My dad always told me, “Never be afraid to talk to people and ask questions, it’s always good to build connections.”
Little did he know, that that mindset would stick with me. I’ve always loved meeting new people and getting to know their story. To hear their heart, passions, dreams, struggles, and their lives just brings me joy.
At home, when I’m off work, you can probably find me at some coffee shop with the intention to get work/plans done….BUT I usually end up meeting someone new and have a long deep conversation.
Throughout this journey, I’ve been overwhelmingly grateful to have met people from literally all over the world. Yesterday, I sat in awe because during a worship/prayer gathering, I found myself praying with a man from Korea, Bangladesh, Germany, a lady from Malaysia, and another American.
It was a humbling and honoring experience, much like this experience of meeting a man name Mohamad.
I met Mohamad at a coffee shop. He is from Egypt but currently in Malaysia for studies. He’s studying for his masters and has traveled in various places of the world. I was floored to meet someone from Egypt (and yes I asked him about seeing the pyramids and syphinx)
He explained the culture, religion, and customs in Egypt. We discussed a lot about faith, I shared mine and he shared his. Overall, I could tell by our entire conversation that he valued community and people. He said community was apart of his culture, it was a natural way of life to do things as a family.
Friends become like family and a part of your community. I agreed too and can see that more and more especially this month on the race.
Why? You may ask. Well…this month is womanistry month (which means ALL the girls on our squad are together to do ministry). All 15 of us are partnering with YWAM (youth with a mission) organization to help at a homeless shelter, participate at PenHOP (Penang house of prayer), and share Jesus with backpackers/tourist that we meet in the city.
So far I’ve learned that Malaysia is what they call the “cultural melting pot.” We can walk down the street and have Indian, Chinese, Thai, American, and various other foods. There is a street called “Harmony” and you can see a Buddhist, Chinese, or Hindu temple, a mosque, a baptist church and catholic church all on one street. We also have had interactions with people who speak Japanese, Chinese, Korean, Thai, Hindi and many more languages.
Here in Malaysia, their culture and religion is very important. Community is also a value they really believe in as well.
Experiencing all these new things has been a blessing with a community like the girls on my squad. They are encouraging, loving, servant-hearted and gosh for sure friends that have become family.
Meeting people like Mohamad has helped me see, and value the community I am in. As well as the community around me and the community around the world.
Who have you met that are friends that have become like family?
Do you value the community you are in right now?
