Things seem to be falling into a nice routine here. Today, like all Tuesdays, we had a lecture at LASP. Before the lecture began, some friends and I talked about some awkward situations we have gotten ourselves into since coming here. Most of them have involved the local custom of greeting with a kiss on the cheek or a hug, and it was great to start the day with a good laugh. Our topic of discussion this morning was economic systems. Despite the fact that millions of questions regarding applications and implications were running through my head, it is nice to have clear and simple definitions of terms used so frequently, such as capitalism and Marxism. The notes handout I was given is was full of my unfinished thoughts and unanswered questions, some of which we discussed for an hour after the lecture and during lunch. I can't wait to talk more about these and other new ideas/perspectives I've learned about throughout the rest of the semester and when I get home!
It was a little breezy and cooler today, so the walk to ICADS was especially enjoyable. Spanish class was much the same as always, but while we were at ICADS it was announced that one of our classmates, Molly, has decided to return home for the semester. It was really sad to see her leave, but I'm sure the whole experience was in God's will for her.
Upon leaving ICADS, Haleigh and I saw her host mom waiting to pick her up. For some reason her job had brought her over to the part of town where ICADS is, so she gave us a ride home. Arriving home early provided me with some quiet time alone before Monica and mamá got home. My Spanish homework was easy, so I quickly got that out of the way and then I just read and spent some time with God for a little while. It was so refreshing! God is clearly sustaining me each day, and I can see Him moving in my life consistently, opening my eyes and guiding my actions. I also started the rest of my research for my thesis paper today. I will get comments from my professor about my tentative thesis on Thursday and will have a better idea of where to go from there.
When Monica and mamá came home we had dinner and then Moni and I went to the supermarket to pick up a few things. During dinner, as during all meals since he has moved in, Tony teased me about missing John. He has made up a song about being homesick that he claims I sing every night in my sleep. His sense of humor is enthusiastically welcomed. I'm very grateful for the good relationships I've been building with my hosts...they make this experience even better!
After going to the supermarket, Monica and I we hung out for a while and I went to bed fairly early. While routine is nice, this new pace of life is sometimes a challenge for me to adjust to. Each moment is a step of faith, and its difficult to resist trying to plan ahead or prepare for what's next. Taking a deep breath and enjoying exactly what is happening in the moment is a valuable skill I am trying to attain. With God's grace upon me, maybe I will have a better grasp on these valuable lessons by the end of this adventure. :)
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