My letter to future goers
Dear Future Goer, I’ve been praying for you. The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few. I’ve been praying to the Lord of the harvest to send us more laborers, so I rejoice that he answered by sending you! I’ve been at my placement for nearly 3 years now – I decided to stay beyond my initial 2-year commitment. I’ve learned A LOT the past 3 years, so I’ll just share some highlights: The Lord is able and willing to provide for ALL of your needs. I know support raising sounds like the worst, but it’s actually such a beautiful way to see the Lord provide for ministers of the gospel… Read more >>
Identity crisis
I have struggled with my identity for a long time. In the US people were often skeptical when I said I was from the US because I don’t look “American.” My mom is originally from South Asia, but I was born in the US and my personal culture aligns pretty strongly with the generalized American values. At the same time, my South Asian heritage is very much a part of me and has influenced my perspectives. Like many multiethnic individuals, I have never felt like I fit anywhere completely. This struggle has been highlighted as I serve in Southeast Asia. Just like in the US, people here are… Read more >>
9 observations from my first Ramadan
As the Eid festivities come to a close, I’d like to take a moment to reflect on my experience during the month of Ramadan. I feel so blessed to have been able to experience Ramadan with my host family and friends in this Majority-Muslim country. Here are some observations and lessons that I learned. (Disclaimer: these are my observations from my area. Practices may be different in other countries or even regions of this country.) 1. People have various reasons for fasting. I asked people the reason for fasting, and I got various answers: It’s healthy. Like a machine that needs to be shut… Read more >>
A pair of ducks
I can’t believe I’ve already been in SE Asia for a whole month! On one hand, I feel like I just got here, and on the other hand my life before coming here feels like it was long ago. That’s how a lot of things feel here – paradoxical. During culture training, this was described as a “pair of ducks” (paradox) named “yay” and “yuck,” or as a dear friend put it, “woohoo” and “poopoo.” Here are some examples: My language skills have improved significantly as I take classes and engage in daily conversation with new friends and my host family. With language learning, especially with my host family… Read more >>