Wednesday, August 5, 2009
Friday, July 17, 2009
Gilman responses
Before studying abroad, I was very uncertain whether I would pursue law or teaching as a career after graduation. The prospect of being a nonprofit lawyer seemed very attractive to me and I thought that it was perhaps the best option out of the two. But Oxford has taught me a lot more about myself and made me realize that my true passions reside in my love of English literature and writing and that I want to remain in academia in order to share my knowledge with others, giving them the resources to understand and interpret literature for themselves and apply its many themes and motifs in their own lives.
This is especially true when I relate my academic experience at Oxford with the volunteer work I did at the OK Club, a Christian youth charity in London founded in the 1950s by Oxford students. Many of the young people who attend the Club are only introduced to classical pieces of literature in secondary school. Although some of the young people read on their own or write as a hobby, many lack the proper mentorship to really flourish their talents. I realized in developing relationships with these young people the influence that I can make as a secondary school English teacher, and the way it can challenge me to explore the field of English literature, pushing me to constantly reinterpret literature upon every read and always discovering something new in the text that was not thought of before. The prospect excites me and would not have come to my mind in such a way if it were not for my experience studying abroad. For this reason and countless others, I am extremely thankful for this opportunity.
My entire life has changed because of this study abroad experience. It seemed that all of the things that people say about studying abroad came true for me upon living in a different country for more than 6 months. The past half-year or so of my life can be classified as cinematic as I feel transformed as a character in a film and the series of events which have occurred to me seem less like real life and more like a brilliant movie script. I arrived in Oxford having never been independent of my parents for more than a short time, and always being taken care of by someone somewhere. I left Oxford knowing how to cook, clean, organize and reorganize in a very short amount of time for a good number of people. I left more mature than I was before and more able to adapt to tough, stressful, and urgent situations. My experience abroad has pushed me academically, emotionally, spiritually. I have been challenged in being a Chinese-American and have come to terms with my identity as both nationalities, finding peace with my identity by defining myself based on my Christian faith rather than on any other form of being distinguished as a person.
Oxford University has been quite a challenge and as a result, it has prepared me adequately to tackle the rest of my time at DePauw University and effectively any graduate school program I choose to attend. It has challenged me to think beyond and go further with my writing, and effectively, it will make me a terrific teacher one day as I push my students to reach their potential as I have been pushed to reach mine. In addition, I have made close friends in England who I will keep in touch consistently and have gladly called them sisters for their constant support and encouragement. I have had the pleasure of visiting their homes respectively and meeting their families, being introduced to the English lifestyle as well as its many beautiful landmarks. I have fallen in love with a half-English, half-Scottish bloke from Birmingham who has blown my original plans out of the water and made me seriously consider moving to the United Kingdom permanently one day to start my life with him. My experience has been deep, moving, and painfully brilliant, and I would not give it up for the world. It has changed my life forever and shaped me into a better person. I see things with more open eyes than before and I'm happier as a result.
<3
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
The Ball of a Lifetime
The Oxford Community Church Hollywood & Oscars Themed Ball could not have gone any better last Friday (22 May). It was, by far, one of the best nights of my life. We began on Friday with Stu's arrival at Gloucester Green in regular clothes and his suit in his bag. Together we walked back to my flat, where he got changed and while he did so, I changed in my room. Upon entering the living room in my dress, Stu looked at me and said, "Wow, you look more formal than me... I feel underdressed..." then he paused, and looking at me in the eyes, said, "You look gorgeous," and we embraced. He later revealed via a photo comment just how he felt: "Made me really nervous at first...I was like... erm...ermm... wow!" Katie came downstairs and upon seeing us, complimented us both and I asked if she could take pictures. We took pictures, all the while both of us quite nervous... especially Stu, who was rambling and losing his words, and I thought it was quite cute.
We left shortly after, and upon arriving a bit too early, we went to a nearby path into the park and walked down there, kissing and just enjoying each other's company... we went into the King's Centre hand in hand and we got tickets for our champagne. We went into the hallway and got our glasses of champagne, then had some finger food served to us by students. Stu being his social self, had an easy time getting along with people in the church and introducing himself while finding out about others, while I got to see some familiar faces and enjoy my time with him. He whispered to me, "You have the best dress in the room" at least two times and I tried my best not to blush too much, though that was hard being around him in a suit ;)
We were then led into the main church room area and there in the big hall was where the majority of the Ball was held. We sat down at tables for supper after getting our meals buffet style. Stu was such a gentleman, he got along with everyone at the table and even got a water pitcher and started pouring water for everyone at the table. We got up later to get our desserts and upon coming back with our yummy desserts, I took a photograph of Stu's amazing dessert and Jenny from my Bible Study took a picture of us. And I realized that I'm learning, slowly, about how to deal with small and big issues in a relationship and the value of being honest as conflicts and plots from the devil usually lose their power when they are revealed, talked about honesty, and addressed in a relationship.
There was an "awards ceremony" for all the leavers at the Ball, so I encouraged Jenny to go up, though only afterwards did I realize that technically I count as a leaver as well... so I got a blue certificate :) There was also a neat spoof powerpoint with nominations for best actors and best actresses in movies that it was quite funny throughout. All the leavers also had to go up again for a game of charades, where I got to play the lion to demonstrate "Gladiator" with three other people. Jenny held my hand and dragged me up there. Sweet gal. Stu was in the audience enjoying himself as I'm trying my best to get over my shyness on stage.
I came to meet him afterwards and we watched as two professional ballroom dancers performed a few dances for us. Amazing. Then there was this incredible performance by five guys of "Stronger" by Daft Punk on stage where the guys had words on their bodies and through dance, showed the lyrics to the song. Absolutely incredible. Then a live band came on and began setting up.
Meanwhile, Stu kept eyeing the bouncy castle in the back of the room and I gave him a hint that if he still wanted to go on there, now would be the time... he immediately started walking towards the castle and once we were near it, he picked me up and with me in his arms he jumped on top of it. We practically flew and I had so much fun just bouncing around. Some girls then joined us soon after and wow, it was madness but amazing fun. Afterwards, we joined the dancing crowds. Stu is a fun dance partner and I found myself often not being able to dance properly because I was too busy laughing with him. He had some songs he approved and a lot he wasn't so fond of. Our musical tastes definitely differ a bit, but I let him have his go :) We danced for quite a bit and all the while I'm finding myself liking him more and more. We rested every now and then, until it became late in the evening and Stu was completely beat since he's still sick at this point, so we sat down and just cuddled, resting in each other's arms and talking about the evening. As it passed midnight, we both decided that it's time to go and said a few byes to some people before heading out the door.
We walked back using the dark path in the park in order to enjoy the stars, and what a beautiful night of stars it was. The sky seemed to be painted on... absolutely gorgeous. I told Stu I'm happy to share this with him and he smiled, saying the same... we shared our kisses and took our time walking back, hand in hand... happily in love.
Praise to God for the way He blesses all of us everyday! It is only through Him and with Him that we share this joy, and boy are we both forever grateful for it! ;) Blessings!
Monday, May 4, 2009
First Date
2 May 2009... I'll never forget this day. What a beautiful day it was.
I came in a blue dress with white flowers, a gray cardigan over me to keep the wind from sweeping up and causing me to shiver... Stu came as himself, his hair gelled, wearing a t-shirt and thin short-sleeve shirt over it that, with large cargo pants and big boots... We were going to meet at Notting Hill Gate but ended up meeting at the Speaker's Corner of Hyde Park after I'd missed my bus stop. He came on a local bus to find me, and we hugged upon seeing one another, immediately smiling to begin the journey...
What a journey it was... We began walking through Hyde Park, into the beautiful London streets towards Victoria, where he would show me the memorial that Queen Victoria built for her husband... this enormous monument with her husband in gold at the center and four massive pieces of art at each corner, each representing a continent. After admiring the piece, we went on to catch a bus then the tube to Camden market... all the while the conversation is edging towards the topic of the date itself...
