I hope that the title does not immediately offend anyone in any way. I do not intend to preach something disrespectfully, rather I have made some interesting connections between my new life and life in the states.
Observation #1: Busy, busy, busy......
After doing lots of time reflecting on my growing up years I realized how much time I was running. Honestly, I would not change a thing about my life. God brought me through challenges and I am who I am because of the life God blessed me with. My parents stayed together and just celebrated their 25th anniversary, which is nothing more than a perfect example for my husband and I as we just married. I cheered in high school, had a variety of friends, not necessarily in one group, and was very involved in church all throughout my entire life.
That being said....what made me think about my childhood and just breathe. Because life was sooooo busy. Why is it that as Americans we are so darn busy? I never found time for quiet time and my life was just SO FAST PACED. I do not mind having a to-do list of things to accomplish, but instead of relationships, my overall time was completely focused on things to do. I clearly remember high school and college. All I could focus on was my future and where I would continue my education and what I would do after college and who I would marry, and everything else that every young person is thrown into as they reach secondary age. I think that I have learned by living in Guatemala, that it is OKAY to have free time. Doing nothing, reflecting, loving on people, visiting people, taking time to just breathe. WOAH. Don't get me wrong. People here are not lazy, but they are not so consumed with the future, their plans, where to drive, what they need to buy at the store for the month, where they have to take their children. Guatemalans walk, buy their food at the market daily or for no more than a week, visit their friends, walk to someone's house rather than calling unless it is a far walk. People do not have all the distractions from technology and are capable of making time for what they want. I see families that allow their kids to play outside and visit family. The son does not have soccer practice because he plays soccer in the street with all of his cousins and neighbors. Life sometimes is stressful, but I feel such peace and so calm with my life here.
I hope none of you see my comments as a direct negativity towards you. I have just had some cultural eye opening moments, some that come to you when you are in other countries, or when you travel and have a larger world view.
I will continue my observations and reflections. I will wait for God to continue to stretch me and grow me and teach me. For now I will leave you with this. Find God among the craziness and seek his presence for peace regardless of where you live. We all need him, all around the whole world.
:) Love, Kara
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