Words - A few days ago a journalist for The Salvation Army’s Swedish magazine told me he liked my writing style because it was ‘simple.’ I know he meant that as a compliment and I took it that way. But, afterward I started thinking about what that meant. I’ve always tried to improve my vocabulary and I know I have a ‘folksy’ style but still I like to write with descriptive words and variety. But, since I’ve come to Latvia, I have had to simplify my style. I can’t be too descriptive or use uncommon words because either I’m being translated or the person I’m talking with isn’t a first language English speaker (weird phrase.) I also am a parenthetical writer and speaker as you can tell from my blog writing. That’s why I like Paul’s writings – he is the same way and I understand it. I don’t always agree, but I get it. Anyway, sometimes I feel like I’m forgetting how to speak intelligently and with any depth. But, once in a while I know the Spirit does intervene and I’m able to have real, intimate conversations. And in all of this, I hope I’m learning to communicate more clearly so that wherever I am and whoever I’m talking with will really be able to hear and understand. That will be a valuable lesson from Latvia.
Asterisks – Eric has a blog named ‘Asterisks’ and I’m intrigued by that idea. I didn’t really begin to think about it until I was in the UK to observe a conference. In the program, my presence was indicated by an asterisk. Every time I was to sit in on an interview or group project there was an asterisk next to the delegate’s name. You can imagine their concern when the * was first noticed and there was no explanation provided. So, I became the asterisk for the weekend. Did that mean I was significant or not to be noticed? I wonder. When I put * next to something in my Bible somewhere else on that page you will find my thoughts on the text or a quote from a speaker I’ve heard. It’s something to be remembered and maybe to ponder on later. It’s important at the time, but is it really significant – does it become a life changing sign? Not usually. Hmmm…
www.asterisklog.com
Hospitality – My flat is unusually large for Latvia and especially for a single person. I’m very grateful for its comfort and space. I do feel at home here. But, I have begun to think that it’s important to share this blessing. Last year my small group met here and it was fun. I’m trying to make it more available and accessible for people to stop by and have a cup of tea or just to say hello and talk for a few minutes. And I’m trying to make myself more available for conversations and sharing. This week feels like a successful one in that area. My small group came and I could hardly get them to leave. On Friday, Veronika, Dana and Marina came over for dinner and we had so much fun. They even were gracious enough to look at all of my photo albums (bless them!) Today I had a nice lunch with Guna at a new (for us) restaurant and we sat for a long time talking. Then a few minutes later Linda and Erika called to say they were coming over and spent quite a while talking, listening to music and enjoying a quiet Sunday afternoon together. I feel very blessed.
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