We got off the tube and I asked him if we could hold hands, he looked at me with a smile and said he was just about to ask the same thing... we held hands and walked around the market... revealing to each other how we felt, i told him i liked him from the start, he told me he was buying his time... we both came to the conclusion that we'd liked each other, but just hadn't told each other... and he kept stroking my hand, saying how soft it was... laughing out of the spur of the moment for no other reason than mere glee... we walked around the market and all the while he is explaining the history of the market as a horse hospital, about the stalls as former stables, and we took some pictures... and I felt self-conscious of holding hands with him, though inside I was happy, really happy to be doing so... We ate some Thai food and sat along the canal... among hoards of other people, laughing about the fact that we're on a date, finding more about each other... and at one point I initally made the suggestion that perhaps we should make our relationship official...
But as we veered out of Camden market, as we kept walking, I froze in fear. My emotions shut off and I just wanted out. I just wanted to be away and run, run as far as possible from the situation... and I told him honestly that actually, no... No, I don't think we should start dating officially, I think rather that... we should just be unofficially dating, that we should um, just not make it open for people to know yet, and... uh... in my mind, I kept racing for reasons, in my mind I thought, what if I just see him as a brother in Christ and nothing more? What if, what if? And Stu listened patiently and said that we can take this as slow as I'd like, that he understands, but I felt like a bird caught in a trap... completely taken aback by the situation... though when we agreed to not be "official", I sighed in relief and looked at him admiringly... and wondered what in the world I was so scared of... later on I realized that it was a defense mechanism, that it was my self-consciousness and my fear of what others may think, of my fears in general about letting myself get into a relationship...
So we walked on to Primrose Hill, and as we climbed the hill, Stu told me that I wasn't allowed to look down until we get to the top, and I said that it was like he was blindfolding me, and laughed... but when I got to the top and looked down, I was glad of what he said. In front of me was the most beautiful London skyline... it wasn't even from the very top but that didn't matter, it was so beautiful... and then for him to point out what each of the major structures were... the London eye, this building and that... I felt so overwhelmed. We picked a patch of grass and sat on it... cuddling. I wasn't the most comfortable at first just because it'd been so long since I'd been with anyone... and he was so, so nervous as well... both of our hearts were racing ridiculously fast, but I could tell how happy he was by the short sighs he'd give as he smiled... and the way he kept thanking me for coming out, though I kept telling him that he didn't need to thank me...
We stayed on the hill for hours, just talking and being with each other... sitting under a tree, telling stories about ourselves, our childhoods, our best friends and our family members... telling each other about our initial fears, about our hopes and dreams... and of course talking about our relationship... and I looked through his art pieces, complimenting his art, and he gave an original piece to me, saying "you're worth it" and traced my hand behind it... writing me a note inside the hand he drew... telling me not to open it until I left... and a Jack Russell dog kept coming along beside us, and children, and others...
After the hill we wanted to go to Regent's Park so we headed in that direction, walking.. and I still didn't feel sure, but I definitely was still enjoying myself... Stu introduced me to the London Zoo, saying that we ought to go one day... and I agreed and also suggested that we go see a Shakespearean play at the Globe Theatre... so we got to Regent's Park, and Stu took me along the path where we can see some of the zoo animals roaming around, I saw a kangeroo and camel, among other things... and we tried to find the Queen Mary's Garden, but ended up going the wrong way, so we just happily found this brown bench instead.. and sat down beside one another, cuddling... and being that my carnigan was off and he had his arms wrapped around me, he would put his face on my shoulders, and I could feel the scratchy feel of his beard on my skin... and I love rubbing his back, though he says he'll fall asleep if I do that enough since his father used to do that to him as a child to make him fall asleep and I'd try and give him a massage though he also says that makes him lethargic.. and he'd touch my wrist the way Ray Charles did so when he was alive to tell if a woman is pretty since Ray himself was blind...
And it was getting chilly, so he held tightly onto me.. and when I asked him about the distance thing, about all of the things that could prevent us from working out... he said, "Love has no boundaries" and essentially told me that he'd make it work... and I was completely honest with him about what I thought, about those fears and frustrations, and he said simply, "You think too much..."
We then took the tube to the Tower of London and walked along the Thames, and given that we got hungry, decided to walk across the Tower of London to find some food... and we found Subway's, and shared a footlong chicken terriyaki sub, sitting by the river... and he showed me videos of his niece and his dog... and texted his sister beside me... so we just enjoyed sitting a while...
And we went to see St. Paul's Cathedral, but it was getting later in the day, so all the shops were closed, and the streets were pretty empty... and all the while he had his arm around me and I had both of mine around him... and we just walked and talked, enjoying each other's company... we tried to find a loo, but couldn't find one in the area, and the one we did locate was dysfunctional, so we eventually decided on going to the Tate Modern for their facilities...
It was getting chilly and later in the day, nearing night... so we walked along the Thames nearing the museum, very much alone for most of the journey, taking photographs and laughing... he kept telling me stories and kept going on about the history of places, battleships and whatnot... we walked across on the London Bridge (a manmade steel bridge built primarily for its function and not for its style) and got to the Tate Modern... we went to use its facilities, then sat down and just snuggled up to one another, his arms around me... and he took out his notebook at one point and gave it to me with a pink pen, asking me to write some prayer request for him to keep in mind and he did the same for me... and as he was writing, I stroked circles on his knee with my fingertips... not exactly sure why, but it felt right... and afterwards, I ringed Katie about the tube times and found out that the Oxford Tube runs 24 hours... so I decided to stay a little longer, and I'm ecstatic that I did...
My favorite part of the date was our chilly but amazingly romantic walk alongside the Thames River, heading towards Big Ben and Parliament. He had his arm around me and I had both of mine around him, holding each other close as we looked upon the river with the city at night shining brightly ahead, the reflections flickering like candlelight on the river... and we passed the aquarium, and the National Gallery, and these trees lit with blue and white lights, the most beautiful trees... and lots of people walking, other couples walking... and he laughed sporadically, dazed in happiness, and sometimes turned his head to look me in the eyes, smiling... and we got to a bench, ironically the closest one to the bridge and the one with the best sight of Big Ben and Parliament... as if it was reserved just for this moment... and we sat down, watching as Big Ben made itself known at the quarter of the hour with its loud proclaimations to the night sky, its glowing green colour so beautiful, so nearby... and I leaned on him, so comfortable, so happy, so blessed, as we sat silently, both praising God in our hearts and minds, both in disbelief at the day, both never wanting to move anywhere else... just stay... and when he asked me what was going through my mind, I said simply, "I don't want to leave..." and we just sat comfortably, savouring the moment... even when some German guys joined us for a little, and even when they left, it didn't matter so much where we were... somehow it was... perfect.
But after half an hour of sitting, and realizing that I needed to get home else it'd be really late when I get back to Oxford, we got up and went on the tube to get to Victoria, to my bus station... he said I should get a cab this time of night to be safe so that he didn't have to "kill anyone" who hurts me. And there we were even closer, as I wrapped my arms around his neck and he had his around my waist and held onto me until the bus came... all the while, there was a National Express bus that came and he asked, "Is that your bus?" and upon me saying no, he said, "oh, thank God" and held me closer... but a few minutes later my bus showed, and we hugged, and he told me to let him know when I get home safely so he wouldn't worry... and I gave him a kiss on the cheek, which he smiled in complete and utter amusement afterwards... and held hands until I went onto the bus...
But even as I sat on the second level of the bus, he stayed outside, leaning against the wall (or was it a ledge?), waiting for the bus to leave... and I smiled at him often, amused at his waiting... but he didn't budge... even when the bus was starting to move, he stayed and I waved to him and blew him a kiss...
Friday, May 1, 2009
Poetry
by Carol Ann Duffy
Not a red rose or a satin heart.
I give you an onion.
It is a moon wrapped in brown paper.
It promises light
like the careful undressing of love.
Here.
It will blind you with tears
like a lover.
It will make your reflection
a wobbling photo of grief.
I am trying to be truthful.
Not a cute card or a kissogram.
I give you an onion.
Its fierce kiss will stay on your lips,
possessive and faithful
as we are,
for as long as we are.
Take it.
Its platinum loops shrink to a wedding-ring,
if you like.
Lethal.
Its scent will cling to your fingers,
cling to your knife.
...This is such an incredible poem about love that I just had to share it. Absolutely breathtakingly beautiful poem. It inspires me to work harder on my own poetry, and realize just how powerful words really can be...
