elementary principal and Marge is a teacher…they’ve been missionaries all over the world. He is actually a medical doctor…
We ate at Focaccio’s…and then walked around Ben Yehuda…had coffee and scurried on home as the wind was blowing and it was very very chilly! But it was fun to get out and go with the girls. I enjoy them very much. Their stories are super interesting…Kristen was teaching at the same school with Shane (my principal) in Florida last year…and he called her in August and asked her to come teach…Trisha is from Kansas—and has a seminary degree. She is super sweet—has experience running a Sylvan center…now she is teaching all sorts of things. Bethany—I’ve talked about before, I think. She taught in Russia last year…has some really good stories from that experience. I’ll try to have all their stories written down, so we can share them.
JANUARY 31, 2009
Last day of January for 2009…
Yesterday (Friday) was such a wonderful day. It was quite cold with wind, but the sun was shining and if you were dressed very warmly, it was beautiful! My friend Wilma and I went in to the city—rode the Arab bus like last week to the bus station and then walked UP hill! Mercy! All this walking! I still have to stop if it is a long steep hill, but I am much better than when I first came.
Wilma has been so super super helpful—takes me places and shows me landmarks so I can do it by myself. We had a great day…first stop was to the nail shop! She had a pedicure, and I had my nails done…we were able to just walk in and get appointments. The lady who owns the shop (called LADY) did my nails…she is from Russia—been in Jerusalem for 17 years. She speaks Russian, Hebrew and English. She and the young girl who sits beside her were looking at my nails before she began…and talking in Hebrew. So I asked if there was a problem…they said, “O these nails are so nice—very very well done.” When she finished, I understood! She didn’t really do what Jill does, but she did do a fill, filed them shorter, and put clear polish on them. It was a fun experience…sitting in that quaint little shop that is down...you are level with the sidewalk and can see up on the sidewalk. I was watching people go by and listening to the conversations in the shop. You can’t tell from the nuances and expressions and volume shifts exactly what kind of conversations are going on. I wish I knew other languages…I’ve never seen so many people who know so many languages.
After we finished, we walked to a coffee shop and enjoyed a wonderful cup of latte-something. Then we walked to a store called Golf…it is sorta a Pottery Barn/Bed-Bath & Beyond mixture. We stayed in there a long time. I got a pillow, pillowcases, a wonderful throw, kitchen towels and hand towels for the bathroom…etc. Then we had to carry all that stuff--but Wilma is really so much fun and she didn’t care at all.
She showed me a couple of places that sell BACON—of all things! So we went to a place called the Meat Burger—and had wonderful burgers w/cheese and bacon…and fries and onion rings. I was standing there, and the man asked me what I wanted, so I began to order…and I realized the man standing beside me was looking at me, so I said, “Oh did I get in front of you?” And he proceeded to be so angry with me…just jumped all over me…I looked at the guy behind the counter (because he asked me what I wanted) and he just shook his head and made me finish my order! When Wilma came by, she said it was not uncommon for some people to be just terribly rude! So I will watch who is around me next time I’m ordering!
We walked and window shopped and just enjoyed our time…went in to a used bookstore—I got Michner’s THE SOURCE…don’t know when I think I’ll read it, as I have not had reading time at all! I also got newspapers…I love the newspapers…anywhere…but they are so super interesting here. I wish I could bring them all home with me. I have a couple of articles that I am bringing. They are so interesting…so much that is happening in the world affects Israel—so they have all that news. There are two newspapers: The Jerusalem Post and the Herald Tribune…The Post seems pro-Jewish and the Herald seems a little pro-Arab…but it’s mostly in perspective, not specific. They all seem to look forward to Obama coming and are hopeful about his view on the situation here. I wish so much some of my reading buds were here to talk about all this…to me. I don’t understand so much because I’m ill-informed about a lot of the past situations.
As we were walking around, we ran into a friend of Wilma’s, David. David is married to Ross Byars’s sister Mary…they have lived here 25 years also. David and Mary live in the Jewish sector…and own the bookstore The Torch. Ross and Margaret have lived in the Arab sector for over 25 years and minister more to Arabs…Ross and Mary’s mom moved over here in her older years…and was living here at the time of her death. I admire them so much—they have given their lives because they love people so much…I really believe these are the people Jesus is talking about when He says “the last shall be first.” So unselfish and devoted to ministry…
We caught the bus, climbed the “serious hill”, and got home safely! I put clothes in to wash and then Wilma, Eula and I went to the store. We went to Jafar’s…the favorite grocery store for all of us. One of the Arabic teachers Mr. Mustafa’s family owns the store, and he works there from about 4 till midnight or so…then teaches…he is really nice…and so good with the kids.
We also went on to a little store to see if we could find a little rattan or some kind of little table to hold the printer I am supposed to get for the apartment. Then we stopped by another little row of stores…one was a meat market. We went in, and I bought 4 chicken breasts and a pound of ground meat…which he ground in front of me…the meat looks really good…he trimmed the breasts and put the trimmings in a separate little bag so I can use them for broth. Then we went in to the fruit and vegetable stand next door…I tried to find celery…and finally had to ask for it…I am trying to gather ingredients to make chicken spaghetti…but there is no Velveeta or a substitute for it in Israel…so I’ll have to figure out a substitute! I haven’t cooked a meal yet…I was going to cook this afternoon—smothered meat patties in brown gravy…but after school we had a meeting for the high school teachers…and they served us food. We had falafel—and “barbecue.” I couldn’t wait to see the barbecue…well, it’s smoked meat from the grill…chicken and lamb…it was very delicious. The falafel is really good too…you put it on a pita bread with hummus, cabbage, tomatoes, cucumbers…really really good, I think. Mr. Ghassen was telling Shane that this falafel was some of the best made because he knows the store owner and his family has been in business for years…etc…reminded me of Colichia’s reputation…
My friend Wilma has such a wonderful testimony…I’m going to have it written before I come home so I can share it with all of you. And I have other personal stories that I don’t feel comfortable writing on a blog or email…I may drive everyone nuts with my stories!
Thank you so much for your interest…and for your emails and CARDS! I got three today! Wonderful Wonderful! One from Melissa and Maegan one from Sheliah and one from Dee Provost!!! Just grand…it’s so wonderful to just sit and read them and look at them…sounds nuts, but it’s pretty lonesome here!
Holly just called and that was super duper wonderful…I wish for her and Melissa and Maegan…and all ya’ll so often. I’ll see something or hear something, and it will trigger a person…maybe someday you all can come!
I told Holly I had just gone up to the roof to get my clothes that I put up there yesterday…put on my coat and took the clothes off the line and put the other ones up there! My mother would be so proud of me: hanging out clothes! She did that every Monday for as long as I remember. It’s very beautiful up there. You can see forever…but of course, not tonight because it was so cold. I came back in and was walking around my room in my layers of clothes and my coat still on! I looked so funny…I have a little heater that really heats the room well, so it’s not so cold in here anymore and I warm up pretty quickly.
Tomorrow we plan to ride the train to Tel Aviv…leave around 9…so I’ll let you know how that goes.
Please continue to pray for my family…I made my flight arrangements…I will fly back here March 14 and come home June 6…I’ll look forward to seeing all of you and bending your ears about this incredible experience.
Love you…Beth
Saturday, January 31, 2009
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
JANUARY 23 24 25
JANUARY 24
Saturday school—before school I met with Ross Byars—and told him that I would like to look at the apartment in the same building with Darrell and Eula (resident minister/missionary?) who live at the end of our street…street is used loosely! A young couple just left to go back to the states—so it was empty.
He told me I had to have a picture by Monday for my Visa…and that it had to be made here by some place that does Israeli passport pictures…now how was I going to do that? I asked where the nearest Walgreen’s was…he sorta looked funny…but didn’t laugh. Sure enough, Adam and Bethany took me after school to the little Arab photo place—very nice people and I got 6 little photos! The problem is that Arab stores close on Friday, and Jewish stores start closing early on Friday and are closed all day on Saturday…so I have no idea what is what and when the stores are opened…thank the Lord for Adam and Bethany!
Wilma had sent an invitation to all the ladies in the school to attend a Bible Study on Sat from 1-2—after school. She is going to show Beth Moore’s LIVING BEYOND YOURSELF. It is the same one I had just done with the ladies at Debbie Miller’s house…so we had our first meeting Sat. and had about 10 ladies…only 3 of us have ever seen a BMoore, so it will be good. They all loved her…a couple of Arabic ladies…I sorta think they are Muslim…but I may be wrong…came. I just sat there looking around the room—sparse and plain and we were sitting on white plastic patio chairs—and thinking about how Beth Moore is just all around the world, and everyone loves her. I know people tell her that all the time, but I just know she would have loved seeing all of us in that room trying to do that sign language trick with all the fruits…we were funny! I am so amazed that I am in on this…but not to worry, the refreshments were something else…some kind of pastry goodie tray—Arabic…and everything on it was good! I know because I had one of each!
After Bible Study, Wilma (lives across the hall—and I really really like her…she is 59, so cute and fun…and her testimony is just so amazing), Mary (one of my 3 roommates) and I sat and talked about the apartment…I hadn’t said anything about moving, so we all talked about the issues and possible solutions.
We had church Saturday night…at Dr. Theo and Marge’s house…where we have had each service since I’ve been here…just gathered in a circle in the living room…Eric leads in the worship service—we sing along…then Ross taught. He was so very good—reminds me of Jack Park a lot. He taught an introduction to the Sermon on the Mount…and then he is going to continue to teach those chapters in Matthew. I really really enjoyed that…then afterwards, Dr. Theo and Ross put together my Visa application…someone had told me I didn’t have to bring my Passport, etc. to church…so Ross made very clear to EVERYONE…go nowhere without the Passport…he said they may decide to haul you in, etc…so Wilma walked with me back to the apt. and we got that Passport! I will have it with me when I walk out the door! Another young man who is new was getting his Visa stuff too. His name is Garrett—he is mid-20’s…his mother is teaching at the Bethlehem School…and he and his brother came to visit for Christmas. He decided to stay and teach over there—told me a bit of his story—degree from a school in New York—Manhatten I think…in business, I think…he is cute and personable…just amazing to me…these young people and their desire to serve the Lord in this place.
We had a really good fellowship afterwards—laughing and drinking tea and enjoying everyone…some of the younger ones played Wii…it was nice. It just reminded me of the early church…that is how it was done…a group…then invite someone else, and then it just grows…of course, these are all connected to Jerusalem School or Bethlehem School…it’s just that everyone seems so focused and genuine in their desire to really serve and love the Lord… absolutely no other reason to be here…this is not some fancy-dancy thing to do. Denomination has not been mentioned—other than I know that Ross is an upper level person in the Assembly of God in Europe—but I don’t know about anyone else. It just doesn’t seem important…praying with any of them is easy, saying I am seeking the Lord is just what we all say—and we share prayer needs at Bible Study and at church. Darrell is a retired pastor from Spring, TX…and he is the one who starts the services, leads in prayer, etc…just the sweetest man. He and his wife Eula live down from us—and they help at the school. Darrell is part of the “maintenance crew—a man named Mike, who has been there a long time and is “paid”…and his wife Tess teaches in the kindergarten (aid, I think)…they are Muslim…and then Mr. Jameel (? I think…can’t remember his name) anyway, he just volunteers—just wants to help because he likes the school…his son is also a student there…also Muslim. So Darrell works with them…
I went by to look at the apt. after getting the VISA pic…it is super nice, all furnished and very clean…one bedroom, a bathroom with hot water (! What a treat!)—just nice…I walked around and prayed. If it had been available when I first came, I would be in it. But I decided by Sunday night that I needed to stay in my room…I have much to learn about dealing with interpersonal relationships! So I believe God is giving me this opportunity to mature in that area—MORE MATURE AT 65!!! What is wrong with me???
