I've finally organized some pictures for viewing. Find them at www.toghanawithlove.myphotoalbum.com.
Since I wasn't a tourist in Ghana, I found it difficult to remember to take pictures that would help people back in Canada see what things were like in Ghana. There are a lot of pictures of people for my memory's sake, but I hope you find them interesting anyway.
This is my last post for this blog. I'll keep this as my Ghana blog; if/when I go back, I'll resume writing about my experiences.
Thanks for reading ~*
Monday 24 September 2007
Reflections Part Two
I am very thankful to God that I can look back on my trip with very fond memories. I really enjoyed living in Ghana. People have asked me what the best part of the trip was, and that's very hard to say; there are many highlights. It is a much shorter list to list the things I didn't like.
- Being pursued by random guys, etc
- Not really knowing how to say "no" without be disrespectful
- having to wait a long time for someone when I wasn't expecting to
- Being a spectacle (or feeling like one)
- Not really having a peer group in Tumu
Well, now I feel like I should make a list of some of the things I liked to balance things.
- Mangoes, and any other tropical fruit
- Seeing the work of different missionaries come together (e.g. SIM and Wycliffe)
- Not caring whether whether my skirt and shirt matched or not
- Having people around who would jump at the chance to pray with/for me
- Having Penny cook for me and Florence wash my clothes for me
- Watching Shadrachelle, Meshach, and Abednego doing strange things (Penny's kittens)
- Trying to play games with kids from church (and failing miserably half time)
- The laid back lifestyle (most of the time)
- Work and relationships not being mutually exclusive
- A church leader chasing a chicken out of the church during my Sunday school lesson once (it was really hard not to laugh)
- Walking through the game park for two hours
- The affinity that Ghanaians have for Jamaicans
- ...
Now that I am pretty much settled back into life in Canada, I am concentrating on finishing school, maintaining connections in Ghana, and knowing God more. I am excited about the next few years and the possibilities for when I am finished school (even though I really don't have a clue what I'm excited for).
I am thankful for the opportunity I had to serve God in Ghana and even more thankful for all of you who supported me. We did great things in the name of Jesus in Ghana.
Before I end this post, I just want to mention a current need in Ghana. There has been major flooding in Ghana and other parts of West Africa since I left Tumu. Please pray for that situation.
"Again, I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything you ask for, it will be done for you by my Father in Heaven." Matt 18:19 NIV
"May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all." 2 Cor 13:14 NIV
- Being pursued by random guys, etc
- Not really knowing how to say "no" without be disrespectful
- having to wait a long time for someone when I wasn't expecting to
- Being a spectacle (or feeling like one)
- Not really having a peer group in Tumu
Well, now I feel like I should make a list of some of the things I liked to balance things.
- Mangoes, and any other tropical fruit
- Seeing the work of different missionaries come together (e.g. SIM and Wycliffe)
- Not caring whether whether my skirt and shirt matched or not
- Having people around who would jump at the chance to pray with/for me
- Having Penny cook for me and Florence wash my clothes for me
- Watching Shadrachelle, Meshach, and Abednego doing strange things (Penny's kittens)
- Trying to play games with kids from church (and failing miserably half time)
- The laid back lifestyle (most of the time)
- Work and relationships not being mutually exclusive
- A church leader chasing a chicken out of the church during my Sunday school lesson once (it was really hard not to laugh)
- Walking through the game park for two hours
- The affinity that Ghanaians have for Jamaicans
- ...
Now that I am pretty much settled back into life in Canada, I am concentrating on finishing school, maintaining connections in Ghana, and knowing God more. I am excited about the next few years and the possibilities for when I am finished school (even though I really don't have a clue what I'm excited for).
I am thankful for the opportunity I had to serve God in Ghana and even more thankful for all of you who supported me. We did great things in the name of Jesus in Ghana.
Before I end this post, I just want to mention a current need in Ghana. There has been major flooding in Ghana and other parts of West Africa since I left Tumu. Please pray for that situation.
"Again, I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything you ask for, it will be done for you by my Father in Heaven." Matt 18:19 NIV
"May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all." 2 Cor 13:14 NIV
Friday 14 September 2007
Reflections Part One
Life in Canada has struck me with a vengeance. The busyness of my life here is incredible compared to the four months I spent in Ghana. Most of this is due to my return to Canada a week before school began.
Because of the aforementioned busyness, I quickly reached stage two (Flee) of the re-entry process (Fun, Flee, Fight, Fit, Fruit). I just want to escape this busy life and run back to the relationship-focused Ghanaians. I haven't had time to think and meet with people because of my commitments at school and work. Even now, I am really procrastinating. Some days in Ghana, I wanted to get away from relationships because I had things to do, but now I have things to do, and all I want to do is talk to people ...
I am still learning very basic lessons. I was chatting Penny one day about two months into the trip, just talking about my thoughts on being there. I said something about the trip being a break from my normal life. Not that I was a completely different person when I was there, I just did some things that I wouldn't normally do. I am good at compartmentalizing my life, I realized. Shortly after that conversation, I felt convicted about this. What is the point of all of going on a missions trip if it doesn't affect my normal life, particularly with respect to my relationship with God? By the end of my trip, I accepted that the missionary life is a normal life, and that anything I did while in Ghana, I can certainly do in Canada, or anywhere else. When I think about the months leading up to the trip, and the excitement that was there, I have that same excitement because (fortunately) I can serve God anywhere. I don't have to fly to somewhere exotic to do that. The flip side of this is that any Christian can be a missionary, not just the really holy ones. We have all been redeemed, and we are all called to share the gospel with those who haven't heard, whether they live in some obscure corner of the world or in the room beside you.
Whenever I make a (big) decision to do something, I suddenly have a million reasons why that decision was not the right one (recall, that I can get into freak out mode easily sometimes). By the end of my trip, I thought that that life was for me, but the doubts flooded my mind quickly: what if I can't deal with the cultural differences, what if I can't find enough supporters, what if I can't learn the language, what if ..., what if ... Then someone told me that all the doubts were quickly drawing me away from the main issue. No one promised that things would be easy. I'm just supposed to live a life glorifying to God, and if that's in Ghana, then so be it.
At my debriefing with SIM Canada, I was asked what the best opportunity was for me in Ghana. I'd have to say my HIV/AIDS teaching because it encompassed a lot of stuff. Firstly, I was not a fan of public speaking, and that's a lot of what I did. I was constantly praying that I would not get into my own way and mess things up for myself. I learned about the Ghana Education System (GES)and the Ghana Health Service. I observed and developed relationships with people in authority at GES and with the students and teachers. I learned about love, marriage, sex education, health, relationships among youth, and HIV/AIDS. I had to do research into Ghanaian youth culture in order to write seminars that would be meaningful to the students. I had the chance to share the gospel with about 250 students and teachers. I was able to speak one-on-one with four students share a bit of myself with them. My HIV teaching made for an easy conversation piece that segued nicely into conversations about sources of hope, Islam and Christianity. I had to be honest with myself and God about my feelings/needs/desires/expectations about the marriage relationship. I gained an appreciation for community health nursing. The list goes on.
Now that I have left Tumu, my prayer is that all those seeds planted will grow. One guy I met in Accra told me that Work = Force times Distance [W = (F)(d)] Work is done when God provides the force and we go the distance. This little physics joke made me like this guy instantly. Thinking about the students I taught, the girls who came to my Bible study, the members of Tumu church, neighbours, and random people on the street, I pray that they will know redemption that comes through Jesus.
As with every other school year, my prayer for myself is that school doesn't consume me or take God's rightful place. God has really helped me in that in the last few years, but I still need help. Now more than ever, I want school to be in a box, part of my life, but not my entire life.
Thanks for reading ~*
Because of the aforementioned busyness, I quickly reached stage two (Flee) of the re-entry process (Fun, Flee, Fight, Fit, Fruit). I just want to escape this busy life and run back to the relationship-focused Ghanaians. I haven't had time to think and meet with people because of my commitments at school and work. Even now, I am really procrastinating. Some days in Ghana, I wanted to get away from relationships because I had things to do, but now I have things to do, and all I want to do is talk to people ...
I am still learning very basic lessons. I was chatting Penny one day about two months into the trip, just talking about my thoughts on being there. I said something about the trip being a break from my normal life. Not that I was a completely different person when I was there, I just did some things that I wouldn't normally do. I am good at compartmentalizing my life, I realized. Shortly after that conversation, I felt convicted about this. What is the point of all of going on a missions trip if it doesn't affect my normal life, particularly with respect to my relationship with God? By the end of my trip, I accepted that the missionary life is a normal life, and that anything I did while in Ghana, I can certainly do in Canada, or anywhere else. When I think about the months leading up to the trip, and the excitement that was there, I have that same excitement because (fortunately) I can serve God anywhere. I don't have to fly to somewhere exotic to do that. The flip side of this is that any Christian can be a missionary, not just the really holy ones. We have all been redeemed, and we are all called to share the gospel with those who haven't heard, whether they live in some obscure corner of the world or in the room beside you.
