victory source 戴胜源

put on...

2010-11-18T16:10:00.001-06:00

I'm convinced now more than ever that Starbucks in California builds character. At the Starbucks I work at, the line frequently trails out the door 80 percent of the day. This is a recipe for impatience, anger, and frustration. And it's not just customers; baristas feel the same way. It's almost as if we could snap at any moment.

In my community group, we've been discussing the book of Colossians. There was one week when we were talking about Colossians 3. Let me share verses 1 to 17 with you:

"If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ who is your life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.

Put to death therefore what is earthly in you: sexual immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry. On account of these the wrath of God is coming. In these you too once walked, when you were living in them. But now you must put them all away: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and obscene talk from your mouth. Do not lie to one another, seeing that you have put off the old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge after the image of its creator. Here there is not Greek and Jew, circumcised and uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave, free; but Christ is all, and in all.

Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him."

Did you notice especially the last section where it talks about putting on compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, patience, and love? Those are all things that we intrinsically do not possess. I in myself, am not a compassionate man. But through Jesus, we are given the choice to wear these wonderful qualities. It's simply glorious!

However, often it isn't until we are standing in a 15 minute line at Starbucks that we realize just how little patience we have. It becomes very apparent, no matter how much we try to mask our impatience. But that is the best time to pray a quick prayer, "God, take off the old impatient self and help me put on patience." You would be surprised the work God could do in your life waiting in line at Starbucks. It builds some serious character.

Downtown

2010-11-06T17:39:00.001-05:00

So, I've got 4 minutes left on my 10 minute break. Let's see if I can write out a quick blog post just for fun.

I now work at a Starbucks in Koreatown, but just to supplement my hours, I fill in here and there at other stores. Today I'm at the store at Wilshire and Bixel. It's in downtown LA. So, far it's been a nice quiet day (weekends are usually like that). Being downtown gives me an opportunity to familiarize with another part of LA. Already, I feel like I'm getting to know my way around the city.

I love LA. God loves LA too. And I can't believe I get to live here. Yesterday it was over 90 here, people. How does that happen in November?

Ok, back to the floor. I love you all.

ministry at ikea

2010-10-25T01:15:00.001-05:00

I did ministry today...at Ikea. Now, that's usually not a typical place to do ministry. Usually you might think about doing ministry at church or a soup kitchen, but not the Ikea in Burbank.

As I made my way through display after display, picking up pots and pans and other household furnishings, I suddenly realized that this shopping trip had purpose. I was buying things that will serve people. Now, I'll be able to invite people into my home for dinner and worship. It will be a place where people can come and be refreshed. It'll be an oasis in a dry place, where healthy relationships are nourished in community and God is made famous.

So, even though I'm not a big fan of spending cash on forks, knives, and spoons, I know that they will be used to bless others. Meaningful conversations will ebb and flow. Lives will be enriched.

What ministry have you done lately?

mightier

2010-10-19T01:39:00.001-05:00

"Mightier than the thunders of many waters, mightier than the waves of the sea, the Lord on high is mighty!" (Psalms 93:4) Those were the words I meditated on the day train 11, the Amtrak Coast Starlight, departed from Seattle, WA, Friday, October 1, 2010.

As the train wound through Oregon that evening, I sat there at my window seat, struggling with the text. I knew that God was mighty, but in that moment, I couldn't point to an event in my life when I had experienced a mighty God. All I had heard were stories of others. Crying out to God, I rummaged through words on the page, seeking assurance. But all I could feel was emptiness.

The next morning, I was encouraged by 1 Samuel 12:16, "now therefore stand still and see this great thing that the Lord will do before your eyes." It gave me hope.

For the last two weeks, I've been volunteering at Campus By The Sea on Catalina Island. This was my opportunity to be still. I waited and waited and waited. I listened as God spoke truth into my heart.

Now, two weeks later I'm back in LA. And today I experienced a mighty God. I got transfered to a Starbucks and I start tomorrow. I also have been surrounded with a vibrant tight-knit community and have a temporary roof over my head.

Hollywood waits till Friday, but it's ok. God is mighty.

Fight

2010-10-14T00:22:00.001-05:00

As I think more and more of transitioning to Los Angeles, I sometimes get this suffocated feeling of being responsible for all of my needs. You probably know the feeling. Tasks, projects, and loose ends pile up, like endlessly treading water approaching fatigue. That describes my day. I began mentally and physically exhausted, asking for God's strength, presence, and trying to remember miracles of the past (Psalms 105:4-5). But all of the sudden my perspective changed.

I was reminded of the God who fights for me. Remember Moses? He was caught in a hard place when the Egyptian army was pursuing his nation. A large body of water loomed ahead, leaving the appearance of hopeless.

And then God speaks to Moses in Exodus 14:14, "the Lord will fight for you, and you have only to be silent."

Silent? It seems so contradictory and illogical. Shouldn't the Moses tell his people to pick up their weapons and start fighting back? Nope. God works differently. He tells us "...in returning and rest you shall be saved; in quietness and in trust shall be your strength" (Isaiah 30:15).

I'm going to sleep a lot better tonight, because I know a God who is fighting for me and preparing things for me while I rest.

What are your fighting stories?

Two Days Off

2010-10-10T23:31:00.002-05:00

It's Sunday evening. I've already seen three groups of campers come and go in my short time at Campus by the Sea on Santa Catalina Island. And since the next couple of days are void of guests, I get Monday and Tuesday off.

It is my hope that these two days will be about rest and planning. I'll definitely take all the opportunities I get to go kayaking and swimming out in the ocean. But I also want these next two days to be about seeking God, quiet, and planning. I have a couple of projects that are in the works for later in 2011 that I want to give some more thought to and I also want to get my creative juices flowing. Can't wait to get started!

What are some projects you have in mind for the future that you would like to give some thought? I'd love to hear about them and would encourage you to set aside some time as well to seek God, quietly listen, and plan.

