The first thing that struck me about Singapore was how immaculate it was. I also noticed all the beautiful Christmas decor which adorned the entire city, particularly at Clark Quay and Orchard Road at night. Nick and I also enjoyed having dinner at the Chijmes, a wonderful restaurant row of sorts.
We got to visit my Dad's old stomping grounds at the American Club, Merlion Park, Raffles Place and Chinatown where we had the best Chinese food we've ever had. If we had more time, I would have liked to visit Sentosa Island, a theme park, arcade and entertainment venue all rolled into one.
27 December, 2008
23 December, 2008
Our second home!
We are safely in London, really loving our time with family here. As promised, I will update you on India, Ethiopia and Kenya (to the left is a sneak peak of photos to be posted). As these countries were the most challenging, rewarding and blessed part of our trip, I have a lot to catch you all up on. Since I did not have access to the Internet at that time, I will be transcribing my journal entries online in the next few days. Hope you are enjoying this special Christmas season and all of its delights- family, friends and the joy of Christ. Blessings!
02 December, 2008
The Mouse Incident
Had to tell you a funny story from a few days back...
We took a long-tail speedboat up the River Kwai to our accommodation- a floating hostel on the river. The floating huts swayed in the current, the thin bamboo-covered walls rocked from side to side...In true Thai style, the shower was a hose in the wall located above the toilet. Lacking plumbing, you had to shovel in water from a bucket to push the excrement out. Nick and I finally decided to catch some shut-eye despite the drunken Brits reveling outside our door with beers in hand, feet dangling in the water...the French couple next door enjoying their honeymoon in stereotypical (ho-ho-ho) fashion if you catch my drift... and the residents on the other side of us snoring like freight-trains. I finally lulled myself to sleep but awoke to hear a munch-munch-munch. The sound dissipated and I shrugged off any worry. My eyes closed. "Chomp, munch, crack!" Someone or something, for that matter, was trying to get in through our door. I tapped Nick awake, the crunching got louder. It was coming from under our floor, no, from outside our door. It's as if something was trying to get through our door. Nick flipped on the light but we saw nothing, so he got a flashlight and headed out the backdoor to investigate. I stood a few feet behind the door imagining what kind of creature was gnawing at our door. Either a crocodile or perhaps a mutant rat? I heard Nick say from the outside that he saw nothing. All of a sudden, a hole appeared inside the door. Two small illuminated eyes peeked out and out came a nose. It was a mouse- obviously on steroids- as it just ate through our door! Either that or we were right not to drink the local water. There is nothing we could do, clearly the room was his home and this explained the holes all over the walls. He was free to come and go as he pleased. Fortunately, I only heard him scurry across the floor at night but Nick saw him running across our palm-frond braided ceilings as we slept. Cheeky little thing!
We took a long-tail speedboat up the River Kwai to our accommodation- a floating hostel on the river. The floating huts swayed in the current, the thin bamboo-covered walls rocked from side to side...In true Thai style, the shower was a hose in the wall located above the toilet. Lacking plumbing, you had to shovel in water from a bucket to push the excrement out. Nick and I finally decided to catch some shut-eye despite the drunken Brits reveling outside our door with beers in hand, feet dangling in the water...the French couple next door enjoying their honeymoon in stereotypical (ho-ho-ho) fashion if you catch my drift... and the residents on the other side of us snoring like freight-trains. I finally lulled myself to sleep but awoke to hear a munch-munch-munch. The sound dissipated and I shrugged off any worry. My eyes closed. "Chomp, munch, crack!" Someone or something, for that matter, was trying to get in through our door. I tapped Nick awake, the crunching got louder. It was coming from under our floor, no, from outside our door. It's as if something was trying to get through our door. Nick flipped on the light but we saw nothing, so he got a flashlight and headed out the backdoor to investigate. I stood a few feet behind the door imagining what kind of creature was gnawing at our door. Either a crocodile or perhaps a mutant rat? I heard Nick say from the outside that he saw nothing. All of a sudden, a hole appeared inside the door. Two small illuminated eyes peeked out and out came a nose. It was a mouse- obviously on steroids- as it just ate through our door! Either that or we were right not to drink the local water. There is nothing we could do, clearly the room was his home and this explained the holes all over the walls. He was free to come and go as he pleased. Fortunately, I only heard him scurry across the floor at night but Nick saw him running across our palm-frond braided ceilings as we slept. Cheeky little thing!
30 November, 2008
KL and Itinerary Changes
What a fabulously modern city! We are having a brilliant time exploring Chinatown, sampling exotic foods like Malay and Moroccan (yum!), taking the monorail (I'm convinced we need one in Cali) and walking the city. Tomorrow we will climb the tower, see the city gardens and do a city bus tour. On the 2nd we will depart for Singapore before going to New Delhi.
Thoughts of Thanksgiving
We spent Thanksgiving on a 20 hour bus journey from Phuket to Kuala Lumpur (KL), eating power bars, chocolate milk and cookies from 7-11 because that's all we could grab before our hasty departure. As I'm sure you've read: Bangkok airport has been closed due to riots and anti-government protests. I spent the journey thinking of how grateful I am for an education, a savior who loves me unconditionally, a husband I'm having a blast seeing the world with, family, friends and being citizens of the US and UK. How blessed we are!
Sadly, I thought about our American and British brothers and sisters who lost their lives in the heinous terrorist attacks in Mumbai all for having different religions and passports. With heavy hearts, we watch the news and current affairs in both India and Thailand (our last and next destinations) pondering humanity. A few days earlier, we walked the streets of Phuket, seeing many younger local women with much older Western men. One woman, or girl I should say as she didn't appear old enough to have hit puberty, held the hand of a man who looked very easily old enough to be her grandfather, but clearly wasn't. They sat across from us at a pizza parlor, her eating, looking terribly unhappy and staring around in silence. It broke my heart to see such a youthful, beautiful girl with so much of life ahead of her looking so sad and losing her innocence at such a young age, her innocence probably sold by her parents for pocket change. I wanted to go up to her and smile at her, to show her the kindness and goodness of people, to hug her and tell her that she is beautiful and of great worth in the eyes of her creator, but instead, due to a language barrier and cultural differences, I sat there and prayed for her instead.
What a world we live in, full of people with such capacity to promote both goodness and evil. The more hurt I witness in the world, both personally and in the headlines, the more I don't want to be just another person contributing nothing more than a carbon footprint. I truly desire to leave the world better than I found it. Too idealistic, unrealistic, optimistic...I don't mind...what do I lose for trying? I feel it's a win-win situation. I feel the real question is not why bother, but where to begin?
Sadly, I thought about our American and British brothers and sisters who lost their lives in the heinous terrorist attacks in Mumbai all for having different religions and passports. With heavy hearts, we watch the news and current affairs in both India and Thailand (our last and next destinations) pondering humanity. A few days earlier, we walked the streets of Phuket, seeing many younger local women with much older Western men. One woman, or girl I should say as she didn't appear old enough to have hit puberty, held the hand of a man who looked very easily old enough to be her grandfather, but clearly wasn't. They sat across from us at a pizza parlor, her eating, looking terribly unhappy and staring around in silence. It broke my heart to see such a youthful, beautiful girl with so much of life ahead of her looking so sad and losing her innocence at such a young age, her innocence probably sold by her parents for pocket change. I wanted to go up to her and smile at her, to show her the kindness and goodness of people, to hug her and tell her that she is beautiful and of great worth in the eyes of her creator, but instead, due to a language barrier and cultural differences, I sat there and prayed for her instead.