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Jesu, meine Freude
-Inspiration for Bach's Jesu, meine Freude, BWV 227 (Mvt. I, II, III)
Jesus, my joy,
pasture of my heart,
Jesus, my adornment
ah how long, how long
is my heart filled with anxiety
and longing for you!
Lamb of God, my bridegroom,
apart from you on the earth
there is nothing dearer to me.
Beneath your protection
I am free from the attacks
of all my enemies.
Let Satan track me down,
let my enemy be exasperated –
Jesus stands by me.
Even if there is thunder and lightning,
even if sin and hell spread terror
Jesus will protect me .
I defy the old dragon,
I defy the jaws of death,
I defy fear as well!
Rage, World, and spring to attack:
I stand here and sing
in secure peace.
God’s might takes care of me;
earth and abyss must fall silent,
however much they rumble on.
Away with all treasures!
You are my delight,
Jesus, my joy!
Away with empty honours,
I’m not going to listen to you,
remain unknown to me!
Misery, distress, affliction, disgrace and death,
even if I must endure much suffering,
will not separate me from Jesus.
Good night, existence
chosen by the world,
you do not please me.
Good night , you sins,
stay far behind me.
Come no more to the light1
Good night , pride and splendour,
once and for all, sinful existence,
I bid you good night.
Go away, mournful spirits,
for my joyful master,
Jesus, now enters in.
For those who love God
even their afflictions
become pure sweetness.
Even if here I must endure shame and disgrace,
even in suffering you remain,
Jesus, my joy
...Just a reminder that He's ultimately the One in control, always.
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Discovering the Self
[Copied from my private blog, originally dated 11 April 2009]
It's so funny how people love to stand on a podium and speak out against issues, against things, against ideas, yet the moment the person behind the words is revealed, that person hides in vulnerability. Behind the cape, the showmanship, the glamor, who is that person?
I had to see myself recently as I spent some time in an impoverished area in London as I really am. Challenged to the maximum, I cracked under pressure. What can I say? After over two years of being a Christian, my love for Christ is still minimal compared to what it can be and how strong it can be. It was a real wake up call for me to realize that I am in a place of privilege and what I do with that privilege is absolutely essential to my life as a Christian.
More specifically, I mean to say that I was in a tough area of London, an area where "youth work" essentially means working with 13 to 19 year old predominantly black male youth who are usually involved in gun crimes, kniving crimes, and other crimes of the sort... I found myself judging the community, the people, and especially the youth. I found myself unwilling to compromise, and very unhappy with my sickness, my flat, my flatmates, and the overall chaotic nature of the work. I found myself, frankly, as I really see things - from a privileged, ungrateful point of view.
This was confirmed when I went to meet one of my friends in Central London one day and afterwards, went to Regent's Park to sit for a little bit... I just realized as I sat in the park how much I missed being in a safer, nicer place, how much I missed seeing mothers and kids play nicely in the playground and having everything clean and neat around me. I walked back to the Underground and upon getting on the lift, I observed two men and one woman, all within their twenties looking very posh and affluent. I listened in on their conversation, not particularly by choice.
There was a board next to the lift that had two columns, each labeled "platform 1" and "platform 2" respectively. Below the label were a list of the stations each train on the respective platform would be carrying its passengers. One guy joked to the girl saying, "imagine if the lift took you directly to the station listed" refering to the board. The girl, looking appalled and reluctant at the idea, responded with something to the effect of, "God forbid I end up in Queen's Park".
Thing was, the place I volunteer is there. Yet I fully understood her point although I myself was repulsed by her response. I felt God tug at that shameful side of myself, of the pride of being "above" those people over there, of wanting to be isolated from such a place. Am I so highly religious and orderly that I am "above" such a place and people? Never! Yet, Christ was reshaping my perspective to see just how worldly my perspective has been and how unworldly it must become if He is to use it for His will. I felt utterly convicted, and quite ashamed of myself.
When Christ came to us, He didn't spend His time with the clean and neat, the rich and mighty. He came for the sick, the dying, the poor and crying. He knelt down to help the weak, held hands with the crippled. He was the ultimate youth worker, the ultimate healer of the ages, the one who loved those who none felt were worth to be loved. I am humbled by His love and work for mankind, His utmost devotion to the human race despite our utter undeserving, ungrateful nature. And He is teaching me, step by step, to see things as He sees them, to be grateful for one more day, and to love without restriction, as He loves us.
I hope one day I may truly learn this lesson. Praise be to Him.
Thursday, April 16, 2009
From Rome to London and back
Saturday, April 11, 2009
Italy - Day Three
At about 5 a.m., I took some benadryl to hopefully knock me out and give me some sleep. I was restless almost the entire night and when I woke up at about 6:30 a.m. to Joelle's blowdrying her jeans because basically none of her clothes had dried overnight after she hand-washed them the night before, I told her my situation and begged her to understand. Being Joelle, she immediately understood and sympathized, especially since her clothes were still wet and she was undergoing quite a bit of stress herself. Thus, I lent her some dry clothes and we did our best to be out of the hotel (and checked out) by about 7:15 a.m., which was enough time for us to get to the train station and buy our tickets.
Only, one big problem - my ticket said 17.50 euros and Joelle's said 32 euros. I told her that she should try and change the ticket by waiting in the queue again, so she did and I waited. But she came back and told me that the person at the counter doesn't really speak English. With literately 5 or so minutes until the 7:32 a.m. train (which we believed was ours) would leave for Rome, we decided that I would go and get on the train and she hopefully would catch up to me. I run up to the platform, and thankfully the train was late. I stood there fidgeting, hoping and praying that Joelle would make it in time. She came back, and seeing that the train was late, took my ticket with her and tried again to get the right ticket. When she came back, thankfully, the train still hadn't arrived and in fact she had her ticket exchanged to say 17.50 euros as well.
We both got on the 7:32 a.m. train and for the beginning of the ride, talked about how great it was that things worked out. Then, the train conductor came to us and looking at our tickets, told us very bluntly that we were on the wrong train - that in fact, we still got on the 32 euro per person train, the express train from Pisa to Rome. We would both have to pay about 27 euros in extra fees. We were both pretty devastated at the news, Joelle moreso than myself since she told me that she's spending more than 3K for all of her travels combined. We tried our best to enjoy the train ride, with the beach view out of our windows, but things just didn't work out the way we'd planned.
Once we arrived in Rome, we made it a point to get on the metro and find our hostel. We found it relatively easily since it was only one stop away and dropped our things off... I have to admit that in every aspect, I will take a hotel over a hostel ANY day if given the choice and the money. We decide to go to the Vatican museums first, then work our way to the Trevi Fountain and the Colosseum. We take the metro to the Vatican and after grabbing some food (my suggestion) and eating in a park-like area, we go to the Vatican. At this point, Joelle has lost it a bit, being so stressed out and wearing wet clothes, and since I'm sleep-deprived as well, we are pretty much making no sense in conversation but laughing quite a lot about it. Joelle keeps talking, and I keep commenting on her comments (which she always says, "why don't we just nit-pick on every detail of everything I say" in rebuttal), and I just continue to give her a hard time ;)
We get to the museums alas and it is beautifullll. The queues really weren't bad at all, especially for students, and from the moment we went up the escalator to the first exhibit of the museums, we found ourselves immersed in Roman architecture. Everywhere, everywhere there is detail and color and beauty, just the amount of intricacy, the amount of time and effort put into every painting on the walls, the ceilings, the tiles on the floors, I cannot describe. It is simply too beautiful, even for the complex dynamics of the English language.
That was my reaction to the Sistene Chapel. Nothing can compare. It is the most descriptive, telling, God-praising, awestriking piece of art piece I've ever come across. You see Adam's fingers so close to the Father, yet so, so far away, and the realms of Hell waiting for the doomed, that wretchedness that mankind hath caused by choosing to disobey God. It is the most tragic story ever told in art, and it brought tears to my eyes. How, how could we be so naive to think that we deserve salvation when it is so clear that we fall so very short from the glory of God? He is reaching for us, yet we give Him apathy, like rebellious adolescents, we turn away, yet He loves us, wants us by His side. By far, that was my favorite yet most heartwretching part of the entire Italy trip.