Earthquake

2010-10-07T23:35:00.001-05:00

Do you ever feel like you are living through an earthquake? I sometimes do. Moving to California has definitely shaken me from everything stable in my life. The people I felt close to are now far away, family and friends. I left my city and my job.

But I came to an amazing discovery today. I realized that through this journey, I can become more stable than I ever have been in my life. I like to think of it as an earthquake (Is. 24:19). Despite world being broken, split apart, and violently shaken, I can stay anchored through my relationship with God Most High.

He always is near to comfort. Isaiah 51:12 makes it very clear: "I, I am he who comforts you..."

If you feel like the earth around your feet is being shaken, I'd encourage you to spend some quiet time with God. Soak up his strength and look on his beauty. He will meet you in a refreshing way that will revive your soul. I'd love to hear your earthquake stories and how God is moving.

Deep In

2010-10-04T11:52:00.004-05:00

I took a major life leap and moved to Los Angeles. On Friday, I boarded Amtrak Coast Starlight 11, riding the 40 hour train through Washington, Oregon, and California, arriving in LA Saturday night. Although I've lived in many places in my life... Nevada, Washington, New Jersey, Indiana, China, this is my first move I trust God for everything.

I'm counting on God to pull through for my future, because right now, there are a lot of unknowns. I'm stepping into these unknowns because of my God who says he provides for me everything I need. "The God who made the world and everything in it, being Lord of Heaven and earth, does not live in temples made by man, nor is he served by human hands, as though he needed anything, since he himself gives to all mankind life and breath and everything." --Romans 17:24. Since God says he is the source of all my needs, I can be confident that he will continue to provide for me, just as he always has.

Right now, I'm working at a camp on Catalina Island for two weeks. I love it here and am soaking this time up.

26.2

2010-09-25T22:22:00.002-05:00

In a couple of hours I'll be running my first marathon. And I'm getting pretty stoked. For the past year, I've been training for this day, spending a lot of time running, reading up, and asking friends for advice about marathons. Last week I ran my longest run ever, 20 miles up and down Chuckanut Dr. Tomorrow I'm running 26.2 miles around the Bay, starting at Gooseberry Point and finishing up downtown.

This race symbolizes what God has been doing in my life for the past year and a half. It's been a time of recovery and rediscovery of God's love. I came to Bellingham in winter of 2009 without a firm sense of my self-worth; I was insecure and without a job. Through my brokenness and difficult times of silence, God has been healing my life and revealing that my life does have purpose and meaning. More convinced of this fact than ever, my life continues to be transformed as I wait on God. This marathon reminds me of what I thought was impossible and encourages me to pursue the life's next challenge.

I'm Back

2010-07-12T13:48:00.002-05:00

Thank you everyone for all of your prayers and financial support to make El Salvador possible. If I haven't shared with you personally about the trip, ring me up and I'd love to tell you about it. God did some amazing things that were more than I ever imagined would happen.

Over the summer, I'll be gearing up for my next adventure: moving to Los Angeles to study electronic music production. I'll let you know how things go when I can.

Church

2010-06-27T23:37:00.004-05:00

I've got limited time, so I'm going to try and get straight to the point. There have been two things that have rocked my world between yesterday and today.

On Saturday, I was having a tough time adjusting to the group I'm living with for the week. First off, I now live with 30 people in one house. Second, there is not much space for alone time. I became terribly aware of how much I missed my 'Tribe,' the friends I eat dinner, share life, and worship with. But as I spent time with God, He reminded me that this new group is my new 'Tribe' for the week and that although it is not the same as my other 'Tribe,' my needs will still get met. And they have been getting met. I've enjoyed worship and sharing of the Word and serving others.

That being said, I might not update this blog as much as I initially anticipated. I need to invest in this community and the work that we are doing here. I love you all, but I'll share much more when I get back.

Today, God reminded me that He is still calling me to China to tell people about the love of Jesus and to share the gift of music. This came about through one of our translators, Patty. I was sharing with her that I plan to go to China in about a year to teach English and work. She really encouraged me that my preparations with studying music and Chinese is no accident and that God has been preparing me to go. This was an immense encouragement for me to hear.

Our work here is very rewarding. Saturday, the men shared our stories at a juvenile prison. During the afternoon, we presented dramas and skits at a festival out in the town square. Today, we visited local churches and also presented skits and dramas at the festival. This is just the bare bones of what has been happening. I would love to share a story in detail, but it's really past my bedtime. I don't know how much posting I will do, but I would love to connect via text messages. Text me!

I love you all.

By the way, church today was awesome. Two of the girls in our group shared testimonies at this little church of about 100 people. My friend Kyle shared a message. God showed up. I even got to lead worship (solo and then with their band). The service ended with prayer and God poured out his love on us. Our group and their church were encouraged.

Arrival

2010-06-25T23:58:00.000-05:00

I have arrived! That´s pretty much all I´ve got.

Houston

2010-06-25T15:16:00.002-05:00

There is nothing like free Wifi to make you feel like you feel like "digital home sweet digital home." I've got Pandora streaming in the background as I watch thousands of people in Houston-Bush Intl Airport pass by on foot. I'm so glad the Continental President's Club Wifi doesn't have a password and its signal is strong enough outside of the plush lounge.

This is unreal! I'm halfway to El Salvador. I left Bellingham at 2am Friday morning and took off from Seattle at 6am. I think I nearly sleep-walked through security; I didn't get any sleep last night. Now I'm just hanging out in Houston, reading and catching up with some friends via text/e-mail/phone before I board for my final flight at 6pm. This day is flying. Ha.

At this point, all I can say is that I am anticipating great things. We've got some incredible things planned--festival, VBS, schools--but that is just the beginning. God "is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us" Eph. 3:20.

Lunch Break

2010-06-22T18:11:00.002-05:00

I'm sitting inside Sunset Square Starbucks, where I work as a barista, on my lunch break. I wanted to share with you, my friends, that I am more excited as ever to depart and begin one of the most life changing adventures of my life. In 72 hours, I'll be chowing down to dinner in Santa Tecla, El Salvador after a couple of hours spent thousands of feet up in the air.