What a world we live in, full of people with such capacity to promote both goodness and evil. The more hurt I witness in the world, both personally and in the headlines, the more I don't want to be just another person contributing nothing more than a carbon footprint. I truly desire to leave the world better than I found it. Too idealistic, unrealistic, optimistic...I don't mind...what do I lose for trying? I feel it's a win-win situation. I feel the real question is not why bother, but where to begin?
Snakes, Oh My!
On a tour, the guide sneakily dropped us off at a snake show. It was one of my worst nightmares brought to life. A man wandered around putting snakes on people to charge money for photos. Uncovered enclosures had snakes slithering and writhing all over each other. Rickety cages (which I suspect wouldn't pass US safety standards) held venomous snakes. After walking through the creepy zoo, we watched a show where men kissed cobras and dodged them as they tried to defend themselves (one snake was almost flung into the audience if he hadn't hit the wall- two inches higher and one terrified spectator would have had a cobra in their lap!), then they displayed (I kid you not) the male snake's double genitalia and carried the snakes in the audience for visitors to touch for good luck. Needless to say, I passed on the idea but the man dangled the thing in my lap.
As much as I am not a snake lover (the animal symbolized Satan in the Bible for a reason), I felt a strange sadness for the inhumane treatment of the serpents. Unfortunately, it becomes increasingly evident that Thailand is a tourism-driven nation and therefore the Thai people conform their lifestyles and occupations according to the needs and demands of the tourists, hence the inhumane shows for entertainment, rampant prostitution and the sale of mock designer goods. I can't help but sympathize with the Thai people who work hard for so little and as a result I have noticed they sometimes swindle or rip off tourists, often resorting to harassing sales techniques, insincere helpfulness to sell something or generally having a bitter outlook towards Westerners because they assume we're all rich and wasteful. It's a vicious cycle and both the tourism and poverty in Thailand remain.
Thailand Notes:
Ko Phi Phi off of Phuket was incredible! We stayed at a nice resort on the quieter part of the island and enjoyed the best red curry of our lives at a candlelight, beachfront dinner! I was so inspired by the meal, I took a pricey Thai cooking class from the head chef at the restaurant- it was such a unique learning experience. I can't wait to make some for my family at home.
To anyone considering travel to Thailand- without a doubt- go. Just pack lots of baby wipes and hand sanitizer. If you really hate cigarette smoke and pollution, bring a face mask like painters and manicurists wear- even the police and locals wear them around the city. Also, women need to bring clothes to cover their legs and shoulders while they are visiting temples.
As much as I am not a snake lover (the animal symbolized Satan in the Bible for a reason), I felt a strange sadness for the inhumane treatment of the serpents. Unfortunately, it becomes increasingly evident that Thailand is a tourism-driven nation and therefore the Thai people conform their lifestyles and occupations according to the needs and demands of the tourists, hence the inhumane shows for entertainment, rampant prostitution and the sale of mock designer goods. I can't help but sympathize with the Thai people who work hard for so little and as a result I have noticed they sometimes swindle or rip off tourists, often resorting to harassing sales techniques, insincere helpfulness to sell something or generally having a bitter outlook towards Westerners because they assume we're all rich and wasteful. It's a vicious cycle and both the tourism and poverty in Thailand remain.
Thailand Notes:
Ko Phi Phi off of Phuket was incredible! We stayed at a nice resort on the quieter part of the island and enjoyed the best red curry of our lives at a candlelight, beachfront dinner! I was so inspired by the meal, I took a pricey Thai cooking class from the head chef at the restaurant- it was such a unique learning experience. I can't wait to make some for my family at home.
To anyone considering travel to Thailand- without a doubt- go. Just pack lots of baby wipes and hand sanitizer. If you really hate cigarette smoke and pollution, bring a face mask like painters and manicurists wear- even the police and locals wear them around the city. Also, women need to bring clothes to cover their legs and shoulders while they are visiting temples.
Bangkok
Bangkok comes alive at night. Vendors begin to unpack their knock-off treasures on street side tables, food carts magically appear on each street corner, alleyways light up with neon lights... The local Thai cuisine is awesome, even made by street vendors, but prepare for a runny nose and watery eyes. Mild in Thailand is code for raging-hot spicy flavored! Thai massages are also a very affordable treat for about $10 US an hour. Thai massage is a mixture of assisted yoga, physical therapy and a deep tissue massage.
There are lots of wonderful, bustling day bazaars and night markets selling everything you could think of: gold jewelry, trinkets, animals, food and faux designer apparel (MBK and Siam Paragon are good places to see-although we missed them on this trip unfortunately). I wish we had the extra couple days to explore more. The other unique luxury in Bangkok is tailored clothes made in about 6 hours and fitted to your exact size. They make exquisite suits and evening dresses. Incredible!
Thailand's architecture is astounding- gold-plated, Asian-style, elaborate temples dot the city itself and are seen every 10 miles or so in the countryside. Some of the buildings while driving into Bangkok lead you to believe you are visiting a large, Western metropolis, but not so as the Thai architecture and culture comes to life on city streets.
There are lots of wonderful, bustling day bazaars and night markets selling everything you could think of: gold jewelry, trinkets, animals, food and faux designer apparel (MBK and Siam Paragon are good places to see-although we missed them on this trip unfortunately). I wish we had the extra couple days to explore more. The other unique luxury in Bangkok is tailored clothes made in about 6 hours and fitted to your exact size. They make exquisite suits and evening dresses. Incredible!
Thailand's architecture is astounding- gold-plated, Asian-style, elaborate temples dot the city itself and are seen every 10 miles or so in the countryside. Some of the buildings while driving into Bangkok lead you to believe you are visiting a large, Western metropolis, but not so as the Thai architecture and culture comes to life on city streets.
29 November, 2008
Thailand
Bangkok is not for the faint of heart! The very name Bangkok is almost onomatopoetic, representing the city's loud, dynamic, frenzied side. Once you get past the traffic, dirtiness, humidity and polluted smells (now I understand why the Thais take up to 3 showers a day- one morning a car splashed a dirty puddle all over me), you discover the vitality, history and culture there. One obstacle we struggled with was the transportation. With the traffic, metered taxis are an impractically expensive way to navigate the city. Tuk-tuks (think half motorcycle, half seated cart) are either over-priced or very fairly priced if you agree to stop in several of their commissioned shops along the journey- this can take ages. Also you sit in the fumes of the city- which is immense. Tuk-tuk drivers, we have learned, are picky about where they drive to and often don't speak much English, we've been waved off more than once when they couldn't be bothered to take us. Thais are generally very direct and don't like beating around the bush- you're either pressured to do what they want or flat out refused but you're never confused about their intent.
Some of the best highlights of Bangkok are the Reclining Buddha, Wat Po and the Grand Palace. We had the pleasure of visiting the floating markets outside the city, going on a bamboo raft river tour, seeing the tiger temple (see video-one of the people kicking the ball at first is me) and riding an elephant through the Thai countryside.
Some of the best highlights of Bangkok are the Reclining Buddha, Wat Po and the Grand Palace. We had the pleasure of visiting the floating markets outside the city, going on a bamboo raft river tour, seeing the tiger temple (see video-one of the people kicking the ball at first is me) and riding an elephant through the Thai countryside.
20 November, 2008
Sydney
We're having a marvelous time in Sydney. So far we have visited Bondi and Manly beaches, taken a guided bike tour around the city (12 miles! A photo is on the right ---->), seen the Australian ballet at the Sydney Opera House, saw a documentary at the world's largest IMAX theatre, had a drink at the oldest pub in OZ, taken a ferry all around the harbor and we even spotted a few celebrities at the Australian premiere of the movie, "Australia," which happened to be down the street from our hostel.