Went to bed Sat. night so excited about the big excursion on Sunday…
JANUARY 25, 2009
We (Adam—young teacher who has been super nice to me…and Bethany—beautiful young teacher who taught last year in Russia—and has led several tours of young people to Israel…her sister and husband live in Jerusalem-he attends Hebrew University—getting a Master’s –AND Mary my roommate…who has been here 2 years & just was in Tiberias during the holidays) left the apartment about 8:30—after having to go back in several times because of forgotten items: my camera, etc! We drove out of Jerusalem toward Tiberias…desert country, camels, donkeys, bedoin camps…that are actually Arab villages—just sorta look like what homeless people throw together in the cities. Except these are on isolated hillsides by the highway…seeing little children out there and life going on was sad to me…But there are many of those places.
The country was desert hills…barren but every so often a patch of green…isn’t that amazing…and then the mountains with a bit of green at the top. We saw herds and herds of sheep—and yep, they all had shepherds with them. But they were wearing jeans and sweatshirts—with those wraps on their heads. And then more camels…scrawny and ugly.
I just kept wondering if Jesus walked over those hills…he traveled from Galilee to Jerusalem…and to Bethany, etc…just amazing place to me.
We stopped at a place that was sorta (not really, but sorta) like Buckee’s…they had stuff and more stuff…and fresh fruit and clean rrooms…so we got tangerines and peanuts and headed on.
We were traveling this whole time in the West Bank…and Jordan was just to our right over the hills, etc…a good distance, but you can see it…especially at night we could see all the lights coming home. There are THREE heavy duty fences with electric boxes, etc. on them running beside the highway—the message is clear: do not come in here! When we got to the checkpoint, we were not just ushered through like most people are. For some reason, we were pulled over…had to get out of the car and go in a building…go through a security screening just like at the airport…and they went over that car thoroughly…and with a dog…looked just like Nick…fierce and all business. We waited and finally got our stuff and headed out…I think they were just bored…almost no traffic and a beautiful day!
We stopped at a building that had a McDonald’s sign on it…but I couldn’t see anything about McD’s…sure enough, after going through security…to enter ANY kind of public building, you have to give them your stuff—purse, etc. and they go through it…we went in and just used the rroom…not in McD’s…
Then we arrived at Tiberias—there is a Holiday Inn, Sheraton, etc…all these hotels in this really nice city…we stopped for coffee at the Aroma’s on the way home…nice place to stay—reminded me a bit of Haifa. I think it took us almost 2 hours…don’t know as the drive was so super interesting.
I kept seeing these splotches that I thought were water…but they were rows and rows of plants—maybe food (?) about 2 feet (?) tall that were covered row by row with plastic covering like a green house effect…and on the way back, we saw several fields with rows of lights on…strange…also they had huge acres of land that had big plants—like banana trees—covered like big greenhouses at plant places.
Then to Yardenit—the River Jordan place where you can be baptized in the river. It was so beautiful…I took a picture, but really the beauty is in the smell and quietness and peace of the place. There were no tour buses—we were almost the only people there…it was that way all day everywhere we went…a perfect day and wonderful weather.
It was such a congenial group—they were sitting across the way on some steps—and I was by myself down by the water. A huge fish came floating by…and I thought NO WAY am I getting in that water. I know that may disappoint some of you for not wanting to be baptized in the river where Jesus was—but I couldn’t do that. They saw me over there putting my hand in the water—but I was only doing that because I had swiped the bird poo on the handrail going down to the water. Spiritual person that I am!
It is a very beautiful, serene place…I kept looking at the banks and hearing that old song ON JORDAN’S STORMY BANKS I STAND…and there I was! It really is a wonderfully moving experience.
We stayed maybe an hour—then drove to the Sea of Galilee…and got out at a place called Peter’s Primacy...don’t know why…but it has a huge rock and is said to be the place where Jesus said ON THIS ROCK I BUILD MY CHURCH…there is an altar and place to worship in the building that covers the rock…
THEN…the best part of the whole day for me…we all walked down to the Sea of Galilee…and just sorta drifted apart…Adam and Bethany went off and I went the other way…just walking…not planned…and Mary was kinda in the middle. We were there a long time—and I absolutely loved it. Only a very very few people came down…I couldn’t believe I was standing on the shores of the Sea of Galilee…it was so hazy, we could not see across the sea to the other side, but it didn’t matter. There were boats (tourist boats that resemble the old fishing boats of Jesus’ time) out there and we could hear the people on the boats singing—they were singing stuff like HE’S GOT THE WHOLE WORLD IN HIS HANDS…and they were pretty far out…the sound carries amazingly well. The rocks were black and rough…perfect to build a fire around…I sat out there a long time—just felt the presence of the Lord so much. I had my IPOD…and listened to some wonderful praise music…ALL HAIL THE POWER OF JESUS NAME –instrumental with violin/piano…I just really had a worship experience. I wished for my family and friends to be there too…that is definitely a place we will visit WHEN YA’LL COME TO ISRAEL!
We all sorta drifted back up about the same time…and headed back in to Tiberias and ate on the water at Deck’s Restaurant—wonderful wonderful food…we had a huge platter—shaped like a long pointed rectangle…beautiful and filled with focaccia bread w/seasonings, salad, and tomatoes/cucumbers diced w/seasonings…then Adam had filet mignon, Mary & Bethany had chicken w/curry seasoning and I had lamb chops—they brought them on a small grill—a pan on top of some coals and set that in front of me so they would stay warm…and they brought Adam’s steak to a little side table beside our table with another grill on it…and he had to use it to cook his meat a little more done! There were gulls everywhere…sorta reminded me of Galveston. But it was the Sea of Galilee for pity sakes!!! Imagine that! I just kept sitting there thinking of where I was—and can’t believe it still.
We had a long leisurely meal and laughed and took pics and then we had a wonderful dessert—split among the 4 of us…Forest (?) berry crepe—with ice cream. The waiter was so super nice…
Then we went to the Mount of Beatitudes…the place where Jesus is said to have given the Sermon on the Mount. There is a church there—octagonal... with an altar in the middle… beautiful beautiful…the floor was inlaid tiles…we saw several nuns…one was from New Jersey… there is a convent built beside the church…very beautiful building and the grounds were so pretty…and the view was just incredible…looked out over the Sea of Galilee.
Then we headed back home…and got home about 8:00…so it was an all day event…super nice…so relaxing and enjoyable…
One more little incident…the school has 2 vehicles…a small truck (that is the best vehicle we have—and it rattles and rocks, but runs…) and a Peugot. We were in the Peugot—and it is more than a little rickety. Just as we pulled back in to Jerusalem and up to the Check Point, the smoke started billowing out from under the hood…it was so funny because the IDF guy just started backing away and motioning for us to go on through and pull over up ahead! Adam knew just what to do—has several bottles full of water for just such emergencies…so we poured water and took off again…the IDF guys were glad to see us go!
JANUARY 26, 2009
Such an experience this is…I honestly just kept thinking so much of all of you this afternoon—as I rode the Arab bus (BY MYSELF!) to the Dr’s office (??sketchy is the mildest word I can use) and got on the Arab bus and rode back toward our neighborhood…and got off early, went to Golden Chicken and got chicken for us all to have for dinner in the apartment. The streets and people and businesses and stuff everywhere…it looks a little war-torn to me. Of course, this is all Arab—so the Jewish part of Jerusalem doesn’t look like this—I don’t guess. Graffitti on buildings, abandoned stores—all just sorta blended together. People everywhere—moving fast. They all knew where they were going…Me on the other hand, got off the bus 2 blocks early because I was afraid when I pushed the button, the driver would say, “No No…can’t stop here”…and I’d end up somewhere I couldn’t find my way back from!”
This adventure today was my first time out by myself…and I was a bit anxious. I don’t know why exactly…I surely wasn’t afraid for my safety…just ignorance! When I got back to the checkpoint and started up the hill…and even Shane said, “That’s a serious hill”…I felt very successful! I was walking across in front of the school, and Shane & John were leaving, so they gave me a short ride to the corner…I still had a half a hill to climb and a ways to go to the apt…may sound like no big deal to you, but it was a big deal…and I shouted Hallelujah. We all sat at the table and enjoyed the chicken, etc…first time we have done that…it was nice.
The Dr visit…was for my “physical” for my Visa. Mrs. Maja (the head secretary/financial person at school/resident Arab who knows everything and everybody) made the appointment…so at 3:00 I walk in…no patients were there—which was a little discomfiting! The girl at the front desk (?) didn’t know what I was talking about…called a girl from the back (the nurse?) who said the “Dr.” was not in. I told her about Mrs. Maja, the appointment, what I needed etc. So she goes somewhere and then comes to get me. We do the blood pressure (which was a bit up—imagine that!) and temp…then I go to a room with a man whom I assume is a Dr…he asks me some ?’s & I hope I am answering what he is asking me—I don’t volunteer more than he asks…and he never asked “is that all?” so…I only told what he asked! HOWEVER, I did have to do the blood work (ouch!) and other little unpleasant test…it’s just that the rooms, etc. were just so out there…but really it was ok (?) and tomorrow I have to go back to get the “report”? I am putting stuff in quotations because I don’t know if I have chosen the right words or not!
Today a young couple named Austin and Katie came to the school to start their new jobs…Austin will be taking my 11B English class…he has a degree in engineering, but will be teaching religion classes and this English class and working with Ross on Convoy of Hope (still don’t know what that is). He is 26 and wife is 24 (haven’t met her)…just so young! He sat in on the class—and it is quite a class! Austin will be their 4th teacher this year. Not a good situation. First was Ms. Leslie (?)…then she left in November because of a prior commitment to the mission field somewhere…so Mr. John took over…then I came and I took over for these 2 weeks…now Austin…hopefully, he can establish some continuity and get them going.
We start Mid terms tomorrow…two a day—one is 8:30 to 10:00 and then 10:30 to 12:00…with a 30 min break in between. Then we will meet in teacher groups for the rest of the day…the students will be somewhere supervised by someone??? We get the new schedule and will start having dept. (maybe 4 of us?) meetings…people like Austin—very capable and bright, but haven’t taught in a classroom…so we’ll see.
I can smell the chocolate cake that Mary has baked for us—so I’m signing off and having some dessert…not to worry…all this walking and healthy food (except for the couple of times I’ve had friend chicken and brownies!) and climbing stairs has shaped me up a little…not too much, but better than I’ve ever been! Who needs to buy a Stair Master—come teach at Jerusalem School! You will lose weight and get in shape—what an enticing benefit!
Please remember to pray for my sweet girls—Melissa, Maegan and Holly and for my family…and for my sweet friend Olga Graham whose husband Billy just passed away…also please remember the needs at Jerusalem School…
OH…I almost forgot—and it may not come about, but it sounds great! Bethany, Mary, Trish, Wilma and I have a plan to go to the Dead Sea Spa in 2 weeks—on Sunday Feb. 2…
I also hope to do a trip to Engedi and Massada—they aren’t far…nothing is far in Israel…small country…amazingly small to be the center of so much. But I have to wait on tour guides…just think, I had three yesterday—and Bethany has led tours—at least 7 of them…so I was incredibly blessed.
I love the emails…please please keep them coming-even if I don’t answer…I’m reading and really really enjoy hearing about your families and what is happening. I got the funniest thing today—a card with a piece of red honeysuckle in it from Erma! Great--thanks! AND—Bart sent this package with a picture of Jake, Sandra, Bart and I at the airport—they took me to the plane and spent the afternoon waiting with me! So sweet—thanks Bart…I love the pic and the CD of Jake’s message at FBC Groves! What a wonderful home package that is! And I’ve had cards from Karen, Madeline, Olga...Melissa has mailed me a package…but it isn’t here yet…thank so much!
I miss all of you very very much…and I look forward to coming home for a week in March—actually in 42 days! I will be home March 9—Melissa’s birthday—in Houston at IAH at 3:00—hopefully…I can only stay until Sat. March 14…but then I’ll be home again the first week of June, I think. I look forward to seeing everyone…believe me, I miss home so much…but I know this is my place for this season. And God is teaching me so much—and blessing me in wonderful ways. Thank you from my heart for each encouraging word and prayer—I am grateful…
Saturday school—before school I met with Ross Byars—and told him that I would like to look at the apartment in the same building with Darrell and Eula (resident minister/missionary?) who live at the end of our street…street is used loosely! A young couple just left to go back to the states—so it was empty.