Whenever I make a (big) decision to do something, I suddenly have a million reasons why that decision was not the right one (recall, that I can get into freak out mode easily sometimes). By the end of my trip, I thought that that life was for me, but the doubts flooded my mind quickly: what if I can't deal with the cultural differences, what if I can't find enough supporters, what if I can't learn the language, what if ..., what if ... Then someone told me that all the doubts were quickly drawing me away from the main issue. No one promised that things would be easy. I'm just supposed to live a life glorifying to God, and if that's in Ghana, then so be it.
At my debriefing with SIM Canada, I was asked what the best opportunity was for me in Ghana. I'd have to say my HIV/AIDS teaching because it encompassed a lot of stuff. Firstly, I was not a fan of public speaking, and that's a lot of what I did. I was constantly praying that I would not get into my own way and mess things up for myself. I learned about the Ghana Education System (GES)and the Ghana Health Service. I observed and developed relationships with people in authority at GES and with the students and teachers. I learned about love, marriage, sex education, health, relationships among youth, and HIV/AIDS. I had to do research into Ghanaian youth culture in order to write seminars that would be meaningful to the students. I had the chance to share the gospel with about 250 students and teachers. I was able to speak one-on-one with four students share a bit of myself with them. My HIV teaching made for an easy conversation piece that segued nicely into conversations about sources of hope, Islam and Christianity. I had to be honest with myself and God about my feelings/needs/desires/expectations about the marriage relationship. I gained an appreciation for community health nursing. The list goes on.
Now that I have left Tumu, my prayer is that all those seeds planted will grow. One guy I met in Accra told me that Work = Force times Distance [W = (F)(d)] Work is done when God provides the force and we go the distance. This little physics joke made me like this guy instantly. Thinking about the students I taught, the girls who came to my Bible study, the members of Tumu church, neighbours, and random people on the street, I pray that they will know redemption that comes through Jesus.
As with every other school year, my prayer for myself is that school doesn't consume me or take God's rightful place. God has really helped me in that in the last few years, but I still need help. Now more than ever, I want school to be in a box, part of my life, but not my entire life.
Thanks for reading ~*
Saturday 25 August 2007
Last Post
... from Ghana that is. The plan is that I will fly out of Ghana on the morning of the 28th and arrive in Canada minutes before the 29th. I'll go to my parents' place then back home sometime on Labour Day weekend.
Accra has been fun, but I'm ready to leave. The city life is certainly not the place for a small town girl. Tumu would be good, but I am looking forward to going home. I've spent this week visiting friends, riding in trotros (public transport vans)and getting lost in this big city. I thought I knew where the trotro was going, but when I got off, I was not where I wanted to be. I knew I was close, I just had no idea where I was. I had a map, but that is not as helpful as you'd expect because all the streets aren't labelled. Anyway, I didn't panic or anything. I knew the general direction of the shop and started walking. I stopped for directions and nearly an hour later, I found the Art Centre. Fortunately for me, since I was meeting a Ghanaian there, I was still there before him (in Ghana, 11:00 means sometime after 11:00 - hehee).
I have managed to meet up with some of my friends I met in 2000. It's hard to catch up on seven years of life in one day, but we tried. It was good to see them (Aryees, Dzunu, Lamptey) again and hear that they are doing well. Meeting up with them made this week of goodbying much like an emotional roller coaster (another reason that I'm ready to go home).
I have a meeting with SIM Canada on the 30th for debriefing and whatnot. By then I will have gathered my thoughts (I hope) and will be able to write a coherent report on my time in Ghana and post some pictures.
I look forward to seeing most of you Canadians in the next little while. Thanks to all of you for praying with me these last four months.
Thanks for reading ~*
Accra has been fun, but I'm ready to leave. The city life is certainly not the place for a small town girl. Tumu would be good, but I am looking forward to going home. I've spent this week visiting friends, riding in trotros (public transport vans)and getting lost in this big city. I thought I knew where the trotro was going, but when I got off, I was not where I wanted to be. I knew I was close, I just had no idea where I was. I had a map, but that is not as helpful as you'd expect because all the streets aren't labelled. Anyway, I didn't panic or anything. I knew the general direction of the shop and started walking. I stopped for directions and nearly an hour later, I found the Art Centre. Fortunately for me, since I was meeting a Ghanaian there, I was still there before him (in Ghana, 11:00 means sometime after 11:00 - hehee).
I have managed to meet up with some of my friends I met in 2000. It's hard to catch up on seven years of life in one day, but we tried. It was good to see them (Aryees, Dzunu, Lamptey) again and hear that they are doing well. Meeting up with them made this week of goodbying much like an emotional roller coaster (another reason that I'm ready to go home).
I have a meeting with SIM Canada on the 30th for debriefing and whatnot. By then I will have gathered my thoughts (I hope) and will be able to write a coherent report on my time in Ghana and post some pictures.
I look forward to seeing most of you Canadians in the next little while. Thanks to all of you for praying with me these last four months.
Thanks for reading ~*
Monday 13 August 2007
Thoughts and things
If you've been reading along, you probably have a good idea of what I have been doing here (that is unless I have not written very well). I have had some time to think a bit about all that I experienced, so ...
Living in Tumu was good. Certainly there are many differences between my home in Canada and Penny's house in Tumu, but nothing to sweat really.
I spent my first two weeks in Tumu learning Sisaali, but after the "real work" started, I didn't have as much time just to increase my vocabulary/skills. That was a disadvantage at church because there were many people whom I couldn't speak with beyond greetings and obscure comments about the current goings on. I had a good time at church and with the church people, but I certainly missed the fellowship I have at my home church and WIVCF. My being somewhat antisocial didn't really help with that either. Since it was difficult to really connect with most of the church people, I don't really know how their relationship with God has developed in the last little while; fortunately, God knows. As they grow as individuals, they will grow as a church as well.
I had the opportunity to speak to about 250 students about HIV/AIDS but more importantly about God's love for them. I had a great time with them despite my anxiety about teaching. I have said this before, I am no teacher, but I think God was gracious to me and allowed me to reach people through teaching. I was able to talk to two students individually about God and his purposes for us and I met a few Christian students. I pray that they were encouraged in their faith and gained a deeper understanding of God's idea about sex. Abstinence apart from God doesn't make any sense to me, so I wanted the students to know that it's not just about avoiding HIV.
Thinking long term, I wonder if I can work here in Ghana, and I wonder how I will deal with some of the stresses of life here. This time around I could handle almost anything because I knew it was all temporary (since this is like a break from my real life). What would it be like to be here knowing that this is my real life? It seems I a painting a bleak picture here. That is not my intent; I enjoy my time here. Anyway ... what I had the most difficulty with is relationships (surprise, surprise) given the cultural differences and my personality. This is a relationship-oriented culture, and I am task-oriented person. Ghanaians value politeness/repect more than truth and I value truth more than politeness. When I look at my interaction with people (in ministry, while socializing, while working) I realize that they were huge barriers to me really getting to know people. I wondering if I can ever change and learn to connect with Ghanaians. If I can't can I really come here long term? Is God calling me to a place where I feel like I can't be myself? I am leaning towards yes, but sometimes the voice of logic/fear briefly tips me towards no. I have three more years of school ideally, so in that time, I hope to figure out where I'll be practising when I'm finished. I've been (semi)joking with people, saying that I have a seven year plan for my return to Ghana (as it was seven years ago that I was here last). I need three years to finish school and four years to pay my school debts before coming back to Ghana. One pastor in Tumu says I should make it a three year plan, but I think I am more likely to find a husband (who wants to come to Ghana!) in seven years than in three - hehee.
I just want to say thanks to all of my supporters in Canada, the US and Ghana. I feel like that is not enough, but I'm not sure what else to say right now. (Perhaps this would be better in person.)
Thanks for reading ~*
Living in Tumu was good. Certainly there are many differences between my home in Canada and Penny's house in Tumu, but nothing to sweat really.
I spent my first two weeks in Tumu learning Sisaali, but after the "real work" started, I didn't have as much time just to increase my vocabulary/skills. That was a disadvantage at church because there were many people whom I couldn't speak with beyond greetings and obscure comments about the current goings on. I had a good time at church and with the church people, but I certainly missed the fellowship I have at my home church and WIVCF. My being somewhat antisocial didn't really help with that either. Since it was difficult to really connect with most of the church people, I don't really know how their relationship with God has developed in the last little while; fortunately, God knows. As they grow as individuals, they will grow as a church as well.
I had the opportunity to speak to about 250 students about HIV/AIDS but more importantly about God's love for them. I had a great time with them despite my anxiety about teaching. I have said this before, I am no teacher, but I think God was gracious to me and allowed me to reach people through teaching. I was able to talk to two students individually about God and his purposes for us and I met a few Christian students. I pray that they were encouraged in their faith and gained a deeper understanding of God's idea about sex. Abstinence apart from God doesn't make any sense to me, so I wanted the students to know that it's not just about avoiding HIV.
