Africa

As I near the end of a long journey home (14 flights covering 24,000 miles, 6 countries, and three continents) I realize I certainly did take the "scenic route." I've been blessed to experience many things most people only hear of and some may dream of.

This morning I read part of a news article in which the author mentioned that a new enforcement officer had really helped the community. One major benefit was that this new officer had dealt with a number of property appearance issues. Basically, there's too much mess on the yards or people's trees are growing to far over their kitchen window. As I read it, I thought to myself that I've just come through a place where people are lucky to have a kitchen or a window into it. Most of these people would be overjoyed even to have food to cook in the kitchen they dream of having; and this news article talks of the benefits of hiring someone to make sure front yards look nice. It reminded me that once again, my travels have changed my perspective of things. Now just to be clear, I have not problem with people wanting their communities to look nice. In fact, I would be one of the strongest supporters of taking good care of what we have been blessed with. When I owned a home, I did what I could to keep it looking nice, and I plan to do the same when I own a home again. But I do have to question; how important is it, really? It also makes me more thankful that I have so much that such little things become a concern for me.

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My journey began with a stop in South Africa. I arrived to the friendly greetings of a family I know. After a short night and long flight, they now took me back to their place where they finished packing for a trip I was joining them on. We drove 3 hours and spent the night; ready to enter the Kruger National Park. Having dreamed of this day for a long time, it was great to finally arrive. In the next three days, I saw a lot of wildlife and had a great time with my family of friends.




Some of the thousands of Impala's... pretty much the same as the deer we would see in Canada

Baboons. Fun to watch as they played with each other. As with many other animals, there were a lot of young ones.

More than one giraffe was close enough that I couldn't get the whole animal in my camera viewfinder.

One of the highlights was watching a pride of lions. We saw 8 of them together including a few that were only about a month old. They had a hippo close by that they had been feeding from the last couple of days. We were only a few meters from these

Elephants all over the place...

And some zebras...

We saw the "big 5" and a whole lot of other animals

Well, after Kruger, it was time to head to Kenya where I was to meet a pastor friend of mine who was there to do some preaching and teaching. It was interesting and somewhat disheartening to see and hear about the state of Kenya and specifically the church there. So many people striving for title and position. So many using Christianity as a means to greater success, title, and financial comfort, all at the cost of other people and the true gospel. This sort of thing exists everywhere, but I have never before seen it to this extent. In addition to the mis-use of the Gospel, there's also the healing and forgiveness that must still be found after massive political problems a year ago. I even heard of pastors who had directly stated "Today I'm not a pastor" then gone out and killed someone from a rival tribe. The church has far to go.

And outside the church is no better. There were many places Chris and I couldn't go alone, and even along the open highway, our driver refused to stop until he found a place he considered safe for us to exit the car to stretch our legs. The besides the safety issues and political corruption that is so rampant in the country, there is also a deeply ingrained mindset against women and children in their society. One example we encountered was at a restaurant when we asked the waiter to serve the ladies first he responded that "In Kenya, we have a vision to place women last." Just for the record, I do not share that vision, and neither does God!

In addition to the time in churches, we also had a few other experiences...

I got to pet a cheetah...

Hold another one...

See others doing something I've often dreamed of...

Eat some wild meat...

And feel a little bit of racism towards myself for not being Kenyan (see the pricing on this picture)

All in all, it was a challenging time, but one that opened my eyes a little more as well.

After a week in Kenya, it was back to South Africa for a few days with friends and at Hillsong Cape Town. It was so good to be back in a positive, encouraging, and uplifting church environment.

With this part of my trip behind me, it was now time to get on the plane again. Next stop, Burkina Faso and a very special woman waiting very anxiously for me.

On my way, I had a couple of stops and somehow the airline managed to loose one of my bags. No surprise; but I did hope to see it again. After filling out the forms and requesting the bag be sent home rather than trying to catch up to me in Africa, I finished a long layover at a dive of a small airport then took the last flight to get to Burkina.

After 6 months apart, we finally had a chance to talk in person. I also appreciated the chance to see some of the work the Greta has been doing.

We took a ride in a truck...

Had to fix another one...

Tried the local taxi...

And even got on the STKK (pronounced "Es Tae KaKa") bus. It would be their version of the Greyhound that operates in Canada and USA.

Here's the bus station. It came complete with a drop hole toilet behind a door that didn't close (many people just used the ground wherever they felt like), local market people trying to sell us anything they could, children and devout Muslims begging for money, one old man doing something really strange that almost seemed like a curse, and a whole lot of garbage - literally (it looked and smelled very much like a garbage dump)

Our 9am bus departed at 11:50 (either mechanical issues, or simply the Burkina way of operating on schedule), and we arrived at our destination at 6 that night. Not too bad for a 3 hour trip. Made me think of Gilligan's Island and their 3 hour tour.