He told me I had to have a picture by Monday for my Visa…and that it had to be made here by some place that does Israeli passport pictures…now how was I going to do that? I asked where the nearest Walgreen’s was…he sorta looked funny…but didn’t laugh. Sure enough, Adam and Bethany took me after school to the little Arab photo place—very nice people and I got 6 little photos! The problem is that Arab stores close on Friday, and Jewish stores start closing early on Friday and are closed all day on Saturday…so I have no idea what is what and when the stores are opened…thank the Lord for Adam and Bethany!
Wilma had sent an invitation to all the ladies in the school to attend a Bible Study on Sat from 1-2—after school. She is going to show Beth Moore’s LIVING BEYOND YOURSELF. It is the same one I had just done with the ladies at Debbie Miller’s house…so we had our first meeting Sat. and had about 10 ladies…only 3 of us have ever seen a BMoore, so it will be good. They all loved her…a couple of Arabic ladies…I sorta think they are Muslim…but I may be wrong…came. I just sat there looking around the room—sparse and plain and we were sitting on white plastic patio chairs—and thinking about how Beth Moore is just all around the world, and everyone loves her. I know people tell her that all the time, but I just know she would have loved seeing all of us in that room trying to do that sign language trick with all the fruits…we were funny! I am so amazed that I am in on this…but not to worry, the refreshments were something else…some kind of pastry goodie tray—Arabic…and everything on it was good! I know because I had one of each!
After Bible Study, Wilma (lives across the hall—and I really really like her…she is 59, so cute and fun…and her testimony is just so amazing), Mary (one of my 3 roommates) and I sat and talked about the apartment…I hadn’t said anything about moving, so we all talked about the issues and possible solutions.
We had church Saturday night…at Dr. Theo and Marge’s house…where we have had each service since I’ve been here…just gathered in a circle in the living room…Eric leads in the worship service—we sing along…then Ross taught. He was so very good—reminds me of Jack Park a lot. He taught an introduction to the Sermon on the Mount…and then he is going to continue to teach those chapters in Matthew. I really really enjoyed that…then afterwards, Dr. Theo and Ross put together my Visa application…someone had told me I didn’t have to bring my Passport, etc. to church…so Ross made very clear to EVERYONE…go nowhere without the Passport…he said they may decide to haul you in, etc…so Wilma walked with me back to the apt. and we got that Passport! I will have it with me when I walk out the door! Another young man who is new was getting his Visa stuff too. His name is Garrett—he is mid-20’s…his mother is teaching at the Bethlehem School…and he and his brother came to visit for Christmas. He decided to stay and teach over there—told me a bit of his story—degree from a school in New York—Manhatten I think…in business, I think…he is cute and personable…just amazing to me…these young people and their desire to serve the Lord in this place.
We had a really good fellowship afterwards—laughing and drinking tea and enjoying everyone…some of the younger ones played Wii…it was nice. It just reminded me of the early church…that is how it was done…a group…then invite someone else, and then it just grows…of course, these are all connected to Jerusalem School or Bethlehem School…it’s just that everyone seems so focused and genuine in their desire to really serve and love the Lord… absolutely no other reason to be here…this is not some fancy-dancy thing to do. Denomination has not been mentioned—other than I know that Ross is an upper level person in the Assembly of God in Europe—but I don’t know about anyone else. It just doesn’t seem important…praying with any of them is easy, saying I am seeking the Lord is just what we all say—and we share prayer needs at Bible Study and at church. Darrell is a retired pastor from Spring, TX…and he is the one who starts the services, leads in prayer, etc…just the sweetest man. He and his wife Eula live down from us—and they help at the school. Darrell is part of the “maintenance crew—a man named Mike, who has been there a long time and is “paid”…and his wife Tess teaches in the kindergarten (aid, I think)…they are Muslim…and then Mr. Jameel (? I think…can’t remember his name) anyway, he just volunteers—just wants to help because he likes the school…his son is also a student there…also Muslim. So Darrell works with them…
I went by to look at the apt. after getting the VISA pic…it is super nice, all furnished and very clean…one bedroom, a bathroom with hot water (! What a treat!)—just nice…I walked around and prayed. If it had been available when I first came, I would be in it. But I decided by Sunday night that I needed to stay in my room…I have much to learn about dealing with interpersonal relationships! So I believe God is giving me this opportunity to mature in that area—MORE MATURE AT 65!!! What is wrong with me???
Went to bed Sat. night so excited about the big excursion on Sunday…
JANUARY 25, 2009
We (Adam—young teacher who has been super nice to me…and Bethany—beautiful young teacher who taught last year in Russia—and has led several tours of young people to Israel…her sister and husband live in Jerusalem-he attends Hebrew University—getting a Master’s –AND Mary my roommate…who has been here 2 years & just was in Tiberias during the holidays) left the apartment about 8:30—after having to go back in several times because of forgotten items: my camera, etc! We drove out of Jerusalem toward Tiberias…desert country, camels, donkeys, bedoin camps…that are actually Arab villages—just sorta look like what homeless people throw together in the cities. Except these are on isolated hillsides by the highway…seeing little children out there and life going on was sad to me…But there are many of those places.
The country was desert hills…barren but every so often a patch of green…isn’t that amazing…and then the mountains with a bit of green at the top. We saw herds and herds of sheep—and yep, they all had shepherds with them. But they were wearing jeans and sweatshirts—with those wraps on their heads. And then more camels…scrawny and ugly.
I just kept wondering if Jesus walked over those hills…he traveled from Galilee to Jerusalem…and to Bethany, etc…just amazing place to me.
We stopped at a place that was sorta (not really, but sorta) like Buckee’s…they had stuff and more stuff…and fresh fruit and clean rrooms…so we got tangerines and peanuts and headed on.
We were traveling this whole time in the West Bank…and Jordan was just to our right over the hills, etc…a good distance, but you can see it…especially at night we could see all the lights coming home. There are THREE heavy duty fences with electric boxes, etc. on them running beside the highway—the message is clear: do not come in here! When we got to the checkpoint, we were not just ushered through like most people are. For some reason, we were pulled over…had to get out of the car and go in a building…go through a security screening just like at the airport…and they went over that car thoroughly…and with a dog…looked just like Nick…fierce and all business. We waited and finally got our stuff and headed out…I think they were just bored…almost no traffic and a beautiful day!
We stopped at a building that had a McDonald’s sign on it…but I couldn’t see anything about McD’s…sure enough, after going through security…to enter ANY kind of public building, you have to give them your stuff—purse, etc. and they go through it…we went in and just used the rroom…not in McD’s…
Then we arrived at Tiberias—there is a Holiday Inn, Sheraton, etc…all these hotels in this really nice city…we stopped for coffee at the Aroma’s on the way home…nice place to stay—reminded me a bit of Haifa. I think it took us almost 2 hours…don’t know as the drive was so super interesting.
I kept seeing these splotches that I thought were water…but they were rows and rows of plants—maybe food (?) about 2 feet (?) tall that were covered row by row with plastic covering like a green house effect…and on the way back, we saw several fields with rows of lights on…strange…also they had huge acres of land that had big plants—like banana trees—covered like big greenhouses at plant places.
Then to Yardenit—the River Jordan place where you can be baptized in the river. It was so beautiful…I took a picture, but really the beauty is in the smell and quietness and peace of the place. There were no tour buses—we were almost the only people there…it was that way all day everywhere we went…a perfect day and wonderful weather.
It was such a congenial group—they were sitting across the way on some steps—and I was by myself down by the water. A huge fish came floating by…and I thought NO WAY am I getting in that water. I know that may disappoint some of you for not wanting to be baptized in the river where Jesus was—but I couldn’t do that. They saw me over there putting my hand in the water—but I was only doing that because I had swiped the bird poo on the handrail going down to the water. Spiritual person that I am!
It is a very beautiful, serene place…I kept looking at the banks and hearing that old song ON JORDAN’S STORMY BANKS I STAND…and there I was! It really is a wonderfully moving experience.
We stayed maybe an hour—then drove to the Sea of Galilee…and got out at a place called Peter’s Primacy...don’t know why…but it has a huge rock and is said to be the place where Jesus said ON THIS ROCK I BUILD MY CHURCH…there is an altar and place to worship in the building that covers the rock…
THEN…the best part of the whole day for me…we all walked down to the Sea of Galilee…and just sorta drifted apart…Adam and Bethany went off and I went the other way…just walking…not planned…and Mary was kinda in the middle. We were there a long time—and I absolutely loved it. Only a very very few people came down…I couldn’t believe I was standing on the shores of the Sea of Galilee…it was so hazy, we could not see across the sea to the other side, but it didn’t matter. There were boats (tourist boats that resemble the old fishing boats of Jesus’ time) out there and we could hear the people on the boats singing—they were singing stuff like HE’S GOT THE WHOLE WORLD IN HIS HANDS…and they were pretty far out…the sound carries amazingly well. The rocks were black and rough…perfect to build a fire around…I sat out there a long time—just felt the presence of the Lord so much. I had my IPOD…and listened to some wonderful praise music…ALL HAIL THE POWER OF JESUS NAME –instrumental with violin/piano…I just really had a worship experience. I wished for my family and friends to be there too…that is definitely a place we will visit WHEN YA’LL COME TO ISRAEL!
We all sorta drifted back up about the same time…and headed back in to Tiberias and ate on the water at Deck’s Restaurant—wonderful wonderful food…we had a huge platter—shaped like a long pointed rectangle…beautiful and filled with focaccia bread w/seasonings, salad, and tomatoes/cucumbers diced w/seasonings…then Adam had filet mignon, Mary & Bethany had chicken w/curry seasoning and I had lamb chops—they brought them on a small grill—a pan on top of some coals and set that in front of me so they would stay warm…and they brought Adam’s steak to a little side table beside our table with another grill on it…and he had to use it to cook his meat a little more done! There were gulls everywhere…sorta reminded me of Galveston. But it was the Sea of Galilee for pity sakes!!! Imagine that! I just kept sitting there thinking of where I was—and can’t believe it still.
We had a long leisurely meal and laughed and took pics and then we had a wonderful dessert—split among the 4 of us…Forest (?) berry crepe—with ice cream. The waiter was so super nice…
Then we went to the Mount of Beatitudes…the place where Jesus is said to have given the Sermon on the Mount. There is a church there—octagonal... with an altar in the middle… beautiful beautiful…the floor was inlaid tiles…we saw several nuns…one was from New Jersey… there is a convent built beside the church…very beautiful building and the grounds were so pretty…and the view was just incredible…looked out over the Sea of Galilee.
Then we headed back home…and got home about 8:00…so it was an all day event…super nice…so relaxing and enjoyable…
One more little incident…the school has 2 vehicles…a small truck (that is the best vehicle we have—and it rattles and rocks, but runs…) and a Peugot. We were in the Peugot—and it is more than a little rickety. Just as we pulled back in to Jerusalem and up to the Check Point, the smoke started billowing out from under the hood…it was so funny because the IDF guy just started backing away and motioning for us to go on through and pull over up ahead! Adam knew just what to do—has several bottles full of water for just such emergencies…so we poured water and took off again…the IDF guys were glad to see us go!
JANUARY 26, 2009
Such an experience this is…I honestly just kept thinking so much of all of you this afternoon—as I rode the Arab bus (BY MYSELF!) to the Dr’s office (??sketchy is the mildest word I can use) and got on the Arab bus and rode back toward our neighborhood…and got off early, went to Golden Chicken and got chicken for us all to have for dinner in the apartment. The streets and people and businesses and stuff everywhere…it looks a little war-torn to me. Of course, this is all Arab—so the Jewish part of Jerusalem doesn’t look like this—I don’t guess. Graffitti on buildings, abandoned stores—all just sorta blended together. People everywhere—moving fast. They all knew where they were going…Me on the other hand, got off the bus 2 blocks early because I was afraid when I pushed the button, the driver would say, “No No…can’t stop here”…and I’d end up somewhere I couldn’t find my way back from!”