I'm embarking in a mission of love, telling people my story of how Jesus is making me whole and new. Not much time to say more, but I'll be doing a lot of updates over the next two weeks. Stay tunes. Read and pray.

Memory Tricks

2010-05-09T21:33:00.003-05:00

Does anyone have any tricks they use for memorizing things? I have a chunk of scripture I need to memorize and I'm having a hard time motivating myself to get it done! It's our theme verse for El Salvador. "Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross." Philippians 2:5-8

I'm thinking about getting together with a buddy to nail it out.

My Story

2010-05-01T21:22:00.002-05:00

Tomorrow, our mission team will be meeting together to do more heart preparation for our trip to El Salvador. Our homework from the previous week was to write out our testimony so that we will be able to share our story with people we meet in El Salvador. I want to share it with you...

"I want to begin by saying that I am a broken man. My life has missed the mark. I understand that Romans 3:23 is true in my life. It says: "for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." I have sinned and fall short.

Growing up in a Christian home, I heard about Jesus when I was very young. I heard about the free gift of salvation that comes from him and that it is only through Jesus that we can have a right relationship with God again. I believed and accepted Jesus and was baptized when I was about 8 years old.

But as I ventured into my teen years, I forgot just how much God really loved me. I felt deprived of unconditional love. I couldn't see God's love. At the same time, I also realized more and more my own imperfections.

These feelings of being deprived of love and this awareness of my imperfections drove me to try to be "perfect." I felt like I couldn't be loved unless I was perfect. I first began to try always to please my parents. I tried my best not to express my doubts, disappointments, frustrations, or sadness. I tried to do all of the right things. I tried not to make them angry or cause tension.

It continued in college. I immersed myself into finishing my education to do the "smart" thing. I killed myself with credits. And I allowed my self-worth to rest on my grades and how my professors and friends thought of me. In addition, my relationships were one-way. I gave myself to relationships in order to fill up my self-worth. I had a hard time just being me.

I also developed an intense self-hatred. I hated me for being me. I was discontent. I was continually frustrated that I could never reach my ideals of perfection. Perfection was always shifting and changing and fluctuating.

After finishing up a graduate degree in 2008, God brought me to Bellingham, where my life became surprisingly still and slow. I came to this place where I quit striving. I went through a 12 steps group and God revealed to me the some of the roots of my behaviors.

Jesus quietly whispered what he had been saying all along; his love for me is unconditional and didn't rest on my perfection or imperfection. I just hadn't been listening. In Proverbs 29:25, it says: 'fearing people is a dangerous trap, but trusting the Lord means safety.'

Recently, Jesus has been teaching me about trusting Him with my finances, since I know that money and the heart are very related. Jesus is showing me how important it is to give. God has me on giving training wheels. Over 90 days, I've been giving either financially or tangibly at least once a day as a discipline in giving.

Jesus is a giver, no strings attached. And my life is being transformed by this love as I listen to him whisper his great love for me."

Do you know this love? Has it transformed you?

Church Kids

2010-04-29T16:43:00.002-05:00

On Friday night, our mission team will be hosting a parent's night out, a fundraiser for El Salvador. We're going to be hosting childcare for the evening, giving parents a Friday evening all to themselves. I'm looking forward to this as it will be an opportunity to work with kids, something our team will be doing a lot of in El Salvador. We've got a full program planned: crafts, games, Bible stories, snacks, and a movie. Oh, and we get to wear PJs!

It'll also give our team a time to bond and spend time together. I must admit, I don't know a lot of the high schoolers who are going on this trip very well. It will be good to build relationships and get connected.

Fresh Music

2010-04-16T14:32:00.004-05:00

I'm moving forward with preparations for my upcoming trip to El Salvador. Here's a little update.

Last week, my energy was focused on getting fundraising letters out to friends and family. Our trip leaders encouraged us to send out 30 letters. I got pretty darn close at 28! It was actually quite a humbling process of choosing and writing to the people who I thought might like to join me either through prayer or finances. Note after note, envelope after envelope, I grew in awe. Letters were going out all over the country: California, Indiana, Michigan, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Washington, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Nebraska. I am so thankful for the friends and family God has blessed me with and to get to share this giving opportunity.

One of the unique roles I get to play in this mission trip is worship leader. On Tuesday, I got together with Tim West, the El Salvador trip leader, to discuss preparations for worship. While we are in El Salvador, each night we will spend "family time" together, sharing, meditating, and worshiping together. I get to lead our team during these times! So, we're putting together a list of worship songs that we would like to sing together. It's always refreshing to sing new melodies, so I've spent the morning combing worship resources online and came up with some new songs to teach our group. Here's some of them:

Glory To God Forever --Steve Fee on "Hope Rising"
Say Say --Kristan Stanfill on "Passion: Awakening"
Rise and Sing --Steve Fee on "Hope Rising"
All of Creation --Mercy Me on "The Generous Mr. Lovewell"
You Alone Can Rescue --Matt Redman on "We Shall Not Be Shaken"
Awakening --Chris Tomlin on "Passion: Awakening"
Freedom Is Here --Hillsong United on "A Cross The Earth"

Give 'em a listen. We'll be listening too.

The First Week

2010-04-08T20:11:00.002-05:00

A week has gone by since I began my giving challenge, to tangibly give something away everyday for 90 days. I started April 1 and it's already April 8. So far, some of the things I've given away have included a Starbucks card, Easter candy, a smoothie, coffee, lunch, dinner, etc. The trend is food! And it's been so rewarding; giving is satisfying. There is something deeply gratifying about sharing and relinquishing up to another.

Give Yourself Away

2010-03-31T21:36:00.002-05:00

Have you ever given much thought to giving recently?

I've been reading this book by Randy Alcorn called "The Treasure Principle." It's an inspiring little book. Basically, Alcorn lays out several principles about financial stewardship that are in direct response to the grace of Jesus Christ. Jesus was a giver. His whole life was constantly being poured out to others and even to death, he gave.