Unlike some other people, I didn't ride a motorbike on the top of a van...

Sometimes I got to use the modern showers...

...and a flush (pour the water in after your job) toilet!
I also got to sleep under the stars (my bedroom for one night)

and with some extra critters :) - 14 inches long

Strange side note, now that I'm back in Canada, I still find myself checking for insects or reptiles everywhere I look. Spot some black fuzz, and I take a second look to see if it's a poisonous spider. Lift something off the floor, and be careful for the snake or scorpion that could be underneath.

Staying at a number of different places during my three weeks in Burkina, I also got to stay in some more modern rooms. This one even had a shower with running water. Cold water only, but I didn't have to use a pail. It didn't really compare to the last hotel I stayed at in Cape Town, but when compared to camping in a tent, it's pretty good. I love camping and I enjoyed the stay.

In typical African fashion, another place I stayed had a door with a lock that worked part time, and one night I got to my room only to find the door knob completely broken. The next three days I had to climb through the window to get into or out of my room.

Like I said earlier, I appreciated the chance to see some of Greta's work. I was able to be at some children's clubs with 70 or so children playing games, singing songs, and hearing the Word of God. I was disappointed to see some of these operating in areas that were literally garbage dumps. One of the most shocking things I saw was during one club when a man from nearby decided he needed to relieve his bladder so he walked over to one pile of garbage, opened his pants, and in plain view of all the children, proceeded do just that. Upon completion, he casually walked back to his shop and another man went back to the same spot to do the same thing. Actions that would get you thrown into jail in Canada are just commonplace over there.

It's interesting to see how children respond to things differently over there. Any white person is an automatic tourist attraction. People of all ages look and stare, some like to talk to you and other want to touch you, just to feel if white skin is different from brown skin. Pull out a camera, and suddenly, you're the biggest drawing card on their agenda. Nearly every child wants to be in a picture, and they'll swarm you and literally fight each other for the chance to be in a shot.
Here's Greta showing some pictures she took.

...and here's one I took while trying to find my way out of the crowd that had turned violent in their attempt to get into a picture. They didn't attack me, but when they started hitting and pushing each other out of the way, I decided I'd better put away the camera and leave.

One place we went was an orphanage run by a wonderful American woman - dare I, as a Canadian, put the two words "wonderful" and "American" in the same sentence:). There are children who have lost their parents and children who's parents have just decided they don't want them anymore. In some cases, the children are there for a short time while families sort out life (mostly if a mother has died and the father needs time to get sorted), and in other cases, the children are there a little longer. Some stay there, some go back to their families, and some find new families through adoption. All are lovely, lovable, and greatly loved by God. Unfortunately, not all are loved by their own flesh and blood.

Here are two of the children eating a nutritious meal. This is the standard way of eating over there. Use your right hand only. It is used for eating, greeting people, and giving or receiving something from someone. The left hand is reserved for dealing with the food after your body has processed it and it's come out the other end.

Here is Greta with two children she wanted to take home. Actually, she wanted to take almost all of them home with her. The child closest to the camera was 3 years old and unable to walk. We weren't sure if it was a condition caused by the way he was held when he was younger, by poor nutrition, by poor care of his body, or something else. He appeared to be in pain any time someone placed him in a walking position; so we suspected that some massage and appropriate help from a trained professional and he'd be well on his way to a much better life. The problem is, there just aren't enough people helping children like this.

After three weeks in Burkina and a total of 6 weeks in Africa, it was time to move on. I had one final day with my girlfriend and we planned to go to a park where we could sit and talk over a picnic lunch. Well, surprise, surprise, the park was closed. Knowing of no other great alternatives, we sat in the car on the parking lot of the park and talked over a picnic lunch.

We even managed to find a fairly nice restaurant to spend our final evening at. With electricity down throughout much of the city, we were glad to find a spot with a backup generator.

It was a good way to finish our time together and now we both eagerly anticipate the next time we will see each other. We don't know when that will be, but we look forward to it anyways. Hopefully we can find a way to live on the same continent as each other and better still, in the same country! Hopefully it will be soon. But until then, there's still skype and email (when her internet works).

Now I'm back in Canada and my future is unsure.