We walked around the museums for a bit more, which was great, and then we sought out how to get to the fountain and went for it. The Trevi Fountain was gorgeous, but I made a bit of a judgmental comment about the magnitude of tourists on the stairwell looking at the fountain - "They're like a rat pack, all cramped up like that" and Joelle very obviously disapproved. Thing was, there were so many tourists all packed staring at the fountain that all the glamor of seeing the sight was taking away for me, so I just snapped a few photos and we went on our way to the Colosseum.
The Colosseum is beautiful, especially with the Italian sunlight shining upon its rock. We took lots of pictures and walked around it. Joelle suggested gelato, so we took some small streets and found this excellent place for gelato. We walked to a park across from the Colosseum and sat looking at the view. It was beautiful, and we enjoyed the sunlight while it still lasted, just relaxing and enjoying the moment. We took more photos as time went on, and I just savored being in Rome for my last few hours of being a tourist before heading off to London the next morning.
We ate pizza for supper after dropping our things off at the hostel. Not the best pizza, but it was cheap supper. We went back after supper and Joelle wanted to try and find a laundramat so I went along... it was much harder than we expected and took us three times of asking different people who all told us it was about 50 meters away, to finally come upon it. Even then, the laundramat lady who clearly hates her job, gave Joelle a hard time and still after paying 3 euros to dry her clothes, her clothes still were not fully dry. We went back to the hostel, where Joelle dropped her clothes off and said she wants to go to an internet cafe to talk to her parents.
We went and she talked with her family for a little less than an hour, while I semi-napped on a chair nearby, mostly there because I care about her and I don't want her to be outside in the dark alone, especially since she wasn't in the best of moods. Then we headed back to the hostel, talked just briefly, but both of us were exhausted and soon enough, I took a shower, and fell asleep.
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Italy - Day Two
I woke up with about 7 and a half hours of sleep, much more well rested than the day before, and after a quick breakfast, walked with Jo to the train station to catch the train to Florence. We bought our tickets and caught the 9:30 a.m. train to arrive at about 10:30, 11:00 a.m. in Florence. The train ride was one of my favorite parts of the entire venture. The view is spectacular, the seats are quite comfortable, and the fare was quite inexpensive, at least in the grand scheme of costs. We talked a great deal during the ride and I took lots of photographs with my camera. I just loved being able to immerse myself inside Italy, really see the villas, the beautiful landscape, the people going about their everyday businesses. Quite amazing, really.
Once we arrived in Florence (at the right station because we nearly got off at the wrong one but Jo had better instincts, mind you), we took a while finding a cafe to sit down and plan our day in the city. After some meandering, mostly in part to Florence's crazy roads and streets, we finally sat down at a nice cafe and figured out what we would be doing for the majority of the day. Kristin and Brittani were to arrive in about an hour and we were to meet them at the train station. We planned out where the Galleria del Academia was so that we would see Michaelangelo's David and then left the rest of the plan moderately open for the other girls to help us decide. Jo and I finished our drinks and went on our way to the train station, where we met Kristin and Brittani (because Jo spotted them). We decided for lunch first, and headed on our way to find a place to eat.
Kristin and Brittani found a place with pizza for 5 euros, which makes sense given the size of the pizza (huge!!). Jo and I wanted to search about, however, so we continued walking and told the girls we'd see them a bit later. We went on walking, found a grocery shop and a small deli. I went inside the small deli, bought a sandwich (which was quite good) and had some local people point at my Oxford sweatshirt. We came outside and ate in this beautiful, quaint little park at the end of the block. It was quite fantastic really. I then went back and talked to the girls, and again went back to the park, wrote a little bit in my journal, and when everyone finished lunch, we went onwards towards the gallery. It was a bit frustrating, truthfully, finding the place, and it didn't help that Florence was, by far, one of the most confusing places I've ever been to. Alas we found the gallery and went inside.
Michaelangelo's David is magnificent. Really quite remarkable, and by far, the most brilliantly done sculpture ever known to man. It was completely worth the trip to stare at the statue in person. There is nothing like it, really. And the fact that it has been kept so well in-tact... it's quite a blessing. I spent some time just writing about the details that Michaelangelo took notice of in his masterpiece. That was really one of two main highlights of the day. We spent quite some time in the museum, looked at some other paintings and I checked out the music museum section with Jo. Afterwards, we walked to the Duomo, which is a brilliant cathedral that is just striking in its grand demeanor. We took lots of pictures, got some gelato (which was not worth that 2 euro or so price), and continued walking in hopes of finding this particular restaurant said to have a fantastic 3-course meal with drinks for 10-11 euros per person.
The search for the restaurant, very bluntly put, was quite a disaster with the four of us. Kristin and Brittani's main concern was to go to the train station and away from the "shady area". Jo and I wanted to keep searching for the restaurant. Eventually, after quite some frustrating bouts and arguments (specifically Jo and I were losing it...) we decided to separate for dinner.
Jo and I, quite flustered by this point, went on trying to find the restaurant, and at first we were still unsuccessful, but finally upon asking people, we found the place!!! (YAY!!!!!!!!!! After so many hours and that type of frustration, you'd be jumping with joy as well). We had quite a brilliant supper, and all for 11 euros :) I was quite happy and we toasted in celebration.
After supper, we decided to walk straight back to the train station and wait for our train there. Luckily, our train was already in place and we could wait for the train to depart while sitting within its cabins. We sat on the train and talked most of the way back. We got back to Pisa, where things seemed more familiar, and were very much relieved to be back in our hotel.
Little did I know, I had quite a restless night ahead of me...
Monday, March 30, 2009
Italy - Day One
At 2:30 a.m. I got out of bed (yes, that's out of bed, not going to) and by 2:45 a.m., was out my door with my suitcase and backpack for the 3:10 a.m. shuttle to London. The shuttle was more fun than I thought actually, I was on the top of a doubledecker bus riding like I was on a rollercoaster. I got off at Victoria coach station and caught my next shuttle at 5:30 a.m. to London Stansted Airport. Once I got to the airport, I saw Kristin and Brittani in the queue to pay the £20 to check-in (ridiculous if you ask me). I was afraid I'd be late for my flight, but thankfully I made it in time and got on the same flight as Kristin and Brittani.
Once arrived in Pisa, I split from the girls and went on my own way to find the hotel I'd be staying at with Joelle. I got to the hotel and the elderly woman at the reception desk didn't speak English. Thus I spent about five minutes explaining using hand motions to tell her that another person was coming and I wouldn't be able to register for my room until she came. I then texted Joelle and hoped to God she'd get the message. Thankfully, a few minutes later she showed up. The woman showed us our room and our next mission then was lunch.
Lunch in Pisa, Italy, as romantic and pleasant as it gets... this is where Joelle would be laughing excessively at the comment about our little sit-down lunch. Basically, we walked in absolutely gorgeous weather with sunlight to the pizza place Jo suggested, I ordered my pizza best I could in Italian, waited for my slices, and by the time we decided to eat outside, it began raining. At first, it was just a few drops. Then, more drops. Soon, it was like a hurricane, no joke. The wind literately just swept every comfort from your body in a massive wave of rain. At the first onset of this, Jo says, "I don't like that." (Hahaha) I finished my slices, now cold, amid crazy laughter at the insane change of weather. As soon as I finish, we are both shivering cold practically running to get back to the hotel in now, guess what? HAIL. Incredible. We go back, get our jackets, and in our craziness, decide to go to the leaning tower in this weather.
Soon, thank God, the hail stopped but the rain kept going. We were on our way to the leaning tower, and I saw some amazing architecture and said to Jo, "wow, I guess we're close to the tower". Two seconds later, as we are walking, I saw the leaning tower and just went, "oh". Jo laughed quite a bit at my absolutely shock upon seeing the tower and told me that she was waiting for it.
We decide to go atop the tower despite the rain and the crazy fare (15 euros!!!). At the bottom of the tower, just before going in, me and Jo had this conversation:
Jo: Are you afraid of heights?
Me: Yes
(Both of us pause and look up to the immensely tall tower standing before us)
Me (trying to save myself embarrassment): No, I mean, I'm only scared when I think I'm going to fall.
(Pause as we both stare at the LEANING tower once more before we burst into laughter).
Oh, fun times. The view from the tower was tremendous. It was just, breathtaking. The climb was quite high, I think Jo counted 300+ steps or so, which added to the breathtaking nature of the view. It was so amazing seeing Pisa from above. Those mountains, the rain still falling, feeling the tilt of the tower beneath our feet... I wouldn't give up that type of experience for the world.