One principle Randy highlights is that God owns everything. As I was thinking about it, I knew it was true, but I couldn't think of any time in my life where I really learned it in real life. I still worry too much about physical things. I worry about my bank account. I worry about food. I don't live it. God owns everything. I knew it was true, but it never moved into heart knowledge.

So, I came up with an idea. Over the next 90 days, I'd like to give something away every day. It could be $1. It could be $100. It could be a stick of gum. It could be a car. In a tangible way, I want to give something away every day. And it starts tomorrow, April 1.

I've asked God to teach me to understand that he really does own everything, so I've decided to start practicing giving. Maybe this challenge will help me get going.

Hello Blog

2010-03-26T14:19:00.002-05:00

I haven't written here in quite a while. But I think future posts will be arriving shortly. I'm considering writing in conjunction with my next endeavor: El Salvador. It's happening early summer of 2010 and it would be great to share with you how the process is going. Details will be coming!

No, Nope, Nay, Not Gonna Happen

2009-09-14T23:43:00.002-05:00

I've been reading this great book by Sally McGhee called "Take Back Your Life." It's all about getting your life organized and focused so that you can increase productivity and get things done. In one of the sections, McGhee mentions the importance of saying no. It's something that is crucial to discern when to say so that insanity does not set in.

We live in a world where there are so many things vying for our attention. There is always something, always an event, always a task, always a project, always always always! Because of this, it becomes very important to say no to some of these items, otherwise, life would begin to feel like one distraction after another.

For me this is difficult because of this desire to make everyone "happy." I feel the need to say yes to anyone and everyone who requests me to do something for them. But in reality, I do not have to say yes to everyone and even if I say no, it is not going to be the end of the world.

So, in an attempt to make my life a bit easier, I have decided to say no more often and to think more deeply about when I say yes and my commitments. It might be hard at first, but I think I'll get the hang of it.

I guess I'll start right now. No! Nope! Nay! Not Gonna Happen!

2009-09-07T12:20:00.001-05:00

All good things seem to come to an end sooner or later. Today is the final day at the Long Beach Peninsula beach house. I've enjoyed myself over the last couple of days just taking life slow and chilling with my family. I has been quite a long time since we've all spent this much time together. And I think it came at just the right time too. Our lives are slowly going in different directions and so our reunions become less and less. I really treaure these times.

Over the weekend, I've been thinking quite a bit about contentment. In my life, I realize I am happiest when I am content with just being me, when I don't have to pretend to be someone else, and I am not envious of someone else. Too much of my life has been wasted with envy, when my attention is fixed on things that other people have, instead of enjoying what I have.

God has blessed me tremendously with gifts, talents, resources, limitations, challenges, relationships, and potential unique to me. And I'm not about to waste that.

What about you? What is it about you that you need to capitalize on? You are unique and have things to offer the world that only you can. That's pretty spiffy.

A Lazy Day

2009-09-05T18:43:00.001-05:00

Beach houses are a splendid thing. The whole purpose of them is to relax, slow down, and take a break from the normal demands of the world. They foster a sense of purpose and contentment in rest that is hard to find in the ryhthms of life at home. I like them a lot.

Today, I've been enjoying the luxaries of chatting with my family, reading, napping, snacking, and enjoying a georgeous view of Pacific Ocean.

Long Beach Peninsula

2009-09-04T18:37:00.002-05:00

It's 2009 vacation time! I am on Long Beach Peninsula with my family. My parents rented a beach house. I just sat down and my oh my, this place is amazing. Time to enjoy my life...

Brain Freeze

2009-06-10T17:10:00.003-05:00

Have you ever forgot something so basic it was embarrassing? I had one of those moments yesterday. While sitting inside of a bakery in downtown Blaine, I blanked out on how to write the first character of my Chinese name, 戴. I guess it's not such a big deal, but for someone who has studied Chinese for a couple of years now, writing my name is something that I take great pride in. But I guess memory lapses like that do happen every now and then. I'll just have to keep my characters sharp by doing more practice!

Actually, more practice may be on the way. I just met a bunch of new Chinese friends at a nearby Chinese restaurant. They have Bible study on Wednesdays, so I'll definitely be going to that. They even have contacts all around China and might be able to help me get a job in the future.

Amazing Weekend

2009-05-26T23:38:00.002-05:00

This is not a long post, but I did want to write a couple of lines about my Memorial Day Weekend. It was almost like being vacation; that's how good it was. This is the gist of it: canoeing on Lake Whatcom, a bbq, cards and a bonfire, the Ski to Sea parade, a picnic, church, another bbq, church again, a bbq with my parents on the farm, Folk Life in Seattle (multiple bands), filmed a short movie, sailing on Lake Whatcom, soccer/rugby/football, dinner with my parents and friends at the Yellow Sub, and finally a surprise party for Tim Dean. It was incredible. That's all I gotta say.

Job Hunting

2009-05-08T15:41:00.002-05:00

I've been looking for a job for the past couple of weeks. I haven't found anything yet, but I've already applied to more than a dozen places. Well, I'm on the hunt again. Today I'll be first running by campus to print off a couple of resumes. Then I'll be checking out three On Rice locations, a Thai restaurant in need of pianists and servers, Barkley Starbucks, to check on my application, and Pacific Self Storage, to see about some yard work. It's getting late. I gotta get out the door.

Sarah, Ben, and Jon

2009-05-05T00:26:00.003-05:00

I'm having the time of my life right now playing music. No, I don't have any shows lined up yet and I haven't lead worship for a good number of weeks. I've just been amping up the practice time.

In January, I started making late night visits to the WWU practice rooms (midnight or later). Back then, my day started late and ended even later. I'd throw in couple of hours a week, trying to be as consistent as I could. Some nights I was so tired that I played half-asleep, eyes closed, wanting nothing more than slumber. That seems so long ago now. I was just beginning to write, which is one of those things that I've always wanted to do, but never sure I had talent for it. I'm definitely developing this skill.