Thinking long term, I wonder if I can work here in Ghana, and I wonder how I will deal with some of the stresses of life here. This time around I could handle almost anything because I knew it was all temporary (since this is like a break from my real life). What would it be like to be here knowing that this is my real life? It seems I a painting a bleak picture here. That is not my intent; I enjoy my time here. Anyway ... what I had the most difficulty with is relationships (surprise, surprise) given the cultural differences and my personality. This is a relationship-oriented culture, and I am task-oriented person. Ghanaians value politeness/repect more than truth and I value truth more than politeness. When I look at my interaction with people (in ministry, while socializing, while working) I realize that they were huge barriers to me really getting to know people. I wondering if I can ever change and learn to connect with Ghanaians. If I can't can I really come here long term? Is God calling me to a place where I feel like I can't be myself? I am leaning towards yes, but sometimes the voice of logic/fear briefly tips me towards no. I have three more years of school ideally, so in that time, I hope to figure out where I'll be practising when I'm finished. I've been (semi)joking with people, saying that I have a seven year plan for my return to Ghana (as it was seven years ago that I was here last). I need three years to finish school and four years to pay my school debts before coming back to Ghana. One pastor in Tumu says I should make it a three year plan, but I think I am more likely to find a husband (who wants to come to Ghana!) in seven years than in three - hehee.
I just want to say thanks to all of my supporters in Canada, the US and Ghana. I feel like that is not enough, but I'm not sure what else to say right now. (Perhaps this would be better in person.)
Thanks for reading ~*
Thursday 2 August 2007
A quick note
Please pray for safety in travelling in the next few weeks. I have only one week left in Tumu (sigh). I have finished all of my teaching and church and the schools, but now I have to write reports about all of that (oooo, fun!). I am currently in Tamale. The car is being (routinely) serviced on our way to Mole Game Park. We will return to Tumu on Saturday, then driving all back to Accra on Friday (two days' drive, if you recall). In Accra, I will attend a workshop, Sharpening Your Interpersonal Skills, for a week. Some SIMmers will be joining other Christians for the workshop. That's all I know about it. Then I will spend my last week in Ghana visiting friends from Youth for Christ. I will meet up with Emma (pronouced Eeema), short for Emmanuel) and see who we can find. It will be sad leaving Tumu, but I am also looking forward to meeting up with old friends in Accra. My brother, Xan, has a friend from Japan who is currently in Ghana. I have spoken with her only once, but I hope to contact her again when I am back in Accra.
After I have written my various reports and articles, I will write a reflection here. I haven't had time to really process things yet. My work has gone well. Praise God with me for great opportunities to share the gospel with students and teach about HIV/AIDS, relationships, and love. Pray for them as they digest all I have taught. Pray for the girls in my discipleship groups from church that they would grow in their faith in Jesus Christ. Pray for them to develop a good relationship with the next associate who will come to Tumu and continue the Bible Study with them. Please pray for me as I say good bye in Tumu and again in Accra. I had my first cry last week when one of our church members gave me an eloquent valediction (real word?) in a rather informal conversation we were having as I was preparing my last Sunday School lesson.
Time's up at the internet cafe.
Thanks for reading ~*
After I have written my various reports and articles, I will write a reflection here. I haven't had time to really process things yet. My work has gone well. Praise God with me for great opportunities to share the gospel with students and teach about HIV/AIDS, relationships, and love. Pray for them as they digest all I have taught. Pray for the girls in my discipleship groups from church that they would grow in their faith in Jesus Christ. Pray for them to develop a good relationship with the next associate who will come to Tumu and continue the Bible Study with them. Please pray for me as I say good bye in Tumu and again in Accra. I had my first cry last week when one of our church members gave me an eloquent valediction (real word?) in a rather informal conversation we were having as I was preparing my last Sunday School lesson.
Time's up at the internet cafe.
Thanks for reading ~*
Tuesday 24 July 2007
What's in a name?
Wow, it has been a long time. I have been busy with school stuff so my internet time is consumed with business and I haven't had time to post. Anyway ...
Knoughvah Girl?
Now I have two reasons to get married and get a new name. In Canada, people think my last name is my first name and that drives me insane! In Ghana, people simply can't read my name. When I say my name, they think I'm saying "girl", so when they see it written, they have no idea what it says. It's really funny to hear them try to say it. Some kids at church were joking, saying that my father's name is "Girl" and that was the funniest thing they had ever heard in their lives it seems. I have a video clip that of these kids trying to say "girl" with a Canadian accent. I'll have to post it some time.
Wianechomi
I.E. Wia ne cho mi,my Sisaali name. It is literally "God loves me". The women at church gave me this name in my first week here (I don't recall writing about this), so they never call me Knoughvah. All the kids at church find it easier to say Wianechome or Madame than Knoughvah. Whenever I introduce myself to people as Wianechome people smile and say my name is sweet. The name comes in handy when I'm doing my HIV/AIDS teaching and talking about God's love. Names here have meaning, so if my name is Wianechome then, in fact, people understand that God loves me. I don't some cheap imitation of love from a sweet talker.
Penny's Sisaali name is Badewia which is "Man is not God".
Madame
All my JSS (Junior High) students call me this, and it makes me feel old. Some of the students are actually older than I am, so that's a bit weird. One student from a village I taught in came into Tumu, and when he saw me, stopped, gave a bow, and took off his hat. It was very respectful of him, but it surprises me.
The White lady
Yes, I get this one too. For my HIV/AIDS teaching, I visit each school three times. Yesterday, I paid a second visit to a school, and one of the students gave me a report he wrote about my first visit. I was pleasantly surprised. When I read it, he was very complimentary about the White lady who came to teach them about HIV and AIDS. It was rather funny, but after a while, I think I figured out why he called me that. It's not that I look any different from them; in Sisaali, the word for foreigner, White person, English (person and language) is Foley, so when they are speaking in English, I think they say White person when they also mean foreigner (which is correct most of the time). I actually called myself White the other day. It was very strange. I'll try never to do it again. It's not that I don't like White people, I just like being Black.
Josephine
Ghana has launched "The Joseph Project" which is a program that invites the Ghanaian diaspora to return to Ghana and settle here. Currently, there is a celebration going on; some American are in Tumu who have traced their ancestry back to the slaves who were shipped to North America. The Sisaala have organized all kinds of dances and performances to show the American diasporans Ghanaian culture and give a history of slavery in the Sisaala area. Ghana hopes that they will choose to return to Ghana. They call the resettled diasporans Josephs and Josephines (after Joseph son of Jacob who was sold as a slave yet rose up out of slavery). Anyway, Penny and I went to watch the performances and our friend found us some front row seats. Somehow, I was spotted in the crowd and a guy approached and asked me if I am part of the diaspora. I declined, saying I am Jamaican, but I have not traced my ancestry like the visiting group of Americans. I also said that I am working here for four months with the Bible Church of Africa and SIM Ghana. Later, when the main speaker addressed the the crowd hundreds, he went on about a Josephine being in our midst. The stared right at me. All heads and television cameras were suddenly on me! I had no idea what to do. I kind of gave a nervous chuckle and waved at the camera. Later, the speaker approached me and said that I disappointed the crowd by not greeting them. I really had no idea what to say ... uh ... "I'm not really a Josephine" didn't seem like the thing to say. I just had to apologize, saying that the attention was unexpected.
I think that's all for names. The last month has been very busy. I teach seven times a week, so there is a lot of preparation and prayer going on each week. Last night it hit me that my time in Tumu is coming to to a close. In some ways, I feel like I haven't done a lot in my time here. Teaching the gospel and discipling girls is no easy task, and I'm not sure if I can see the fruit of labour. I'm not sure what I want to say about that right now, so perhaps more on that later. Please pray that I don't get discouraged by this. Last night, met with Pastor Edward and his wife for our biweekly meetings, so that was a time of encouragement. We talked about Jeremiah and very clear call on his life and the struggles that he faced. Is there such a call on my life? I'm not sure.
I've spent a couple of shifts at the hospital here in Tumu with the nurses and medical assistants. That was scary. I just wanted to observe, and some of the staff wanted to me do stuff, triage patients and sign papers. Nothing major, I just didn't think some random person off the street should be doing that. It was a good learning experience nonetheless. The post is far too long to say more on that.
I am doing well here and looking forward to my three day vacation to the game park next week. Thanks for your e-mails,text messages, and prayers.
Thanks for reading ~*
Knoughvah Girl?
Now I have two reasons to get married and get a new name. In Canada, people think my last name is my first name and that drives me insane! In Ghana, people simply can't read my name. When I say my name, they think I'm saying "girl", so when they see it written, they have no idea what it says. It's really funny to hear them try to say it. Some kids at church were joking, saying that my father's name is "Girl" and that was the funniest thing they had ever heard in their lives it seems. I have a video clip that of these kids trying to say "girl" with a Canadian accent. I'll have to post it some time.
Wianechomi
I.E. Wia ne cho mi,my Sisaali name. It is literally "God loves me". The women at church gave me this name in my first week here (I don't recall writing about this), so they never call me Knoughvah. All the kids at church find it easier to say Wianechome or Madame than Knoughvah. Whenever I introduce myself to people as Wianechome people smile and say my name is sweet. The name comes in handy when I'm doing my HIV/AIDS teaching and talking about God's love. Names here have meaning, so if my name is Wianechome then, in fact, people understand that God loves me. I don't some cheap imitation of love from a sweet talker.