Afterwards, we took our touristy Pisa photographs, in other words, we pushed and supported the tower in our pictures. You'd know this if you've either (1) see one of these photographs, (2) done this yourself in Pisa, or (3) know someone who did. Then, as a treat for the day, we got gelato (THE BEST!!!) a form of ice cream that literately just made everything better. We walked but didn't care where we were going, what we were doing, for the gelato just put us in a dream trance. We were joking around as we enjoyed it, saying, "Oh, the sky is falling... but it's okay, I've got gelato". Amazing.
We went back and just rested. Then we had supper at this fantastic cozy restaurant right across from our hotel, which was just spectacular because it was cheap, family-style, and sooo good.
Our next day would be packed with similarly fun adventures, but this time, in Florence, and partly with Kristin and Brittani.
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Coup d'oeil
He can only see glimpses.
Leaves rustle near the park,
waiting to be raked.
Won't you stay a while longer,
he asked her.
His hand's cold, she thought.
Purple, he said. You wore purple
to the banquet that night.
It was a brilliant night.
Promise me you'll stay.
Yes, Papa. But her eyes wandered
outside, towards Trafalgar Square.
---
Felt inspired by the array of beautiful music I've discovered today by several brilliant composers. In particular, this poem was inspired by Thomas Newman's "American Beauty" from the musical score of the movie. Best composer of the day, however, would have to go to Andrea Guerra, an Italian composer who is one of the best composers I've ever heard. As for my personal life, I can sum it up by two words: reading and writing. All done in Oxford fashion, though, of course :) I've been learning more and more what it means to be grateful for the things we so often take for granted. Thank You, Lord, for patience.
Friday, February 13, 2009
Valentine's Day
'Tis not Valentine's Day yet, but I found something special on that I wanted to share. I always wondered, ever since childhood, why on earth we use the image of a "heart" that has little to no resemblance to our actual human heart to display the affections of the heart, in particular, love. I found the answer to my question today, by this beautiful photograph of two Valentine swans I found on the The Guardian website. The caption goes as follows: "A pair of mute swans at the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust at Slimbridge in Gloucestershire begin their elaborate courtship display by making the classic heart shape with their necks as a sign of their affection".So now we know, it is not just some cheesy image that we give when we draw hearts, it is an image God created to show love between swans, one of the most beautiful creatures in the world.
Monday, February 9, 2009
Thanks be to our Lord Jesus Christ!
I came to the event quite oblivious, not really for any particular reason, thinking I would help with whatever I could and in the meanwhile enjoy some pancakes and say hello to my CU colleagues. Little did I know how the Holy Spirit would use me as a catalyst for what was to come. Two girls, Amy and her friend, came and introduced themselves to me. Both of them are from Beijing School of Technology, and they only came from China to Oxford for a 15-day program. I spoke to them for a little bit and found out more about them. I invited them to a dinner event the following night, but they told me they might not make it to the event on Friday. I told them I would still be willing to speak to them about it on Monday if they didn't come to the event.
The next day, Friday, out of no particular reason, I decide to have dinner at the Hertford dining hall because it was nearby and I wasn't sure if I was going to the talk later on. I go into the dining hall and find Amy and some of her friends. I sit by them and in the midst of conversation, I find out that Amy has a Bible in China with both the English and Chinese version within it side-by-side. She tells me, however, that they will not be able to make it to the event later on in the evening. We arrange to meet on Monday for a lunch and then Bible study at 12:30 pm.
Monday, today. After a not-so-fun night yesterday (bleh, parents) and a crazy trek to get to lunch from my apartment (broken umbrella, anyone?), I was very relieved to sit down for lunch with Chris and two of his friends. Amy, however, was nowhere to be found. A few minutes later, she comes. Not only her, but many of her friends as well. After lunch, the Bible study totalled 8 people. I thought, wow, God, I'm so glad You're the One in control and not me. We headed to the Swift Room, where we made brief introductions and I found out that the majority of the people in the room, while few have read parts of the Bible, nobody has really heard the Word in exact, accurate terms. I give the black pamphlets from FREE Week with Mark's Gospel within it to everyone in the study, and pray before we begin.
I read Mark 2:1-12 upon suggestion of Chris at lunch. Frankly being honest, I hadn't a clue what exactly I was doing and I was fumbling to organize myself. After I read the verses aloud, I drew the Bridge Diagram for everyone to see and really explained the good news of Christ. In my explanation, though, I had left out the resurrection of Christ! I could not believe how senseless I was and how disorganized I was, but I tried to answer everyone's questions to my best ability and at the end, I invited everyone who felt compelled to accept Christ into their lives to read a prayer with me from the FREE black book. Three girls said the prayer which, though I later would find that they had not all accepted the faith, they will continue to investigate and find out more about it. After the prayer, I was quick to correct my mistake and tell the girls about the resurrection, but they knew that Jesus lives. It was not so much news to them as much as a confirmation of what they already knew. He was there, working in their hearts. All I was to do was help them to come back into His arms. One girl in particular I could tell the Holy Spirit was working in her soul, as she told me she felt like crying and as I held onto her, she cried into my arms with absolute joy, saying, "It's going to be okay. Everything's going to be okay now..."
I sat in that Swift Room for a while afterwards, praising God and crying of joy for these girls. I talked to Peter, an International staff worker, whose number I got randomly from my friend at church, and his wife is from Singapore so she speaks Mandarin and can share the Gospel in Mandarin. I'm hope to meet with him and his wife and the girls sometime later this week to follow-up. They also have translations of the Bible in Chinese, daily quiet time pamphlets in Mandarin, etc. so I'm so, so grateful for their help!
The lesson is clear: God is near us, everywhere, and He has a purpose for every one of us. All we have to do is listen.
Thank You, Lord Jesus Christ, for a brilliant day and all of your unwavering, righteous ways.
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Welcome to February
In the usual fashion of a late post, here is my London trip entry below. I decided against blogging my usual lengthy, descriptive entry and wrote a poem instead that takes readers on the trip alongside with me, capturing the essence of the day:
A Tour of London
Begin at the Tower of London,
walk across that majestic bridge,
guess the width of the water.
Head for Big Ben and Parliament,
those two figures kissing the river.
Walk towards Trafalgar Square,
strain to hear the fountain spray
against loud voices midday.
Ride the tube on Victoria to Palace,
feel the train glide to and fro.
Snap those memories you promised to take,
keep away from those Buckingham gates.
Go to Westminster Abbey for a service,
hear the angel choirs in red robes sing.
Transfix yourself in a blank canvas,
watch that transient sun
brush strokes across its lover.
Walk alongside the Thames,
and remember every last hour.
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Turning Twenty-One
Wow, twenty-one. I cannot believe it in some way and in another, I'm exuberant about it. This entire day has been filled with excitement, wonder, and new experiences. I must say that God always has a way of putting us at the right place at the right moment for the right purpose and tonight, while I'm sure some would argue one way or another, was the perfect 21st birthday celebration for me.
It started off routine as the last couple of days have, the days tend to merge together as I've spent most of my time reading either at the Bodleian library, at home, or at my friends' place. (For those eager to find out about just the birthday celebration part, skip to the next paragraph.) I had a quiet time in the morning after my shower and breakfast, and then a meeting with my secondary tutor about my course with him, which was good discussion about the particulars of reading strictly Virginia Woolf's works but also putting some of James Joyce's works in one of the sessions to help compare different writing styles from the period. Afterwards, I had lunch in my college dining hall at Hertford College, where I've tried to eat most days because it charges my meal card that gets billed to me later and later is better since at this point I still hadn't gotten my debit card and I was running on 21 GBP (Pounds) for survival but I got it later tonight... I sat down to eat and got to talk to Daryn, also part of OPUS, and met a first-year named Charles from the US, then said hello to the study abroad students from Japan I met the other night when I went to a club with my friends Maggie and Yvonne. (Long story short, for 4 GBP I went to a club called Kukui and got to see the British social scene in action). They were sitting with a British student, Sebastian, whom I was happy to meet. Once lunch finished, I went to the Bodleian to do some readings from the books I got from the book stack. For those who do not know, the Bodleian library is Oxford's main library and it does not allow anyone, including the king, to borrow its books but rather you must read your readings on the floor you have them at, and the stack is where they keep copies of millions of books, so some books must be "ordered" from the stacks to be read. Needless to say, photocopying has become a favorite hobby of mine so that I do not have to spend my entire life at the library. I stayed at the library until about 4:30 p.m. then went to my college library basement to type up some of my quotes I needed for my paper due Friday until about 5:45 p.m. because I arranged to meet the girls at George and Cornmarket St., approximately four or five blocks from where I was, at 6 p.m. to celebrate my birthday!
