Attitude...the driving force.

It determines your day. It influences often how others respond to you. It easily affects how people treat you. It can turn a bad situation into a hilarious story over drinks. It cost nothing, but can affect everything. Attitude.  Being here in China for three weeks now, I have seen how attitude is a survival tool.  Whether it is the pollution, not understanding the language, not sure what good you just ate or ordered and the list goes on.  Attitude guides our experience and our journey.

I am very lucky to be wired the way God wired me. Easy going, able to laugh at myself and flexible are ways I personally describe myself.  These traits come in so handy and helpful in this huge transition of life.  This transition was not just sudden and out of nowhere, but rather a longing a desire that had been growing for years.  Expedited by unseen events at my previous job, I'm excited that this is the time I'm taking this new journey. I've noticed that my attitude gets checked every now and then here, but what's important is that it's quick.I absolutely live the culture here.  The people at so hospitable and friendly. They work hard and enjoy life to the fullest, but through the simplest ways. A great shift from the rush to the top and strive to be the best paradigm seen oft in western culture.  Oh don't get me wrong, there are still those quirks I can't stand and that annoy me.  People constantly starring at you. People spitting anywhere in public. The rampant smoking in public places and in your face...and the yelling. Sometimes you thing a serious fight is about to explode when in really they are just talking normally...just really loud!

I've seen this that are struggling here and those that are excelling. Granted I'm still in the "honeymoon" stage as it is often referred to here for expacts.  However, I'm seeing the way of life here and the appreciation for the simplicity refreshing.  It's a mentality that china has been doing doe of these things for thousands of years. Traditions, culture, ceremonies, ideologies, mind sets all passed down from generation to generation.  Each owning them fully to respect their family and ancestors.  It's a beautiful site.  It's funny as I write this on my commute to work I the subway, the old man across from me stares as though I am a foreign alien in a distant land...oh wait! Maybe I am lol.

Waffles tell a story...

Its a simple observation, but one made with time.  Beside our hotel is a little waffle stand, Yummy Waffle.  There they make waffles...and milk tea.  That's it.  It has become a fun and favorite stop for us.  I must admit I have contributed to this establishment tremendously, but today something just clicked.  The guy who is working always has a smile on his face.  He is very cheerful and makes amazing waffles.  We communicate through gestures, pointing and smiling.  His broken English and my 5 words of Mandarin has never stopped this venture of simple culinary delights.  Its more that just waffles though... 


As we have consistently been customers of the Yummy Waffle, I have noticed more that just the various array of toppings available.  What I have most found is the manner in which the guy serves his waffles.  Its a simple product...waffles.  However, he does it with excellence.  He truly takes pride as he drizzles the peanut butter sauce or the chocolate sauce over the freshly made waffle.  The precision as he makes sure that each little square has the perfect amount of blueberries...my favorite.  Served with a smile and a simple xièxiè (thank you)  to which I happily reply no THANK YOU! (xièxiè)  

Its taking a moment to appreciate the simple things and the attitude of being content in the simple ways.  It can be very easy to get lost in the rush.  We oft allow culture, work, programs, etc...to rush us through daily life and we forget to take that moment to enjoy where we are.  What I see is more than a young man making waffles...he is content and happy where he is doing what he does.  

What can we take from this simple Waffle story? Maya Angelo says, "Be present in all things and thankful for all things."  In the smallest and simplest of moments, if we can find joy, contentment and purpose, how much more would we enjoy this journey of life.  Enjoying the now is something I am finding more and more here in Shanghai.  I see the people in the parks doing their exercises or dancing in the evenings.  It is amazing and refreshing to see this pace of life in such a city.  It truly makes sense and brings a depth to the phrase "stop and smell the roses." 

The beginning...the honeymoon stage...

So the jet lag is starting to fade, the time change is adjusting and the excitement has just begun.  We all go through this journey as either spectators or truly participants.  I choose to participate and dive right in.  Over these first few days, I have meet some truly incredible individuals from all around the world.  They share the similar passion for children, culture and travel.  They embrace change and new cultural adventures and laugh at the best.  I've been here in Shanghai now three real days, and I tell you, this city has a lot to offer.  Imagine living in a city of 22 million people.  Just to give you a little idea of how large this city truly is:

NYC: 9.1 million*

California: 38.millon people*

Florida: 20 million people*

*Estimated on 2009 census.  

