q + a

Hello! I decided to ask my Instagram followers to ask me questions about the race for this blog.

I hope you enjoy my answers <3

What is the first radical encounter you had with God?

Most definitely meeting my monk friend Brounma. Check out my last blog to hear how our interactions went (subtle plug, haha)!!

Packing tips?

You don’t need to pack as much as you think!!! I brought 10 t-shirts, 3 shorts, and 4 pants. I for sure packed too much. Thailand has so many thrift stores that I can pick up clothes I like for pretty cheap (I didn’t realize that going into the race). Also, it is an inconvenience to have that much laundry. Second tip: you don’t need to bring that much gear. They tell you to but just don’t. I didn’t bring a tent OR a sleeping bag and I am doing juuuuust fine.

How have you experienced culture shock?

To be completely honest, I haven’t experienced much culture shock. There are some days that I will see something that makes me think “oh I am definitely in Asia right now,” (aka the lack of traffic laws) but most of the time I feel like I am home. As soon as I stepped foot into Chiang Mai, I knew the Lord very intentionally placed me here. Praise God for this huge blessing! 

Thai culture vs U.S. culture??

The most obvious difference to me so far is the way people honor one another. When you greet someone, you bow and say “Sawasdee ka” (hello). If you are walking past someone shorter than you, its kind to bend down so that you aren’t above them. When you pass by someone on the street, smile at them! I think Americans aren’t as conscious of others. Not that people are intentionally rude, it’s just that there isn’t a strong emphasis on showing honor and respect towards one another. Goodness, it’s been so sweet to adapt to these Thai quirks!!

What has been the hardest thing (physically) for you?

Haha, I am currently writing this blog post-hospital visit. Lemme tell ya, its been ROUGH physically. I’ve missed 3 days of ministry so far because I have been sick. Its been a LOT of coughing and A LOT of sneezing/sniffling. I also sprained my ankle this past Sunday, but I asked my Instagram followers to pray for healing and the swelling and pain went completely down! Praise God! The Lord has been teaching me quite a bit about rest since being sick. It’s sweet to watch God move in a seemingly bad situation. The Lord always takes what satan intends for harm & makes it GOOD.

How are they receiving the gospel in Chiang Mai?

Thai people are very eager to listen to other’s beliefs. So far I have spoken to two people specifically about the gospel, and they both seemed genuinely intrigued. I’ve learned that it is all about creating relationships. The most effective way of showing these people Jesus is yes, sharing the gospel verbally, but also acting it out in love and kindness. Buddhism has influenced the area by creating a “culture of acceptance.” Even if someone doesn’t agree with you, they are going to at least try to understand where you’re coming from. Praise God for giving the Thai people a heart of curiosity!

How is it adjusting to living with a bunch of new people? Do you have alone time?

It is a challenge to adjust! I didn’t have a community back in Austin, & it has been w i l d jumping from that lifestyle to constantly being surrounded by 40+ people. I am equally an introvert and extravert, so it is hard to gauge when I need to rest versus be with my people. BUT I love being surrounded by wonderful humans who love the Lord and love me!! As for alone time, there’s not lots of it. I usually stay up a little later than everyone else to get some quiet time with the Lord, but most people choose to journal or read in the common room. The leaders call the latter “the art of together alone.”

Where have you seen personal growth?

Gosh, there has been so much growth here! If I could sum it up into one phrase it’d be “becoming intentional.” Since being here I have become more intentional in community, in ministry, and with the Lord. Abba has shown me that I should be more aware of His qualities in everything/one. Life is sweet when you can see little glimpses of the Father surrounding you!! Giving endless amounts of thanks to God as He holds my hand and walks me through this season. Seeking God, seeking awareness, and seeking unbridled love!! Praises!!