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| Okay. You win. In addition to updating my real blog, I'll join the Xanga bandwagon.
I just returned from Chi Alpha, my old church's annual disciple now retreat. At an event where I usually participate in, I helped lead this year. Tyler and I were in charge of twelve 7th grade boys - five of which we already knew from last semester's Bible study.
For those who were praying for us, thanks. As I told a friend, I've never been so intimidated by 13 year old boys before, but all of my worries were put at rest. There were very few times where we had to be the authority - for the most part we just hung out and had fun.
The discussion was especially encouraging. When I found out last August that I would be co-leading 7th graders with Tyler, I was worried about not being able to relate to them, or that they wouldn't be able to take our time together seriously. I basically fell into the same trap that other adults do. These kids are more capable of understanding God's love than many (most?) of my peers.
Ryan Harlan was the leader in the house. Google his name and you'll find a variety of stories, interviews and pictures from his decathlon meets. It was an amazing time for the guys, because they were taught by a man who has overcome so many obstacles and fulfilled many of his dreams, yet doesn't take any credit for his accomplishments.
Apart from the teaching, it was a great time to continue building relationship with these guys. For the first time in (known) Chi Alpha history, the 7th graders went undefeated during recreation. Having a world-class athlete on your team helps, but the guys definitely earned it.
We slept outside both nights. We battled all the elements - the wind moving over the semi-bare land, the raging water...in the pool, and the two wild beasts (dogs) who kept pulling blankets off the guys. One of them definitely yoinked my beanie sometime in the night. I found it in a pile of leaves and slobber. We definitely felt like men after surviving everything that suburban nature through at us.
That said, it's time for a nap. These guys may be able to operate on a few hours of sleep, but I cannot. This will be fun to read once I'm well-rested... | | |
| For those who don't frequent TRudd.com, I invite you to look at my pictures from Africa.
A month late? Yes. But they're right on time. | | |
| Okay chillun', I'm updating my Xanga site only to say I leave for Africa in 12 hours. My farewell post can be found at my real blog. On that post you will find information on how to contact me, Bert, Scott, Josh, James or anybody else going on the trip. There is also information on how to receive updates during our trip.
Please do this! It helps us cope with whatever minor cases of homesickness we may or may not have ;) If I choose to return, I will see you all in July. Getting back on that plane to the States will be one of the hardest things I will ever have to do.
Farewell from your domestic foreigner.
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| I have a real website with a real blog and real photos. You can really contact me, as well.
Enjoy.
In other words, I'd rather stick with my blog while maintaining relations with my friends who chose the dark side. Though I will eventually crack and post here, my current and main blog is here. | | |
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