Over the last six weeks, I've added more time by playing the grand at my church. My practice time is going up too. Last week I rocked out for 10 hours, which is a breakthrough in my concentration level. I've not practiced this much since my days playing classical at Skagit Valley College. I'm seeing results; my strength, endurance, and dexterity is improving by leaps and bounds. I'm writing more difficult material, incorporating more octaves and runs, developing my own style, learning challenging scales, and soloing better. It feels so good!

My listening is becoming an integral part of practicing too. I listen to Sarah Bareilles, Jon Mclaughlin, Ben Folds, The Hush Sound, Francesca Battestelli, Holly Conlan, and a couple of others. These are the artists that I really love. They're (for the most part) all piano driven. I can imitate all of them very closely, but I'm developing my own unique style, hoping to stand apart. I'm so excited for my first show and the opportunity to share my love for music with friends. Let me know if you wanna come and I'll tell you when the date is!

Hard Work

2009-04-29T12:38:00.002-05:00

I was just reminded, after reading an article titled, "The Hard Way" about the merits of hard work. In this note, I just want to bring out one simple point. Often times, hard work is something we genuinely seek. We want to do well. We want to put our best foot forward. We want to give it our all. But inside of us there is a battle. We're battling against our minds, which would like us to do nothing more than sit on the couch, eat popcorn, and watch a movie.

With the help of one of my friends, I've come up with a scheme to combat the negative and distracting thoughts of my mind. When I am confronted with a thought, I write it down. For example, while reading a book or working on a project, I take notes intermittedly. This way, instead of obeying my distracting thoughts (getting a drink, watching a Youtube video, or checking my e-mail unnecessarily) I can identify them and continue with my work. After a couple of minutes, the distracting thoughts subside and I am able to stay focused.

Another 12

2009-04-26T22:02:00.003-05:00

Well it looks like I'll be hanging around Bellingham for another 12 months. Today I just signed the year-long lease at my house (June '09 through June '10). Over the last 72 hours, my tune has been changing regarding moving to Shanghai in the fall. I may have been too hasty in wanting to move so soon.

I have arrived at some simple realizations, the first being that financially, it will not happen. My cash is almost gone and my savings is nonexistent. And since I still have to pay monthly rent, building my savings back up when I get my job is going to take longer than 4 months. And traveling takes takes a good deal of cash to do right.

Second, I love where I live. Rent is super cheap, I have one of the best locations in Bellingham, and I live with good friends. My house is full of adventure, laughter, good cooking, deep conversations, and just vibrant with life. It's hard to pass that up, especially the impromptu dancing that happens literally every day, not to mention the beautiful view overlooking Bellingham Bay.

Third, I am sensing that hope is on the horizon for music opportunities. I have a deep yearning to play shows; this hasn't happened yet. I'm in the process of finding a good drummer who is interested in playing shows with me around town. I'm developing my own unique piano driven pop rock sound and have been writing a lot of new songs, enough for a full 45 minute set.

Fourth, I feel at peace with this decision. It's taken me a couple of weeks to come to this decision, but I think it will be best. I'm really looking forward to a new fantastic year. My desire for travel is still fired up and strong, but I might just have to wait a bit for England, New Zealand, India, and all of the other countries I haven't been to yet; there are more important things to do in Bellingham first.

Hula Hoops

2009-04-20T14:37:00.003-05:00

This summer is going to be amazing. I can just feel it. The sun has started to come out more and the temperature is warm enough to wear short sleeves by mid afternoon. More and more people are starting to spend more time outside of their cars, houses, and offices. On days like today, Boulevard Park is bustling with joggers, runners, walkers, families, and frisbee throwing college students.

A couple of weeks ago, when the rain was still falling, my friend Brittany and I listed out all of the things that we wanted to do this summer:

chalk drawings

jumping rope

swimming

bike riding (with a banana seat bike)

running through sprinklers

driving with the windows down

drinking beer on the front porch

tanning

visiting lynden

watching the sun go down

lake padden

ferry rides

canoeing

kayaking

sailing

listening to music on old record players

star gazing

bonfires

bbqs

movies outside in downtown fairhaven

shows

4th of july in bremerton, wa

telling ghost stories

talking with funny accents

picnics

dancing

visiting vancouver, bc

whatcom falls

saturday breakfasts

hula hoops

That's just a couple of the things that we want to do. I have a feeling that this list is just the tip of the iceberg. We're going to have to keep adding to this list as we think of more things to do. Over the weekend, Brittany already hand-made her own hula hoop and my roommate, Fred made two today. I better get mine too.

Perfect Day

2009-04-16T16:42:00.002-05:00

It's been a while since I wrote last. My last post was from my road trip/couch surfing adventure in Texas and Louisiana. Sadly, that time is over. The week was riddled with surprises, joys, singing, dancing, discoveries, new friends, many miles, sights, and smiles. But I cannot write about it now, because that time has past and a new day is here. Writing about some of the details here would be fun, but useless. I'd be rambling and wasting the time I should be writing about today.

The irony of writing about today is that there's nothing really significant about it. It is like a plain yogurt, organic and a bit tart. It's past 3pm and I haven't accomplished one thing. You might be surprised, but I do not care; I do not want to care or worry about it. I didn't even get my jog in this morning like I had written down on my planner.

Learning to feel and think this way has not been easy, because for most of my life, I've derived my self-worth by the things that I accomplished in my day. When I was productive, watching the clock to avoid wasting precious minutes, or at my job making money, my opinion about myself was positive. However, on the flip-side, lazy days like today made me feel worthless and like a failure. Feeding this appetite was my high school, college, and grad school assignments. Handing in homework made me feel like a million bucks, especially if I knew I would get an A.

Now that I've earned my degrees, my whole world has been flipped upside down. I no longer have any tasks to complete to satisfy my self-worth needs. I don't even have a job (which I still really need). Initially, I was very restless and didn't know what to do with myself. My whole life, before walking graduation, had been built upon achieving and building myself up through the things I did.