I honestly was a little apprehensive about living in such a huge city.  Realizing after taking the subway, going to the mall, and just exploring the city...yes its huge, but its manageable.  Its also expensive.  More than that though has been the people that I have meet so far.  People from South Africa, Pakistan, Canada, Ireland, UK, Nigeria, Philippines, Vietnam, and of course the USA.  All here to teach english, all here to learn, all here to give of themselves.  Its amazing how bonds quickly develop over a common goal/job.  We've shared common laughs over "OH CHINA" our new saying when things just don't make sense.  You have to be able to laugh at cultural differences and not impose our "western mindset" here.  We can either come into this experience saying "That's now how we do it at home OR Oh I see that's a little interesting, but OK."  We have coined the phrase when frustrated or not understanding something "Oh China."  It brings humor and eliminates anxiety and frustration.  This year is sure to go back quickly, yet the lessons will last a lifetime.  I signed up for this adventure to grow, to be stretched and to see the world.  To push myself outside of a comfort zone that is cozy, easy and materialistic.  I am excited to see the days, weeks and months ahead.  I look forward to meeting the kids and families knowing that an impact will be made daily.  Not just an impact on the students and families, but how they will impact me.  How new friendships will constantly push my mindset to a global mind. One of adventure, learning, non-ethnocentrism and more.  Now, off to explore more of this city I am calling home for a month...until Chengdu.  Shanghai...show me what you got!  

The Story of my Life...

I sit here, just hours before my next journey takes off.  For some, they said you can't.  Some they said you shouldn't.  A few said, i wouldn't...but for those who said go for it, THANK YOU!  This next season of life is going to be pivotal in my growth spiritually, emotionally, educationally and relationally.  I have already seen the downsizing of life going on in my mind...and closet!  Going from a house to 2.5 suitcases is a huge challenge.  I loved gathering things and having the comforts of life, but for what purpose?  What really do these material possessions bring us?  I am sure there will be struggles, there will be challenges.  I am excited to face them head on to this new paradigm shift.  What seeds will be sown and what will I reap in this season?  Who will I meet?  Who will I influence and more importantly, who will influence me?

If I have learned anything recently, is the value and season of friendships.  There are those friendships that are forever.  Distance, nor time keep these bonds apart.  There are those friendships that are seasonal.  They are in your life for a season and then move on.  There are the popcorn friendships that come and go. People that pop in and out of our sphere from time to time.  Yet each friendship/relationship molds, contributes, enriches my life to a degree.  In all, I feel I am a wealthy, prosperous and fortuante man.  Realizing that relationship are the treasures of this life will matter more than any portfolio or Burberry collection. (that takes a lot for me to say. I heart Burberry)  Stay tuned for more reflections and an insight look at this journey ahead.  I am sure it will have its laughs, its lows, its rewards and its challenges.  It will have its lessons that will continue to shape how I view life and others.  This is the next step of my journey.  Its the Story of my life....