This adventure today was my first time out by myself…and I was a bit anxious. I don’t know why exactly…I surely wasn’t afraid for my safety…just ignorance! When I got back to the checkpoint and started up the hill…and even Shane said, “That’s a serious hill”…I felt very successful! I was walking across in front of the school, and Shane & John were leaving, so they gave me a short ride to the corner…I still had a half a hill to climb and a ways to go to the apt…may sound like no big deal to you, but it was a big deal…and I shouted Hallelujah. We all sat at the table and enjoyed the chicken, etc…first time we have done that…it was nice.
The Dr visit…was for my “physical” for my Visa. Mrs. Maja (the head secretary/financial person at school/resident Arab who knows everything and everybody) made the appointment…so at 3:00 I walk in…no patients were there—which was a little discomfiting! The girl at the front desk (?) didn’t know what I was talking about…called a girl from the back (the nurse?) who said the “Dr.” was not in. I told her about Mrs. Maja, the appointment, what I needed etc. So she goes somewhere and then comes to get me. We do the blood pressure (which was a bit up—imagine that!) and temp…then I go to a room with a man whom I assume is a Dr…he asks me some ?’s & I hope I am answering what he is asking me—I don’t volunteer more than he asks…and he never asked “is that all?” so…I only told what he asked! HOWEVER, I did have to do the blood work (ouch!) and other little unpleasant test…it’s just that the rooms, etc. were just so out there…but really it was ok (?) and tomorrow I have to go back to get the “report”? I am putting stuff in quotations because I don’t know if I have chosen the right words or not!
Today a young couple named Austin and Katie came to the school to start their new jobs…Austin will be taking my 11B English class…he has a degree in engineering, but will be teaching religion classes and this English class and working with Ross on Convoy of Hope (still don’t know what that is). He is 26 and wife is 24 (haven’t met her)…just so young! He sat in on the class—and it is quite a class! Austin will be their 4th teacher this year. Not a good situation. First was Ms. Leslie (?)…then she left in November because of a prior commitment to the mission field somewhere…so Mr. John took over…then I came and I took over for these 2 weeks…now Austin…hopefully, he can establish some continuity and get them going.
We start Mid terms tomorrow…two a day—one is 8:30 to 10:00 and then 10:30 to 12:00…with a 30 min break in between. Then we will meet in teacher groups for the rest of the day…the students will be somewhere supervised by someone??? We get the new schedule and will start having dept. (maybe 4 of us?) meetings…people like Austin—very capable and bright, but haven’t taught in a classroom…so we’ll see.
I can smell the chocolate cake that Mary has baked for us—so I’m signing off and having some dessert…not to worry…all this walking and healthy food (except for the couple of times I’ve had friend chicken and brownies!) and climbing stairs has shaped me up a little…not too much, but better than I’ve ever been! Who needs to buy a Stair Master—come teach at Jerusalem School! You will lose weight and get in shape—what an enticing benefit!
Please remember to pray for my sweet girls—Melissa, Maegan and Holly and for my family…and for my sweet friend Olga Graham whose husband Billy just passed away…also please remember the needs at Jerusalem School…
OH…I almost forgot—and it may not come about, but it sounds great! Bethany, Mary, Trish, Wilma and I have a plan to go to the Dead Sea Spa in 2 weeks—on Sunday Feb. 2…
I also hope to do a trip to Engedi and Massada—they aren’t far…nothing is far in Israel…small country…amazingly small to be the center of so much. But I have to wait on tour guides…just think, I had three yesterday—and Bethany has led tours—at least 7 of them…so I was incredibly blessed.
I love the emails…please please keep them coming-even if I don’t answer…I’m reading and really really enjoy hearing about your families and what is happening. I got the funniest thing today—a card with a piece of red honeysuckle in it from Erma! Great--thanks! AND—Bart sent this package with a picture of Jake, Sandra, Bart and I at the airport—they took me to the plane and spent the afternoon waiting with me! So sweet—thanks Bart…I love the pic and the CD of Jake’s message at FBC Groves! What a wonderful home package that is! And I’ve had cards from Karen, Madeline, Olga...Melissa has mailed me a package…but it isn’t here yet…thank so much!
I miss all of you very very much…and I look forward to coming home for a week in March—actually in 42 days! I will be home March 9—Melissa’s birthday—in Houston at IAH at 3:00—hopefully…I can only stay until Sat. March 14…but then I’ll be home again the first week of June, I think. I look forward to seeing everyone…believe me, I miss home so much…but I know this is my place for this season. And God is teaching me so much—and blessing me in wonderful ways. Thank you from my heart for each encouraging word and prayer—I am grateful…
Sunday, January 25, 2009
Friday, January 23, 2009
JANUARY 22/23
Thursday is the greatest day—like Friday is in American schools…the next day we don’t have school! So everyone loves Thursdays! I do too! Didn’t take me long to get adjusted to that! Of course, getting up early on Saturday morning to go to school won’t be much fun…but we get out at 12:40…so it will be okay.
Wilma is going to start a women’s Bible Study on Sat. after school…we will meet for 1 hour. She has Beth Moore’s fruits of the Spirit videos…so that will be good…don’t know much about the arrangements, but I do hope to go.
Thursday Kristen and Trish invited me to go with them to eat since it was their day to have the car. We ended up having 5 of us going—Kristen, Trish, Wilma, Erin and I. A young woman who teaches at the school and is close to Erin and Wilma met us at the restaurant. She is Arab—a believer who has a 10 yr old son. We ate at Spaghettima…or something like that. It is a beautiful restaurant on the edge of Ben Yehuda…it was so very enjoyable…just a leisurely meal and we laughed and talked and enjoyed getting to know one another.
Then we walked to Ben Yehuda….I was the only one who had never been, so they showed me around. It is an area—mostly Jewish—of shops and coffee places—with a wide boardwalk of stone with trees down the middle…sorta like that place in Boston—just a really neat place…with people walking everywhere. We got coffee—sorta—more like a specialty drink. And walked. The weather was and is beautiful…I have on 3 layers and a jacket and a scarf…and it is nice.
Anyway, we all (6 of us) piled into the truck (small truck) to head home. We dropped off the friend in Shoufat—close to us and headed home. It was nice.
Then today was the day I had the hair appointment! You know how difficult I am about my hair—no one really knows that like Sheliah does—but I’m pretty difficult! Wilma had made the appointment, so she went with me for the day.
We rode the Arab bus to the Arab bus station and walked uphill…to Mamilla mall—a beautiful outdoors place that has stores—and you can shop—plenty of stores—but it is so beautiful and many people just are strolling and enjoying the day. We ate at a restaurant outside and looked at the incredibly beautiful city. Jerusalem is just so beautiful…I can’t find words to describe the beauty—all those white stone buildings and walls set against the mountains…the beauty is just everywhere.
The food was delicious—I had some sort of avocado sandwich with aiolo (?) on it—sorta like a rich, creamy mayo. And a salad—Wilma had tuna sandwich…there were plenty of things on the menu that looked delicious—and the food being served around us looked delicious. I think all of you will like the food here—when you come to visit.
Then we headed to the hair dresser—he has a shop on St. Francis St. in the Old city—cobble stones all throughout…it was in the Christian quarters…he is an Arab believer…name is Jamil. Wilma and I both got cuts, and I got a hair color…I took my own color that my friend Sheliah had prepared for me. The shop was very nice—clean and the glass door was open…so people stopped in and talked. The atmosphere was really nice—and the music that was being played was absolutely beautiful. The words were Arabic, but the sense of the music was worship. It was just beautiful…
Then we rode a taxi to the neighborhood—and now I have school stuff to do and apartment living stuff to do.
I did my laundry today—we have a washer, but no dryer. So I washed my sheets, etc. and took them up on the roof and hung them on the line…they will smell absolutely wonderful when I go get them tomorrow. We also have a metal clothes rack to use for drying on the front verandah…so I put some things there. All very different from the utility room at 2816 Delta with the washer/dryer!
I have been here 16 days—at school I feel a part of everything. The kids are so gregarious and accepting…it is constantly “Miss Beth” or “Miss” this or that…just like I’ve been there all along. The people on staff have been very nice to me…Trish, Bethany, Elaine, Kristen, Shane & his family came in August…Joy and Mary have been here 2 years…and Wilma, Erin and Christy (across the hall ) have been here 3 years…and all of us are amazed that we are here ministering in this place. NEVER underestimate the power of the Lord to do the most amazing things—and NEVER miss an opportunity to follow Him in His work…remember Experiencing God…see where God is working, and follow…don’t make your own path!
Please continue to pray for me and my family…for the school and the issues we have to deal with each day…especially with the coming changes for the next semester.
Thursday is the greatest day—like Friday is in American schools…the next day we don’t have school! So everyone loves Thursdays! I do too! Didn’t take me long to get adjusted to that! Of course, getting up early on Saturday morning to go to school won’t be much fun…but we get out at 12:40…so it will be okay.
Wilma is going to start a women’s Bible Study on Sat. after school…we will meet for 1 hour. She has Beth Moore’s fruits of the Spirit videos…so that will be good…don’t know much about the arrangements, but I do hope to go.
Thursday Kristen and Trish invited me to go with them to eat since it was their day to have the car. We ended up having 5 of us going—Kristen, Trish, Wilma, Erin and I. A young woman who teaches at the school and is close to Erin and Wilma met us at the restaurant. She is Arab—a believer who has a 10 yr old son. We ate at Spaghettima…or something like that. It is a beautiful restaurant on the edge of Ben Yehuda…it was so very enjoyable…just a leisurely meal and we laughed and talked and enjoyed getting to know one another.
Then we walked to Ben Yehuda….I was the only one who had never been, so they showed me around. It is an area—mostly Jewish—of shops and coffee places—with a wide boardwalk of stone with trees down the middle…sorta like that place in Boston—just a really neat place…with people walking everywhere. We got coffee—sorta—more like a specialty drink. And walked. The weather was and is beautiful…I have on 3 layers and a jacket and a scarf…and it is nice.
Anyway, we all (6 of us) piled into the truck (small truck) to head home. We dropped off the friend in Shoufat—close to us and headed home. It was nice.
Then today was the day I had the hair appointment! You know how difficult I am about my hair—no one really knows that like Sheliah does—but I’m pretty difficult! Wilma had made the appointment, so she went with me for the day.
We rode the Arab bus to the Arab bus station and walked uphill…to Mamilla mall—a beautiful outdoors place that has stores—and you can shop—plenty of stores—but it is so beautiful and many people just are strolling and enjoying the day. We ate at a restaurant outside and looked at the incredibly beautiful city. Jerusalem is just so beautiful…I can’t find words to describe the beauty—all those white stone buildings and walls set against the mountains…the beauty is just everywhere.
The food was delicious—I had some sort of avocado sandwich with aiolo (?) on it—sorta like a rich, creamy mayo. And a salad—Wilma had tuna sandwich…there were plenty of things on the menu that looked delicious—and the food being served around us looked delicious. I think all of you will like the food here—when you come to visit.
Then we headed to the hair dresser—he has a shop on St. Francis St. in the Old city—cobble stones all throughout…it was in the Christian quarters…he is an Arab believer…name is Jamil. Wilma and I both got cuts, and I got a hair color…I took my own color that my friend Sheliah had prepared for me. The shop was very nice—clean and the glass door was open…so people stopped in and talked. The atmosphere was really nice—and the music that was being played was absolutely beautiful. The words were Arabic, but the sense of the music was worship. It was just beautiful…
Then we rode a taxi to the neighborhood—and now I have school stuff to do and apartment living stuff to do.
I did my laundry today—we have a washer, but no dryer. So I washed my sheets, etc. and took them up on the roof and hung them on the line…they will smell absolutely wonderful when I go get them tomorrow. We also have a metal clothes rack to use for drying on the front verandah…so I put some things there. All very different from the utility room at 2816 Delta with the washer/dryer!