Australia has decided to hide the sun from us, but fortunately it is still quite warm. There is so much to do and see in this city- we have been busy! A few highlights I recommend would be: The Rocks (the oldest part of Australian culture-this is where the convicts were originally sent), Harbor Bridge, Darling Harbor, Sydney Opera House, Hyde Park, Sydney Botanical Gardens, Circular Quay, Luna Park and the Sky Tower. Bondi and Manly are also musts. The local Blue Mountains are also quite spectacular and the caves there are said to be unique as well.
Tomorrow we are off to Bangkok, so we will bid adieu to Oz for now. We have sincerely enjoyed our time here and hope to be back sometime not in the too distant future.
16 November, 2008
Australia
Great Barrier Reef:
Great is in the title of this reef (I suspect) not just because of its immense size but also incredible beauty. We were so taken by the GBR that we added another day trip so we could not only scuba dive, but snorkel different parts of the reef. Imagine over 1,500 varieties of fish living in one area (even though this one area is over 2,000 kilometers long and can be seen from space)...every shape, size and pattern..not even Vera Wang or Tom Ford could have thought up such beautiful designs and vibrant, contrasting colors- truly a testament to God's magnificent skills as the creator of the universe. We saw jellyfish (hence the nasty stinger suits in the photos), hard and soft coral, loads of fish, stingrays and the largest barracuda we've ever seen even in captivity. The water was a very comfortable 28 degrees Centigrade and was a gorgeous shade of lucid, aquamarine. How small and insignificant I felt as a small swimmer in a vast ocean teeming with sea life and yet I felt a heartwarming feeling knowing that however small or insignificant I felt in comparison to the grander scale of the planet, I matter to my creator.
Sunshine Coast:
We had the good fortune of meeting some Ozzies in Fiji who suggested the Sunshine Coast over our plan to visit the Gold Coast, known for all-night partying and a Vegas-like atmosphere on the coastline. Opting for more of a cultural and relaxed experience, we went to the famous Australia Zoo- home of Steve Irwin, the infamous Croc Hunter. We had a wonderful time petting koalas and kangaroos, watching the tigers, feeding the elephants and witnessing croc feedings by the brave and slightly insane croc team at the zoo.
The next two days we spent in Mooloolaba and Noosa, north of Brisbane. They were quaint beach towns with expensive, but truly fabulous shops and restaurants in addition to beaches rivalling those in So Cal. Mooloolaba, in particular, has won many awards for its waterfront restaurants and outstandingly pristine beaches. Noosa's main street (Hastings Street) reminded me of a cross between Coronado and Newport Beach, California. Lovely! Brisbane was a lively city full of nightlife and great for walking around after dark.
Notes:
Australia has been amazing! There is always something to do, people are relaxed and friendly and the sights are well worth the long plane ride. One regret we have is not seeing Melbourne. It's been described to us as toned-down, family-oriented version of Sydney but with more character and charm. I can't wait to come back and visit!
Today we are off to Sydney- please check back for more updated photos.
Great is in the title of this reef (I suspect) not just because of its immense size but also incredible beauty. We were so taken by the GBR that we added another day trip so we could not only scuba dive, but snorkel different parts of the reef. Imagine over 1,500 varieties of fish living in one area (even though this one area is over 2,000 kilometers long and can be seen from space)...every shape, size and pattern..not even Vera Wang or Tom Ford could have thought up such beautiful designs and vibrant, contrasting colors- truly a testament to God's magnificent skills as the creator of the universe. We saw jellyfish (hence the nasty stinger suits in the photos), hard and soft coral, loads of fish, stingrays and the largest barracuda we've ever seen even in captivity. The water was a very comfortable 28 degrees Centigrade and was a gorgeous shade of lucid, aquamarine. How small and insignificant I felt as a small swimmer in a vast ocean teeming with sea life and yet I felt a heartwarming feeling knowing that however small or insignificant I felt in comparison to the grander scale of the planet, I matter to my creator.
Sunshine Coast:
We had the good fortune of meeting some Ozzies in Fiji who suggested the Sunshine Coast over our plan to visit the Gold Coast, known for all-night partying and a Vegas-like atmosphere on the coastline. Opting for more of a cultural and relaxed experience, we went to the famous Australia Zoo- home of Steve Irwin, the infamous Croc Hunter. We had a wonderful time petting koalas and kangaroos, watching the tigers, feeding the elephants and witnessing croc feedings by the brave and slightly insane croc team at the zoo.
The next two days we spent in Mooloolaba and Noosa, north of Brisbane. They were quaint beach towns with expensive, but truly fabulous shops and restaurants in addition to beaches rivalling those in So Cal. Mooloolaba, in particular, has won many awards for its waterfront restaurants and outstandingly pristine beaches. Noosa's main street (Hastings Street) reminded me of a cross between Coronado and Newport Beach, California. Lovely! Brisbane was a lively city full of nightlife and great for walking around after dark.
Notes:
Australia has been amazing! There is always something to do, people are relaxed and friendly and the sights are well worth the long plane ride. One regret we have is not seeing Melbourne. It's been described to us as toned-down, family-oriented version of Sydney but with more character and charm. I can't wait to come back and visit!
Today we are off to Sydney- please check back for more updated photos.
09 November, 2008
Kiwi Adventures:
Skydiving:
We went skydiving in Queenstown with NZone. Nick and I both agree it was one of the most exhilarating experiences of our lives. Nick had a nice American tandem-master from San Diego who did a few flips with him once they jumped out. I had a six-foot-five Serbian man named Sasha who was a major jokester and told me it was his first jump, but not to worry as he has read the entire manual and felt prepared. Fortunately he turned out to be the head of the entire program with over 23 years experience and 16,000 plus dives under his belt.
From a nine-seater plane, we were dropped twice the height of the nearest mountain. From 12,000 feet we tandem-jumped to enjoy views of Lake Wakatipu, the Aspiring mountain range, Mt. Cook (the tallest mountain in NZ) and the Dart River. We also braved -13 degrees C air as we plunged 120 MPH, freefalling for over 45 seconds...what a rush! Unfortunately the photos were way too pricey as you have to pay for a photographer to jump with you, however, a random British videographer asked to videotape me, so hopefully the video will pop up on You-Tube one day.
Queenstown:
Truly, one of the most scenically stunning places I've ever been. Queenstown in lakeside, nestled in between a valley and the Aspiring mountain range, very near Glenorchy where Lord of the Rings trilogy and the Narnia series were filmed. Even for a small town, it had many shopping venues, eateries, activities and varied types of accommodation. One of the best views of the town (other than from a plane), would be from the top of a mountain facing Queenstown. A gondola takes you up the mountainside where there is a luging course, bungy jumping and a restaurant at the top. There are also many hiking trails. The views were spectacular (although this seems to be common in NZ)!
Christchurch:
Christchurch was quite honestly another typical city. We did take the bus to Cashmere to enjoy tea and "Christchurch's best eggs benedict" in a small castle on a hillside overlooking the city. The breakfast was awesome!
The Avon River is also a very pleasant spot to take punt rides on a hosted gondola or to sit and read on the riverbanks. There is a busy city center called Cathedral Square where you will find the city's only cathedral. This Wednesday is the start of the Cup and Show Week here in Christchurch where visitors come visit the city to enjoy art and fashion shows as well as horse- racing and a rodeo. That sounds like a brilliant time and I'm sorry we're missing it. Tomorrow we are off to Brisbane, Oz.
We went skydiving in Queenstown with NZone. Nick and I both agree it was one of the most exhilarating experiences of our lives. Nick had a nice American tandem-master from San Diego who did a few flips with him once they jumped out. I had a six-foot-five Serbian man named Sasha who was a major jokester and told me it was his first jump, but not to worry as he has read the entire manual and felt prepared. Fortunately he turned out to be the head of the entire program with over 23 years experience and 16,000 plus dives under his belt.
