Beginning of Week Two
Every time I go to write this blog update, I feel a bit overwhelmed by all the things that I might say about my first week in Thailand. First of all, I am enjoying myself thoroughly. It is such a blessing to be back in Thailand in the same school that I served in in 2007. Some of the coolest experiences thus far have simply been seeing who remembers me from last time. Not everyone does, but some rather unlikely people do remember me from last time.
One example of this would be the woman who makes coffee and fruit shakes about two blocks from the school. I loved going and getting coffee from her last time I was here and when I went home, I craved them. I can’t really describe to you the incredible mix of instant coffee (not acceptable in the states, but amazingly delicious in this environment), sweetened condensed milk, sugar water, Oreos, and ice, all blended together into one beautifully sensational event. I should also mention that I get the equivalent of a large for a total of $0.60. So, naturally, I was looking forward to seeing if she was still around. Thankfully she is still there working 7 days a week. Well, the other day, a friend asked her if she remembered me from 2007. She didn’t hesitate to say, “Yes! But you have grown!” I was amazed that she remembered me after all of the people she has served here in Bangkok! She speaks some English so we get to have wonderful little conversations!
God has also blessed me with a wonderful church called ECB that is on the other side of Bangkok from where I am staying. It takes about 45 minutes to get there in a taxi (a grand total of $4, split several ways, usually comes out to less that $1 a piece) and is just an awesome place to worship. It is the kind of church that would be a blessing to find anywhere. I’m sad that I only get to worship there for three weeks.
This week is only a half week here at the school. On Thursday, we will be going to a beach here in Thailand for a staff retreat. Sounds luxurious! I’m looking forward to some more time of bonding and growth in the relationships that have begun to develop here at the school.
I’m enjoying my time here at GES, but I’m also looking forward to my team’s arrival on July 10th.
Please pray for their safe travel. Also pray for the many people that I have had the opportunity to share the Gospel with and the large number of people that are yet to hear. Be praying that the Lord would soften their hearts and let the seed fall on soft ground where it can grow and be nourished. Thank you for reading and I hope to update you soon (and hopefully with some pictures next time!)
-Patrick