I have been here 16 days—at school I feel a part of everything. The kids are so gregarious and accepting…it is constantly “Miss Beth” or “Miss” this or that…just like I’ve been there all along. The people on staff have been very nice to me…Trish, Bethany, Elaine, Kristen, Shane & his family came in August…Joy and Mary have been here 2 years…and Wilma, Erin and Christy (across the hall ) have been here 3 years…and all of us are amazed that we are here ministering in this place. NEVER underestimate the power of the Lord to do the most amazing things—and NEVER miss an opportunity to follow Him in His work…remember Experiencing God…see where God is working, and follow…don’t make your own path!
Please continue to pray for me and my family…for the school and the issues we have to deal with each day…especially with the coming changes for the next semester.
Thursday, January 22, 2009
JANUARY 22
I have missed writing two nights—and I can hardly remember all that has happened. I must try to keep up, or it will all be forgotten.
We are in the midst of great change at the school—in the high school. Shane, the principal, is trying to do classes, activities, teacher assignments, etc. in a different way—and it is hard. He is so very good—young, intelligent, personable—an excellent communicator who handles students, teachers, and situations very well in my opinion…he is a bit discouraged, so last night at the weekly Bible Study, we had a prayer meeting instead. Dr. Theo, who is principal of elementary (grades 2-6), was also in need of prayer. So we sat those two in the middle of the room and all of us gathered around and laid hands and Mary, my roommate, prayed a prayer full of the Word—just wonderful and based on scripture after scripture. She is really an outgoing person who knows the Word and speaks it.
Shane also reminded everyone of what he had suggested at the beginning of the year—about walking the halls before school, or going into our classroom or office and praying for God’s blessings on the building and all that enter. Wonderful—just wonderful.
I told him not to be discouraged—because just because we pray doesn’t mean everything is going to go wonderfully well. I do go in my room and pray before class—and yesterday, I went in before the students came in and walked around and prayed and asked God’s blessings and for any spirit of rebellion to be dismissed—etc…and then 11b walked in and I had the worst class I have had! They were so awful—I had to write a note to Shane and John about them—and Erin told me today that she talked to a couple of the more difficult ones. And today they were almost flawless! It was almost uncanny! So I believe God answered my prayer from yesterday today!
These kids absolutely knock me over with what they know. The 11A class is unbelievable. They not only know English words, but they know the connotation, the various nuances of words that really are seldom used. It isn’t rote memory work for them. They think. Amazing—yet they are rowdy kids—loud and playful. I have 11A and 11B—so I have the entire 11th grade—about 26, I think. There is a vast difference in the maturity level of these two groups, but little difference in ability.
Mr. Ross Byars, the superintendent, arrived yesterday. He has many important positions—across the Middle East and Europe—in the Assembly of God and in other organizations. He has lived here over 25 years—raised his family here—and was the initiator of this school. I met him, but saw little of him. He met with Shane most of the day…we made plans to spend some time Monday—as things are a little vague on a few things here for me.
I look out my window in my apartment and ride along in the car (YES-I got to go to the Mall again! Wilma and I went Tuesday night—it was their night to have the car and she invited me to go with her! I got sweats—as I had nothing casual to put on after school…and we ate and enjoyed visiting…she (age is 59) is from Dalton GA…her husband died suddenly of a heart attack the year before she came here—she’s been here 3 years—lives across the hall with two young girls who are also from Dalton…Erin and Christy. Their apartment is really really nice—new furniture and rugs, etc. They were all from the same church (at one time) so their church bought the furniture for them…they are really fun and sorta regular—watch TV, movies, cook together or not cook…just a good situation.
Well…I got off my story—I look outside as we are driving and I just can’t take it all in. The city is so beautiful—and at night it is almost eerily beautiful. All those dwellings in the mountains with little lights in the windows—and beautiful, beautiful stone walls built beside the highways—or main thoroughfares. Just beautiful. Erin told me they often close part of the roads because they are digging—she said they dug up an entire village a few years back—excavated things and covered it up and built roads over it…amazing. I just keep looking at the mountains and thinking that the Lord Jesus Christ may have put his eyes on that same mountain when He walked this earth. Overwhelming…
I am so interested in learning about everything—but I have a very limited perspective because I live “in the West Bank”—not really, but it’s ½ a block—and right outside my window and beyond a check point—so I am not free to just take off and walk, etc. And in no way can I be anywhere after dark by myself. We all walk to school—even in the morning…although I think that will let up as the tension in Gaza is less.
I can’t possibly drive yet—unbelievable driving and I am afraid I would hit someone or more likely get hit by someone. So I am still dependent! Dr. Theo started the process to get me a visa today--forms, copied passport, etc. and then told me I had to have a Dr. check up…now how do I do that? I ask Mrs. Maja—she is the resident Arabic Dean! She is really knowledgeable and they depend on her a lot. She has the money—and exchanges it for us, etc. So he told me to ask her and she will call the Dr…and then I said how do I get there, and he started telling me where the Dr’s office is…and I reminded him I have no way to go, no idea where the place is so I can’t ride a bus—and there ARE NO ADDRESSES in Arab sectors, so I can’t call a taxi and tell him where to take me! Can you imagine all these people and no street names and certainly no numbers on buildings…or apartments! I have no idea how I will get that Dr. appt. thing done.
Kristen and Trish have invited me to go with them tonight—to eat and to get coffee…it’s their turn to have the car. Isn’t that just the neatest thing—they are young—all of them are under 30…but they are being very nice to me.
Then tomorrow I am going to try to dye my hair! First time—and I really would rather go to a hairdresser but NO WAY TO GET THERE! YIKES! Can you tell that is getting difficult! Erin and Wilma have told me about one in the Old City, so I am going to try to go when I can get some transportation.
Also George (Kwahani)-a friend of Jack/Linda Park’s who is an Israeli-Arab and a wonderful Christian man working in some sort of Christian organization—called me last night and wanted to take me to eat tonight. But I couldn’t do that—without him having to drive me all the way back to the apartment—so I told him in a couple of weeks I’ll feel more free to come and go and will meet them in Jerusalem somewhere. His wife is Palestinian—and they have a little baby—they live in another city because she can’t live in Jerusalem and if he lives in Arab sector, he loses his Israeli citizenship…so she couldn’t come where I am because she couldn’t get past the checkpoint going back in to Jerusalem. What an awful way to live…but it almost seems accepted…those checkpoint lines are pretty difficult…not the waiting, but the whole idea that men w/guns are checking you and your car, etc…just so different.
As I have been writing this—Wilma knocked on my door and asked if I wanted to go to the mall!! So my reputation is out: ASK—Beth is ready to go wherever! I told her Kristen and Trish had invited me and for her to go with us…I called Kristen, and they were glad…and Erin is going too! So we have a whole group—sounds like a party in the making!
My roommate Mary is tutoring on the Mount of Olives—yep that’s where she is. We have students who live up there, and she goes on a regular basis to tutor their child and eat with them. A whole group of kids also meets up there in the home of one of the teachers at our school: Mr. Jamison—I don’t know who that is, but they have game night—social stuff on Thursdays at Jamison’s…so Mary will walk over there and ride home with some of the kids.
Bethany also lives with Kristen and Trish—and she is going to spend the night with a friend who lives in Jerusalem—the friend’s husband is out of town, so they are going to go eat, and have a girls’ night. Just such fun…
Wilma also told me she is going to try to get an appointment with “Jameel”-the hairdresser in the Old City…so we can go tomorrow…so I may be on the go tomorrow also.
Then I’ve not said a word, because I didn’t know if something would interfere…but I have plans Sunday with Adam and Bethany and Mary to go to Tiberius—for the day. Doesn’t that sound just wonderful! I can’t imagine all we will see. I am really excited about that.
So many wonderful things—I wish my girls were here to go and see and do too…maybe someday. Melissa and Holly are both writing the best blogs ever—Holly’s escapades are so entertaining—a little too exciting at times! Funny girl…and Melissa’s everyday stuff just makes me feel so wonderfully connected as best I can with her and her life and Maegan and what is going on. Melissa includes pictures of Maegan—and her school project and stuff and even a copy of the best report card I have ever seen! So grateful for those precious 3 girls…I absolutely love every word and picture.
So many many of you have sent me emails…and I read every word and treasure it. It is honestly like manna—please please don’t wait for me to write back or don’t think I don’t get them. Today when I came home, the internet was working. When I get ready to check the emails again, it may be completely out. I couldn’t even get on any part of the internet last night—not just my email, but I couldn’t even read the blogs…so extremely frustrating…because there is no one to call. I used to have such a fit with Time Warner…now I wish I had a Time Warner to call and have a fit!!! Amazing how one’s perspective changes with the lack of things!
I also have the yearbook class—that means that I have 5 senior girls who are in charge—literally in charge! They are absolutely so beautiful and smart and they are running the show—amazing…I am just checking on where they are and how far along and what I need to do to keep up. Melissa has agreed to make them shirts…black ones with gold letters and a yellow jacket on the front with their names under it. Then she is going to put YEARBOOK STAFF on the back.
No kids have any shirts of any kind that are about school—like all of PNG has some kind of shirt…even if it is just a purple shirt with white letters. So maybe that is something we might start them doing. I’m glad she’s going to do that.
Well…social life will start in a few minutes, so I best get busy. Please continue to pray for us—my family and me. And I would especially ask for prayer for the school. We have some problems that need to be worked out—but the law is not the same as it is in the states, and we have to work within the confines of the Israeli Educational Minister and the Palestinian Authority—or something like that. Anyway, the hearts of the people ministering here are just unbelievably full of love for these people. I stand amazed at the students—really just indescribably enjoyable…call me “Miss”…constantly…noisy and talkative and super friendly.
And the volunteers—such varied stories…and so like Joseph’s coat of many colors. Everyone has a different story, but I have yet to meet one person that is not so much like I am: amazed that I am ministering in Jerusalem. Many of them are very mission-minded and have always wanted to do some sort of missions…not me… I’m just a teacher. I don’t think I’ve ever been on a mission trip (like Ronda and Becky do)…but I can promise you, God has called me on this mission.
Next week will be finals—then we will have teacher training sessions in the afternoon. I have a pretty light load—he has decided to have “department chairs”—and yesterday, we met—me and two Arab men—super nice—Mr. Mustafa and Mr. Baseem…I will be the one for the English department. I would ask super big prayers for me—I have had years of experience in teaching English and I am old, but I am new…so I pray there is no problem with other teachers and I am extremely ignorant of the culture and need to be led by them. So we need to work together…please please pray that all goes well. No one knows all that yet…so we’ll see.
I continue to ask for prayer for my girls—I will be home March 9 for about 4 days. I am really looking forward to that—I plan to leave to come back on Sat. March 14, so I won’t have much time. The plane trip home is 27 hours (12 hour layover in Paris) so I pray I’ll have energy to get out and about… the last day of school is still not set (?)…graduation is either May 31 or June 6…strange that we don’t know that. So I don’t know what day I will be home.
I love ya’ll…I have a family group, friend group, church group, and PNGHS group—whom I have emailed…but when I send a group email out, I get this response that says something about DESTINATION NUMBER…something…so I don’t know if ya’ll are getting anything or not. I have pretty much given up on the emails…but I do receive them on my wonderful Blackberry—or as Janet says “Smackberry”!
Thanks again for every prayer and email and interest in what God is doing in this wee small life!
Beth
I have missed writing two nights—and I can hardly remember all that has happened. I must try to keep up, or it will all be forgotten.
We are in the midst of great change at the school—in the high school. Shane, the principal, is trying to do classes, activities, teacher assignments, etc. in a different way—and it is hard. He is so very good—young, intelligent, personable—an excellent communicator who handles students, teachers, and situations very well in my opinion…he is a bit discouraged, so last night at the weekly Bible Study, we had a prayer meeting instead. Dr. Theo, who is principal of elementary (grades 2-6), was also in need of prayer. So we sat those two in the middle of the room and all of us gathered around and laid hands and Mary, my roommate, prayed a prayer full of the Word—just wonderful and based on scripture after scripture. She is really an outgoing person who knows the Word and speaks it.