From a nine-seater plane, we were dropped twice the height of the nearest mountain. From 12,000 feet we tandem-jumped to enjoy views of Lake Wakatipu, the Aspiring mountain range, Mt. Cook (the tallest mountain in NZ) and the Dart River. We also braved -13 degrees C air as we plunged 120 MPH, freefalling for over 45 seconds...what a rush! Unfortunately the photos were way too pricey as you have to pay for a photographer to jump with you, however, a random British videographer asked to videotape me, so hopefully the video will pop up on You-Tube one day.
Queenstown:
Truly, one of the most scenically stunning places I've ever been. Queenstown in lakeside, nestled in between a valley and the Aspiring mountain range, very near Glenorchy where Lord of the Rings trilogy and the Narnia series were filmed. Even for a small town, it had many shopping venues, eateries, activities and varied types of accommodation. One of the best views of the town (other than from a plane), would be from the top of a mountain facing Queenstown. A gondola takes you up the mountainside where there is a luging course, bungy jumping and a restaurant at the top. There are also many hiking trails. The views were spectacular (although this seems to be common in NZ)!
Christchurch:
Christchurch was quite honestly another typical city. We did take the bus to Cashmere to enjoy tea and "Christchurch's best eggs benedict" in a small castle on a hillside overlooking the city. The breakfast was awesome!
The Avon River is also a very pleasant spot to take punt rides on a hosted gondola or to sit and read on the riverbanks. There is a busy city center called Cathedral Square where you will find the city's only cathedral. This Wednesday is the start of the Cup and Show Week here in Christchurch where visitors come visit the city to enjoy art and fashion shows as well as horse- racing and a rodeo. That sounds like a brilliant time and I'm sorry we're missing it. Tomorrow we are off to Brisbane, Oz.
06 November, 2008
Greetings from the land of the Kiwis!
Kia ora!
First impressions:
We so easily filled 11 days with activities and points of interest, we've decided we must return and have already managed to make a list of places to see next time. I consider myself extremely lucky to reside in So Cal, the bar has been set extremely high, and NZ has not failed to dazzle me with its charm and beauty. If heaven looks anything like NZ, I will not be disappointed.
Nature:
Vineyards, glaciers, mountains, parks, bays, beaches, lakes, rivers, sounds...you get the idea...this place is truly a nature lover's paradise. NZ seems to have made a real commitment to wildlife conversation with its endless national parks and marine reserves. With merely 4 million people on both islands, most of which on the north island, nature reigns here. The untarnished beauty I have encountered has repeatedly taken my breath away.
Old MacDonald's Farm:
What a charming nursery school song, but what a misleading and cunning name for the lodge we stayed at in Abel Tasman National Park on the northeastern tip of the south island. The farm did indeed have horses, chickens, peacocks, roosters (who crowed very early) and a surreal mountainside setting. It also had detached toilets and showers far enough away that one was more tempted to pee in the bushes than brave the cold, dark journey at night. The sheets were unwashed and sprinkled with dirt and we had ants, spiders, mozzies and mice for roommates who were kind enough to leave droppings on us as we slept. The next morning I finally worked up the courage to emerge from my personal sheet cocoon I brought from home and ventured to the toilets to find smoke pouring into my stall from the man in the stall next to me. Delightful. And so I have learned a few lessons: hats cover a multitude of hair faux pas, wear flip flops on any surface which appears suspicious, always bring lots of extra clean underpants and baby wipes literally are a multi-practical gift from God when you are traveling, like manna from heaven.
City of Sails (Auckland):
The very best of Auckland, I've discovered is oceanside and on the water. Nick and I took a ferry to a neighboring island covered in black, crumbly volcanic rock and fauna. We trekked four miles to the top of the crater where we relished spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding islands and the most incredible view of the Auckland skyline complete with a harbor and coastline spotted with bleach-white sailboats. Well worth the hike!
Kaikoura:
Imagine a place where you can see cerulean-blue ocean, snow-capped mountains and forest green valleys all in one view. This is what we saw as we drove into the area. Breathtaking! The lodge (thank you, Mark!) had the most amazing views of the nearby mountains and valley. We truly could not have asked for better scenery.
Fire scare:
I was drinking some tea and watching a tv program on the election results when to my surprise and horror, I saw black smoke billowing from the mountainside opposite the home where we were staying. Orange flames dances up and down the mountain wall and embers floated toward us in the strong winds. We were scared senseless by the speed and ferocity of the fire. Within minutes, it had covered the mountainside across from the home. Being California residents and no strangers to evacuation, Nick and I grabbed our passports and quickly fled back up the main road to safety. Speeding down the gravel road, we passed the neighbors we had met the day before as they drove in the opposite direction towards the fire. We naturally waved them down and asked what they were doing. Turns out it was a planned burning because the wind conditions were just right that day as to contain the fire and burn the pesky bushes which had been growing all over the mountainsides. We finally started breathing again, although the air was still quite ashy. Our adrenalin was still pumping vigorously as we had no idea the fire was planned! Our kind neighbor, Ricky, and his son then took us on a wonderful 4X4 mountain trekking tour (one thousand meters up) leaving the fire and the dirty air below us and giving us a bird's eye view of the entire valley.
Queenstown and sporting adventures:
Today we went on a jet-boating adventure down the Dart River where they filmed the Lord of the Rings trilogy. We got to whiz down a very shallow, rocky river nestled in between snow-capped mountains. We were FREEZING, but the sights were incredible. It turns out that this backdrop is used to film many commercials and films that are meant to be set in the Rockies or the Alps as well, but it is for some odd reason cheaper to film here in NZ.
Tomorrow (deep breath) we are skydiving! I'll be sure to write more about that after the fact.
First impressions:
We so easily filled 11 days with activities and points of interest, we've decided we must return and have already managed to make a list of places to see next time. I consider myself extremely lucky to reside in So Cal, the bar has been set extremely high, and NZ has not failed to dazzle me with its charm and beauty. If heaven looks anything like NZ, I will not be disappointed.
Nature:
Vineyards, glaciers, mountains, parks, bays, beaches, lakes, rivers, sounds...you get the idea...this place is truly a nature lover's paradise. NZ seems to have made a real commitment to wildlife conversation with its endless national parks and marine reserves. With merely 4 million people on both islands, most of which on the north island, nature reigns here. The untarnished beauty I have encountered has repeatedly taken my breath away.
Old MacDonald's Farm:
What a charming nursery school song, but what a misleading and cunning name for the lodge we stayed at in Abel Tasman National Park on the northeastern tip of the south island. The farm did indeed have horses, chickens, peacocks, roosters (who crowed very early) and a surreal mountainside setting. It also had detached toilets and showers far enough away that one was more tempted to pee in the bushes than brave the cold, dark journey at night. The sheets were unwashed and sprinkled with dirt and we had ants, spiders, mozzies and mice for roommates who were kind enough to leave droppings on us as we slept. The next morning I finally worked up the courage to emerge from my personal sheet cocoon I brought from home and ventured to the toilets to find smoke pouring into my stall from the man in the stall next to me. Delightful. And so I have learned a few lessons: hats cover a multitude of hair faux pas, wear flip flops on any surface which appears suspicious, always bring lots of extra clean underpants and baby wipes literally are a multi-practical gift from God when you are traveling, like manna from heaven.
