Life Goes On

Today is Monday. Since my last post, I have had the chance to participate in an important part of Khmer culture: the wedding party. Sotia, a student at the church, had been asking me to see his house and school of the past few days. Last Saturday night it worked out for me to go with him. After seeing his rent house, we drove to the small school where he taught. It is the rainy season in Cambodia so I was not surprised when a heavy shower began around five in the afternoon. This kept many of Sotia's students from attending but I was still able to teach English to about seven who showed up. On the way back home we stopped by a wedding party for one of Sotia's friends. It was extravagant to say the least, especially in comparison to the poor area it was hosted. The part was characterized by a live band, many tables, and generous amounts of food and alcohol. When it comes to drinking, Khmer don't seem to limit themselves. In the end I enjoyed seeing the event and taking pictures but am still disappointed in the wasteful attitude displayed by many Khmer in this cultural event. It is kind of just an attempt at a status symbol. I don't presume to know Khmer culture and don't wish to be overly critical but both Bill and Chheng have said similar things. Groups of poorly dressed children were along the outskirts of the party, waiting to pick up and sell empty cans dropped by guests. It was all a strange sight. The next morning I went to church and taught the young adult Sunday school class. Mr. Hale had offered for me to teach last week but I was unprepared and told him I would think about next week. I am thankful that I received the opportunity! I was very nervous but the Lord sustained me. For anyone interested, I continued the study in Mark, teaching on Mark 11:1-14. This morning I went out with the students again and shared the Gospel. A seven year old boy lived at the last house we visited. He was paralyzed from the waist down and was also mentally disabled. He let me hold his hand and give him random toys to play with...it was easily one of the highlights of my trip. The family of this boy is interested in going to church but does not have a way to get there. However, the plan is for them to get a ride in the church van next Sunday! Well, I need to head back to the Nuon's house now. They have been very hospitable and are currently getting me used to some true Khmer food. Yesterday, I introduced their eleven year old granddaughter, Kayleen, to the wonderful game of Uno. We have been in a continual Uno battle ever since then :)

John 15:5
"I am the vine; you are the branches. The one who remains in me- and I in him- bears much fruit, because apart from me you can accomplish nothing."