Things are different now. God began to reveal to me that he loves/likes me no matter what I accomplish in my day. It doesn't matter if I feed the homeless or watch TV all day (FYI feeding the homeless is a lot cooler). Still, he loves me the same, and that's a whole lot.

There's a chorus I wrote in my song, Perfect Day that goes like this: "Oh, you gotta love it, Enjoy every moment. There's only one like it, so savor what's left it's all you got." I've been sitting in The Woods Coffee on Boulevard Park reading, writing, and occasionally gazing out toward the bay and the islands in the backdrop. It's a good day. Maybe even a perfect day.

San Antonio

2009-03-21T15:23:00.002-05:00

So the trip is getting even better! I met up with my friends Thursday evening as planned in San Antonio. I am still amazed we were able to meet up so smoothly. We spent the evening with our couch surfing buddy, Chrystal. She is an amazing hostess and we had so much fun getting to know her, going out for Mexican with her, and evening going to a place to dance later that night. On Friday, we rented our car from Enterprise and started our drive out of Texas. We decided that we were going to drive through the night. You would not believe how much fun we had driving. Granted, we were all dead tired, but we managed to have a lot of fun, like singing in different languages over techno music to stay awake. We even sang hymns to a lady at the Jack in the Box drive-thru. So many adventures. They'll keep on coming too, just wait.

Austin and SXSW

2009-03-18T16:54:00.002-05:00

I want to move to Austin! Just with the little bit of what I've seen in my ventures out today around town, I just love it. My friends Hannah and Valerie live just a couple of miles from downtown, so today, while they were at work, I took the bus in. It's not far away at all. First I walked around the capital; Austin is the capital of Texas, remember? I've never seen such a majestic building. It looks like the nation's capital in Washington, but just smaller. I took my time walking around and went down Congress St. all the way to Town Lake. It looks like a river, but it is really a lake. There is a path running the length of the lake, so I walked and just took my time taking in the scenery. I sat, lied down, and read for probably an hour or two.

Walking back into downtown, I found 6th Avenue, the bar and restaurant hub for Austin. Right now is the SXSW festival, so there were LOTS of people filling up the street. Live bands were playing in every other bar. I loved it! Now I'm just chillin' at home. I think Val, Hannah, and I are going to a show tonight. Should be fun!

Texas, I'm Home

2009-03-18T08:38:00.003-05:00

I'm in Texas! It's so good to be here with the warm Texas sun and dry climate. I arrived in San Antonio yesterday afternoon just after 4pm. Right away I hopped on a city bus that took me downtown to the Greyhound Station on N. St. Mary's St. I was scheduled to ride the Greyhound at 7:20pm to Austin, just about 70 to 80 miles north. I was 2 hours early, so in the meantime, I walked over to the Alamo and even checked out a bit of the Riverwalk. Town was packed with tourists and lots of families with little kids. The atmosphere was just so delightful, especially since the outdoor temperature was so enjoyable.

At 7:20pm I hopped on the bus and made the trip up to Austin. My friends Hannah and Valerie, friends from Valparaiso, live in Austin now and I couldn't stand the thought of coming all this way to Texas without visiting them. The Greyhound experience was epic. The sun was slowly setting off into the horizon and I was listening to Sam Middlebrook (a Texan) as the miles slowly drifted by. For a moment it made me feel like I was time traveling back in time to the 50's, when traveling by bus was more of a common thing to do for a man my age. I wish I could listen to some of the stories from someone who has seen the country by bus. It must have been amazing.

I pulled in to Austin at about 9:45pm and my friends met me at the station. It was so good to see them. It had been over 9 months since the last time we had hung out. Even though it was late, we went out to Thunderbird Coffee, a local coffee shop, to chat for a bit. Hannah and Valerie are regular customers there and they are friends with nearly all of the employees. I felt like I was home in Bellingham or Seattle with the feel and the art, just like home.

I think I really like Texas.

New Adventure Beginning

2009-03-16T15:26:00.003-05:00

I'm off on another adventure! This time I'm going to the great states of Texas and Louisiana. I have already visited Louisiana, but never Texas (only Dallas/Ft. Worth Airport). New Orleans was one of the many stops along a road trip I took during spring break of 2008 when my buddies from Valpo and I drove my Honda Accord all the way from Northwest Indiana to the southernmost tip of Florida, Key West. I logged over 4,000 miles in the driver's seat.

My 2009 spring break travels began this morning when I caught the 401 toward downtown Bellingham. Once at the station, I waited two minutes for the 80X to Mt. Vernon. The 80X is the route I rode commuting to and from Western from Sedro-Woolley. Ridership has increased
dramatically since it was first introduced in 2005. Once I got to Mt. Vernon, I caught the connecting 90X bus to Everett.

I'm in Everett now, but haven't yet arrived at the station. Probably another 5 minutes.

I Quit A Job

2009-02-21T15:24:00.002-06:00

So... for the past month I've been working for Panda Express, a nationwide Chinese fast-food chain. Usually you find Panda Express in food courts and in airports. I got the job almost immediately upon moving up to Bellingham, which was a great, because of the difficult job market. I've been in training for 3 weeks now, learning time-tested methods for serving customers with speed and doing anything in between. My manager is from Taiwan, so I love speaking Chinese with her. When I first got the job, I thought it would be a great experience.

But, in the last week, I realized that Panda Express and I weren't a good fit. The emphasis on speed is something that I struggled with. Early in the job, my manager began to scold me for not working fast enough, which on the contrary, I was working as fast as possible. Soon I started to notice that I just wasn't cut out for the job. Even after a couple of weeks of training, my manager continued scolding me for being too slow. Several nights, I wound up finishing closing tasks at 10:30pm instead of 10pm, and she was on the verge of being furious.