Penny's Sisaali name is Badewia which is "Man is not God".
Madame
All my JSS (Junior High) students call me this, and it makes me feel old. Some of the students are actually older than I am, so that's a bit weird. One student from a village I taught in came into Tumu, and when he saw me, stopped, gave a bow, and took off his hat. It was very respectful of him, but it surprises me.
The White lady
Yes, I get this one too. For my HIV/AIDS teaching, I visit each school three times. Yesterday, I paid a second visit to a school, and one of the students gave me a report he wrote about my first visit. I was pleasantly surprised. When I read it, he was very complimentary about the White lady who came to teach them about HIV and AIDS. It was rather funny, but after a while, I think I figured out why he called me that. It's not that I look any different from them; in Sisaali, the word for foreigner, White person, English (person and language) is Foley, so when they are speaking in English, I think they say White person when they also mean foreigner (which is correct most of the time). I actually called myself White the other day. It was very strange. I'll try never to do it again. It's not that I don't like White people, I just like being Black.
Josephine
Ghana has launched "The Joseph Project" which is a program that invites the Ghanaian diaspora to return to Ghana and settle here. Currently, there is a celebration going on; some American are in Tumu who have traced their ancestry back to the slaves who were shipped to North America. The Sisaala have organized all kinds of dances and performances to show the American diasporans Ghanaian culture and give a history of slavery in the Sisaala area. Ghana hopes that they will choose to return to Ghana. They call the resettled diasporans Josephs and Josephines (after Joseph son of Jacob who was sold as a slave yet rose up out of slavery). Anyway, Penny and I went to watch the performances and our friend found us some front row seats. Somehow, I was spotted in the crowd and a guy approached and asked me if I am part of the diaspora. I declined, saying I am Jamaican, but I have not traced my ancestry like the visiting group of Americans. I also said that I am working here for four months with the Bible Church of Africa and SIM Ghana. Later, when the main speaker addressed the the crowd hundreds, he went on about a Josephine being in our midst. The stared right at me. All heads and television cameras were suddenly on me! I had no idea what to do. I kind of gave a nervous chuckle and waved at the camera. Later, the speaker approached me and said that I disappointed the crowd by not greeting them. I really had no idea what to say ... uh ... "I'm not really a Josephine" didn't seem like the thing to say. I just had to apologize, saying that the attention was unexpected.
I think that's all for names. The last month has been very busy. I teach seven times a week, so there is a lot of preparation and prayer going on each week. Last night it hit me that my time in Tumu is coming to to a close. In some ways, I feel like I haven't done a lot in my time here. Teaching the gospel and discipling girls is no easy task, and I'm not sure if I can see the fruit of labour. I'm not sure what I want to say about that right now, so perhaps more on that later. Please pray that I don't get discouraged by this. Last night, met with Pastor Edward and his wife for our biweekly meetings, so that was a time of encouragement. We talked about Jeremiah and very clear call on his life and the struggles that he faced. Is there such a call on my life? I'm not sure.
I've spent a couple of shifts at the hospital here in Tumu with the nurses and medical assistants. That was scary. I just wanted to observe, and some of the staff wanted to me do stuff, triage patients and sign papers. Nothing major, I just didn't think some random person off the street should be doing that. It was a good learning experience nonetheless. The post is far too long to say more on that.
I am doing well here and looking forward to my three day vacation to the game park next week. Thanks for your e-mails,text messages, and prayers.
Thanks for reading ~*
Friday 13 July 2007
Wednesday 27 June 2007
All work and no play
Yesterday, I made my first presentation about HIV/AIDS to a Junior Secondary School. It went really well despite the rough beginning. I was so nervous that the students couldn't understand what I was saying with my accent and speed of speaking. Penny had to give me the signal to slow down! Anyway, I did manage to relax and the students were great listeners and participants. I have been working on this presentatation for over two weeks. It is a series of three, one-hour presenstations talking about HIV/AIDS, building healthy relationship, and love. I will visit five schools in the next five weeks. The meeting with the director of education went very well, though, he was more interested in the fact that I was Jamaican than the work I wanted to do (hehee). When I went greet the teachers of the Junior Secondary School, I also received a warm welcome. One teacher said that he wants to students to hear any good thing. Well, they will certainly hear the Good News.
I am the first short term missionary in Tumu, so I am told that I am the pilot project. The director of SIM Ghana has wanted to begin a project in the schools about HIV (within the context of healthy, moral relationships) so I am a working that through with Penny. The door of opportunity are flying open. Everyone (teachers, principals, NGOs, pastors) we have talked to about such a project have been really encouraging to us. HIV is not a problem in Ghana like other African countries, but there is the potential (of course) if young people aren't educated about the realities of the disease. There are a lot of myths flying around and a huge stigma against those who are HIV positive.
Two weeks ago, I began discipling the teen girls in the Tumu church. We are working through a book called the Foundations of Faith. Each study looks at a basic (foundational) truth about God and man, for example, God created all things; God hates sin; God loves man. In our short time together, I still don't have a good feel for the group. They are a lot of fun, but while we are studying the Bible together, they are more reserved. I know this has to do with the teaching style that they are used to (lecture rather than discussion) and the fact that I am still new to them. Whether I see it or not, I want them to grow in their faith, and knowledge of God. Please pray that our time together will be 'growthful' for them (and me).
Each Sunday, I teach adult Sunday School (until July 29). The congregation comprises mostly elderly women who cannot read and are used to an oral tradition, so the lessons are in the form of a story. Since my Sisaali is still muamua (small small, i.e. very poor) I have a translator. My lesson have been/ will be about Christian living as taught in a few parables and other passages. When I am teaching, I don't always know if anything makes sense to the listeners, but after the fact, in conversation, I can see that they are learning. It can be hard for these Sisaali (and us Westerners) to tease apart "religion" from "tradition", but that is the main work. Penny ("my" missionary) says that she has really seen growth in the congregation from the time the left Ghana ten months ago. Please pray for the Tumu church that they don't compromise the gospel while maintaining their identity as Sisaali.
Penny meets with women in various villages in and around Tumu to discuss health and Christian living. I have gone with her to two of these meetings, and I will start health teaching for these groups in two weeks. I'll likely teach about nutrition.
The pastor of Tumu church, Pastor Edward, and his wife have been mentors, of sort, for my time here. They are not Sisaali, but they are Ghanaians so they can give me some insight into the culture that foreigner and Sisaali can't. I also meet with them biweekly for prayer and chill time, which is essential. On Friday this week, Penny and I will travel to Chiana (~ 1 hour's drive, I think) to meet with the SIM missionaries in the north of Ghana for prayer day. Some missionaries don't have phones, so we have radio contact twice a day, but it is not sufficient for good conversation and fellowship, so each month, we meet for prayer day.
Penny and I manage to go running, 2 - 3 times a week. We start at 0600h now since the rains have started and it's not as hot. The cooler weather (rather, the less humid weather) is lovely. It is still 30oC most days, but not so uncomfortable that I feel lethargic. Please thank God with me that I am healthy and able to work here. Pray that the lessons I present to the sunday school, girls in the Bible study, and the students in the Junior Secondary Schools, and relevant and "growthful".
Thanks for reading ~*
I am the first short term missionary in Tumu, so I am told that I am the pilot project. The director of SIM Ghana has wanted to begin a project in the schools about HIV (within the context of healthy, moral relationships) so I am a working that through with Penny. The door of opportunity are flying open. Everyone (teachers, principals, NGOs, pastors) we have talked to about such a project have been really encouraging to us. HIV is not a problem in Ghana like other African countries, but there is the potential (of course) if young people aren't educated about the realities of the disease. There are a lot of myths flying around and a huge stigma against those who are HIV positive.
Two weeks ago, I began discipling the teen girls in the Tumu church. We are working through a book called the Foundations of Faith. Each study looks at a basic (foundational) truth about God and man, for example, God created all things; God hates sin; God loves man. In our short time together, I still don't have a good feel for the group. They are a lot of fun, but while we are studying the Bible together, they are more reserved. I know this has to do with the teaching style that they are used to (lecture rather than discussion) and the fact that I am still new to them. Whether I see it or not, I want them to grow in their faith, and knowledge of God. Please pray that our time together will be 'growthful' for them (and me).
Each Sunday, I teach adult Sunday School (until July 29). The congregation comprises mostly elderly women who cannot read and are used to an oral tradition, so the lessons are in the form of a story. Since my Sisaali is still muamua (small small, i.e. very poor) I have a translator. My lesson have been/ will be about Christian living as taught in a few parables and other passages. When I am teaching, I don't always know if anything makes sense to the listeners, but after the fact, in conversation, I can see that they are learning. It can be hard for these Sisaali (and us Westerners) to tease apart "religion" from "tradition", but that is the main work. Penny ("my" missionary) says that she has really seen growth in the congregation from the time the left Ghana ten months ago. Please pray for the Tumu church that they don't compromise the gospel while maintaining their identity as Sisaali.