Now, let me introduce the girls to those of you in the States. All of the girls are from APU, Aruza Pacific University, a Christian university in Southern California, though not all of them are from Cali. They are Joelle (my roomie), Kristin, Jaclyn, and Emily. All of them except for my roomie live in the same house and that has been the house about 2-3 blocks down from me that I've been going to often to study, and many times for internet access so I can email and if possible, chat with those back home. We have all bonded quite a bit over the last couple of days especially as we've gotten to know each other more and more, and by now I have spent enough time at their place in these few days that I basically only go home to eat, sleep, and shower and have some private time alone. They met me at 6 p.m. and gave me a couple of options, and after some conversation, we decided on an Indian restaurant called Chutney's. It was definitely an experience. The service was... iffy to say the least, and basically the workers didn't like us. But the food was good, and I enjoyed myself if for no other reason than that I was with these amazing girls out for dinner on my birthday. They wouldn't let me spend a dime, and told me I wasn't lifting a finger for my drink later on either.
Now, for the truly 21 part of the story... We decided to go to the Oxford Union Society bar for my first drink. It was right down the block from where we were and it was inexpensive, not to mention in a great spot because the Union Society is beautiful. We get to the bar and find it relatively empty, with a few people sitting down. Next was figuring out what I should get... Now, frankly, I know next to zero about alcohol, so I let the girls decide for me. And Emily, who used to mix drinks herself, gave me the 411 on drinks and what's good to get for a first drink. I looked at the list and picked one of the cocktails, the title of which I will only share with a selected few to shock people at my whim... kidding! (Sort of...) Anyhow, it is a vodka, creme de criss, motdi (no idea how to spell this, but it's a foundation mix is what Emily said), and mango juice drink equivalent of a margarita in the States. It tasted wonderful, like a smoothie with a tinge of alcohol in it. I tried to take it easy, drinking little by little from my bendy straw, also trying Kristin's rum coke (that was amazing) and Jaclyn's hard cider (it seemed a little much for me, but it was okay). But I was proud of myself for having finished my entire drink and still being almost completely sober with little to no effects other than a small tinge at the back of my head and being a little sleepy. Otherwise, it was just any other enjoyable drink. We took pictures then left the bar and started walking towards Sainsbury's for groceries because the girls wanted to make something, but it closes at 8 pm and we were pushing it so Joelle and Emily RAN to the one at the Westgate shopping mall, saw that the entrance was closed, and then ran to the other side entrance while Kristin, Jaclyn, and I just walked briskly and later got stopped when we tried to go in by the guard. Jaclyn, pleading with the guard to go in, finally got to go in to "get bread". Kristin and I stayed back and waited... and the guard started talking to us, then no joke, started asking us where we go to school, our years, commented on my ethnicity (not fun), commented on how horrible Bush was for the world economy (not fun for Kristin, a conservative), and gave us the whole spew of his life story in the UK... until Jaclyn and Joelle and Emily came out, YAY! I clung onto Kristin and stared at her creeped out face as she kept saying, "let's wait until we get outside... wait..." and once outside, immediately bursted into "What the crap was that!" I laughed so hard I could barely stand up. Creepster security guards at Sainsbury's, watch out. Haha.
We got back to their (Kristin, Jaclyn, and Emily's) place which I will refer to as the APU house from now on. The girls made an awesome dessert of just baked chocolate chip cookie with ice cream on top and I was upstairs with Kristin in her room, using her computer until they called me downstairs for the surprise. I waited anxiously at the dining table as they carried it, still warm in its pan and sang happy birthday to me on its way to the table. I thanked them and took the first bite, SO incredible. Not long after, it was devoured by our hungry selves. We took more pictures, then Joelle and I went to get our laptops from our place and come back to the house, and by that time, Kristin was ready for bed so she said good night, and Joelle and I spent a few more hours in Emily's room with her and Jaclyn until it got late and we headed home.
Overall, this will certainly be one of the best days of my life, and it has made me feel blessed to be at Oxford, blessed to be 21, blessed to be so blessed by God and the people in my life who have made this day so special to me. I don't know what tomorrow will hold, or the rest of my time abroad, but today was fantastic, and I know that it will all turn out all right because He wills.
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
A true Oxford day
Original date of post: January 12, 2009
Once again, the jet-lag has struck and won again. Bummer. But at least it gives me a chance to blog ;) I'm listening to Yanni (thanks to Lishbe). Today was a fantastic day. Frankly, I love being at Oxford and I'm ecstatic to begin the term. Yeah, call me a nerd but I love learning and being challenged intellectually, and I'm sure that my tutorials will surely push me in every way academically.
I began my day with my roomie Joelle waking me up (she's really been a pal doing so because I lacked any form of an alarm clock and I really needed to be up). We ate breakfast and headed to the OPUS office in the Westgate (a shopping mall). After I got a cell phone (YAY!), 2 adapters, and signed up to be admitted into the Bodleian tomorrow, I left for Hertford to check my email. I was happy to hear from both my tutors. My primary tutor will want me to start reading as soon as possible and wishes to meet me this week, expecting me to have the reading list he emails me done or at least partially done by then. My secondary tutor wants to start the tutorial fourth week and give me the time beforehand to read. Needless to say, I'm quite thankful for my secondary tutor... and I found the reason behind his decision when my advisor informed me that he is actually in California right now and will not return from his trip until later.
I spent enough time online that I had to postpone lunch until after my tour by the JCR (Junior Common Room) President. Funny enough, it was his friend that gave my group the tour, not himself (he led the other part of the Hertford OPUS group). She was very informative and I was very excited to see all the parts of the college, not just the parts I'd been briefly introduced to by my own exploration (or lack of). A lot of the heart of Hertford lies in navigating through alleyways, doors, and stairwells. It is much like a maze, but one that I'm sure I'll get accustomed to as I explore more. The Hertford College bridge reminds me of the one at Hunter College, and it's not that different or extraordinary inside, though outside it looks spectacularly ancient. I actually got to talk to the tour guide a little, just casual talk but I was happy to strike up a conversation.
After the tour, I spent some time with my other roomie, Ben, and we bought some lunch and since it was raining, went into McDonald's to eat. Oh, and I also bought some minutes/text messages for my phone. Ben is a pretty quiet guy, so I felt a little guilty like I obliged him to come with me, but I'm sure he would never admit so even if he felt it. We finished lunch and went back to Hertford for internet. The alum who wants to meet me in London, Jacob Coy, no joke, is starting to sound a little creepy. Joelle's already told me she'll come with me to meet him and I've already made a decision that I'm either going with her or not going at all because I refuse to go alone. He wants to give me tips on London and whatnot, but I got really confused today when, in the email response he sent back about possible dates he asked me what ethnicity I am. Now, this could be a harmless question, but it really just caught me offguard.
Anyhow, after I checked my email I went to the Oxford Union Society tour. One word: Wow. It is really a private, prestigious club for Oxford students that hosts incredible debates with world famous leaders and even her majesty the Queen herself once before. By far, the library is my favorite room I've seen so far at Oxford. The ceiling is extraordinary. There are paintings of medieval people and shields on the ceiling, along with chandeliers (very common in formal rooms at Oxford) and books all alongside the walls with tables for people to study. We went through several formal rooms, and one in particular was the Union President's room, which was extraordinary as its bookshelves were covered with ancient books. When I say ancient, I really mean that these book covers were peeling off, and I could not tell how many hundreds of years old some of them were, nor could I guess. It just amazed me how fantastic the history is behind the entire society and how, while some places in the States I've been to have mimicked the style of having old books on shelves and ancient decor, Oxford holds them because of its existence throughout the years and its amazing history not just for aesthetic value but historical as well.