Shane also reminded everyone of what he had suggested at the beginning of the year—about walking the halls before school, or going into our classroom or office and praying for God’s blessings on the building and all that enter. Wonderful—just wonderful.
I told him not to be discouraged—because just because we pray doesn’t mean everything is going to go wonderfully well. I do go in my room and pray before class—and yesterday, I went in before the students came in and walked around and prayed and asked God’s blessings and for any spirit of rebellion to be dismissed—etc…and then 11b walked in and I had the worst class I have had! They were so awful—I had to write a note to Shane and John about them—and Erin told me today that she talked to a couple of the more difficult ones. And today they were almost flawless! It was almost uncanny! So I believe God answered my prayer from yesterday today!
These kids absolutely knock me over with what they know. The 11A class is unbelievable. They not only know English words, but they know the connotation, the various nuances of words that really are seldom used. It isn’t rote memory work for them. They think. Amazing—yet they are rowdy kids—loud and playful. I have 11A and 11B—so I have the entire 11th grade—about 26, I think. There is a vast difference in the maturity level of these two groups, but little difference in ability.
Mr. Ross Byars, the superintendent, arrived yesterday. He has many important positions—across the Middle East and Europe—in the Assembly of God and in other organizations. He has lived here over 25 years—raised his family here—and was the initiator of this school. I met him, but saw little of him. He met with Shane most of the day…we made plans to spend some time Monday—as things are a little vague on a few things here for me.
I look out my window in my apartment and ride along in the car (YES-I got to go to the Mall again! Wilma and I went Tuesday night—it was their night to have the car and she invited me to go with her! I got sweats—as I had nothing casual to put on after school…and we ate and enjoyed visiting…she (age is 59) is from Dalton GA…her husband died suddenly of a heart attack the year before she came here—she’s been here 3 years—lives across the hall with two young girls who are also from Dalton…Erin and Christy. Their apartment is really really nice—new furniture and rugs, etc. They were all from the same church (at one time) so their church bought the furniture for them…they are really fun and sorta regular—watch TV, movies, cook together or not cook…just a good situation.
Well…I got off my story—I look outside as we are driving and I just can’t take it all in. The city is so beautiful—and at night it is almost eerily beautiful. All those dwellings in the mountains with little lights in the windows—and beautiful, beautiful stone walls built beside the highways—or main thoroughfares. Just beautiful. Erin told me they often close part of the roads because they are digging—she said they dug up an entire village a few years back—excavated things and covered it up and built roads over it…amazing. I just keep looking at the mountains and thinking that the Lord Jesus Christ may have put his eyes on that same mountain when He walked this earth. Overwhelming…
I am so interested in learning about everything—but I have a very limited perspective because I live “in the West Bank”—not really, but it’s ½ a block—and right outside my window and beyond a check point—so I am not free to just take off and walk, etc. And in no way can I be anywhere after dark by myself. We all walk to school—even in the morning…although I think that will let up as the tension in Gaza is less.
I can’t possibly drive yet—unbelievable driving and I am afraid I would hit someone or more likely get hit by someone. So I am still dependent! Dr. Theo started the process to get me a visa today--forms, copied passport, etc. and then told me I had to have a Dr. check up…now how do I do that? I ask Mrs. Maja—she is the resident Arabic Dean! She is really knowledgeable and they depend on her a lot. She has the money—and exchanges it for us, etc. So he told me to ask her and she will call the Dr…and then I said how do I get there, and he started telling me where the Dr’s office is…and I reminded him I have no way to go, no idea where the place is so I can’t ride a bus—and there ARE NO ADDRESSES in Arab sectors, so I can’t call a taxi and tell him where to take me! Can you imagine all these people and no street names and certainly no numbers on buildings…or apartments! I have no idea how I will get that Dr. appt. thing done.
Kristen and Trish have invited me to go with them tonight—to eat and to get coffee…it’s their turn to have the car. Isn’t that just the neatest thing—they are young—all of them are under 30…but they are being very nice to me.
Then tomorrow I am going to try to dye my hair! First time—and I really would rather go to a hairdresser but NO WAY TO GET THERE! YIKES! Can you tell that is getting difficult! Erin and Wilma have told me about one in the Old City, so I am going to try to go when I can get some transportation.
Also George (Kwahani)-a friend of Jack/Linda Park’s who is an Israeli-Arab and a wonderful Christian man working in some sort of Christian organization—called me last night and wanted to take me to eat tonight. But I couldn’t do that—without him having to drive me all the way back to the apartment—so I told him in a couple of weeks I’ll feel more free to come and go and will meet them in Jerusalem somewhere. His wife is Palestinian—and they have a little baby—they live in another city because she can’t live in Jerusalem and if he lives in Arab sector, he loses his Israeli citizenship…so she couldn’t come where I am because she couldn’t get past the checkpoint going back in to Jerusalem. What an awful way to live…but it almost seems accepted…those checkpoint lines are pretty difficult…not the waiting, but the whole idea that men w/guns are checking you and your car, etc…just so different.
As I have been writing this—Wilma knocked on my door and asked if I wanted to go to the mall!! So my reputation is out: ASK—Beth is ready to go wherever! I told her Kristen and Trish had invited me and for her to go with us…I called Kristen, and they were glad…and Erin is going too! So we have a whole group—sounds like a party in the making!
My roommate Mary is tutoring on the Mount of Olives—yep that’s where she is. We have students who live up there, and she goes on a regular basis to tutor their child and eat with them. A whole group of kids also meets up there in the home of one of the teachers at our school: Mr. Jamison—I don’t know who that is, but they have game night—social stuff on Thursdays at Jamison’s…so Mary will walk over there and ride home with some of the kids.
Bethany also lives with Kristen and Trish—and she is going to spend the night with a friend who lives in Jerusalem—the friend’s husband is out of town, so they are going to go eat, and have a girls’ night. Just such fun…
Wilma also told me she is going to try to get an appointment with “Jameel”-the hairdresser in the Old City…so we can go tomorrow…so I may be on the go tomorrow also.
Then I’ve not said a word, because I didn’t know if something would interfere…but I have plans Sunday with Adam and Bethany and Mary to go to Tiberius—for the day. Doesn’t that sound just wonderful! I can’t imagine all we will see. I am really excited about that.
So many wonderful things—I wish my girls were here to go and see and do too…maybe someday. Melissa and Holly are both writing the best blogs ever—Holly’s escapades are so entertaining—a little too exciting at times! Funny girl…and Melissa’s everyday stuff just makes me feel so wonderfully connected as best I can with her and her life and Maegan and what is going on. Melissa includes pictures of Maegan—and her school project and stuff and even a copy of the best report card I have ever seen! So grateful for those precious 3 girls…I absolutely love every word and picture.
So many many of you have sent me emails…and I read every word and treasure it. It is honestly like manna—please please don’t wait for me to write back or don’t think I don’t get them. Today when I came home, the internet was working. When I get ready to check the emails again, it may be completely out. I couldn’t even get on any part of the internet last night—not just my email, but I couldn’t even read the blogs…so extremely frustrating…because there is no one to call. I used to have such a fit with Time Warner…now I wish I had a Time Warner to call and have a fit!!! Amazing how one’s perspective changes with the lack of things!
I also have the yearbook class—that means that I have 5 senior girls who are in charge—literally in charge! They are absolutely so beautiful and smart and they are running the show—amazing…I am just checking on where they are and how far along and what I need to do to keep up. Melissa has agreed to make them shirts…black ones with gold letters and a yellow jacket on the front with their names under it. Then she is going to put YEARBOOK STAFF on the back.
No kids have any shirts of any kind that are about school—like all of PNG has some kind of shirt…even if it is just a purple shirt with white letters. So maybe that is something we might start them doing. I’m glad she’s going to do that.
Well…social life will start in a few minutes, so I best get busy. Please continue to pray for us—my family and me. And I would especially ask for prayer for the school. We have some problems that need to be worked out—but the law is not the same as it is in the states, and we have to work within the confines of the Israeli Educational Minister and the Palestinian Authority—or something like that. Anyway, the hearts of the people ministering here are just unbelievably full of love for these people. I stand amazed at the students—really just indescribably enjoyable…call me “Miss”…constantly…noisy and talkative and super friendly.
And the volunteers—such varied stories…and so like Joseph’s coat of many colors. Everyone has a different story, but I have yet to meet one person that is not so much like I am: amazed that I am ministering in Jerusalem. Many of them are very mission-minded and have always wanted to do some sort of missions…not me… I’m just a teacher. I don’t think I’ve ever been on a mission trip (like Ronda and Becky do)…but I can promise you, God has called me on this mission.
Next week will be finals—then we will have teacher training sessions in the afternoon. I have a pretty light load—he has decided to have “department chairs”—and yesterday, we met—me and two Arab men—super nice—Mr. Mustafa and Mr. Baseem…I will be the one for the English department. I would ask super big prayers for me—I have had years of experience in teaching English and I am old, but I am new…so I pray there is no problem with other teachers and I am extremely ignorant of the culture and need to be led by them. So we need to work together…please please pray that all goes well. No one knows all that yet…so we’ll see.
I continue to ask for prayer for my girls—I will be home March 9 for about 4 days. I am really looking forward to that—I plan to leave to come back on Sat. March 14, so I won’t have much time. The plane trip home is 27 hours (12 hour layover in Paris) so I pray I’ll have energy to get out and about… the last day of school is still not set (?)…graduation is either May 31 or June 6…strange that we don’t know that. So I don’t know what day I will be home.
I love ya’ll…I have a family group, friend group, church group, and PNGHS group—whom I have emailed…but when I send a group email out, I get this response that says something about DESTINATION NUMBER…something…so I don’t know if ya’ll are getting anything or not. I have pretty much given up on the emails…but I do receive them on my wonderful Blackberry—or as Janet says “Smackberry”!
Thanks again for every prayer and email and interest in what God is doing in this wee small life!
Beth
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
MELISSA'S POST
Just got a note from Mom today that I wanted to pass along to everyone. She is having trouble with her internet service. Some days she can get it and some days she can't. Those days she can't she has to communicate by Blackberry which is extremely time consuming and she can't send out to all her groups. So please be patient if days go by and she doesn't email or post on her blog, she's just not getting internet service. If there are important things to post I will post them on her blog page if she cannot. Also, please do not send any forwards or any attachments with your emails, her internet is too slow to handle them. Thank you to everyone who reads and emails for your thoughts and prayers, both for her and for our family.
Love,
~melissa
Love,
~melissa
Monday, January 19, 2009
JANUARY 19, 2009
Interesting day—as usual…after staying in all day on Sunday—still feels strange, even though every day seems like it isn’t the day it is…
I enjoy the students so much—the classes are only 50 minutes—and they go so fast, I am still talking when the bell rings. We had 90 minute classes at PNG for all those years—so I’m still going strong at 50 minutes. Of course, the classroom routine is quite different—the kids are very gregarious and enjoy the social aspect of school very much. We’re all adjusting to being in our desks when the bell rings!
I wrote about the stairs—56 up to the high school floor—and then at lunch 56 down! So I’m moving around quite a bit. I know that is good for me—and the walking is too. We all walk with someone going to and coming from school. Even though it is just a few blocks—the streets are very narrow—but cars pass…and when they do, there’s not much room for pedestrians! Mary and I were walking to school the other day, and a taxi van was turning around and brushed her—she jumped out of the way…I’m not sure he was sorry!