City of Sails (Auckland):
The very best of Auckland, I've discovered is oceanside and on the water. Nick and I took a ferry to a neighboring island covered in black, crumbly volcanic rock and fauna. We trekked four miles to the top of the crater where we relished spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding islands and the most incredible view of the Auckland skyline complete with a harbor and coastline spotted with bleach-white sailboats. Well worth the hike!
Kaikoura:
Imagine a place where you can see cerulean-blue ocean, snow-capped mountains and forest green valleys all in one view. This is what we saw as we drove into the area. Breathtaking! The lodge (thank you, Mark!) had the most amazing views of the nearby mountains and valley. We truly could not have asked for better scenery.
Fire scare:
I was drinking some tea and watching a tv program on the election results when to my surprise and horror, I saw black smoke billowing from the mountainside opposite the home where we were staying. Orange flames dances up and down the mountain wall and embers floated toward us in the strong winds. We were scared senseless by the speed and ferocity of the fire. Within minutes, it had covered the mountainside across from the home. Being California residents and no strangers to evacuation, Nick and I grabbed our passports and quickly fled back up the main road to safety. Speeding down the gravel road, we passed the neighbors we had met the day before as they drove in the opposite direction towards the fire. We naturally waved them down and asked what they were doing. Turns out it was a planned burning because the wind conditions were just right that day as to contain the fire and burn the pesky bushes which had been growing all over the mountainsides. We finally started breathing again, although the air was still quite ashy. Our adrenalin was still pumping vigorously as we had no idea the fire was planned! Our kind neighbor, Ricky, and his son then took us on a wonderful 4X4 mountain trekking tour (one thousand meters up) leaving the fire and the dirty air below us and giving us a bird's eye view of the entire valley.
Queenstown and sporting adventures:
Today we went on a jet-boating adventure down the Dart River where they filmed the Lord of the Rings trilogy. We got to whiz down a very shallow, rocky river nestled in between snow-capped mountains. We were FREEZING, but the sights were incredible. It turns out that this backdrop is used to film many commercials and films that are meant to be set in the Rockies or the Alps as well, but it is for some odd reason cheaper to film here in NZ.
Tomorrow (deep breath) we are skydiving! I'll be sure to write more about that after the fact.
30 October, 2008
Island Time
Bula! Greetings from Fiji!
Everything in Fiji moves on island time without rhyme or reason. This morning we were abruptly woken up from our bunk beds by a staff member because the boat came two hours early to pick us up. Despite that scramble to pack our bags and run to the departing boat, we have had a brilliant time island hopping and staying on Bounty Island reading, snorkeling, kayaking, playing ping-pong with the locals, swimming and making news friends from all over the world. Some of these people not only gave us helpful travel advice, but plan to meet up with us in other stops on our trip.
We have also been lounging poolside, trying our best to avoid mozzie bites and being hit by falling coconuts and mangoes- which are delicious by the way!
Nick has made friends with a local named Sam, a lovely, toothless old man with an affinity for ping-pong, dancing and playing his home-made percussion instruments. To my amazement, almost every female backpacker I've met is traveling for at least a year, has a backpack the size of Nick's (how they carry them, I have no idea!) and has packed every earthly belonging they own it seems. Watching them unpack reminds me of Mary Poppin's bottomless bag, it's a mystery. Most travelers mistake my pack for a carry-on, the irony though, is that my carry-on weighs more than my pack with all the essentials I am carrying.
Without divulging too many nitty-gritty details, let's just say we've quickly learned to sleep in our own sheets we brought, re-wear dirty clothes and do without luxuries like shaving or a shower. Even still, we still feel rich compared to the locals. It's difficult to comprehend the poverty here when tourism is booming and even the hostels charge relatively expensive prices.
Another lesson learned- don't use 99% Deet- the bugs still eat you alive and it literally melts your nail polish off and any other plastic it touches. It works better than my nail polish remover back home.
All that aside, the islands are magnificent, (400 in total around the west coast of Fiji- all with unique scenic beauty) truly God's creation at its very best! The endless coral reefs, colorful fish, sand sharks, clear, warm waters...are a sight to behold. Fiji reminds me a bit of Hawaii and Costa Rica due to the hot, humid, tropical climate with regular rainstorms keeping the vegetation lush. Men here wear skirts, which suits them, because as Nick says, "Most of the island men here are beasts, so no one will mess with them!" Think NFL linebackers.
The staff on Bounty Island also sing to visitors as they arrive and depart on the shuttle boats and also entertain us after dinner which is really fun (including dancing Sam.) We are learning so much from the people we've met and the things we have seen.
Three bottles of sunscreen down, we are now off to Auckland, New Zealand where we plan to tour the city and hopefully do a quick trip to the Bay of Islands before flying to the south island.
Everything in Fiji moves on island time without rhyme or reason. This morning we were abruptly woken up from our bunk beds by a staff member because the boat came two hours early to pick us up. Despite that scramble to pack our bags and run to the departing boat, we have had a brilliant time island hopping and staying on Bounty Island reading, snorkeling, kayaking, playing ping-pong with the locals, swimming and making news friends from all over the world. Some of these people not only gave us helpful travel advice, but plan to meet up with us in other stops on our trip.
We have also been lounging poolside, trying our best to avoid mozzie bites and being hit by falling coconuts and mangoes- which are delicious by the way!
Nick has made friends with a local named Sam, a lovely, toothless old man with an affinity for ping-pong, dancing and playing his home-made percussion instruments. To my amazement, almost every female backpacker I've met is traveling for at least a year, has a backpack the size of Nick's (how they carry them, I have no idea!) and has packed every earthly belonging they own it seems. Watching them unpack reminds me of Mary Poppin's bottomless bag, it's a mystery. Most travelers mistake my pack for a carry-on, the irony though, is that my carry-on weighs more than my pack with all the essentials I am carrying.
Without divulging too many nitty-gritty details, let's just say we've quickly learned to sleep in our own sheets we brought, re-wear dirty clothes and do without luxuries like shaving or a shower. Even still, we still feel rich compared to the locals. It's difficult to comprehend the poverty here when tourism is booming and even the hostels charge relatively expensive prices.
Another lesson learned- don't use 99% Deet- the bugs still eat you alive and it literally melts your nail polish off and any other plastic it touches. It works better than my nail polish remover back home.
All that aside, the islands are magnificent, (400 in total around the west coast of Fiji- all with unique scenic beauty) truly God's creation at its very best! The endless coral reefs, colorful fish, sand sharks, clear, warm waters...are a sight to behold. Fiji reminds me a bit of Hawaii and Costa Rica due to the hot, humid, tropical climate with regular rainstorms keeping the vegetation lush. Men here wear skirts, which suits them, because as Nick says, "Most of the island men here are beasts, so no one will mess with them!" Think NFL linebackers.
The staff on Bounty Island also sing to visitors as they arrive and depart on the shuttle boats and also entertain us after dinner which is really fun (including dancing Sam.) We are learning so much from the people we've met and the things we have seen.
Three bottles of sunscreen down, we are now off to Auckland, New Zealand where we plan to tour the city and hopefully do a quick trip to the Bay of Islands before flying to the south island.
01 October, 2008
And We're Off!
To say I am elated about this trip would be the understatement of the century. This adventure started as a dream Nick and I shared when we were dating, back then it was only an idea. All these years later, it's an actuality and we are finally leaving today.
The question I am often asked is a good one (and a tough one as every stop on the itinerary thrills me to pieces), "Where are you most excited to visit?"
Other than seeing his family in England, Nick's answer is India. Mine is actually Kenya. In reading about Africa, hearing stories about it through my close friends who have been there on mission trips and through researching the country, I have developed a heart for its diverse wildlife, pristine natural beauty and people who are so full of joy, despite the poverty they live in.
