Day #2: Orientation

   Another day in the city of Aix. Now, when I write, I often find myself fighting the urge to write certain things in French. As a result of my near full immersion in the language, I believe I'm on the slippery slope of thinking in French from time to time. But, I do believe that is a good sign, yeah?  Yesterday evening, my housemate (Clio) and I embarked on the journey to the institute for the open house. Surprisingly, we made it with only one wrong turn, though we surrendered to consult our map on numerous occasions. At the open house, we were able to meet the other students and some of the faculty. Though I am usually a fairly out-going person, in situations such as these, I am extremely awkward. When we arrived, everyone had already formed their own groups and cliques. Fortunately, two girls approached us and introduced themselves as Andy and the other whose name I can't remember. Eventually, a few other girls joined our circle and we all exchanged the routine get-to-know-you questions such as, "Where are you from?", "What school do you go to?", "What's your major?" etc., etc. After the open house, Clio, Andy, Mackenzie, and I all went out for coffee (a highlight of my day, of course) and then headed our separate directions. Clio and I had the privilege of trying out octopus for dinner with our family. Surprisingly, it was absolutely delicious! It was cooked, cut, and served in a sort of red sauce over rice. Very tasty.

   Each dinner, though it is indeed one of the most intimidating parts of the day, has left me with anticipation and excitement for the next. Partly because I am enjoying the new foods I get to try, and also because every main course is followed by a salad and then (the best part) cheese and bread. I can't even describe to you how much bread I've eaten already! Another reason why I look forward to the evening meal, is because afterwards, when everyone is finished eating, we all sit and talk for at least an hour, and occasionally Jean-Paul and Marion will puff on a cigarette (which, to me, adds to the whole scene). I don't say a whole lot, but I get to listen. I think I am becoming very good at listening. Last night we all discussed adolescence and the behavioral similarities between French teens and American teens. I'm convinced a teenager is a teenager, no matter where he/she lives. Tonight we talked about movies, mostly. Then, after dinner, we sat down and watched a classic French film over hot tea.

   Today we had orientation at the institute. Much live every other kind of college orientation, we sat through informational session after informational session. I was able to get to know some of the girls a little bit more. I have yet to find a sister in Christ. Everyone I have talked to are not interested the least bit in God. They live for their pleasures, passions, feelings, etc. As I observe and listen, I'm taken aback by the depth of the self-centeredness. Everyone, I repeat everyone, is out for his/her best interest. They hardly see the people they are surrounded with. But as I sit and ponder their gods and their egocentrically driven lives, I hear a soft whisper in the ear of my inner spirit and a tug of conviction on my heart. Really, my love? Really? He says to me. And then I realize: who am I to judge them? Am I not just as self-centered and consumed with everything Brenna? What's even worse, I know the wretchedness of my own heart and the grace of my Lord, yet I continue to regard myself as better than others. I have no room to boast, no room to brag, except in my Jesus. That's so cliche, I realize, but it's true nonetheless. I hope and pray that this semester abroad will be the final end to my pride.

   So with classes starting tomorrow, I continue to seek wisdom, praying for boldness and strength to speak out the Name of Jesus. I pray that I will no longer cower down in the face of disagreement and confrontation, and that I will confidently face the darkness in which I am surrounded.
   In Christ alone, my hope is found. He is my Light, my Strength, my Song. This Cornerstone, this Solid Ground, firm through the fiercest droughts and storms. What heights of love, what depths of peace, when fear are stilled and strivings cease. My Comforter, my All in All, here in the love of Christ I stand...


   Peace out, cub-scout!

-B