Today was our day to get the car! Such fun! Mary is the only one of the four of us who drives—and thank the Lord, she was driving! The traffic over here in this sector is quite different…you have to be very aggressive and know where you are going. Of course, we only go about 3 blocks down the hill and around the corner and we have to get in line for the check point. Tonight we started down the hill, and there was a line to get in the line—I thought to myself, “We’ll be here all night.” And we were in line almost 30 minutes…but we finally worked our way up to the soldiers…IDF—Israeli Defense Force. They (at least when I’ve been there) are all SO young…and tonight Mary was driving and Erin (young, darling girl who lives across the hall) was in the front seat—so this young IDF comes to the window and collects the passports and flirts up a storm with them! He asks them what we are doing over here—they say teaching at Jerusalem School and then he asked them if they would tutor him! He was barely 5 ft. tall and had this very manly, deep voice…so funny.
We zoomed on through and went to Jafars and did our little shopping! It is just like a 7/11 in America, but tiny aisles and crowded w/stuff and more stuff—in boxes in the aisles…and no meat that we would want to buy. The first time I was there, Elaine had helped me buy some cheese—and it was so good. So I went to the counter to buy some more. He asked me how much—in kilos—and I said a kilo. I have no idea what a kilo is…and I was standing there looking around, and finally turned back and saw that the stack of cheese slices was so tall it was about to topple off the scale! I said STOP! I had him bag it in 3 bags and gave two of them to the other 2 apartments of girls! Oh well—I’m learning. I bought some sliced smoked turkey—Mary had some and I had eaten it and it was good. I bought a small pkg of cottage cheese, some strange crackers, laundry detergent and toilet tissue—etc. The “no tissue in the toilet” rule is still a bit difficult for me…but surprisingly enough, I’ve forgotten very few times.
Then we went to a store called Academia—sorta similar to Mannings, but just a small narrow shop with stuff everywhere! I dug around and found pens, pencils, a pencil sharpener and tape dispenser, clips, notebook…just stuff that we all have about at home—with no thought. While I was digging around in there, Mary and Erin went to the vegetable market called “The Garden of Eden”…and got some tomatoes, etc…Mary’s friend brought her a huge package of bacon from home—the kind that doesn’t have to be kept cold until it is opened…there are 72 slices in it, so one night we all get a sandwich…and we bought tomatoes for a BLT! Imagine!
Then we stopped at the Golden Chicken—same place Elaine and I had eaten. We enjoyed some fried chicken and homemade fried potatoes…and came on home.
We don’t have to go through a check point to come home…they don’t care who goes in to the Arab sector, but they are very strict about who comes out.
I do hope to take some pictures…just haven’t had opportunity to take many yet. And I need a panorama camera to really get it.
Thank you for your interest and prayers—please continue to pray for my 3 girls, and the rest of my family—and friends and sweet little Honey…I miss that little fur ball so much! I love getting the emails—keep them coming…I’ll eventually respond. BUT please, please no forwards…I can’t do that…
I love ya’ll…Beth
Interesting day—as usual…after staying in all day on Sunday—still feels strange, even though every day seems like it isn’t the day it is…
I enjoy the students so much—the classes are only 50 minutes—and they go so fast, I am still talking when the bell rings. We had 90 minute classes at PNG for all those years—so I’m still going strong at 50 minutes. Of course, the classroom routine is quite different—the kids are very gregarious and enjoy the social aspect of school very much. We’re all adjusting to being in our desks when the bell rings!
I wrote about the stairs—56 up to the high school floor—and then at lunch 56 down! So I’m moving around quite a bit. I know that is good for me—and the walking is too. We all walk with someone going to and coming from school. Even though it is just a few blocks—the streets are very narrow—but cars pass…and when they do, there’s not much room for pedestrians! Mary and I were walking to school the other day, and a taxi van was turning around and brushed her—she jumped out of the way…I’m not sure he was sorry!
Today was our day to get the car! Such fun! Mary is the only one of the four of us who drives—and thank the Lord, she was driving! The traffic over here in this sector is quite different…you have to be very aggressive and know where you are going. Of course, we only go about 3 blocks down the hill and around the corner and we have to get in line for the check point. Tonight we started down the hill, and there was a line to get in the line—I thought to myself, “We’ll be here all night.” And we were in line almost 30 minutes…but we finally worked our way up to the soldiers…IDF—Israeli Defense Force. They (at least when I’ve been there) are all SO young…and tonight Mary was driving and Erin (young, darling girl who lives across the hall) was in the front seat—so this young IDF comes to the window and collects the passports and flirts up a storm with them! He asks them what we are doing over here—they say teaching at Jerusalem School and then he asked them if they would tutor him! He was barely 5 ft. tall and had this very manly, deep voice…so funny.
We zoomed on through and went to Jafars and did our little shopping! It is just like a 7/11 in America, but tiny aisles and crowded w/stuff and more stuff—in boxes in the aisles…and no meat that we would want to buy. The first time I was there, Elaine had helped me buy some cheese—and it was so good. So I went to the counter to buy some more. He asked me how much—in kilos—and I said a kilo. I have no idea what a kilo is…and I was standing there looking around, and finally turned back and saw that the stack of cheese slices was so tall it was about to topple off the scale! I said STOP! I had him bag it in 3 bags and gave two of them to the other 2 apartments of girls! Oh well—I’m learning. I bought some sliced smoked turkey—Mary had some and I had eaten it and it was good. I bought a small pkg of cottage cheese, some strange crackers, laundry detergent and toilet tissue—etc. The “no tissue in the toilet” rule is still a bit difficult for me…but surprisingly enough, I’ve forgotten very few times.
Then we went to a store called Academia—sorta similar to Mannings, but just a small narrow shop with stuff everywhere! I dug around and found pens, pencils, a pencil sharpener and tape dispenser, clips, notebook…just stuff that we all have about at home—with no thought. While I was digging around in there, Mary and Erin went to the vegetable market called “The Garden of Eden”…and got some tomatoes, etc…Mary’s friend brought her a huge package of bacon from home—the kind that doesn’t have to be kept cold until it is opened…there are 72 slices in it, so one night we all get a sandwich…and we bought tomatoes for a BLT! Imagine!
Then we stopped at the Golden Chicken—same place Elaine and I had eaten. We enjoyed some fried chicken and homemade fried potatoes…and came on home.
We don’t have to go through a check point to come home…they don’t care who goes in to the Arab sector, but they are very strict about who comes out.
I do hope to take some pictures…just haven’t had opportunity to take many yet. And I need a panorama camera to really get it.
Thank you for your interest and prayers—please continue to pray for my 3 girls, and the rest of my family—and friends and sweet little Honey…I miss that little fur ball so much! I love getting the emails—keep them coming…I’ll eventually respond. BUT please, please no forwards…I can’t do that…
I love ya’ll…Beth
Saturday, January 17, 2009
JANUARY 17, 2009
JANUARY 17, 2009
Today was Sat. school—only 35 min classes—so it went fast. Surprisingly good attendance. The pile to send to Gaza has grown a great deal. I share an office with Miss Karine (pronounced Kare-in-A)—very pretty, classy Armenian lady who is a member of Greek Orthodox—teaches English She asked Kristen (another teacher) how the war had affected her holiday—and then Miss Karine said, “We have some kind of war here every 6 months. If we didn’t do anything or never went anywhere because of war, we would never get out of our houses.” Interesting perspective. Then we talked about kids—Kristen and I were talking about security and metal detectors, etc. at schools…and she said there is almost no violence like that—among the kids. They don’t have weapons—or cars. They live in neighborhoods among families and are watched and cared for closely. I had noticed earlier when I came that young children were walking by themselves at all kinds of places…and I still see that. Little kids walking along home—and the parents send little children on errands, or leave them with older siblings—they are safe. There just isn’t much crime against children, or with weapons among teens…of course, that has a lot to do with their not having cars or anyway to go anywhere.
Miss Karine also talked about the Arab culture—and the issues. She said a single mother is shunned in the neighborhood—no one will speak to her. She has a really hard life. The married women may suffer abuse, but they stay with the man because they are so ostracized when they divorce that they suffer the abuse.
I came home with a load of books, plans etc. to do work this afternoon until time for church. BUT Adam called and invited me to go with him and Bethany (they are a darling couple—dating, met here---she taught last year in Russia/he was here—in late 20’s) to a coffee shop! I was so thrilled. As I was gathering my things, Mary came to the door…and Adam invited her to come to. So we had a wonderful outing. We went in to the cicty—but because of long lines at the check point to get out of here, we went around and went inside the West Bank through Rom (?-a city inside WB) We ended up being in another long line at another check point…and by the time we got out, we were edging into closing times for all the Jewish establishments because of Sabbath (pronounced Shabat here). So we went to Independence Park—and walked up a street to a great restaurant: Foccacia Bar. Another great meal—we all laughed and had a good time. Mary loves the kids and tells funny stories about their classroom antics—6th grade! After we ate, we went next door to the coffee shop, which had been our original destination. It is called Aromas—and they are a chain all over Israel…sorta like Starbucks. We had Iced Aromas—frappacinos—that were really, really good. Then as we walked back down to the car, I spotted newspapers on a stand and bought two! How exciting is that! A good meal and a newspaper in one day! Honestly, it is very nice.
The big blue chair with the ottoman and Honey curled beside me surely does seem compelling to me—but I know that this is the place for me at this time. I know that there are so many bad stories in the news about what is happening here…I have received so many emails about “being safe.” I believe I am safe, and of all the things that are bothering my heart and soul, being safe is way down on the list. Fear for my physical safety has not crossed my mind not one single time this entire time—but I have surely felt so alone—and I can’t count the times (on my face on my rug in my room or walking or in my office) that I have cried out, “OK, Lord, it’s just me and you.” I know that’s not even proper grammar, but believe me I have said that countless times…for my heart hurts. And I can’t say the hurt goes away, but I can say that He IS HERE. It’s hard to express—but He does comfort me…I know He is with me every minute—it’s like I see an invisible shield—before me, behind me, and beside and over me…I know that’s in PS 139, but I also know it is happening with me. Isn’t that just amazing! Remember my favorite verse in Ps 16:11—you will show me the path of life for in your presence is FULLNESS of life and at your right hand are pleasures forever more. It’s just the truth…as much as I miss my precious family—and friends and life, I know that for this season this is my place. And as I write this, tears are rolling down my face, because I am no spiritual giant…just a simple person who has no idea why or how this plan has come about or what God plans to do with it. I say that to be an encouragement to all of you…If He can do this with me, just think of the endless possibilities in all of our lives when we let go and allow Him to move in His mysterious ways.
Tomorrow they are picking up a couple who are coming to live here—to work with Convoy of Hope (?). They will be working at our school—Austin and Katie. We need teachers…from K3 to high school. Pray for workers.
Tomorrow I’m supposed to go with Joy to Christ Church in the Old City—should be an interesting day. I have much work to do, but I want to go with her. Most (almost all) of the volunteers enjoy Sunday as their only day to accomplish much. We have made tentative plans to go to Tiburias on next Sunday—and I want to go to the Dead Sea, Ceasurea (my spelling is bad)…so hopefully we can do that—and they say all those are day trips…imagine being able to see the Sea of Galilee only a day from here.
As we drove this afternoon, I kept looking at the city—it is so extremely fascinating…all these high-rise white stone buildings built in little groups on the side of the mountains…just so much beauty—except behind the West Bank…not so much there.
Love ya’ll…I am going to try to post this on a blog. The email is just too slow…I can’t get it to send without about 30 minutes per group…irritating…so Melissa made me a blog. Now if I can figure out how to get this to the blog!
Thanks for your prayers…please continue to pray for my family—all of our needs.
Beth
Today was Sat. school—only 35 min classes—so it went fast. Surprisingly good attendance. The pile to send to Gaza has grown a great deal. I share an office with Miss Karine (pronounced Kare-in-A)—very pretty, classy Armenian lady who is a member of Greek Orthodox—teaches English She asked Kristen (another teacher) how the war had affected her holiday—and then Miss Karine said, “We have some kind of war here every 6 months. If we didn’t do anything or never went anywhere because of war, we would never get out of our houses.” Interesting perspective. Then we talked about kids—Kristen and I were talking about security and metal detectors, etc. at schools…and she said there is almost no violence like that—among the kids. They don’t have weapons—or cars. They live in neighborhoods among families and are watched and cared for closely. I had noticed earlier when I came that young children were walking by themselves at all kinds of places…and I still see that. Little kids walking along home—and the parents send little children on errands, or leave them with older siblings—they are safe. There just isn’t much crime against children, or with weapons among teens…of course, that has a lot to do with their not having cars or anyway to go anywhere.