The older I get, the more I feel humbled and realize how little I actually know. I am also learning about what really matters. I think the Kenyan people have something to teach me, perhaps more than I can give back to them by helping in the short time we're there.
When you strip away fancy cars, large houses with backyard swimming pools, gaming consoles, the internet, shopping malls and the creature comforts of the western world- you are left with simplistic facets to find happiness in: family, friendships, community, cultural celebration through song and dancing... the things we often overlook when the big game is on tv or we have too much on the to-do list (yes, I’m guilty too). Now I understand it's easy to have the focus divert from the clothes you wear or what to buy next when you don’t have the means to buy anything frivolous and have to focus on survival instead. I'm not suggesting all Americans throw out their tvs and give away all their money. I just personally feel in Southern California, it is easy to become distracted by the superficial, to join into the rat race, to want more, more, more...because we live in tremendous comfort and convenience compared to the rest of the world.
I am looking forward to not wearing make-up to events out, wearing what is clean and comfortable versus what would look stylish (sorry Nick, I'll try to match) and stepping outside my comfort zone to taste foreign delicacies, learn new languages and local customs... and also to grow in appreciation for how good we have it back home in California.
I find that traveling clears my head, gives me perspective and helps me look at the bigger picture. It's easier for me to hear God away from all the distraction of the minute, trivial, even stressful details which so easily fill a calendar.
My aim is for us to learn something from each place we go, each culture we encounter and to return as individuals who have grown spiritually, psychologically and perhaps physically from the look of our heavy backpacks. I want us to enjoy the simple pleasures of trying something new, exploring and discovering the fascinating world around us and also enjoying each other's company.
If you have it on your heart to pray for us, please pray for spiritual growth, God's guidance in planning our future and also physical safety as we travel. We will give you updates as the trip progresses.
God bless!
First stop-Fiji!
View Larger Map
Nick and I are off to Nadi, Fiji, where we will be taking a boat to Bounty Island. The island is primarily occupied by a youth hostel offering bare-bone amenities (we're talking no ac here) at somewhat reasonable prices, at least for a hostel located in tropical paradise (please see photo to the right).
I plan on sailing, becoming in a prune by floating in the clear water all day, ready on the shore and kayaking. That to me, sounds like a slice of heaven!
Let's be quite honest here- I am writing this pre-trip and photos aren't always all they're cracked up to be on the website. Then again, I've been to a few places in the world where a photo just wouldn't do justice to the natural beauty you see in person. That being said, I will report back and let you know. And you can look at our photos to make your own judgment.
Hope you each find a bit of paradise in your day back home!!
15 September, 2008
Making It Count
I am in awe of how quickly time escapes me and each year I feel pulled into a vortex where time only accelerates. It’s true: time is precious. In my humble opinion, it is one of the most precious and rare gifts we have from God because you can’t own it, manipulate it, make or buy more of it, so you have to wisely choose how it is spent as you can only do so much with the time you’re given.
That has left me pondering the age-old question: so what do you do with the time you have?
The key I’ve found (at least in my own life) is in focusing on the bigger picture instead of always looking internally. I discover more about myself (good and bad) when I look beyond my own life to recognize and care about the needs of others. Whenever I ponder purpose, it always ends up coming back to the same principle: leaving a legacy, something behind on this Earth bigger and better than myself. As a Christian, I’m not taking about money or businesses or even necessarily government as much as I mean sharing the love and word of God with others through serving and living a life of conviction and values. Much, much easier said than done. That being said, I’m not alone in that sentiment. Doing a bit of Googling, I found (on Nationalservice.gov) that more people volunteer through religious based organizations than through any other type of organization. Furthermore, youth volunteering is on the rise, particularly through educational and youth service organizations. These factors all contribute to the fact that volunteering is the highest it has been in the last 30 years.
Interesting Facts I Dug Up:
(Research data from NationalService.org)
- The number of college students who volunteer is up
by approximately 20 percent from 2002 to 2005
n The number of college students volunteering grew
by 600,000 from 2.7 million in 2002 to 3.3 million in
2005. - The growth rate of college student volunteers
(approximately 20%) is more than double the growth
rate of all adult volunteers (9%).
n In 2005, approximately 30.2 percent of college
students volunteered, exceeding the volunteer rate
for the general adult population of 28.8 percent.
The growth in college volunteering has been generated
primarily by youth who attended high school or
were first-year college students during the terrorist
attacks of 9/11 - The vast majority (84%) of current college student
volunteers were of high-school age (14 to 18 years old)
in 2001. - Since September 2001, the overall percent of college
students who volunteer has increased from 27.1 percent
to 30.2 percent.
I have been and still am generally concerned about the shortcomings I feel my generation possesses in terms of eroding values, however, what I am about to address is something I find extremely promising and encouraging about my generation across the board in America. I know this flies in the face of the whole Generation X aka “Generation Me,” “iGeneration,” or “Entitlement Generation” theory as I was reading about today, but I’ve noticed when you look into the heart of my generation you do find a lot of young adults who not only recognize the need for change, but desire a better, more peaceful world politically, environmentally and socially and who aren’t content with merely sending checks, but are willing to get their hands dirty when they believe in a cause.
I can find laziness and discontent all over the place in youth when I look for it, but I have also found hope and promise in the most surprising places. I have seen my peers blossom by finding purpose in helping others, ditching high-powered careers for ones where they can impact more than the business world or the economy but give back in the areas of education, healthcare and non-profit. I have noticed and been inspired by individuals in my life who spent university breaks picking up after disasters like Hurricane Katrina or working at medical clinics in Uganda, friends teaching English overseas or taking a detour for a few months from a corporate career to help out orphaned kids in Ethiopia. I cannot tell you how many friends I have- well-educated, intelligent, capable individuals who have forgone high-paying corporate jobs to work for non-profits such as world relief organizations or Christian ministries where they make a pittance but make a difference, or friends who graduated from top-tier universities, with honors, only to become military officers or travel overseas to do missions or charity work afterward in order to give back. That is a VERY overlooked but poignant part of my generation.
Those in my generation do dream a lot, A LOT, but I also see them dreaming of a better world and in so many ways, making that happen. Despite all our shortcomings, I would dare to say we are the most ambitious, well-traveled, technologically well-connected generation so far and have in many ways been the most highly exposed to the rest of world around us, possibilities, failings and all.
As Jean Twenge, PhD., author of Generation Me explains about Generation X: “…they expect to go to college, to make lots of money, and perhaps even to be famous. Yet this generation enters a world in which college admissions are increasingly competitive, good jobs are hard to find and harder to keep, and basic necessities like housing and healthcare have skyrocketed in price. This is a time of soaring expectations and crushing realities.”
Despite tragedies like 9/11 or the London bombings, an increasingly competitive job market and economic hardship propelled by high housing prices and health care costs, in addition to the idea we are contributing to a social security system which threatens to run dry before we retire, I still see a resilience, optimism and resonating hope in the youth of today. I think that says a lot not only about our generation, but the parenting of our generation.
My greatest hope is that in setting the bar high for ourselves spiritually, morally, educationally, politically, professionally, physically and in every way, that my generation would be challenged to not only better the quality of our own lives, but the lives of others here in America and all over the globe.
12 September, 2008
Morality for Sale?
I was on the Stairmaster at the gym watching the most peculiar story being reported on the news. A 22 year old female student from San Diego is auctioning off her virginity in order to fundraise for college. That baffles me. I feel troubled by the moral backsliding of our generation and more than that, the public acceptance and in some cases approval of scenarios such as this.