Penny meets with women in various villages in and around Tumu to discuss health and Christian living. I have gone with her to two of these meetings, and I will start health teaching for these groups in two weeks. I'll likely teach about nutrition.
The pastor of Tumu church, Pastor Edward, and his wife have been mentors, of sort, for my time here. They are not Sisaali, but they are Ghanaians so they can give me some insight into the culture that foreigner and Sisaali can't. I also meet with them biweekly for prayer and chill time, which is essential. On Friday this week, Penny and I will travel to Chiana (~ 1 hour's drive, I think) to meet with the SIM missionaries in the north of Ghana for prayer day. Some missionaries don't have phones, so we have radio contact twice a day, but it is not sufficient for good conversation and fellowship, so each month, we meet for prayer day.
Penny and I manage to go running, 2 - 3 times a week. We start at 0600h now since the rains have started and it's not as hot. The cooler weather (rather, the less humid weather) is lovely. It is still 30oC most days, but not so uncomfortable that I feel lethargic. Please thank God with me that I am healthy and able to work here. Pray that the lessons I present to the sunday school, girls in the Bible study, and the students in the Junior Secondary Schools, and relevant and "growthful".
Thanks for reading ~*
Thursday 7 June 2007
Spirited away from the virtual world
If you're still checking this I'm impressed. I feel like I've been away for a long time. Anyway ...
I am currently in Tumu, Ghana, where I'll be living until August. Since my last blog I've spent time with various SIM missionaries in different villages. "My" missionary just returned from the UK this week, so I'm just settling in with her now. She is a lovely woman, and it has been good getting to know her. Her name is Penny. This morning, we went for a short jog (20 minutes) at 5:30 am to miss the heat. She finished the London marathon this year, so I know she can whip me into shape.
After I left Accra three weeks ago, I travelled to surrounding villages to see the work of SIM missionaries. It is interesting to see the contrast between the city and villlage. While Accra was always bustling, the villages were quite. And even more quiet was the road between the villages. As Sherri and I drove along, we'd not see a single person/car/animal for up to a half an hour. We just bumped along the pot-holed road talking to each other and singing along with her CDs. There were certainly times when I wondered what kind of place I'd be staying in for the next four months.
When we arrived, we were greeted by the friendly watchman at the house and made to feel welcome right away. Neither Sherri nor I knew anything about Tumu, so we biked around learning together. We met the church people and the pastor whom I'll work with. That pastor is from another region of Ghana, so he is learning the language (Sisaali) and the life here in Tumu as well. The first impression of the church was a good one, and I look forward to supporting them. After a week in Tumu, I went Chiana, then Yagaba, then Kubugu, then Bolgatanga, then Chiana, then Tumu. This time was mostly for me to get acquainted with my HIV/AIDS teaching material, Islam, and Sisaala culture and to see what the SIMmers are doing. Penny ("my misisonary") picked my up on Saturday, and I have finally unpacked my suitcases for the first time in a month.
Penny lost no time in getting me started on my work here. I have a language instructor and I am learning Sisaali Tumulung for the next two weeks. I have lessons in the morning, then in the afternoon, I go and try out what I have learned. The watchmen and our neighbours are fun to practise with. They are patient as I stumble through their language. Penny and I are still waiting for the director of Education to return from somewhere so that we can meet to discuss HIV/AIDS teaching in the schools. He should be return this week or next, but time in Ghana is not like time in Canada. I begin teaching adult Sunday School, the weekend after next. There is a lot a teaching material (books and tapes) but it's a matter of coming up with relevant teaching for the congregation, which is mostly grandmothers. Prayers on that are much appreciated. I will have a translator with me, so that adds another thing to any lesson I do. Lastly, I will begin discipling some of the young girls in the church. THe pastor, Pastor Edward, really wants to see the girls become leaders/helpers with the children in order to develop a good children's program.
So, three things (AIDS teaching, Sunday school, discipleship) in a week is plenty, with prep time and all. Visiting neighbours and friends is very important to Ghanaians, so Penny and I spend a lot of time greeting and visiting. Please pray that I can balance my time in order to get things done, but that I am flexible enough to go with the flow of the culture. So far so good (but I haven't started any of these things yet, I am still just preparing as I learn the language).
OK, just two more things, particularly for those who have lived with me. My days here usually begin between 5:30 and 6:00 am and I'm in bed by 10:00 at the latest. I still can't believe my shift in sleeping patterns, but everyone in the town, it seems, is out working by 5:30 am get started before the heat of the day comes. Children arrive at school at 6:00 am and I usually see them wandering back home around 2:00 pm. Lastly, Penny and I have reached an agreement for our time together. She will cook for us and I will clean up the kitchen and dining area for us. This is a sweet deal since she cooks quite well! Our househelp will work Tuesdays and Fridays, so we'll have "local" food once a week. What I've had of the local food so far is good. More on that later, since my time here at the internet cafe is nearly up.
Thank you for your funny/encouraging/strange e-mails and comments. It's always good to hear from home.
Thanks for reading ~*
I am currently in Tumu, Ghana, where I'll be living until August. Since my last blog I've spent time with various SIM missionaries in different villages. "My" missionary just returned from the UK this week, so I'm just settling in with her now. She is a lovely woman, and it has been good getting to know her. Her name is Penny. This morning, we went for a short jog (20 minutes) at 5:30 am to miss the heat. She finished the London marathon this year, so I know she can whip me into shape.
After I left Accra three weeks ago, I travelled to surrounding villages to see the work of SIM missionaries. It is interesting to see the contrast between the city and villlage. While Accra was always bustling, the villages were quite. And even more quiet was the road between the villages. As Sherri and I drove along, we'd not see a single person/car/animal for up to a half an hour. We just bumped along the pot-holed road talking to each other and singing along with her CDs. There were certainly times when I wondered what kind of place I'd be staying in for the next four months.
When we arrived, we were greeted by the friendly watchman at the house and made to feel welcome right away. Neither Sherri nor I knew anything about Tumu, so we biked around learning together. We met the church people and the pastor whom I'll work with. That pastor is from another region of Ghana, so he is learning the language (Sisaali) and the life here in Tumu as well. The first impression of the church was a good one, and I look forward to supporting them. After a week in Tumu, I went Chiana, then Yagaba, then Kubugu, then Bolgatanga, then Chiana, then Tumu. This time was mostly for me to get acquainted with my HIV/AIDS teaching material, Islam, and Sisaala culture and to see what the SIMmers are doing. Penny ("my misisonary") picked my up on Saturday, and I have finally unpacked my suitcases for the first time in a month.
Penny lost no time in getting me started on my work here. I have a language instructor and I am learning Sisaali Tumulung for the next two weeks. I have lessons in the morning, then in the afternoon, I go and try out what I have learned. The watchmen and our neighbours are fun to practise with. They are patient as I stumble through their language. Penny and I are still waiting for the director of Education to return from somewhere so that we can meet to discuss HIV/AIDS teaching in the schools. He should be return this week or next, but time in Ghana is not like time in Canada. I begin teaching adult Sunday School, the weekend after next. There is a lot a teaching material (books and tapes) but it's a matter of coming up with relevant teaching for the congregation, which is mostly grandmothers. Prayers on that are much appreciated. I will have a translator with me, so that adds another thing to any lesson I do. Lastly, I will begin discipling some of the young girls in the church. THe pastor, Pastor Edward, really wants to see the girls become leaders/helpers with the children in order to develop a good children's program.
So, three things (AIDS teaching, Sunday school, discipleship) in a week is plenty, with prep time and all. Visiting neighbours and friends is very important to Ghanaians, so Penny and I spend a lot of time greeting and visiting. Please pray that I can balance my time in order to get things done, but that I am flexible enough to go with the flow of the culture. So far so good (but I haven't started any of these things yet, I am still just preparing as I learn the language).
OK, just two more things, particularly for those who have lived with me. My days here usually begin between 5:30 and 6:00 am and I'm in bed by 10:00 at the latest. I still can't believe my shift in sleeping patterns, but everyone in the town, it seems, is out working by 5:30 am get started before the heat of the day comes. Children arrive at school at 6:00 am and I usually see them wandering back home around 2:00 pm. Lastly, Penny and I have reached an agreement for our time together. She will cook for us and I will clean up the kitchen and dining area for us. This is a sweet deal since she cooks quite well! Our househelp will work Tuesdays and Fridays, so we'll have "local" food once a week. What I've had of the local food so far is good. More on that later, since my time here at the internet cafe is nearly up.
Thank you for your funny/encouraging/strange e-mails and comments. It's always good to hear from home.
Thanks for reading ~*
Sunday 13 May 2007
Life in Accra
I am certainly enjoying my time here in Accra. It seems very familiar to me. It is hot and humid, but my guest house has air conditioning, so 3/4 of the time, I am comfortable. There is a problem with electricity here, so in a forty-eight hour period, the power is off for twelve hours, alternating day and night (one day on, next day off during daytime, next day on, next day off during nighttime). Most places have a generator, but not all appliances can run with the generator. To be honest, I hardly notice the outages because I am always going some place or another, but yesterday I was sending e-mails and the power went out before I was finished.