When I started this blog, I was about to embark on a journey that would take me across the world. I've now completed that journey and it's taken me to much more of the world than I would have ever imagined. During that time I've been to 9 different countries on 4 different continents. I've met people and made friends from around the world. I've seen, heard, tasted, smelled, and experienced things I had previously only seen in pictures or in my imagination. I've gone from being recently widowed, through a journey of healing and restoration, and am now in another relationship and thinking about getting married once again. My life has radically changed and my mindsets have been challenged, stretched, and expanded. When I left home, I wanted to make an impact in this world. I still do. Just now, I have a little more of an idea how big the world is and how much of an impact is needed. It's a big task. I won't claim to know all the answers or to have all the solutions. I won't try to do it alone cause I know I can't. But I also will not sit idley by and leave the work for others to do. I must do my part and challenge you to do yours.

Three years ago, someone told me a story of two men walking down a beach full of washed up starfish. As they walked, one man picked one up and threw it back into the water. They continued walking and he picked up another one and threw it into the water. The other man commented "Surely you don't think you can save all these starfish." The man simply bent down, picked up another one, and said "No. But I can save this one" as he threw it into the sea.

This chapter of my life is now closed and the next chapter is about to begin. The thing is, I'm not just reading the book. I'm writing it. I just don't know yet what I'm writing. Please pray for me as I step into that next chapter and seek what God has for me there.

getting there

I'm almost home so I should be able to get a post up here sometime after I get there. In the mean time, I put some pictures on facebook... check this link

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=87874&l=1aba0&id=566943522

Quick link

With limited time and internet, here's a link to some photos I just put up for all to see.


http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=80163&l=6eb30&id=566943522


My time in Africa is going well so far and like I've heard so many times the last two years... The best is yet to come!

Enjoy the photos!

sorry

It's been a long time since my last post. I'm in Kenya now and have a few more stops before I get home to Canada. It's a long trip and even longer story... Due to time and technology restrictions, I don't expect to be able to post anything here for another week at least. However, when the next post comes, it will be well worth the read!!!!!!!!!!!!

See you all soon!

Preaching and more

I’m sitting in my room with the window open to enjoy the fresh air before it gets too hot and the air conditioning comes on. As I sit here, I notice many sounds around the community. There’s someone moving this morning so I hear the sounds from that. I hear traffic in the distance as I live close to a major roadway. There are a couple of birds chirping. …And then there are the ever present barking dogs…

I brought another friend to the airport today and in two hours; I make yet another trip that way. I’m getting tired of saying goodbye. I’ve had to bid farewell to so many friends already and there are many more to come in the next three weeks. On the other hand, there are many things I look forward to after I leave. It really is an exciting time in my life even though I don’t know what I’ll do when I get home. For now, I’ll just plan my trip home and look forward to seeing lots of people I’ve missed for the last couple of years.

I got a CD last week that created some strange feelings in my mind. On the front of it is the Hillsong Logo that is used on CD’s with messages from the weekend church services. The part that felt strange was seeing my name on it instead of the usual pastors who preach on a regular basis. True, it was a small group of people at the extension service where I preached, but it’s part of Hillsong Church and I wasn’t sure what to do with it. I’ve received some really positive feedback regarding that message and I believe it went well. To me, the most encouraging thing is that I’m seeing fruit out of the pain I’ve experienced in the last few years. I was quite open and personal in the message as I talked about my wife dying of cancer and some things I’ve learned through my time of supporting her in sickness and my grieving her loss. I was able to testify of God’s goodness and provide some ideas on how other people can do life well when they face struggles. After I finished preaching, the pastor got up and presented an invitation for people to commit their lives to God; and a few minutes later, the angels in Heaven rejoiced one more person accepting Christ. While I have seen other sorts of fruit and people’s lives being impacted by God’s faithfulness in my life, this is the first person I know of who has responded in this way. While it does nothing to minimize the pain I’ve felt, it helps that I can see some benefit. It also makes me question again; how much am I willing to give up for the soul of one person. Jesus gave it all.

Preacher Boy

I had an interesting conversation the other day during which I was told I’d be preaching before I went home – yes, told; not asked. I’ve served in church closely under the leadership of Chris Mendez, one of the pastors at Hillsong, and he said he’d be getting me to preach at an extension service (a service held at a location other than one of the bigger, main locations). I just got confirmation this week that the chosen date is this coming Sunday, November 30. I had already started preparing the message when Chris confirmed the date and mentioned something he’d like me to include. I was encouraged by the fact that I already had it in my message. It’s a great privilege and a great responsibility. I pray God uses me in a powerful way to change people’s lives.

Goodbye, here I come

As we wind up for the Christmas season, my thoughts flood my mind. Yesterday morning I found out a friend of mine is flying home to America on Thursday and she won’t be back till after I leave, so I said farewell. It drove home the reality that I will soon be saying farewell to many of my closest friends over the last couple of years.

One of my housemates goes home two weeks from today and our paths won’t cross again till one of us take a vacation and goes in the direction of the other. He was my neighbour when I first arrived in Australia and we moved into the same house a few months later together with a few other friends who have since left. We’ve been a significant part of each other’s lives since we both moved to a new land and ended up becoming friends.