It is common knowledge that prostitution is the oldest profession for women. Sexuality was one of the very few things women could own and prostitution was one of the very few opportunities women had to get money other than through marriage. Women’s futures were ruled by men whether through prostitution, being financially taken care of by a male relative or getting married. There was little choice or opportunity for the female gender. With time, however, women in America and all over the world have fought for equality and won the right to vote, the right to own property, individual rights and liberties and yet I feel, women such as this one take giant steps backward in terms of progress for all womankind.
Let me interject: I AM NOT A LIBERAL FEMINIST, however, I do believe all women should be born with all the unalienable rights rightly bestowed on every American citizen and citizens of free, democratic countries. I believe in this individual’s right to choose what she does with her body in this circumstance as much as believe in my freedom of speech to write about it. Prostitution is legal in the part of Nevada where she plans to consummate her business transaction, so I can’t fault her in breaking the law. I believe it is important that our constitution gives people the freedom to make their own decisions and I’m not questioning that, I’m questioning the decaying moral fabric of our society and our increasingly accepting attitude toward less than ethical or moral ideals.
I wonder when women in certain countries around the globe are forced into prostitution as a means of survival, why on Earth would a free, educated, beautiful and capable woman choose to sell herself? What possesses this kind of woman with so many options and freedoms to cherish financial security over self-respect? Furthermore, what does it say about our society when so many men are actually bidding on her? How many women enslaved in prostitution as a result of their culture, social standing, gender or circumstance, would love to be in her shoes and have other options than prostitution-to be capable of choosing another destiny!
I read a moving article by Sue Ryan of the London Telegraph about the members of the Bedia tribe in India, which has a long tradition of caste-based prostitution due to the overwhelming poverty of that region. According to the article:
“Girls born here become prostitutes in a rite of passage into "adulthood" as routine as marriage is to the rest of Indian society.” Women typically fetch about 100 ruppees (roughly equivalent to less than $4) for a session, however, virgins as young as 12 and 13 are valued at a much higher rate and married, middle-class businessman are willing to pay a premium for them.
Ryan reports, “For this, the man can have access to the girl for as long as he likes- several hours, days, or even weeks. When he tires of her, there is a celebration. Because it is considered unlucky for a girl to keep the money from her first time, it is spent instead on an extravagant party. Jewellery is bought for her and for her relatives, goats are slaughtered and alcohol runs freely. There is dancing, and offerings are made to the gods. Once a girl has lost her virginity she cannot marry. The choice has been made and the community celebrates it - this is her non-wedding night.”
According to Ryan, “The prevalence of caste-based prostitution in certain tribes in the region - the Bawaria, Nuts, Bedias, Kanjars and Sansis - came to light after a raid on a brothel in Delhi. Now an attempt is being made to break the cycle by which the girls of each generation enter the trade. Many of the women said they did not wish their daughters to follow them into the trade. Ritu and Manju each have a daughter, whose fathers were clients. "My daughter will get educated, and not enter this profession," said Ritu. "I have seen what it is like. I don't want it for her."
In America, we’re not legally forced into slavery or arranged marriages, women are no longer dependent on men for survival, we have forms of government assistance to aid the disadvantaged, so why I’m asking, why would a woman enslave herself, degrade herself in exchange for any amount of money? I find that women who sell themselves short of all their potential are shackled and haunted by hollow choices that echo in their lives longer than the moment the decision is made.
As this woman explains in an article by Tina Molly Lang, "we live in a capitalist society. Why shouldn't I be able to capitalize on my virginity?” Lang goes on to state, “Her most important priority is financial stability. Although her mother and fourth-grade teacher disapprove of this project, the owner of the bidding venue approves. ‘Why lose it to some guy in a Toyota when you can use it to pay for your education?’”
It’s a business transaction, her right, her body, call it what you’d like, make any excuse you’d like- it’s still prostitution. Why would a young woman living in a country full of opportunity and possessing a college degree, resort to an age-old tainted profession women are forced into because of a lack of opportunity? I would venture a guess that there would be more pride, sense of self-worth and accomplishment in working off her college debt over time than in selling herself as property online for a man’s pleasure. And the biggest question I must ask is: how far have we as women or even a society really come when free, “educated” women make decisions such as this?
It is common knowledge that prostitution is the oldest profession for women. Sexuality was one of the very few things women could own and prostitution was one of the very few opportunities women had to get money other than through marriage. Women’s futures were ruled by men whether through prostitution, being financially taken care of by a male relative or getting married. There was little choice or opportunity for the female gender. With time, however, women in America and all over the world have fought for equality and won the right to vote, the right to own property, individual rights and liberties and yet I feel, women such as this one take giant steps backward in terms of progress for all womankind.
Let me interject: I AM NOT A LIBERAL FEMINIST, however, I do believe all women should be born with all the unalienable rights rightly bestowed on every American citizen and citizens of free, democratic countries. I believe in this individual’s right to choose what she does with her body in this circumstance as much as believe in my freedom of speech to write about it. Prostitution is legal in the part of Nevada where she plans to consummate her business transaction, so I can’t fault her in breaking the law. I believe it is important that our constitution gives people the freedom to make their own decisions and I’m not questioning that, I’m questioning the decaying moral fabric of our society and our increasingly accepting attitude toward less than ethical or moral ideals.
I wonder when women in certain countries around the globe are forced into prostitution as a means of survival, why on Earth would a free, educated, beautiful and capable woman choose to sell herself? What possesses this kind of woman with so many options and freedoms to cherish financial security over self-respect? Furthermore, what does it say about our society when so many men are actually bidding on her? How many women enslaved in prostitution as a result of their culture, social standing, gender or circumstance, would love to be in her shoes and have other options than prostitution-to be capable of choosing another destiny!
I read a moving article by Sue Ryan of the London Telegraph about the members of the Bedia tribe in India, which has a long tradition of caste-based prostitution due to the overwhelming poverty of that region. According to the article:
“Girls born here become prostitutes in a rite of passage into "adulthood" as routine as marriage is to the rest of Indian society.” Women typically fetch about 100 ruppees (roughly equivalent to less than $4) for a session, however, virgins as young as 12 and 13 are valued at a much higher rate and married, middle-class businessman are willing to pay a premium for them.
Ryan reports, “For this, the man can have access to the girl for as long as he likes- several hours, days, or even weeks. When he tires of her, there is a celebration. Because it is considered unlucky for a girl to keep the money from her first time, it is spent instead on an extravagant party. Jewellery is bought for her and for her relatives, goats are slaughtered and alcohol runs freely. There is dancing, and offerings are made to the gods. Once a girl has lost her virginity she cannot marry. The choice has been made and the community celebrates it - this is her non-wedding night.”
According to Ryan, “The prevalence of caste-based prostitution in certain tribes in the region - the Bawaria, Nuts, Bedias, Kanjars and Sansis - came to light after a raid on a brothel in Delhi. Now an attempt is being made to break the cycle by which the girls of each generation enter the trade. Many of the women said they did not wish their daughters to follow them into the trade. Ritu and Manju each have a daughter, whose fathers were clients. "My daughter will get educated, and not enter this profession," said Ritu. "I have seen what it is like. I don't want it for her."
In America, we’re not legally forced into slavery or arranged marriages, women are no longer dependent on men for survival, we have forms of government assistance to aid the disadvantaged, so why I’m asking, why would a woman enslave herself, degrade herself in exchange for any amount of money? I find that women who sell themselves short of all their potential are shackled and haunted by hollow choices that echo in their lives longer than the moment the decision is made.
As this woman explains in an article by Tina Molly Lang, "we live in a capitalist society. Why shouldn't I be able to capitalize on my virginity?” Lang goes on to state, “Her most important priority is financial stability. Although her mother and fourth-grade teacher disapprove of this project, the owner of the bidding venue approves. ‘Why lose it to some guy in a Toyota when you can use it to pay for your education?’”