There has been some discussion about my service here, but nothing is set it stone. There is talk of my doing some teaching about AIDS/HIV to school children and pretty much whatever I can get involved with. The pastor of the church up in Tumu and some SIM missionaries will see what they can do with me. I hear reports that the north (eg, Tumu) of Ghana is different from the south (eg, Accra). I am nervous about going up there, but certainly ready for the vacation to end and the work to begin (not that I mind the vacation). I have been well looked after here. Sherri and the other SIMmers are wonderful.
One thing I doubt I will ever get used to is how guys relate to me (and other foreigners). I have had multiple proposals of marriage and one guy even offered his friends sexual services to me! Also, everyone wants to know my phone number. I tried to lie and give a fake number, but when he dialed and didn't get through, he suggested that I call him so he could get my number. I wasn't quick enough to think my way out of the situation, so now he has my number. Fortunately I have call display on my phone. The actual problem with the guys more has to do with saying "no". Ghanaians never say no directly; you have to say it indirectly and people know that "well, try later", etc really means "no". That to me sounds like an invitation to come back to me, so I never really want to say that when someone, say, offers to take me to the beach (which happened yesterday). I try to say something like, "I don't like that" or "My father does not allow me to do that" which makes me feel better than "not now, come back later". I must say though, nothing outrageous (beyond words) has happened and please pray that it remains that way.
When I am not running about with Sherri, I am usually just sitting on the curb outside the guest house chatting it up with the guard and the neighbours. This seems like the essence of Ghanaian culture: sitting and talking with people. It is always a nice time to talk about dumb stuff, or cerebral matters. Everywhere I go, I see people sitting and talking. It is actually a nice change from the busyness of Canadian life. I try to retire to me room by 2100h because I need time by myself to think and do my introverted things.
God has been very good to me so far; except for a few hours of "traveller's discomfort" everything this week has been great. Even the sermon in church today was beneficial. The speaker (in more words) reminded us that God is capable of more than we can ask or imagine with reference to the story of Lazarus. I felt that that was great way to head into this week since I'm starting to think about the work I have come here to do. I am looking forward to my time up in the north.
I will be living alone up in Tumu near a missionary. Please pray that I don't starve to death (I have to cook for myself, but I am thinking about hiring house help. I'll see how it goes).
My time is up. I will write again later.
Thanks for reading ~*
There has been some discussion about my service here, but nothing is set it stone. There is talk of my doing some teaching about AIDS/HIV to school children and pretty much whatever I can get involved with. The pastor of the church up in Tumu and some SIM missionaries will see what they can do with me. I hear reports that the north (eg, Tumu) of Ghana is different from the south (eg, Accra). I am nervous about going up there, but certainly ready for the vacation to end and the work to begin (not that I mind the vacation). I have been well looked after here. Sherri and the other SIMmers are wonderful.
One thing I doubt I will ever get used to is how guys relate to me (and other foreigners). I have had multiple proposals of marriage and one guy even offered his friends sexual services to me! Also, everyone wants to know my phone number. I tried to lie and give a fake number, but when he dialed and didn't get through, he suggested that I call him so he could get my number. I wasn't quick enough to think my way out of the situation, so now he has my number. Fortunately I have call display on my phone. The actual problem with the guys more has to do with saying "no". Ghanaians never say no directly; you have to say it indirectly and people know that "well, try later", etc really means "no". That to me sounds like an invitation to come back to me, so I never really want to say that when someone, say, offers to take me to the beach (which happened yesterday). I try to say something like, "I don't like that" or "My father does not allow me to do that" which makes me feel better than "not now, come back later". I must say though, nothing outrageous (beyond words) has happened and please pray that it remains that way.
When I am not running about with Sherri, I am usually just sitting on the curb outside the guest house chatting it up with the guard and the neighbours. This seems like the essence of Ghanaian culture: sitting and talking with people. It is always a nice time to talk about dumb stuff, or cerebral matters. Everywhere I go, I see people sitting and talking. It is actually a nice change from the busyness of Canadian life. I try to retire to me room by 2100h because I need time by myself to think and do my introverted things.
God has been very good to me so far; except for a few hours of "traveller's discomfort" everything this week has been great. Even the sermon in church today was beneficial. The speaker (in more words) reminded us that God is capable of more than we can ask or imagine with reference to the story of Lazarus. I felt that that was great way to head into this week since I'm starting to think about the work I have come here to do. I am looking forward to my time up in the north.
I will be living alone up in Tumu near a missionary. Please pray that I don't starve to death (I have to cook for myself, but I am thinking about hiring house help. I'll see how it goes).
My time is up. I will write again later.
Thanks for reading ~*
Akwaaba Ghana!
I will only posting from internet cafes from now on I think, so ...
Well, the travels from Cobourg, Ontario to Accra, Ghana were superlatively uneventful, just as I wanted it to be. The most exciting thing that happened was that I sprayed a man behind me on the second plane with my orange juice when I opened it. He was rather gracious about it, and all was well. The next best thing was my banging my head on the overhead compartment in the tiny plane from Toronto to New York. It hurt only for about ten minutes. The whole trip from Cobourg to the SIM guest house in Accra was twenty-one hours. I slept a wee but on the second plane, but I mostly passed the time reading P + P and talking to some folks also travelling from Canada to Ghana.
My time in Ghana so far has been splendid. I have had orientation with Sherri, the SIMmer in charge of that. Orientation basically means pseudotourist. We rode around the city in tro-troes (transit vans)and went shopping all over. Sherri also has many friends, so we hung out with them during the evenings. They are all nice and sociable, so it always a good time. One her friends has a chicken and rice stand, so we ate there once. It was fabulous. The next day we ate out somewhere and I tried red red, which is just black eyed peas topped with fried plantain. It was good, but it flew out of me some four hours later. I would eat it again though. Friday night we went to watch a play called Traffic Jam. It was about a girl with four boyfriends and she had quadruple booked herself for a date with them and her friends had to bail her out of the "traffic jam" at her house. It was funny, but the theme was surprising. In true Ghanaian fashion, the play started an hour and twenty minutes late, but it was a fun night overall. Saturday, we went to the beach just outside of the city. The waves were perfect for riding on boogie boards (oversized flutter boards). I donned my Ghana swimsuit and I have pictures to prove it. As soon as I figure out how to upload pictures, I will do that. Saturday night, I watched American Idol with some of Sherri's American friends. It was an interesting experience. I don't know anything about North American pop culture, so I really felt out of place with all of them. Sherri says it's her escape to America each week; I haven't been here long enough to need to escape from Ghana. This morning, I went to Sherri's church with her. It was all that I expected it to be. Loud music, cute kids and, friendly people. Her friend, Solomonm translated the service for me (from Twi), so I did get something out of it. Now I am just waiting for the washing machine to finish with my clothes so I can hang them up.
Monday (tomorrow) is my last day of orientation and then early (0500h) on Tuesday, Sherri and I will drive up to Tumu, Upper West Region where I will stay and work for the rest of my time here. That will be two days' drive.
I had a get a cell phone (peer pressure; everyone has one) so if you feel like calling just send me an e-mail and I'll give you the number.
Thanks for reading ~*
Well, the travels from Cobourg, Ontario to Accra, Ghana were superlatively uneventful, just as I wanted it to be. The most exciting thing that happened was that I sprayed a man behind me on the second plane with my orange juice when I opened it. He was rather gracious about it, and all was well. The next best thing was my banging my head on the overhead compartment in the tiny plane from Toronto to New York. It hurt only for about ten minutes. The whole trip from Cobourg to the SIM guest house in Accra was twenty-one hours. I slept a wee but on the second plane, but I mostly passed the time reading P + P and talking to some folks also travelling from Canada to Ghana.
My time in Ghana so far has been splendid. I have had orientation with Sherri, the SIMmer in charge of that. Orientation basically means pseudotourist. We rode around the city in tro-troes (transit vans)and went shopping all over. Sherri also has many friends, so we hung out with them during the evenings. They are all nice and sociable, so it always a good time. One her friends has a chicken and rice stand, so we ate there once. It was fabulous. The next day we ate out somewhere and I tried red red, which is just black eyed peas topped with fried plantain. It was good, but it flew out of me some four hours later. I would eat it again though. Friday night we went to watch a play called Traffic Jam. It was about a girl with four boyfriends and she had quadruple booked herself for a date with them and her friends had to bail her out of the "traffic jam" at her house. It was funny, but the theme was surprising. In true Ghanaian fashion, the play started an hour and twenty minutes late, but it was a fun night overall. Saturday, we went to the beach just outside of the city. The waves were perfect for riding on boogie boards (oversized flutter boards). I donned my Ghana swimsuit and I have pictures to prove it. As soon as I figure out how to upload pictures, I will do that. Saturday night, I watched American Idol with some of Sherri's American friends. It was an interesting experience. I don't know anything about North American pop culture, so I really felt out of place with all of them. Sherri says it's her escape to America each week; I haven't been here long enough to need to escape from Ghana. This morning, I went to Sherri's church with her. It was all that I expected it to be. Loud music, cute kids and, friendly people. Her friend, Solomonm translated the service for me (from Twi), so I did get something out of it. Now I am just waiting for the washing machine to finish with my clothes so I can hang them up.