Now for the fun part, the OPUS formal dinner tonight (you know what I mean). I decided to go extremely formal and I am happy I did, as pretty much all of the girls wore dresses, not skirts. The guys wore tuxedos and suits, though a few sported a shirt and tie occasionally. I took a taxi cab with Ben to Hertford, and we waited to be let into the Old Library where the event would be held (the cab drive was extremely early and efficient, not to mention the driver was nice). I met some other OPUS students and talked to Colton, the other OPUS student from DePauw. we were let in a little after 7.20pm. When we first arrived inside, we were invited to drinks, they had red wine, white wine, and orange juice. Keeping to my vow until my birthday coming up next week, I took the juice. I talked mostly with my advisor, Rhodri Lewis, who was just fun and sarcastic throughout the entire evening. I met some more OPUS students and then we were invited into the Main Hall for supper.
Waiters and waitresses awaited us as we took our assigned seats (with placecards) by our respective tables formed in a u-shape in this ancient library room lit by candlelight. We remained standing as Rhodri said grace, then took our seats as we were served our first course, creamy mushroom soup. I love mushrooms, and the soup was fantastic. Moreover, there was ample white and red wine, as well as sparkling water and water available at our disposal. The girl sitting next to me named Maggie felt quite self-conscious, but I informed her that she would really be all right. After the soup, the waiters and waitresses came back to take our dishes. Then, after what I would say is a long pause in the States, we were served our main course, chicken covered in a delicate mushroom sauce with peas and potatoes in silver dishes available for all at the table to share. All this time Rhodri is commenting on the food, mostly with sarcasm and Maggie and I are adding to his comments. Chicken, being a delicacy in Britain with prices enormously high, was definitely my favorite part of the meal. After the main course, we were served a dessert which I still cannot remember the name of, it is a custard, chocolate pudding with a hard shell at the top that is apparently made with a blowtorch. If you remember the name, please do inform me, I'd like to know--it was very good. After dessert, there were some after snacks given, mainly grapes with cheese (the cheese in huge blocks with a very special utensil used to cut the slices) as well as chocolate, which I enjoyed immensely, and the option of coffee, but at that hour I was not going to consume caffine (apparently that still did nothing for the jet-lag).
Once the entire meal was over, we saw Deepak, the program director, stand up and make a toast to her majesty the Queen. We all stood up, toasted, and sat down again. Then Deepak explained the process of the toast and toasted one of the advisors, who then made a small speech about her experience with Oxford and further moved onto Rhodri and Rhodri toasted one of the students, then each of us had to say something about our experiences with Oxford either from before (as some students have family who go to Oxford or went here), and toast someone else until everyone had gone. It was a bit nervewrecking, frankly, but I thought it was a good occasion for a toast so I just spoke honesty and quickly, continuing the tradition. Then, when it was all over, Deepak recommended that we stay still, but after a time of awkward silence, he concluded the evening and we went our respective ways. I called a cab for Ben and I using the same taxi service and I thought it was efficient that they actually remember my name because of my phone number and address. It was surely a kodak moment when Deepak got into our cab (since we were at the second entrance and it stopped at the main entrance) and the cab driver, once we got in, said that he told him that he didn't think he was Linda and I laughed out loud. What a way to conclude a splendid evening.
It is 4.20am my time, so I'm going to lay down and hopefully get some rest. Good night and God bless.
Sunday, settling down
Could it really be that it's been literally 4 days since I've been gone from home? Surprisingly, despite the extraordinarily cold and mostly gloomy weather, the case of the starving college student (as one of my roomies put it), the 45+ minute walk to civilization... (actually probably closer to 30 minutes), the lack of internet and high prices of phone calls at my place, time has passed extremely quickly. Sure, it could just be the optimism speaking (or this Bendadryl that I took to help me fall asleep despite jet-lag), but I feel more settled here than before. My scholarship money has finally been deposited so I won't have to live on 60 pounds for two weeks (near impossible, if you ask me) and I've gotten really close to my roommates within this short amount of time, especially Joelle. I've gotten to know the guys, Josh and Ben, as well, but somehow I just got along really well with Joelle and we've been spending quite a lot of time together talking, laughing, watching movies and cooking like today.
The second day actually being at Oxford was interesting enough. I started it by attempting to ride the bus system towards my destination of St. Hugh's College, for my academic advisor meeting. Not only did I go into two separate stores to ask what bus I should take, but I first asked the bus driver if it was the right bus on the wrong side of the road, then I got on the bus and missed my stop. I literally rode the bus all the way to the last stop, waited as the driver rested on her break, and rode back, this time finally finding Canterbury Road. I got off and surprisingly, when I asked the girl also from OPUS who was just leaving her meeting what time it was, it was five minutes to 12, which was when my meeting was. Ecstatic, I jumped in joy. Once again, this is God at work because I didn't have ANY way to tell time on me at all and for me to go through that whole experience and STILL make it to my meeting on time was just remarkable to me. My meeting went well, and I found out who my tutors will be. I got my first-choice in everything, i.e. British Modernist Literature and Virginia Woolf (and others, I added the others so I can maybe study both Woolf and Joyce's styles of writing). I left my meeting, this time not taking the bus really... then taking a random one just for the heck of it and finding some cool shops, since I knew I had no time restriction now. I just wandered around Oxford, getting to know the streets better, then going to Hertford for some internet access. Unfortunately my username and password (which I later found I copied wrong) didn't work at the time, but luckily there was another OPUS student there so he let me use his for the time being. Afterwards, I went and got a samosa for lunch (I love samosas!), though I was SO cold after being in a chilly basement and then coming out to colder weather and looked pretty blah at the time. I went to the grocery store and bought an amazing load of stuff, then took the bus home (which was amazing compared to the usual walk).
Third day was mostly about getting lost in Oxford. Our program director actually advised that we do to get to know the roads better. Needless to say, I know I am lost when I was trying to head south and ended up way north. But I was cold, tired, and hungry, so I decided that was enough of an adventure for me and bought some more groceries, had a misunderstanding at a shoe store (the British term for rent is let, and I didn't know that), then headed home for warmth at last.
Today was my favorite day funny enough, and it was the least adventurous. I went with Joelle to try and find Oxford Community Church in the morning, but we failed to do so and instead walked quite, quite far up a hill that felt like a mountain to me on my little to no sleep since I'm still very jet-lagged and hadn't slept until 5 a.m. British time and had to get up at 9:50ish a.m. I came back home, and not surprisingly, went straight back to sleep and slept until 3 hours later, then had a nice, small lunch and later made a trip to a Chinese supermarket (that was a surprising discovery from yesterday) where I bought a lot of cheap groceries that will last us a while. I made tofu with soy sauce and Joelle helped make rice. We had a meal! The whole time we could not stop laughing at just how hungry we'd been until this point and how good it felt to actually have enough food. It sounds pathetic in some ways, but come to Europe from the US and you will understand: food is not served in large servings, it is given in small, small portions and we, as college students walking MILES per day, are quite deprived of our nutrition by the small servings we'd been having prior to this meal.
Afterward, we sat on our comfy living room (or multipurpose room as she calls it since we lack a dining room), and watched "Breakfast at Tiffany's" (thanks to Jia). I actually really enjoyed the film. Then Ben came home and we talked a bit, but Joelle and I were discussing chick flicks so it was pretty funny when Ben, in a girlish voice, sarcastically complimented our choice of films. Joelle was pretty tired so she fell asleep on the couch and I went to clean up the kitchen because I figured I ought to. I guess sometimes we all just need a break, and though I didn't get to go to church today (we tried to go to the evening service at Christ Church College later on as well but missed it), I got to enjoy the company of my roommates by actually being home today as opposed to being outside, shopping all the time for necessities. Tomorrow is a big day with lots and lots to do. Stay tuned, there is surely more to come ;) Glory to His Highest!