Miss Karine also talked about the Arab culture—and the issues. She said a single mother is shunned in the neighborhood—no one will speak to her. She has a really hard life. The married women may suffer abuse, but they stay with the man because they are so ostracized when they divorce that they suffer the abuse.
I came home with a load of books, plans etc. to do work this afternoon until time for church. BUT Adam called and invited me to go with him and Bethany (they are a darling couple—dating, met here---she taught last year in Russia/he was here—in late 20’s) to a coffee shop! I was so thrilled. As I was gathering my things, Mary came to the door…and Adam invited her to come to. So we had a wonderful outing. We went in to the cicty—but because of long lines at the check point to get out of here, we went around and went inside the West Bank through Rom (?-a city inside WB) We ended up being in another long line at another check point…and by the time we got out, we were edging into closing times for all the Jewish establishments because of Sabbath (pronounced Shabat here). So we went to Independence Park—and walked up a street to a great restaurant: Foccacia Bar. Another great meal—we all laughed and had a good time. Mary loves the kids and tells funny stories about their classroom antics—6th grade! After we ate, we went next door to the coffee shop, which had been our original destination. It is called Aromas—and they are a chain all over Israel…sorta like Starbucks. We had Iced Aromas—frappacinos—that were really, really good. Then as we walked back down to the car, I spotted newspapers on a stand and bought two! How exciting is that! A good meal and a newspaper in one day! Honestly, it is very nice.
The big blue chair with the ottoman and Honey curled beside me surely does seem compelling to me—but I know that this is the place for me at this time. I know that there are so many bad stories in the news about what is happening here…I have received so many emails about “being safe.” I believe I am safe, and of all the things that are bothering my heart and soul, being safe is way down on the list. Fear for my physical safety has not crossed my mind not one single time this entire time—but I have surely felt so alone—and I can’t count the times (on my face on my rug in my room or walking or in my office) that I have cried out, “OK, Lord, it’s just me and you.” I know that’s not even proper grammar, but believe me I have said that countless times…for my heart hurts. And I can’t say the hurt goes away, but I can say that He IS HERE. It’s hard to express—but He does comfort me…I know He is with me every minute—it’s like I see an invisible shield—before me, behind me, and beside and over me…I know that’s in PS 139, but I also know it is happening with me. Isn’t that just amazing! Remember my favorite verse in Ps 16:11—you will show me the path of life for in your presence is FULLNESS of life and at your right hand are pleasures forever more. It’s just the truth…as much as I miss my precious family—and friends and life, I know that for this season this is my place. And as I write this, tears are rolling down my face, because I am no spiritual giant…just a simple person who has no idea why or how this plan has come about or what God plans to do with it. I say that to be an encouragement to all of you…If He can do this with me, just think of the endless possibilities in all of our lives when we let go and allow Him to move in His mysterious ways.
Tomorrow they are picking up a couple who are coming to live here—to work with Convoy of Hope (?). They will be working at our school—Austin and Katie. We need teachers…from K3 to high school. Pray for workers.
Tomorrow I’m supposed to go with Joy to Christ Church in the Old City—should be an interesting day. I have much work to do, but I want to go with her. Most (almost all) of the volunteers enjoy Sunday as their only day to accomplish much. We have made tentative plans to go to Tiburias on next Sunday—and I want to go to the Dead Sea, Ceasurea (my spelling is bad)…so hopefully we can do that—and they say all those are day trips…imagine being able to see the Sea of Galilee only a day from here.
As we drove this afternoon, I kept looking at the city—it is so extremely fascinating…all these high-rise white stone buildings built in little groups on the side of the mountains…just so much beauty—except behind the West Bank…not so much there.
Love ya’ll…I am going to try to post this on a blog. The email is just too slow…I can’t get it to send without about 30 minutes per group…irritating…so Melissa made me a blog. Now if I can figure out how to get this to the blog!
Thanks for your prayers…please continue to pray for my family—all of our needs.
Beth
JANUARY 16, 2009
JANUARY 16, 2009
Friday and no school! Imagine that…so many Thursday nights when I have been so very tired and wondered how I could go another day…well, now I don’t have to! BUT I have school in the morning and none of you do! However, it only lasts until 12:30 or so, so that will be okay…ESPECIALLY since I can’t go anywhere anyway!
I told the girls today that I feel like I have an electronic surveillance attached to me…I cannot go anywhere without someone! Mary and Elaine go in to Jerusalem for Bible Study Fellowship on Fridays—they leave at 7 a.m…and then afterwards they go their separate ways (because of group lunches, etc.) Last night Elaine came to my room and told me that after she gets through, she is going to Jaffa Gate (entrance to the Old City) and buy fruits and vegetables…and for me to make a list and she will bring them to me. Then she said that when she gets to our area, she will call me and I can meet her at the little store at the bottom of the hill. I was thrilled! Freedom at last! It seems the little store at the bottom of the hill is very controversial—I didn’t know that, but since I’ve heard that no one except Elaine goes in there—Elaine feels she is safe and that she is on a mission! Whatever—I wanted to go…honestly, this sounds pitiful, but I’ve been hungry for stuff. There is food here—like eggs, toast, crackers and cheese, but I wanted a meal! And no way to get one.
Sure enough, Elaine called and I went to my room to get my things and when I got back, Mary was by the door ready to go with me! She had just gotten home, and I know she didn't want to go, but she did. They have been super nice to me... So we walked down, and I bought every package of cookies and junk food I could find! While we were there, Joy called and said she was coming down. In a few minutes, Eula called and said she was driving down to get us in the pickup! So we had transportation up the hill with all our stuff…and we had a bunch of stuff. You may read that and think what’s the big deal. Meditate a minute on never being able to go not even one block outside by yourself—unless someone is with you! And of course, I’m guarded more closely because I’m new…but really none of us go not even one block without someone watching us. YIKES!
Friday and no school! Imagine that…so many Thursday nights when I have been so very tired and wondered how I could go another day…well, now I don’t have to! BUT I have school in the morning and none of you do! However, it only lasts until 12:30 or so, so that will be okay…ESPECIALLY since I can’t go anywhere anyway!
I told the girls today that I feel like I have an electronic surveillance attached to me…I cannot go anywhere without someone! Mary and Elaine go in to Jerusalem for Bible Study Fellowship on Fridays—they leave at 7 a.m…and then afterwards they go their separate ways (because of group lunches, etc.) Last night Elaine came to my room and told me that after she gets through, she is going to Jaffa Gate (entrance to the Old City) and buy fruits and vegetables…and for me to make a list and she will bring them to me. Then she said that when she gets to our area, she will call me and I can meet her at the little store at the bottom of the hill. I was thrilled! Freedom at last! It seems the little store at the bottom of the hill is very controversial—I didn’t know that, but since I’ve heard that no one except Elaine goes in there—Elaine feels she is safe and that she is on a mission! Whatever—I wanted to go…honestly, this sounds pitiful, but I’ve been hungry for stuff. There is food here—like eggs, toast, crackers and cheese, but I wanted a meal! And no way to get one.
Sure enough, Elaine called and I went to my room to get my things and when I got back, Mary was by the door ready to go with me! She had just gotten home, and I know she didn't want to go, but she did. They have been super nice to me... So we walked down, and I bought every package of cookies and junk food I could find! While we were there, Joy called and said she was coming down. In a few minutes, Eula called and said she was driving down to get us in the pickup! So we had transportation up the hill with all our stuff…and we had a bunch of stuff. You may read that and think what’s the big deal. Meditate a minute on never being able to go not even one block outside by yourself—unless someone is with you! And of course, I’m guarded more closely because I’m new…but really none of us go not even one block without someone watching us. YIKES!
Friday, January 16, 2009
January 15
JANUARY 15, 2009 Well, this day has been interesting at school. I like these kids so much. I find them mostly very respectful and cooperative. They are so handsome and beautiful with their dark hair and dark eyes. Except there are some who are very light skinned and are so very handsome…they look like movie stars…very few unattractive kids. They are full of personality. I like that. I was thinking about their sizes—I honestly don’t think I’ve seen one single overweight student…and not very many overweight people in general. Guess it is the walking and diet—who knows, maybe I’ll come home skinny and healthy! Don’t count on it! I am still sorta shadowing Shane and John…but I am ready to teach when they will agree to it. Tomorrow we have a day off—so this Thursday really is a Friday…no school the next day. Of course, we have school on Sat…so that may not be so much fun. Today Shane came in to do the 11A English class—and he was a bit late, so I was talking to them about what we are going to do. They are so bright and fun. When he came in, he started off by saying he felt sure they had learned about what had happened in Gaza—text messages or elsewise. Israel bombed a hospital in Gaza…and they all were so upset. But with measured anger—not temper tantrums like capricious children. They just sat there at first in stunned silence…Shane talked to them and was very open and honest about what happened. Then he told them they were welcome to respond—to talk, write, yell or do whatever. So they started talking…some more than others of course. They are so angry at the injustice. They feel the Israel has so much more power than the Arabs—and they felt certain that they knew they were bombing a hospital. One young man said they knew all the points of interest—schools, hospitals, etc…just as the Arabs know the places in Israel. They were saying that the rockets that came from Gaza hit land—mostly, not people and certainly not schools and hospitals. One girl was so genuinely passionate—I wish I could have recorded her comments. She said the Arabs have no power—the Israelis have more power and weapons and authority—there is no way the Arabs can win—but there is also no way they are treated fairly. She said, “They don’t want us. They say it over and over again. They don’t want us here. There is nothing we can do. We can’t leave. We have nowhere to go. We have no recourse in the injustices.” Another boy commented that it is all so wrong-he feels they know everything the Arabs are planning and have such superior weapons and means to do whatever they want. I just kept hearing the injustices they suffer—and I kept thinking of the Civil Rights Movement—and all the hangings and mistreatment. And there really was no recourse for the Blacks because they had no one in authority to defend them. Shane interacted with them so well—I honestly have never heard a conversation on TV or anywhere else of such depth and debate that was so well done. He is Jamaican-born Black, and he talked about the injustices done to people in the South. But he grew up in Florida, and is young--he has few specific memories. And he is a masterful communicator—flawless English with absolutely no accent from anywhere. He talked to them about how he came to be here this year—said he feels he is here for such a time as this. Then he asked them if they thought a Jewish student could make it at our school. They all (except one really sweet, very handsome boy) said most emphatically NO! They would not welcome him—then they said besides none of them would come because they have nothing to do with us. One boy related an incident with other young people who were at a gathering of some kind…and repeated derogatory comments made. There is some kind of organization for youth that one of the girls in the classroom is in—it joins Jews, Arabs, and others in it. I just wish others could have heard them…I really can’t repeat it and give it justice. They expressed such heart-felt and extremely mature responses. And the bottom line is the injustices they suffer through no fault of their own. They didn’t make the rules; they didn’t bomb anyone; they just experience the result of years of fighting—and they were saying 60 years, but then some said no, it is longer than that. I just kept hearing the cry of a heart that has been unfairly treated—and I hear that in my own heart and so do you. We all cry out for justice, yet in this world, there is no justice. People react differently to injustice—but often it results in vengeance filled with uncontrollable anger and bitterness and violence. On Monday our school started a collection of goods to send to Gaza. A huge pile of stuff was brought—stuff for people to live with—baby needs, clothing, bedding, paper goods, not junk stuff. The response seems overwhelming to me—and I don’t think these people have a lot of extra. Yesterday was the Armenian Christmas Day—so several teachers and students were out for Christmas. I don’t know much about Armenians, but I want to. So…on a personal note…a very difficult day. Tomorrow is another day—so we’ll see. I surely would like to have been home this evening! Love ya’ll…………….
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