Monday (tomorrow) is my last day of orientation and then early (0500h) on Tuesday, Sherri and I will drive up to Tumu, Upper West Region where I will stay and work for the rest of my time here. That will be two days' drive.
I had a get a cell phone (peer pressure; everyone has one) so if you feel like calling just send me an e-mail and I'll give you the number.
Thanks for reading ~*
Sunday 6 May 2007
Go!
This will be my last post from Canada. I am finally packed and this is my last task before bed.
The four days of training in Toronto was excellent. I met seven other girls who are also going out in the next month. When we met on the first evening, we seemed to click right away. We easily conversed and began to get to know each other. I really felt like I could speak freely with all of them. The seminars were informative and challenging. We discussed everything from spiritual warfare to culture shock, from serving with the poor to relating to supporters. At the end of the week, I felt ready to go. The joke of the week was my arrival with with a box of food. I thought that breakfast was not provided, and many of you know that that can't work for me. I felt like an idiot initially with my big box of food when we were taken to the kitchen and shown the wide variety of breakfast items. I recovered quickly, and we all had a good laugh.
My weekend in Cobourg was busy with shopping and packing and cleaning house for the little going-away party my mom had for me. Members of my prayer team in Cobourg and some other friends came over for supper and prayer. It was a good time, but I was rather tired by the end of the night.
I am off to bed. I don't sleep well on planes, so I need plenty rest to get me through the trials of international travel. I have packed Pride and Prejudice to help pass the time and lots of food to keep my brain happy. Thanks for your prayers.
Thanks for reading ~*
The four days of training in Toronto was excellent. I met seven other girls who are also going out in the next month. When we met on the first evening, we seemed to click right away. We easily conversed and began to get to know each other. I really felt like I could speak freely with all of them. The seminars were informative and challenging. We discussed everything from spiritual warfare to culture shock, from serving with the poor to relating to supporters. At the end of the week, I felt ready to go. The joke of the week was my arrival with with a box of food. I thought that breakfast was not provided, and many of you know that that can't work for me. I felt like an idiot initially with my big box of food when we were taken to the kitchen and shown the wide variety of breakfast items. I recovered quickly, and we all had a good laugh.
My weekend in Cobourg was busy with shopping and packing and cleaning house for the little going-away party my mom had for me. Members of my prayer team in Cobourg and some other friends came over for supper and prayer. It was a good time, but I was rather tired by the end of the night.
I am off to bed. I don't sleep well on planes, so I need plenty rest to get me through the trials of international travel. I have packed Pride and Prejudice to help pass the time and lots of food to keep my brain happy. Thanks for your prayers.
Thanks for reading ~*
Saturday 28 April 2007
Set ...
Well, seven of the last nine days, I have mostly spent my time hanging out with friends in London and generally relaxing. Jennyfaire invaded my room this past week, and we had a great time catching up.
Now I am packing and running here and there purchasing culturally acceptable clothes (long skirts) and various supplies. It seems that everything is in order now, finances, prayer team, flights, travel insurance, meds, Bibles ... There was a little drama with the Bibles. A couple weeks back, my friend's father offered to purchase some for me (and gave me tips on how to acquire some in Ghana that are written in the language of the people) and the same day, they were shipped from the Bible League in Burlington. When they didn't arrive on Thursday, I called the Bible League and discovered that my apartment number was not included in the address. What's worse is that the package had not been returned to the Bible League which basically meant that the package was lost somewhere in real reality and I had one day to find it. After a quick consultation with my trusty, mailman friend, I went to my local post office. Hallelujah! The package was there and had been for about two weeks. The post office sent me two notices of its presence there, but clearly, without my full address, the notices never reached me. Had I waited a few more hours to check at the post office, the package would not have been there.
In two days, I pop my first mefloquine pill (malaria prophylaxis), that means I'll be in Ghana in nine days. I'm quite excited. In the meantime, I look forward to the training in Toronto. I am going on this trip alone, but I'll be training with eight others who are preparing for short term missions in various countries. It ought to be a great opportunity for fellowship with like minds, encouragement, refinement, and growthful reflection.
I am currently suffering from flu-like symptoms which are not good travelling companions. Please pray with me that I recover fully within the week. Please thank God with me for this opportunity to serve in Ghana and for way plans are coming together.
Thanks for reading ~*
Postscript: I realize that "growthful" is not a word, but I can't think of the actual word I want. I heard this non-word two years ago and still have not thought of a synonym that is in the dictionary. I am open to suggestions.
Now I am packing and running here and there purchasing culturally acceptable clothes (long skirts) and various supplies. It seems that everything is in order now, finances, prayer team, flights, travel insurance, meds, Bibles ... There was a little drama with the Bibles. A couple weeks back, my friend's father offered to purchase some for me (and gave me tips on how to acquire some in Ghana that are written in the language of the people) and the same day, they were shipped from the Bible League in Burlington. When they didn't arrive on Thursday, I called the Bible League and discovered that my apartment number was not included in the address. What's worse is that the package had not been returned to the Bible League which basically meant that the package was lost somewhere in real reality and I had one day to find it. After a quick consultation with my trusty, mailman friend, I went to my local post office. Hallelujah! The package was there and had been for about two weeks. The post office sent me two notices of its presence there, but clearly, without my full address, the notices never reached me. Had I waited a few more hours to check at the post office, the package would not have been there.
In two days, I pop my first mefloquine pill (malaria prophylaxis), that means I'll be in Ghana in nine days. I'm quite excited. In the meantime, I look forward to the training in Toronto. I am going on this trip alone, but I'll be training with eight others who are preparing for short term missions in various countries. It ought to be a great opportunity for fellowship with like minds, encouragement, refinement, and growthful reflection.
I am currently suffering from flu-like symptoms which are not good travelling companions. Please pray with me that I recover fully within the week. Please thank God with me for this opportunity to serve in Ghana and for way plans are coming together.
Thanks for reading ~*
Postscript: I realize that "growthful" is not a word, but I can't think of the actual word I want. I heard this non-word two years ago and still have not thought of a synonym that is in the dictionary. I am open to suggestions.
Tuesday 3 April 2007
Ready ...
Preparations have started for my departure. Last week, I had two vaccinations (fortunately, others are still good from my previous trip) which put my arm out of commission for two days. My deltoid was in severe pain.
I am grateful to all of my supporters for their enthusiasm in praying and donating. School is getting busy and stressful, so they are one source of encouragement for me. Please continue to pray for me as I prepare physically, emotionally and spiritually. I have a lot of business to take care of now for when school resumes in September.
A few weeks back, I was walking home from the grocery store, heavy-laden with groceries. About ten minutes into the walk, I grumbled to myself, thinking that a car would be handy right about then. I had to stop myself from complaining and thank God that I had good food to eat and a healthy body that could handle that much exertion. Sometime later I started singing a Toby Mac song, "Made to love" but stopped at the line: anything I would give up for You / everything I give it all away. I didn't think I was able to give up my health. The following was my basic train of thought: I wouldn't be able to do all the fun stuff I enjoy now if I weren't healthy ---> what if I get bitten by a snake or something in Ghana? ---> what if I contract meningitis or something and have all my limbs cut off? ---> maybe I shouldn't go to Ghana ---> et cetera ---> now wait just a minute! ---> I can get sick and/or disabled in the comfort of my own apartment ---> anywhere for that matter ---> "do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus" Philippians 4:6-7 ---> "but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength ..." Isaiah 40:31 ---> OK, I'm going to Ghana to serve God!
I heard a woman from Serbia speaking two weeks ago about the very same thing, finding security in God or in herself and familiar circumstances. I gave her a hearty "amen" and was further encouraged step out in faith rather than hold back in fear. I am very excited about my trip but I am not in my usual freak-out mode. With a clear head, I can better continue with all the preparations I mentioned earlier.
Thanks for reading ~*
I am grateful to all of my supporters for their enthusiasm in praying and donating. School is getting busy and stressful, so they are one source of encouragement for me. Please continue to pray for me as I prepare physically, emotionally and spiritually. I have a lot of business to take care of now for when school resumes in September.
A few weeks back, I was walking home from the grocery store, heavy-laden with groceries. About ten minutes into the walk, I grumbled to myself, thinking that a car would be handy right about then. I had to stop myself from complaining and thank God that I had good food to eat and a healthy body that could handle that much exertion. Sometime later I started singing a Toby Mac song, "Made to love" but stopped at the line: anything I would give up for You / everything I give it all away. I didn't think I was able to give up my health. The following was my basic train of thought: I wouldn't be able to do all the fun stuff I enjoy now if I weren't healthy ---> what if I get bitten by a snake or something in Ghana? ---> what if I contract meningitis or something and have all my limbs cut off? ---> maybe I shouldn't go to Ghana ---> et cetera ---> now wait just a minute! ---> I can get sick and/or disabled in the comfort of my own apartment ---> anywhere for that matter ---> "do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus" Philippians 4:6-7 ---> "but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength ..." Isaiah 40:31 ---> OK, I'm going to Ghana to serve God!