Then there’s my first connect group leader who was overcome with joy the second time she saw me (interesting story she’s a little embarrassed about).

There’s also my connect group; his amazing splattering of individuals who decided to come together and join under my leadership. What an amazing group of people!

There’s people I’ve done ministry with, ones I’ve done classes with, and still others I’ve done vacations with.

There have been so many people I’ve met and grown to love in the past few years and it’s not easy saying goodbye. But at the same time, I look forward to what lies ahead.

When I came to Australia, I prayed that God would help me to have a big enough impact that when I leave, I will be missed; that people will notice when I leave and wish I was still here. I also prayed that I would have trained up enough of the right people to fill my roles so the ministry and life impact will continue. I believe both prayers have been answered.

Goodbyes are nothing new. Some are for longer period than others, and some are more welcome than others. I remember the joyful comments of one man after quitting his job. He said he had never seen the company in a better way than “In the rear-view mirror for the last time.” I’ve also experienced the other type where there’s unimaginable pain with the knowledge of never seeing someone again this side of Heaven. I wouldn’t say I’m looking either of those in the face now, but it’s goodbye nonetheless. It’s a happy/sad time – kind of like sweet and sour meatballs – two flavours that shouldn’t mix yet when mixed in just the right combination, produce something really special.

One of the greatest blessings in my life right now is that I truly know there are people in multiple countries who all want more of my time. I could look at my situation and see the negative side of having to say goodbye, or I can look on the other side and realize that goodbye in one place is also hello in another. I therefore choose to look forward with anticipation to that hello.

Things I'll gladly leave behind

Here is the 4th and final part of my series on things I love and love a little less about Canada and Australia.


Houses with no insulation or sound barrier to other rooms or the outside

The 11 most venomous snakes in the world and 20 of the 22 most venomous

Wide selection of poisonous spiders

Slow walkers. It took only two weeks after my knee operation before I was walking faster than the average Aussie. I’m sorry, but when I go shopping, I have a destination in mind. I’m not too interested in going slow to see all the scenery in the center of the shopping center hallway. There’s not that much to see! Now to be fair, I have found one other place where people walked this slowly. Uganda.

Vegemite – Imagine a bit of yeast mixed with lots of salt, some (rotten) vegetables, and some other disgusting compound that gives it a definite brown colour, and you have the worst “food” I’ve ever tasted

The word “Quality” not being in the dictionary

Trolleys (shopping carts) with 4 turning wheels – especially bad on slopes

A postal service that calculates shipping time by walking the route, walking the return route, finding the total number of minutes, then labelling it days instead of minutes (ie. A distance that takes 20 minutes to walk – 40 minutes return – may take 40 days for delivery in Australia). I’m still waiting for one package that was sent from oversees (express post) at the beginning of Sept. I’m also waiting for an envelope that was sent on Oct 15 from just down the street (a 20 minute walk).

UV index so high that skin burns on just the thought of going in the sun

3 other guys in my house – ok, they’re good guys, but I’ll gladly trade them in for one woman, but only one certain woman and only after the right ring is on her left hand.

Houses with paper thin walls and saran wrap windows

The neighbour’s annoying dogs

All those mosquitoes – NOT - I don’t know what’s wrong with Aussies that they think they have so many mossies! I increased my count this weekend by 28.6%. From August 25, 2006 till November 9, 2008 I have now encountered a grand total of 9 mosquitoes. Yes, I counted! Having been warned in advance of the number of these bloodsucking pests, I thought they would be a force to recon with. When I didn’t find any, I started noticing the odd occasion when they did show up

Being asked constantly if I’m Irish – by people who have never even met anyone from Ireland!

“A” being pronounced “r” and “r” pronounced as “a”. This rule is especially true if the “r” is at the end of a word and the next word starts with a vowel. This probably needs some explanation so here are some examples
· Hosanna = Hosanner
· Paper = papa
· Darling Harbour = Daaling haaba
· Colour = Coula
· From a radio advert – Paramatta accountants = Parammaterrr accountants
· More = moa


People being amazed that I say “house” not “hoose”. This is usually followed by the comment that all Canadians say “hoose” and that’s why I must be Irish. I usually respond that since the person telling me this has heard only a few Canadians speak and I have heard many thousands speak, I would be a little more knowledgeable in matters relating to Canadians' way of speaking and we do NOT pronounce it “hoose”


Oh, the joys of living in another culture! Even so, I’m a better man for it. I’m looking forward to being home, but have to admit, I’ll miss this place. Especially every winter. I hope this series has given you a little extra insight into our cultural differences and you've been able to have a little laugh or two along the way. I'm sure anyone who has spent a week or more in Australia can relate to at least some of my points in this series. For the rest of you, it should help you prepare for any future visit you plan. Happy travels! See you soon in my homeland (and the greatest nation on Earth!!!)