On Wednesday, I quit my job. I explained to my manager that I just wasn't fast enough. Obviously, she was disappointed; she has invested effort to train me. She even went into her own Panda Express story about how she working from the bottom up and endured the same frustrations. Gently, I reminded her that I had made up my mind. I quit.

I've never quit a job like that before, but it's a freeing feeling, especially because I no longer have to pretend to be the super speedy working, which I am not. In my next post, I'll write about my new endeavor.

Grand Slam

2009-02-03T20:17:00.002-06:00

Today Denny's gave away free breakfast, their Grand Slam: two pancakes, two eggs, two slices of bacon, and two slices of sausage. How often does that happen? Not very often. Denny's has been advertising on TV and the Internet over the past couple of days. Around 10:30am, my buddies and I drove out to Denny's to cash in on the deal. There was quite a line, but only a 45 minute wait. So, we sat down in a booth and enjoyed full breakfast for zero American dollars plus a tip. The flavors just swirled around in my mouth. The savory pancakes and sausages just made my morning, but the best part was enjoying it together with friends. Zack, Tim, and Fred: good times!

Just a Day In Bellingham

2009-01-31T12:36:00.002-06:00

Today is a lazy day in Bellingham. I got up at about nine, juiced some carrots, apples, and oranges, and enjoyed a delicious morning breakfast drink. It tastes so good! Right now, I'm sitting in my living room, overlooking Bellingham Bay. The cloudless skies are absolutely spectacular, complementing the blue waters. Only a small strip of land separates the two. It's a perfect day for a run in the park.

A bit later, I'm heading up to Lynden, in upper Whatcom county, to visit my grandfather, whom all of the grandkids affectionately call "Opa" (grandfather in Dutch). Opa and I are going up to Canada together to see my cousin Joel play a game of basketball. I'm really excited to spend some time with Opa.

The past two weeks have been some of the most contented times in my life. I just get to be. I'm not concerned too much about striving after anything. I'm doing a lot of thinking and journaling, getting ready for the next stage in my life. It's a great day to be alive and especially in Bellingham.

Lummi Island

2009-01-19T20:19:00.002-06:00

I just moved to Bellingham Washington, a city of 75,000, located between Vancouver B.C. and Seattle. The city sits on Bellingham Bay, and on a pristine day, it sparkles. The colors of shades of blue and green just pop. Although the area does receive quite a bit of damp, cloudy days, the past three days have been gorgeous. Glorious. I get almost delirious thinking about it. Jogs along the bay and just sitting and reading is what my life has consisted of recently.

But today, I explored another one of Whatcom County's gems, Lummi Island. On a whim at around noon, my friend Fred and I hopped on a WTA bus and set off for the Lummi Island ferry terminal, just a 40 minute ride away from downtown Bellingham. The bus passes through the Lummi Nation tribal reservation.

At the terminal waiting for the ferry, we ate our sandwiches. Fred has a knack for making good food with a Spanish flair, so the sandwiches he made were especially good. The ferry arrived and we walked on with our bikes.

Just a short 10 minutes later, we disembarked on Lummi and began winding our way down the quite roads. Our route took us to the hilly part of the island; I had to get of my bike many times and walk because my road bike simply did not have the low enough gears I needed to climb. Parts of the road was switchbacks. With such clear weather, Mt. Baker and the mainland was shinning in its spender. The perspective on the island was fresh too. I don't recall ever seeing the coast as I did today.

Lummi Island is definitely on my list to visit again. Fred and I only saw half of the island; there is still another half to see and explore. On the way back to the mainland, we met some other cyclers who said the other half of the island is flat and there is a quaint restaurant that is a must.

Orcas Adventure

2009-01-05T18:32:00.005-06:00

I just got back from Orcas Island, one of the San Juan archipelago of islands in Northwest Washington State. Since the islands are less than an hour away from home, it's a great getaway and a visually rich scene.

Usually, a visit out to the islands is reserved for vacationing, but this time, there was a different purpose. Chandler Stone, one of my new friends who is from Orcas Island just recently had a friend suffer from a serious snowboarding accident. Struggling to recover, his friend and family is at a critical stage. Chandler came up with an idea of organizing a benefit concert to raise money for the family as an encouragement. Yesterday evening, a group of friends and musicians came together for an evening of music an money raising. It was a success on all fronts for all those involved.

Afterwards, a couple of our college friends hung out at a multipurpose house that belongs to Chandler's church and played sardines. It was epic. There were ample hiding places, closets and nooks, and we put out the lights so that the house was nearly pitch black. We must have played at least 8 rounds until all of us were exhausted. Then we played other games well into the early morning.

It was the highlight of my Christmas Break 2008 (even though it was actually 2009).

Snow

2008-12-24T14:27:00.002-06:00

The snow is falling in Northwest Washington. I arrived back less than a week ago, and in that time, it has snowed nearly every day about 4 to 5 inches. The trees, houses, and cars, still have mounds of snow piled high. But sadly, the roads are very difficult to drive. With minimal budget for plows and de-icers, it is almost imperitive to drive with chains or below 20 mph. It's a far different approach to snow compared to Northwest Indiana, where we expect the roads to be cleared 3 hours after snow fall.

Home Sweet Home

2008-12-20T14:48:00.005-06:00

The past 4 days have been one-of-a-kind. However, that is not surprising, because when I travel, things are always one-of-a-kind. The adventure started at the Gary, Indiana commuter rail station with 6 suitcases and 6 carry-ons and my mother. It was time to say good-bye to Indiana and make the trek back to Washington State. It was a leap of faith, because we weren't able to carry all of our luggage since there was just too much; we were hauling everything I owned. But somehow, we were able to lug it out to a cab and the taxi driver got us to Union Station.

Unfortunately, I didn't calculate the time it would take us to get from the commuter rail terminal to Union Station and we missed our train by 30 minutes. Since trains to Washington only run once a day, we had to stay in Chicago for the night and take the following day's train, which was an added expense of a hotel room and upgrading to a sleeper car, since economy class was sold out. So, instead of transporting everything to the hotel room, we checked our bags early and put the carry-ons in a locker.