Reflections from Nepal

Their faces shine with the brightest of joy. The laughter that flows from the depths of their soul is so contagious. Small pictures are given at the end of the journey as signs of gratitude and love. The deepest feelings of an adventure completed, yet a sense of wanting more collide deep within my soul.
The past two weeks spent in Nepal were truly incredible. With each return visit, relationships deepen and new ones bloom. It’s so amazing sometimes to meet these precious individuals and to hear their stories. Heart wrenching stories of abandonment, abuse, loss, poverty and neglect turn to redemptive journeys of hope, destiny, healing, love, and encouragement…journeys of purpose! One’s story is not often fully told. Its requires time and energy to sit and engage as the other listens. We have forgotten what it means to truly invest into people. These past two weeks the TV never came on, the phone never rang. What did happen was people sharing life together from two opposing sides of the world…for this I am changed.
Let’s call him Sarg. He was born into this world and never knew the events that would shape his life. As just a young boy, he was abandoned by his family and became a “street kid.” He was left to figure out his own way through life. How to eat? Where to sleep? Where to bathe? What it meant to be a man? No direction or anyone to affirm or love on him. After his stint on the streets, he was welcomed into a family of believers who knew what it meant to take care of the abandoned and rejected. A safe home, warm food and security is what he found on this next leg of his journey. At the age of 12, the doors of his heart welcomed someone who would forever change his life. He was his new Savior, Jesus. Following this, his once abandoned mother came to know the same love and acceptance of Jesus. Still separated by rejection and distance, neither knew their future. Never in their wildest dreams could they imagine that their paths would be redeemed. Mom cam to know the same family and is now reunited with both of her sons. She now serves as a house mother for other kids who have been brought from a similar past.
Chelley is another beautiful story. A little girl’s dream is to grow up and to be a princess someday. To one day live her greatest desires and dreams out loud with joy and abundance. For that little girl her dreams are to be encouraged by her parents and strengthened by her surroundings. However, sometimes the journey takes a drastic detour. A beautiful young girl with several sisters is born to a mother who is more concerned with her personal survival and well being. When this innocent little girl reaches her teenage years, it is typical for her to have a little crush or two. Never in a million years does she think what reality will serve her cold and brutality. This precious little girl would not be seen as the gift she truly is, but as a way to earn money. Her very own mother would sell her to an unknown man for his pleasure and discretion. Being sold as a prostitute is something this little girl would never dream of, yet would become her most real future. After going away with her new “owner” it is only a miracle her next steps. She knew something wasn’t right as she snuck away to the bathroom and was able to crawl out a bathroom window. Out of the bathroom window held a destiny she was not sure of, yet she knew she did not want to be a part of the place she just left.
She too was found and welcomed into a loving family that told her she is a daughter of Royalty. Her value and worth was not base on what an “owner” said, but she was meant for a life of abundance and joy. Now at the age of 18, this beautiful young lady has real brothers and sisters who love her and encourage her. She lives in a home where she is affirmed and loved while being taught her identity in Christ. She is a beautiful daughter of the King of Kings.
Story after story turns the pages of kids and young adults in this family. The enemy had severe plans to destroy their life…to steal their joy…to kill them. However, someone greater, more powerful has come so they no longer have to be known as street kids, prostitutes, forgotten, or rejects. He came so they would know what a plentiful life is meant to be. That they would know a love that is truly unconditional and never ceases. That they would have peace forever rather than being tormented with the fears, abuse and horror.
I look into these kids’ eyes each time and I am overwhelmed. Their stories are often kept quite and never told to the outside. They laugh and play with the most adventure and deepest of joy. My heart is engulfed with gratitude to know and love on these kids. Its times like this that makes the God given Father Heart within me explode and yet ask so many questions.
As we ended our short venture to Nepal, I receive hand made cards expressing their thanks, love and kind words. I read their prayers for me as I return back to my home and the requests for a quick return back to them. There is not enough money on Earth that could buy the joy, the happiness, the love and excitement I feel for these kids. No words can truly describe how my soul really feels right now. There is a mixture of emotions that flow from the wellspring of my heart. There are feelings of sadness from leaving my little friends behind to overwhelming joy as I look over my snapshots. This trip was one that increased my capacity to feel. One that expanded my heart to love more. An adventure that stretched my faith to greater levels. My compassion continues to increase for “the least of these.”
Each smile, each laugh, every tear, and set of feet have a story of a unique journey. A journey that is special and that began one way, but through the amazing compassion and love of incredible people has been changed. I have been changed! Their smiles are engraved into my dreams at night. As I lay my head down to rest, I simply thank God for the opportunity to have spent time with these His special kids. I long to once again laugh and play with my little friends. Until then, I hold dear their faces and words in my heart.

Not just any common man...Max.

His hands were rough from years of labor, yet he had a gentle handshake. The way he entered the room was noble and warm. His posture was of humility and chivalry. His closely cut graying hair showed his wisdom while the bags under his eyes shared his years of life. Something about him was instantly charming…like that of a true southern gentleman. He kindly nodded his head as he shook your hand. This is Max.

As he entered the warm house that was flowing with a birthday celebration, he made his way to say hello to each person. There was something about this man that intrigued me, yet words couldn’t quite describe it. He stood tall as an oak tree around the people, yet he was easy to never tower above anyone. By simply looking and talking to Max you would instantly know he is full of wisdom from years of life. From the gulf around Mobile, Al to the north shores of Connecticut, to the mountains of North Carolina now to the streets of Nashville…Max has lived his share of life. From being a police officer, to owning a fish market, to running a neighbor goldmine through his variety store, Max did it all. He and his wife nurtured there children as they worked in their family store teaching them ethics, values but most of all respect of others.