Part 3 - Things I'd rather not go home to in Canada

Well, it should be no surprise that at the top of this list would be the weather! My last two years have been spent in a place where people go TO the snow for a vacation. I’ll soon be back in a place where people go FROM the snow for a vacation.

Having sales tax added to the price of items in stores rather than having it included in the price and actually knowing the final price without doing the calculation first. But then again, doing this mental (pun intended) math regularly could be a good thing

Needing a block heater in my car

A government that takes 3 months to issue a passport renewal. But then again, I’ve had to deal with that government the whole time, just not as much.

Frost and fog on my windows for much of the year.

Winter parka – actually, just the need for one. Considering the need, I’m glad I have one.

French labels on pretty much everything - and those annoying people who intentionally turn the French side out to face me!

Wind-chill

Having to choose between English and French every time I call a government agency

The feeling of my nose hairs solidifying as I breath the -40 degree air - wonderful picture I know :-)

Icy roads

Well, as I look at this list, much of it is centered around the weather. No wonder the first thing people from around the world think of when they hear I’m from Canada is the weather.

Aussie things I'll miss at home

After careful consideration and many items vying for pre-eminence in my mind, it’s time to bring up the next list and mention the down(under)sides of moving on; so here is part two of the instalments on things to miss…


The weather – um, lets see… the same temperatures here in winter as in Canada in summer… need I say more?

Hillsong Church. There is a phenomenal culture in this church, great teaching, incredible worship music, massive events, and the movement of God using willing people to do amazing things throughout the world. That description sounds pretty much like my church back home in Canada. Hillsong just has a few more people. A great church at home certainly helps makes the transition a lot easier.

Friends. One downside to my life is that no matter where in the world I live, I have people somewhere else whom I miss. On the other hand, I have lots of people to visit if I ever decide to do some travel. I’m highly blessed to have great friends across the globe!

Tim Tams – but apparently I can get them at home now too…

The Weather. Oops, did I already say that? Oh well, it’s worth a second mention…

Every tree being an evergreen. The leaves could fall off, many of them just don’t cause it doesn’t get cold enough

Did I mention the weather yet?




Ok fine, there aren’t that many things on my list, just a lot of friends vying for top spot on the list, a great church, and the weather. But hey, those are pretty important things!!! I’m sure there are more things to mention, but I have chosen to look forward and to not dwell on the past or on what I’m leaving behind.

Walk in the park

I spent a day in the Royal National Park with a friend. What we thought would be a nice walk in the park in fact was - with some interesting twists!!!

On the way to the park, there was suddenly a special car behind us with lights on top and a siren. We stopped to face the questions "Is this your car?" "Have you been drinking any alcohol today?" "How long have you been in Australia?" "...and there are no problems with your visa?" ......... it was a random stop looking for people drinking and driving on the long weekend.

After clearance from the nice officer, we were on our way and started the walk - along the beach, off the beach along the coast, up a hill, down a hill, up a hill, down a hill, up a hill - well, you get the picture... and speaking of pictures, here's one from the top of one hill. At the bottom is a nice beach and a camping area. Our initial plan was to camp here; but a few things didn't work out for that to happen, so one day will do for now.






And the view from on another hill...





The result of finding the leech AFTER it found it's way up my pant leg and had it's fill!!!





We walked a number of km's; up and down a few hills, through some bush, along some beaches, and down a road. We had cloud cover, sunshine, more cloud, rain, thunder, and a little more sun. With the exception of snow, hail, and frostbite, the weather was pretty much a typical summer day in Saskatchewan! I even got some colour on my skin! Just to add to the adventure, we managed to find a few different blood sucking varieties of creatures. I killed a mosquito (I think this was the 7th one I've seen in Australia (so much for the Aussie claims of having lots of them!!!!!!!!!!), pulled a wood tick out of Juergen's skin, and found one more variety - leeches.

On one stretch of trail we tackled through a heavy downpour, we each managed to clear at least a dozen leeches off our clothing. We were soaked through from the rain, tired from an early morning and a lot of walking, and hungry. Having thoroughly checked our clothing and bags for any more suckers, we got on in car and headed home. We hadn't even made it out of the park when I found another leech crawling up my hand. I quickly pulled over and sent it out the window. Back on the road, I looked down and found yet more - two climbing up my pants - not a good thing when behind the wheel. Managed to safely get them out of the car and kept going. Well, just to finish it all off, shortly before arriving home, I felt something different inside my pant leg and thought I'd kill it before it got me. Too late. 4 hours later, I was still bleeding. Oh well, on the brighter side, the most pain was from changing the bandaging, and the pants are clean and stain free.

