Things I learned in Russia

So... I just got back from spending about 10ish days in Russia. (Its confusing with the time differences and the traveling... etc!). Anyway... I got back last night. Tonight I am at the youth house... life is so odd.

Last night I slept in my bed. I love my bed. I love it because it is in my house, with my family and my dog. I would have slept on the floor if I had to. I love home... I don't get to be there much, but I love it. So... I learned some things while I was in Russia last week.. here they are... some interesting, some heartfelt... all true.

#1. Riding in a "double decker" plane? Not really that thrilling. Kinda just like any other plane by hour 2 of 8.
#2. I could drive in Russia... their driving? Right up my alley! Plus, I would do MUCH better without HAVING to stay in my own lane!
#3. Embracing every opportunity to connect with another culture? Pretty much my key to my existence.
#4. Cleanliness, sanitation, and variety in the food available? Unfortunately (but truly) are luxuries of the rich (aka. North Americans).
#5. Cabbage won't kill you.
#6. People who complain too much should really just stay home. AND people who complain in front of the people who are hosting them... they should REALLY stay home.
#7. Anytime someone makes you a meal you should be thankful for their gift of hospitality, you should NEVER say things like... more soup? more bread? unrecognizable proteins? hotdogs?
#8. Characterizing everything you see in a country as "Russian this" or "Russian that" makes you look ignorant for lumping together a country and one small (somewhat sheltered) encounter you had with it.

There you have it. 8 things I learned. Also I learned to love more fully. I learned to embrace those whose language I do not speak. I learned to be ashamed that I haven't made more efforts to become bilingual. I learned to worship fully with youth and children in a foreign language and place. I learned that God is working in mighty ways in an amazing country. I learned that I am a far different traveler than most people are.

I learned that I CAN love another country as much as I love Brazil and it doesn't mean I have to love Brazil (or Costa Rica) less.

I learned to look for Jesus wherever I go.

I learned the art of coming home.

Today I am good. Thanks for reading!