I heard a woman from Serbia speaking two weeks ago about the very same thing, finding security in God or in herself and familiar circumstances. I gave her a hearty "amen" and was further encouraged step out in faith rather than hold back in fear. I am very excited about my trip but I am not in my usual freak-out mode. With a clear head, I can better continue with all the preparations I mentioned earlier.
Thanks for reading ~*
Wednesday 7 March 2007
Prayer Letter
Dear Friends and Family,
Many of you probably know that I traveled to Ghana with a mission's team in 2000. Well, even before I arrived back in Canada, I wanted to return there, but unfortunately, it was just an idea that sat in the back of my mind. I didn't really know how to go about it.
A year ago at my church's missions conference, I was really challenged to actively pursue an opportunity to return to Ghana as a missionary. I was introduced to Doraine Ross, a representative from Serving In Missions (SIM) Canada, and we talked about Christ, Africa, and the life of a missionary. She encouraged me to apply to SIM Canada because there could be an opportunity there for me to use my health care skills and share the gospel of Jesus to Ghanaians. I did some research to find out more about SIM and prayed about the opportunity before me and finally applied five months later.
Last week, I was accepted as a short term associate to serve in two communities in the north of Ghana, Chiana, and Tumu. After four days of training in Toronto, I will be in Ghana from May to August 2007. Under the supervision of SIM missionaries, I will be participating in a wide variety of ministries, including church planting, discipleship, women's medicine, and health teaching for women youth and children. I am really looking forward to this opportunity because I get to use some of my newly acquired nursing skills and get a feel for the life of a career missionary in Ghana.
Ghana is a small country in West Africa with beautiful beaches on the Gulf of Guinea. It is home to 22.4 million people, with the highest density of people along the coast near the capital, Accra. There are many Christians in Ghana, but there are also many Muslims, Animists, and other tribal religious groups. English is the official language, but Ghanaians also speak multiple African languages.
With a language in common, I am excited about this chance to serve the Ghanaians alongside veteran missionaries.God has given me a love for Himself, a desire to serve, and practical skills to be able to work there, and I think this is a great opportunity. There are two ways in which you can support me with this endeavor: by praying for me or donating money and/or small, English Bibles.
The need for prayer goes without saying. Ghanaians like to say gye Nyame which means "except God". Psalm 127:1a says, "Except the LORD builds the house, its builders build in vain." Please pray with me that this trip remains all about God and spreading His gospel and that I don't let my fear of the unknown stop me from doing what I am called to do.
If you want to support me financially, please make cheques payable to SIM Canada and send it to their office at the address below. The budget for this trip is $8052 to cover cost associated with travel, vaccinations, accommodations in country, and administration. I have some funds saved, but I am hoping to raise about 2/3 of the overall cost. Donations of Bibles will be very valuable in sharing the word of God with needy people. Please send any Bibles to me directly.
I look forward to hearing from you. Please feel free to contact me if you want more information. While I am in Ghana, I hope to keep this blog so you can read about my experiences. Thank you.
-----
SIM Canada
10 Huntingdale Blvd
Scarborough, ON M1W 2S5
-----
* Don't forget to put my name on the cheque
Thanks for reading ~*
Many of you probably know that I traveled to Ghana with a mission's team in 2000. Well, even before I arrived back in Canada, I wanted to return there, but unfortunately, it was just an idea that sat in the back of my mind. I didn't really know how to go about it.
A year ago at my church's missions conference, I was really challenged to actively pursue an opportunity to return to Ghana as a missionary. I was introduced to Doraine Ross, a representative from Serving In Missions (SIM) Canada, and we talked about Christ, Africa, and the life of a missionary. She encouraged me to apply to SIM Canada because there could be an opportunity there for me to use my health care skills and share the gospel of Jesus to Ghanaians. I did some research to find out more about SIM and prayed about the opportunity before me and finally applied five months later.
Last week, I was accepted as a short term associate to serve in two communities in the north of Ghana, Chiana, and Tumu. After four days of training in Toronto, I will be in Ghana from May to August 2007. Under the supervision of SIM missionaries, I will be participating in a wide variety of ministries, including church planting, discipleship, women's medicine, and health teaching for women youth and children. I am really looking forward to this opportunity because I get to use some of my newly acquired nursing skills and get a feel for the life of a career missionary in Ghana.
Ghana is a small country in West Africa with beautiful beaches on the Gulf of Guinea. It is home to 22.4 million people, with the highest density of people along the coast near the capital, Accra. There are many Christians in Ghana, but there are also many Muslims, Animists, and other tribal religious groups. English is the official language, but Ghanaians also speak multiple African languages.
With a language in common, I am excited about this chance to serve the Ghanaians alongside veteran missionaries.God has given me a love for Himself, a desire to serve, and practical skills to be able to work there, and I think this is a great opportunity. There are two ways in which you can support me with this endeavor: by praying for me or donating money and/or small, English Bibles.
The need for prayer goes without saying. Ghanaians like to say gye Nyame which means "except God". Psalm 127:1a says, "Except the LORD builds the house, its builders build in vain." Please pray with me that this trip remains all about God and spreading His gospel and that I don't let my fear of the unknown stop me from doing what I am called to do.
If you want to support me financially, please make cheques payable to SIM Canada and send it to their office at the address below. The budget for this trip is $8052 to cover cost associated with travel, vaccinations, accommodations in country, and administration. I have some funds saved, but I am hoping to raise about 2/3 of the overall cost. Donations of Bibles will be very valuable in sharing the word of God with needy people. Please send any Bibles to me directly.
I look forward to hearing from you. Please feel free to contact me if you want more information. While I am in Ghana, I hope to keep this blog so you can read about my experiences. Thank you.
-----
SIM Canada
10 Huntingdale Blvd
Scarborough, ON M1W 2S5
-----
* Don't forget to put my name on the cheque
Thanks for reading ~*
Wednesday 28 February 2007
Matthew 9:29b
[Jesus] said "According to your faith will it be done to you."
Sadly, perhaps I don't have enough faith right now. In two months, I plan to be in Toronto for training and, shortly thereafter, be on a plane to Ghana. I have received nothing from SIM thus far and the package was supposed to have been mailed last week. I have nearly reached panic mode because there is so much to be done: vaccinations, travel arrangements, fundraising, police check,prayer team assembly, etc. I hate things being left to the last minute because spontaneity and unpredictablity make me feel rather uneasy.
Fortunately, this is where God comes in and saves the day; where I am weak, He is strong. If this trip is going to happen, it ought to be done His way. As I think back to my first trip to Ghana in 2000, I know that spontaneity is the name of the game. As frustrated as I feel now, I know this serves as preparation for my time there (and, strangely enough, this is good in all areas of my life). I am way too much of a control freak sometimes. In all areas of my life, if I can't see what lies ahead, I like to back away and do nothing, rather than trust God and make a step/leap of faith. About a year ago, I finally conceded to myself that this fear thing was really incompatible with faith. I prayed for more faith, so here it is, yet another chance to exercise my faith muscles.
OK, no more ranting. I am feeling a little more rational now. I'll wait patiently for the package knowing that the best thing will work out.
Thanks for reading ~*
Sadly, perhaps I don't have enough faith right now. In two months, I plan to be in Toronto for training and, shortly thereafter, be on a plane to Ghana. I have received nothing from SIM thus far and the package was supposed to have been mailed last week. I have nearly reached panic mode because there is so much to be done: vaccinations, travel arrangements, fundraising, police check,prayer team assembly, etc. I hate things being left to the last minute because spontaneity and unpredictablity make me feel rather uneasy.
Fortunately, this is where God comes in and saves the day; where I am weak, He is strong. If this trip is going to happen, it ought to be done His way. As I think back to my first trip to Ghana in 2000, I know that spontaneity is the name of the game. As frustrated as I feel now, I know this serves as preparation for my time there (and, strangely enough, this is good in all areas of my life). I am way too much of a control freak sometimes. In all areas of my life, if I can't see what lies ahead, I like to back away and do nothing, rather than trust God and make a step/leap of faith. About a year ago, I finally conceded to myself that this fear thing was really incompatible with faith. I prayed for more faith, so here it is, yet another chance to exercise my faith muscles.
OK, no more ranting. I am feeling a little more rational now. I'll wait patiently for the package knowing that the best thing will work out.
Thanks for reading ~*
Wednesday 21 February 2007
Disclaimer et aliud
I apologize now to Xan and the likes of him for any discomfort I may cause. I am not a writer, so, hereafter, the paragraph structure (among other things) may make you cringe. Any drivel will also need to be excused. I tend to write reflections, etc with haste.
Since blogging is hip these days, I will use this as my primary means of general communication to anyone interested in following along. You're welcome to leave a comment, but please identify yourself somehow (I will delete any anonymous comments).
Thanks for reading ~*
Since blogging is hip these days, I will use this as my primary means of general communication to anyone interested in following along. You're welcome to leave a comment, but please identify yourself somehow (I will delete any anonymous comments).
Thanks for reading ~*
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