Upon arrival home, I checked everything again before entering the house, took a shower, bandaged the hole, and went out for a BBQ. All in all, it was a good day. Now it's time to recover:)

Things from home I've missed in Australia -

In no particular order, and I'm sure the list is incomplete - feel free to give me suggestions...


Family and Friends

Vern's Pizza - Double Double, T Rex, Vern's Special, Flame Thrower, even the Big Cheese. Then there's the lasagna, cheese toast, garlic toast, and pretty much anything else on the menu

Hockey - the real variety, played on ice (none of this crazy immitation stuff they play on a soccer field around here)

Ketchup Chips

Farmer Sausage

Coffee Crisp

Bothwell Cheese

La Cocina Tortilla Chips

Driving on the right side of the road (although this will now take some adjustment after two years of driving on the wrong side)

Canadian Tire

30-40% lower prices for almost everything

Walmart

Stores open later than 5pm

Canadian Beef

Many of the other home made foods that I can't make out here because the raw ingredients can't be found

Open space and a quiet community

Freedom to walk outdoors without caution for poisonous snakes and spiders

Fishing in quiet lakes

Northern Lights

Camping

Lots of stars visible in the night sky

CFL

Now lest anyone think I'm sick of Australia and just longing for the day I leave, let me assure you that's not the case. It's true that I look forward to being home again and there are things I've missed from back there, but I also love my life over here and there are many things I will miss about Australia too. I'll save them for another post. Both places are great and I love them both. Either way, I win!

So, if anyone in Canada wants to help me fill my two year old cravings for things of home, please let me know and I'll be sure to give you the opportunity upon my arrival at home in February 2009.

News Time

I previously posted a message telling you about my plans to stay in Australia for another year. My intention was to take on a pastoral care role at church for one year and then move home to Canada and start life there again. Since posting that message, I have stepped into the role and applied for the visa that would allow me to stay the extra year. After being assured by the first immigrations official, I received an unexpected phone call from another one telling me that my file had been transferred and I was not going to be granted the visa for as long as I applied for. The promise of the other official meant nothing and published documentation regarding the rules around this particular visa also meant nothing; because ultimately, the decision is in the hands of a person; and in this case, I was met by a very grumpy and rude person indeed. She refused to give a valid explanation or to waver on her stance. In the end, I was granted a visa till January 15, 2009 and the deal was done. I could take the case to higher authorities but have decided to accept the decision and move home shortly after Christmas.

In the two weeks since that phone call, I have notified family and some friends of the change in plans and made travel bookings for my trip home. The news has been met with anger, frustration, and even tears as I told my Aussie friends of the decision. On the other hand, I was able to bring much joy to many Canadians. I personally have mixed feelings about it but believe that God must have something better for me somewhere else. What exactly that is I don’t yet know; although there appear to be opportunities already opening to me in Canada. In due time, it will all become more clear and I’ll step into something great.

So, my plans are now to leave Australia between Christmas and New Years, travel through a few African countries doing ministry with a pastor/friend of mine, and seeing some friends (including my girlfriend!!!!), then head back to Canada where I’ll see a few more friends across the country before arriving home in mid February.

Once there, my only plans are to wear lots of warm clothing to deal with the expected 70 degree difference in temperature from Aussie summer to Canadian winter, catch up with old friends I’ve missed for a long time, get back into my home church, and enjoy many of the things I’ve missed in Australia – the list is a work in progress…

The day that was

I never would have thought that I’d get more birthday wishes on my 32nd than ever before. But then I also never would have thought I’d move to Australia two weeks before my 30th, or that I’d have to schedule around three different groups of people wanting to put on a party for my 31st. And then there’s a whole lot of other things I never would have thought I’d do. I guess that shows me that I need to expand my thinking. You either live to the capacity of your thoughts, or you think to the capacity of your life. I choose to live to the capacity of my ever-increasing thoughts; and thereby increase my capacity.

No human in recorded history ever ran a mile in under 4 minutes until one man did – and then they all followed. No one at the time thought that they could abolish slavery in England until one man dedicated his life to do so; or that the same could happen in America until one man said “I have a dream” – and now America has “A Black man” running for president. Few thought man could make it to the moon until it was done – and now we’ve been to mars and are reaching beyond. Few believed there was any unknown land mass in the world; and many thought you’d fall off the edge of the earth if you tried to find one – yet I now call North America home.