The thing that struck me about Max was the incredible amount of peace in which he walked. It was so genuine. His smile was that of a loving grandfather proud of every kid that ran through his arms. Max truly is a remarkable man and one to be honored and valued.

Max is homeless. He has a van in which he folds his seats up and will roll out his mattress to sleep at night. With two five gallon buckets, he gathers rain water to wash his clothes. After washing them, he strings them up inside his van to dry. He began to share stories of his life and he talked and he talked and he talked. Yet I was gripped to each word as this man was sharing his heart from the eyes in which I have never seen. At one point in his life, Max owned a three million dollar business that was flourishing. Sacrificially he sold it for $1 to his wife to ensure the proper care of their children as they grew up. I had so many questions I wanted to ask Max. What brought you here? How did this happen to you? Where is your family? How do you sleep at night? Yet none of these questions materialized as I sat on the edge of my seat and listened to each story he shared.

There were stories of those from the streets. The lessons he learned of how he could ensure he was able to eat each day at various spots in the city. Three meals a day is vital to Max because he is a diabetic. He shared of how tough it was to stay at the local mission. The hustle, the rage, the territorialism, the anger, the filth, dysfunction, and hopelessness that Max described caused a heaviness in the room. He simply stands his ground there while being careful to not get involved in the riff raff.

The night went on as Max shared stories of his life. He always spoke with a positive tone and one cloaked with optimism. He said the only way he gets through the day is know God is on his side. Without his faith he would be purposeless. Right now he simply is finding his purpose within his circumstances. Even now out of his own poverty, he still gives to help others. Whether it’s a quarter for the drunk on the street or clothes out of his own van, he still has that inert notion to help others. He knows that this is only a temporary time for him, yet he is unsure of its final day.

I listened to Max all night as he spoke, he laughed, he joked at himself and was so sincere. He shared how he has come close to death’s doorstep far too many times, yet fully recovered because he has a purpose. Max spoke life. He never cursed God, but rather shared his admiration for a Father that still provides and protects him.

Sitting back in my chair I simply could not help but admire Max for his attitude and faith. I can truly say I have no idea what I would do if I were in his situation. Would I allow my pride to get the best of me? Would I turn psycho and forget my identity in Christ? Would I have any will at all? These are questions I think we all “think” we know what we would do, yet until we land on that door step we are clueless.

Max tonight taught me the importance of listening and understanding people where they are. He caused me to take a step back and say where am I making a difference? Is it all talk? Is it all about me? When am I giving sacrificially to where its ok that I am left empty pocketed? Where have I spoken harshly or judged too quickly? How have I become too comfortable that I miss the value of people and listening to their story? Max gave me a reality check. It was good. It shifted something within…deep within. Thank you Max for being you. May we never become to big, busy or think too much of our self that we simply do not have the time to listen. Ask yourself…are you the one always listening…or always talking? Thanks Max! You are an incredible man!

Liberty in Jesus

"Liberty and the Standards of Jesus"

"Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free." Galatians 5:1
A spiritually minded man will never come to you with the demand - "Believe this and that;" but with the demand that you square your life with the standards of Jesus. We are not asked to believe the Bible, but to believe the One Whom the Bible reveals (cf. John 5:39-40). We are called to present liberty of conscience, not liberty of view. If we are free with the liberty of Christ, others will be brought into that same liberty - the liberty of realizing the dominance of Jesus Christ.

Always keep your life measured by the standards of Jesus. Bow your neck to His yoke alone, and to no other yoke whatever; and be careful to see that you never bind a yoke on others that is not placed by Jesus Christ. It takes God a long time to get us out of the way of thinking that unless everyone sees as we do, they must be wrong. That is never God's view. There is only one liberty, the liberty of Jesus at work in our conscience enabling us to do what is right.

Don't get impatient, remember how God dealt with you - with patience and with gentleness; but never water down the truth of God. Let it have its way and never apologize for it. Jesus said, "Go and make disciples," not "make converts to your opinions."

From "My Utmost for His Highest" by Oswald Chambers May 6