The Trip to Oxford
After a short security check and smooth transition, I boarded my flight to London Heathrow. The plane, to my surprise, was quite the size. I took a photo of it using my phone, but the photo seems blurry unfortunately. Nonetheless, take off went well. I sat in a row next to a girl on a program that was headed towards Florence, Italy after a short trip to London. I was happily amused to find that our seats were fully equipped with LCD screens that provided a range of entertainment available through the control of my very own remote. I must say that the entertainment definitely helped make the flight that much more enjoyable. I watched a movie and a tv show, both British, "The Duchess" and Austen... something about a girl from modern times able to revisit Austen's world. I tried to sleep, but that was my least favorite part of the flight, as it was very uncomfortable to get a good night's rest. However, we were provided with everything from goodie bags to dinner and breakfast, so I definitely enjoyed the food (especially the dessert!). After my flight, I had a long way to go. I went through customs and got my checked luggage. Then, in a mistake I very quickly came to regret, I did not put it on a trolley. As a result, I went through many hallway lanes and tunnels lugging my suitcases. Needless to say, not fun. Then, I ended up at the ground-level of "departures" and soon figured that I probably needed to ask where the Central Bus Station was. Once I got that figured, all this is after I exchanged 60 dollars to a little more than 33 pounds, I needed to pay the 20 pound fare for my bus ride to Oxford. This meant I would only have about 13 pounds in my pocket for two cab rides I would need to several places, I later quickly discovered.
There I sat, in my seat with my bookbag and coat next to me, smelling putrid after being on an airplane for so long in the same clothes, exhausted beyond comprehension. I quickly figured out how to make use of the seat next to me and use my backpack and scarf as a temporary pillow to get some rest. It was not the most comfortable ride, but I enjoyed the scenery. In fact, I was greatly amused by how much of the UK landscape resembles Indiana's. It is composed mostly of trees, farmland, and rural area until we reach town. Once we actually arrived at Oxford, my heart began to flutter with joy and relief. As I looked at the small townhouses and various shops, at the bicyclists sporting everything from helmets to leggings to whatever else, I felt excited to be in the UK, my first visit to Europe. I couldn't stop staring at the amazing architecture outside my window and being in disbelief that I was actually at Oxford. I arrived in Gloucester Green and fortunately found the taxi rank quite easily. I had my first encounter with an Oxonian when, unknowingly, I looked at the line of taxis lined up for customers and went to the first empty one I saw. The cab driver quickly got out and informed me that I am supposed to go to the beginning of the line of cabs, not to the middle. I got in one of the first cabs and told the driver to drop me off at the porter's lodge at Hertford, then to wait for me as I get my package, then drive to St. Catherine's. He did so for about 7 pounds (not bad).
After leaving my luggage at the lodge at St. Catherine's, I promptly headed to my orientation (but I had to be let in). Orientation went well, though it was extraordinarily long (it lasted until 4 PM!). I fell asleep towards the end, and when it finished I had the option of staying and getting my cell phone set up, but I decided to go straight back to the lodge to pick up my luggage. I got my suitcases and realized quickly that I had no way of getting to my place without a cab, which I needed to call for. At that precise moment, a taxi cab showed up in front of the lodge and let out some customers. I immediately ran outside and tapped on the cab window and asked if the driver would take me back to my accommodations with the few pounds I had on me (5 pounds at the time). He was very kind and said yes, though later I discovered that he charged me less than it would have been and in fact did me a huge favor as that was the only amount of British currency I had on me. Once at Botley Road, where my apartment is, it took some time for us to find the exact place as it was hard to see the numbers in the dark. But once I found it, I thanked the driver from the depth of my heart (and God for truly, truly taking care of me in a desperate situation) then went into my apartment. After quickly setting up my bed on the first floor (there are two stories), I took a 2-hr nap on my extremely comfortable bed, relieved to finally, finally be on a bed at last.
Being frank, there were a lot of "oh no" moments where I really thought I was done for sure and I would be stuck, whether by poor planning or poor timing. But the lessons I learned are very clear, don't give up, don't rely on just yourself (ask for help!), and don't ever doubt the Almighty God who will ALWAYS be there no matter how dim the situation may seem at the time. Thanks be to Him!
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
Off to Oxford
2:30 p.m. Leave for JFK airport via taxi cab
3:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Check in, go through customs and security check plus waiting for departure time
6:10 p.m. Fly on Virgin Atlantic flight VS004 from NYC to London Heathrow, about a 7-hr flight
6:20 a.m. (London time, about 1:20 a.m. EST) Arrive at Heathrow at Terminal 3, get checked bags
6:45 a.m. Approximate time to go to Central Bus Station nearby the terminal and get on "the airline" provided by the Oxford Bus Company
7:00 a.m. Approximate time for departure to Oxford from the airport
8:00 a.m. Arrive at Gloucester Green (in Oxford City Centre), hail a cab to Hertford College to pick up my arrival package
8:30 a.m. Pick up package, and based on current time, decide whether to 1) go to my accommodations and drop off my luggage or 2) head straight to St. Catherine's College for orientation
And orientation, well, that could last anywhere from two hours to the whole day. I haven't got a clue. Woo, that's my next day and a half and the reason why some, most of you won't be hearing from me until later on this week. But assuming all goes smoothly, I will be sure to talk to all of my loved ones very soon. Peace out, NYC. Glory be to Him.
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
Last minute preparations
2. intr. To give way to panic; to get into a panic; to lose one's head.
(Oxford English Dictionary)
So... yeah. I panicked for a while today packing and getting ready for the trip. It happens, and it's just not fun to worry like that about anything. And I'm fretting, grouchy, snapping at my parents... and then I took a shower and really thought things over and realized just how blind I've been in this state of panic, just how unaware I am of the way I worship perfectionism, the way I look to it as if that is the answer to all my problems. But it's not, and it never will be.
The Holy Spirit made it very clear that perfectionism, this thing that so many of us try to feed as if we could ever be perfect, as if we could ever attain that state of perfection and flawlessness, destroys us. It runs our lives, it makes us forget what life is really about. I realized that and looked back at just what I need to do, just what I've lost in this state of trying to plan this trip to make it perfect, for things not to go "wrong" and I see that I've abandoned two things that are essential to being a Christ-follower and a righteous person: kindness and respect for others. I'm grateful that He showed me that side of myself, that part of me that has not surrendered to Him, that pride that still sits vehemently in my heart and what I need to do to surrender that to Him. It is all about trust, all about humbleness, all about absolute, unconditional faith. And I've given the "remote control" of this trip, of my entire trip, all to Him. It's not about me, it's not about how much I plan or I try or what I do, but it's all, and it must all be about Him and He taught that to me today through His Holy Spirit and His beautiful Word.
Thank You, Lord, for showing me the Way, for forevermore loving me even when I'm so utterly unlovable. Thank You.
Monday, January 5, 2009
Preparations
Today was a fun day, I went to church then had lunch with Jia and her friend Wayne, then came home continuing my addiction to Friday Night Lights (show on nbc, it keeps me distracted from fussing over trip details). Then later on I had a nice going away/b-day dinner with a group of friends at Johnny Rockets. I sat in Starbucks with my friend Elzara (who is amazingly cool btw) and looked out the window and not even for a second did I think I would be in London in three days. I looked out to 71st Continental and only thought, it's Forest Hills at night and I'm home in New York. But slowly, especially as it nears Tuesday night, it will hit me that I'm leaving everything I know to be "independent," completely dependent on Him and it's going to be tough, but wonderful. All praise to Him.
Thursday, January 1, 2009
Happy New Year!!!
Here I am!
This is me
I come into this world
so wild and free.
Here I am!
So young and strong
Right here in the place
where I belong.
It's a new world -
it's a new start
It's a live with the
beating of a young heart
It's a new day
- in a new land
And it's waiting for me!
Here I am!
Oh
It's a new world
It's a new start
It's a life with the
beating of a young heart
Yeah, it's a new day
in a new land
and it's waiting for me!
Here I am!
This song reiterates everything that I seek in this new coming year. I'm optimistic about this year. With Him, I've let the worries, anxieties, wrongs, hurts of yesterday be left behind in the past. Now it's 2009 and I'm ready for a fresh start and a new adventure! I can't wait to see what the new year holds, who I will meet, the many places I will go, the way I will change because of this new journey I'm embarking on. I'm looking forward to the many postcards and letters I will send about the laughter across the streets, the Oxford view, the British life and imprints of my footprints across London ;) It's a new year, a new opportunity to follow the right path, His path. Thank you to all who have made it a fantastic year! I love you all!
<3 Thank You for a blessed year, Lord. May You continue to bless us all in this coming year and help us to know You and Your Love. Amen.