So many people live their lives under the restrictions that are set before them. So few rise above or push through. Someone once asked me if I was a “glass half full” or a “glass half empty” sort of person. I responded that I was just glad I had a glass. Now I wonder, shouldn’t I have been grateful for the glass but then also filled it up completely – not to mention what I could have passed on to others?

What does this have to do with my birthday? Not much, except that it’s a day to reflect on the past and dream of the future. It’s a day to be grateful for the many blessings in life, and plan for many more to come. It’s a day to evaluate where I am, where I’ve been, and where I’m going. If I choose, it’s a day of new beginnings. So many things to do, places to go, people to know. So many gifts to give, blessings to receive, and love to be shown. So much, yet so little time. what will I do with what I’ve got. How about you?

Thanks to all who remembered my birthday and no worries to those who forgot or didn’t know.

A cracked shell

Due to rising fuel costs and the economic downturn resulting in fewer passengers, an airline looked at all options to decrease costs. In their attempt, they found a company that used egg yolks in the production of shampoo and was willing to sell the whites to the airline for use on their breakfast menu. One airline employee approached management concerned about the quality of their food deteriorating by loosing freshness and not including the yolk in their scrambled eggs. Upon hearing the concern, management, convinced it was fine, responded that it was a necessary step that was saving many jobs and assured the employee that everything would be all-white.

Olympic stories

I’m watching the Olympics. I’ve actually spent quite a lot of time watching them this week. There have been some embarrassing moments – like the gymnast who ran into the vault beam instead of jumping over it, and the weightlifter who lost his grip on the bar – 7 times! But there have also been some phenomenal moments like the swimmer who won 8 gold medals (the only American I could actually bring myself to cheer for) or the runner who took off from the rest of the crowd and complete obliterated the world record in the 100 meter sprint (with enough time left to cheer, wave his arms, hit his chest, and saunter over the finish line). But the one that stands out to me the most is the one I just saw.

As I watched, the commentator mentioned how this competitor had lost his wife in a car accident just one year ago. Having experienced something similar, I know how difficult life becomes and how this emotional experience has such a massive physical effect. Competing in the Olympics is a feat few can accomplish. Winning such a competition is reserved for the very few elite indeed. All competitors overcome obstacles along the way, but this is something others don’t realize the significance of; and something so significant I don’t care which country he’s from, I cheered for him. He was a weightlifter sitting in second place and to win the gold, he had to lift 10kg (22 pounds) more than he had ever lifted in a major competition before. I watched as he approached the bar, got into position, and prepared for the lift. I cheered as he strained and lifted 258kg off the ground, to his shoulders, and up over his head. Held my breath as he held it there for the required time, then smiled as he dropped the bar in triumph, jumped in the air, hugged his coach, fell to the ground in tears, then jumped and yelled with excitement. A lot of emotion for a grown man, but emotion justified. Way to go Matthias Steiner of Germany!!!

A dream fulfilled...

I just put some photos on facbook. Don't have time right now to tell the stories, but you can follow the link below to see them.

Enjoy!

http://www.new.facebook.com/album.php?aid=53363&l=0afb0&id=566943522

Long awaited update

So many things to do. So little time to write about them. It seems my life goes like that… Nothing out of the ordinary for a long time, then a whole month or more of exciting things! This has been one of those exciting months!!!

July 1st, I picked up my girlfriend from the airport and we began a 19 day whirlwind of activity. We started off by simply going to a park and talking the day away as we relaxed, enjoyed each other’s company, and she started getting over jet lag. Between trips to the city, sunsets on the beach, trips to the mountains, time with friends, time at church, and a week of Hillsong Conference, our time flew by. I’ll place some photos below to tell the story.

After Greta left, I had a hectic week of catching up and planning a trip to the Great Barrier Reef, then went up there, and now have the task of sorting out a visa to keep me in Australia another year. More on the other topics a little later.

For now, some pictures! They're kind of in random order 'cause I can get this up sooner that way, but here they are.

You can also use the following link to see photo's I'm putting on facebook (you don't have to be on facebook to follow this link and see the pictures)

http://www.new.facebook.com/album.php?aid=52343&l=1f3fd&id=566943522







We spent a lot of time with my friends, some of whom have now become Greta's friends as well. One night while at a friend's house, one of them asked for my camera and took this picture which turned out to be one of the best. Greta attended Hillsong Conference for a week while I was busy volunteering at the conference so during that week we didn't see each other as much but she did spend a lot of time with a few of my (female) friends. These same women have told me in the past that they would love to set me up and would love to see me in a relationship again but they just can't find anyone they believe is good enough for me. I've been warned sternly that I am not to settle for just any woman because I deserve the best.

