I swear, it happens every single month. It's true, every month I arrive in a brand new country. Each new nation poses a new landscape, new mobile service, new currency, new cuisine, new language, new produce, new ministries, new customs, new quirks, new religions and beliefs, and a new beer label. Every month I indulge in experiencing the exciting newness. And each month I sadly depart wondering if I will ever return. Again, it is happening. Just when I become comfortably familiar and acquire a high appreciation, I must leave and begin again/ Thankfully, I only have to do this one more time. However, I will truly miss this country. This is also true…I wouldn't mind living in Vietnam. Yes, I like it that much.
Upon hearing that I would be traveling to Vietnam in month numero 10, I didn't know what to expect. Besides knowledge of the war that took place over 30 years ago, Vietnam was just another country in the assembly of Southeast Asia in my mind. I did not know that I would be bombarded by such beauty and culture…
My team was stationed in Da Nang, a gorgeous coastal city that more or less divides the North and South. This city was was perfection. The river front was just a five-minute walk away and the most unbelievable beaches were a five-minute taxi ride. It was also nestled in some gorgeous mountains. The epitome of city and nature. Can it get any better?
One of many awe-inspiring pit-stops while motorcycling up the coast.
I wish there were incredible stories I could tell….things I could say about the month's ministry. Truth be told, the whole "choose your own adventure" aspect was much more difficult than I presumed it to be. Yes, I had many wonderful encounters. Although meeting so many Vietnamese folks was excellent, it was brief…far too brief. Because there was no set ministry, I found myself wandering from place to place. Was it in vain? No, I don't think so. Though there seemed to be a lack of investment, there were those wonderful encounters in which my friends and I were granted opportunity to show love through our words and actions.
She needed a break from her lychees for a hot sec.
This lady gave Jenna and I free lunch during one of our adventures. I gave her my "Ray-Bons" in return.
Our beach!
Katie gets baptized!
Volunteered with an English center a few times. Handing out promotional flyers along the river walk with some students.
This month was a gift. It was one of adventure, beauty, relaxation, and divine appointments.
That's all I've got! On to month #11. Unbelievable…
Malaysia…
Photos courtesy of Stephanie May and Jenna Malinen