It’s a business transaction, her right, her body, call it what you’d like, make any excuse you’d like- it’s still prostitution. Why would a young woman living in a country full of opportunity and possessing a college degree, resort to an age-old tainted profession women are forced into because of a lack of opportunity? I would venture a guess that there would be more pride, sense of self-worth and accomplishment in working off her college debt over time than in selling herself as property online for a man’s pleasure. And the biggest question I must ask is: how far have we as women or even a society really come when free, “educated” women make decisions such as this?
08 September, 2008
America: Thinking Beyond the Here and Now
I was sitting in the guest lounge of a car dealership watching highlights of McCain and Palin’s speeches at the Republican Convention and had a giant reality check, not in terms of what I thought about the candidates, but the way the American public looks at politics. A middle-aged man with a thick, billowing accent from some Latin country insisted watching these hopefuls made him sick to his stomach and with a laugh said he couldn’t stomach anymore.
I am no stranger to the nausea invoked by the news barrage featuring never-ending political mud-slinging and false promises. I have traveled and lived abroad enough to have been harassed simply for being an American in a Bush presidency. I understand the habitual selfish ways and unnecessary drama surrounding American politics in general and the negative stigma surrounding the Republican party after eight years of the Bush administration in particular, but what I don’t understand is the attitude of some of the American people.
I come from a family of immigrants. All my grandparents came from other countries to the United States for two very simple but glorious ideals: freedom and opportunity. And that is what they have found here. They found a country free from religious persecution and tyranny. They found a home where any man or woman had the ability to accomplish his or her dreams if they were willing to work for it. The founding fathers of this great nation had such a clear vision that I know my family understood and valued because it meant a better life for them and their children. As I child I grew up listening to the love my grandparents and great-grandparents had for America because they were willing to leave everything but the clothes on their backs behind for the chance to pursue a better life, liberty and happiness.
The more I travel, the more I feel a childlike appreciation and awe for the simplicity and beauty of our constitution and the laws of my great country. I say great, not because it’s perfect or that no improvements need to be made, but because of anywhere in the world I know the laws of my nation enable me to have the many freedoms I enjoy and so many take for granted as American citizens. And I wonder as such a proud nation of immigrants, why so many transplant here from abroad for a better life, then complain about all America lacks and show more pride in their country of origin than their adoptive home. Furthermore, how many of these individuals actually do something to remedy the very issues they criticize about or to better their new home or community?
In my Generation Y, and more and more in Generation X and my parent’s baby boomer generation, I’m seeing a trend towards an egocentric sense of entitlement and an interest in the “now” over having the perspective or thoughtfulness of looking at the bigger picture of past, present AND future. As much as I think my grandparent’s generation is overly conservative, they are onto something.
Perhaps we can learn from all these generations and meet somewhere in the middle. I think the McCain/Palin ticket can bridge that gap between invaluable tradition and conservative legacy of old and the necessary progressive adaptation and advancement of our modern, changing world.
Studying history, we can learn from the failures and triumphs of the past and we can dream about the future in order to create a better country, but let us create a better nation not just for ourselves, but for future generations. With every advantage at our fingertips as part of one of the wealthiest and most powerful nations on the planet, let us not be an island unto ourselves, let us continue to reach out and assist other countries in need, let us continue in our tradition of military strength, challenge ourselves in creating more advanced technology and pharmaceutical innovations, do our part in conserving the planet and very importantly to focus on the areas of our country which need improvement.
I may not agree with every single policy of McCain’s, but this is a man who gets it. He understands the meaning of democracy in its truest form: a government of the people, for the people. I believe him when he calls himself a public servant as a politician and not because I’m naïve or believe everything I see on TV, I think someone needs to earn trust and he has set a proven track record his entire military and political careers as someone committed to serving the greater good of America, even when it’s unpopular or at a great personal cost to himself. America needs more than change we can believe in, we need a candidate we can believe in and I believe that candidate is John McCain.
One opinion I do happen to share with Obama is that America is in desperate need of change, I just don’t agree with his solutions. My fellow Americans, especially my younger generation, let us look beyond ourselves and this present and dare to impact the world and our country for the better. Let us cease complaining about all that we lack or could improve on as a nation and let us unify as Americans to be the change we want to see in the world.
I am no stranger to the nausea invoked by the news barrage featuring never-ending political mud-slinging and false promises. I have traveled and lived abroad enough to have been harassed simply for being an American in a Bush presidency. I understand the habitual selfish ways and unnecessary drama surrounding American politics in general and the negative stigma surrounding the Republican party after eight years of the Bush administration in particular, but what I don’t understand is the attitude of some of the American people.
I come from a family of immigrants. All my grandparents came from other countries to the United States for two very simple but glorious ideals: freedom and opportunity. And that is what they have found here. They found a country free from religious persecution and tyranny. They found a home where any man or woman had the ability to accomplish his or her dreams if they were willing to work for it. The founding fathers of this great nation had such a clear vision that I know my family understood and valued because it meant a better life for them and their children. As I child I grew up listening to the love my grandparents and great-grandparents had for America because they were willing to leave everything but the clothes on their backs behind for the chance to pursue a better life, liberty and happiness.
The more I travel, the more I feel a childlike appreciation and awe for the simplicity and beauty of our constitution and the laws of my great country. I say great, not because it’s perfect or that no improvements need to be made, but because of anywhere in the world I know the laws of my nation enable me to have the many freedoms I enjoy and so many take for granted as American citizens. And I wonder as such a proud nation of immigrants, why so many transplant here from abroad for a better life, then complain about all America lacks and show more pride in their country of origin than their adoptive home. Furthermore, how many of these individuals actually do something to remedy the very issues they criticize about or to better their new home or community?
In my Generation Y, and more and more in Generation X and my parent’s baby boomer generation, I’m seeing a trend towards an egocentric sense of entitlement and an interest in the “now” over having the perspective or thoughtfulness of looking at the bigger picture of past, present AND future. As much as I think my grandparent’s generation is overly conservative, they are onto something.
Perhaps we can learn from all these generations and meet somewhere in the middle. I think the McCain/Palin ticket can bridge that gap between invaluable tradition and conservative legacy of old and the necessary progressive adaptation and advancement of our modern, changing world.
Studying history, we can learn from the failures and triumphs of the past and we can dream about the future in order to create a better country, but let us create a better nation not just for ourselves, but for future generations. With every advantage at our fingertips as part of one of the wealthiest and most powerful nations on the planet, let us not be an island unto ourselves, let us continue to reach out and assist other countries in need, let us continue in our tradition of military strength, challenge ourselves in creating more advanced technology and pharmaceutical innovations, do our part in conserving the planet and very importantly to focus on the areas of our country which need improvement.
I may not agree with every single policy of McCain’s, but this is a man who gets it. He understands the meaning of democracy in its truest form: a government of the people, for the people. I believe him when he calls himself a public servant as a politician and not because I’m naïve or believe everything I see on TV, I think someone needs to earn trust and he has set a proven track record his entire military and political careers as someone committed to serving the greater good of America, even when it’s unpopular or at a great personal cost to himself. America needs more than change we can believe in, we need a candidate we can believe in and I believe that candidate is John McCain.
One opinion I do happen to share with Obama is that America is in desperate need of change, I just don’t agree with his solutions. My fellow Americans, especially my younger generation, let us look beyond ourselves and this present and dare to impact the world and our country for the better. Let us cease complaining about all that we lack or could improve on as a nation and let us unify as Americans to be the change we want to see in the world.
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