Even now, 3 weeks after Greta left, people are coming to me and also telling others that my girlfriend is amazing! She was a bit concerned about what people would think of her - if she'd reach their expectations - and she certainly managed to leave a VERY good impression. I've heard from countless people how great they think she is and how great they think we are together. Needless to say, I'm quite encouraged by their support!

I took her to places where she could pet the real kangaroos and koala bears; but for some reason, most of them walked away. It became quite a joke between us because it happened so often. Well, these two didn't run away!!!! I also had to take the shot because she looks so good in this hat.

Since the day I got to Sydney, one of my dreams has been to take my girlfriend to see a performance at the opera house. It took 1 1/2 years to get the girlfriend, but now that it was possible, I took her to see that performance. Thankfully, there was something other than opera showing at the time so we had a really nice evening, had a great dinner at a restaurant overlooking the harbour, and took in the show. We both really enjoyed the night!

I did some homework before she came and found this great private beach to watch the sunset. I couldn't ask for a better location and we enjoyed some time alone before joining more friends for the rest of the evening. Thank you God for a fantastic backdrop to this photo!




I actually found a few locations for the sunset. It's so nice to see the evening sky turn colours and to know I'm with the woman I love.

Ponderings

As I sit here and ponder, many things flood my mind. There are things I want to do but can’t yet, those I hope to do at some point, some I’ve started and need to finish, others I didn’t but wish I had, and still more I never thought I could until it was too late. On the brighter side, there are also things I never dreamed of that I’ve now done and more I did dream of that are becoming reality.

Over the last month, I’ve spent a lot of time on the good side of activities – much of my time being spent in a very good way! July 1 marked a new day in the life of Larry Reimer as I drove to the airport to pick up a special guest. Only the second person to come visit me in Australia, she holds a special place in my life; a very special place. Having been widowed three years ago, it’s been a long journey back to what most people consider normal life. It’s been an unbelievably difficult battle to bring myself to the point of putting my heart on the line and allowing myself to love again. As much as I could plan and anticipate, there are too many things I could never have dreamed of in the recovery process. Someone asked me once if I was scared to start another dating relationship and I had to admit that scared was an understatement – absolutely terrified was more accurate. That said, I also know that love is too good a thing to pass up. So with that basis, I started a dating relationship in January of this year and today marks six months since it began. Strange thing is, although I’ve known this lady for many years, July 1st was the first time I saw her since we started dating. On July 19 I made the trip to the airport one more time, this time to say goodbye. It was a difficult trip and one I wish I hadn’t had to make, but for the time being, it is necessary. For the time being, I’ll summarize by saying this; a friend commented on me walking on air cause it looked like I was on cloud nine (I was so happy) and I said the only reason I was on cloud nine was that cloud ten was occupied.

Now I know many of you want details – stories, pictures, etc. But since she left, I’ve been trying to catch up on things I left while she was here and while conference was going on. At the same time, I’ve also been planning frantically for a vacation of my own. I leave on Monday for an adventure I’ve dreamed of for many years so when I get home, I’ll post some pictures of both my time with my girlfriend and the other adventure I embark on next week.

I couldn’t leave you all hanging forever, but I have to keep it short for now. Come back after August 6th for pictures and stories from one of the better months of my life.

Now this doesn’t begin to cover my ponderings, but if I wrote all them down, I’d have a book. Hang on, that doesn’t sound like that bad an idea!

5 star safety

Just like automobiles have crash safety ratings, so do computers - or now they do! Mine crashed very well (quit working in such a way that it doesn't turn on but I can still recover the data) so it gets a 5 star rating. I'm hereby asking for opinions and feedback on what to do with mine. It quit working and it looks like I'll be replacing it but I'm not sure what to do with it once that is done.

What I've thought of so far:
1. Use a hammer on it like I've dreamed of for the last year
2. See how high into the air I can throw it and see how hard it lands
2a. Repeat the procedure and take the average or the best result
3. Drive really fast down the highway and throw it out the window (can't do this though because it would be littering)
4. See what happens if I dump a jug of water or it's closest equivalent (Pepsi) over it

My girlfriend is sitting here telling me this sounds quite rage-full and violent, so I'll open up the discussion for other ideas. If any of you has something you have wanted to do to your own computer and didn't because of the cost involved, here's your chance - send me a message with your idea and I'll consider the different options suggested before destroying the beast. The more votes your idea gets, the greater the chance I'll use it.

Alternatively, I may go on E-bay and sell the right to tell me what to do with the computer. If I do this, there will be a couple of conditions (like I will do nothing illegal in the process) and I would record on video the process of what is done to the computer and send that video to the winning bidder.

In the mean time I'm using a friend's computer until I replace the old one, so I may not be on this blog regularly for a bit. (Ok fine, that's only an excuse, the real reason is that I'm busy with conference and with gb :) )