Sometimes life on the race looks nothing like you would expect for the day.
The last week our team was in Indonesia there was an English camp we helped host and some of the parents wanted to thank us by inviting us out to dinner. We obliged and upon arrival found out it was way more than dinner. Here we were at an orphanage and dinner turned into a service, playing with kids, more than one meal, seeing how banana chips are made, praying for one another, and receiving gifts.
I have to admit I was nervous about receiving a gift because I knew it was some form of Batik clothing which is very traditional in Indonesia. Indonesians like most Asians are little people in both height and stature. When I packed for the race, I tried to think of versatile pieces to bring because quite frankly I knew it would be hard to find replacement items along the way this year given my size. Part of me was upset that 1) I wouldn’t be able to wear an item I wanted to be able to wear and 2) I wouldn’t be able to wear something given which would present a perception of ungratefulness. The last thing I wanted was for them to feel like their hospitality was not appreciated.
The lady in charge insisted we all try on our clothes before we left so that if they didn’t work, she could still have time to try again. I could tell they really wanted to make sure we could enjoy the pieces selected for us. I opened the bag given to me and inside was a shawl scarf and a pair of Batik pants. I went to try them on and held them up thinking oh no these are not going to work! I was so surprised and relieved to find out they did fit and were actually comfortable!!! To top it off the colors in the design are some of my favorite and I can wear them with any of the tops I packed since the colors matched!
Oh my how good is G-d that even in this simple moment He would grant me such a gift! I was so surprised to know even on the other side of the world, I can be taken care of so extravagantly.