Ironically, Wednesday's train was delayed by an hour and 15 minutes. Throughout the trip, we encountered more delays including repairing tracks, repairing on-board electrical, and waiting for freight trains. I also got the flu on Friday from sleep deprivation of the past couple of weeks.

Despite all of the excitement, I'm back in Washington! It's been a fabulous trip and I would never have it any other way than how it transpired.

a difficult good-bye

2008-12-14T23:38:00.001-06:00

I just graduated today with my Masters in Chinese Studies. Obviously it was a joyous occasion to finally exit the classroom for good (minus one paper and one exam). It felt great to walk across the stage, take my diploma (cover) and smile with pride over my accomplishments. The last 5 years in my education have been the most difficult in my life and I'm relieved that that portion of my life has come to a close.

The thing I'm most excited for is to be able to direct my attention toward more significant things. A list is beginning to unfold with items such as reading meaningful books, engaging in deeper relationships, doing personal reflection, journaling, practicing and performing music, and travel.

But today, as I enjoyed the celebration with some of my best friends in NWI, I also lost something that is very dear to me. In the process of completing my degree and moving to Seattle, I will be losing contact with some very special people. I didn't say that I would be losing my friends; no, they'll still be my friends, but I'll lose the human connection of seeing these people face-to-face in daily life. That is just gut wrenching because of the sheer love that these people have given me. They have fed me when I was hungry. They've been near my when I was lonely. They've shared what they have with me. They have opened up their homes to me. They've given to me when I had nothing. They accepted me. These people are great people, not perfect people, but just people who were willing to live life full.

I'm extremely tired, and am retiring for the night.

A Break To Be Thankful For

2008-12-08T13:40:00.007-06:00

I regret not having written sooner about my most recent adventures on the East Coast over Thanksgiving break. Having a full week off from classes, I took advantage of the opportunity awaiting me due to inexpensive bus and train fares, and saw the gems of the East. I spent a day in both Philly and NYC, an evening in New Jersey, two days in Boston, a couple of days in Pennsylvania, and Thanksgiving Day in the greater Washington area of Virginia. I added several states to my growing list of "visited" states: Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Delaware. But most important, I was able to spend meaningful time with many friends and family that I hadn't seen in months and years.

I visited friends from when I used to live in Las Vegas, friends from my summers working in New Jersey, and a good friend from Washington State. I saw family from all across Pennsylvania and Virginia. Our time spent together was sweet and lovely.

The cool thing about it is how God provided unbelievably cheep transportation for me to get around. The train to and from Chicago was $120 and bus fares around Philadelphia, New York, and Boston only cost me $10. Commuter trains only added on about $50. Granted, it wasn't always the speediest, but it got me seeing the countryside, meeting people sitting next to me, and time to read and take it all in.

I'm Outta NYC

2008-11-24T07:45:00.004-06:00

I'm sitting in NYC Penn Station waiting for my bus to Boston. I've already spent a full day in Philadelphia and Manhattan.

Yesterday was a lovely day in the city. I arrived at 8:45am and began my day promptly by buying an unlimited MTA card. I hopped on the subway and walked around Times Square, 5th Avenue, and Rockefeller Plaza. I was a bit disappointed because they didn't have the Christmas tree full erected.

Actually, I was walking toward Times Square Church, which had a 10am service that I wanted to attend. But something unexpected happened, I passed Radio City Music Hall and there were crowds of people lining up for a show. I didn't pay much attention to why until I walked by the doors. A man was on the street corner selling a ticket. At first I passed him, but I got curious and went back to ask what the show was for and how much he wanted for the ticket. He asked for $45, so I countered with $35. The ticket was for a 10am show, The Rockettes Christmas Spectacular. I had seen ads for the show on the train, but I never actually thought of seeing the show myself. Yep, so I saw the Rockettes. All I can say is that it was the most phenomenal Christmas show I've ever seen in my life and the most beautiful music. The orchestra was amazing.

After the Rockettes, I met a friend for lunch in China town on Mott and Canal St. After that, I went to Battery Park, Wall St., Ground Zero, and Greenwich Village. It was a beautiful day. Now I'm on my way to Boston. I have a bus to catch at 8:30am.

DC & Nine States

2008-11-22T19:45:00.002-06:00

When it comes to traveling, I have become more and more adventuresome in alternate modes of transportation. Over the summer, I rollerbladed to work. In Japan, I rode the Shinkansen from Tokyo to Hiroshima and several points in between. In September, I took Megabus out to Minneapolis, MN. And this past Thursday, I hopped on Amtrak bound for Philadelphia.

Amtrak offers two routes connecting Philadelphia and Chicago, the short route and the long route. I chose the long route. The only advantage of taking the long route opposed to the short route is that no transfers are necessary. Although transfers are not the greatest evil of train travel, it negates from the sense of progress felt when the train is moving and uproots you from a comfortable seat.

So, over the course of 27 hours, I traveled through DC and other nine states: Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky, West Virginia, Virginia, Maryland, Delaware, and Pennsylvania. It was a definitely a long ride, but the sights along the way was worth the time investment.

Ding!

2008-11-20T15:15:00.002-06:00

Ding!

The sound of the incoming Westbound commuter train bound for Chicago tingled the ear at the Dune Park train station. Sight soon followed. Embarking on yet another adventure, I know for sure that one thing is true; it is going to take a while to arrive. This is not Japan with super speed Shinkansen trains, or China with well developed bus routes, this is ground travel in the United States of America, slow.

Instead of flying, I am riding Antrak, Megabus, and four local commuter trains; NICTD, NJ Transit, the MBTA, and the SEPTA trains. I'll be all over the place on the East Coast for Thanksgiving and travel. Let the adventure begin. Gotta board now...

Chicago and Thoughts About Words

2008-11-08T20:47:00.007-06:00

Today the graduate studies department organized a day in Chicago outing for its students at Valparaiso University. It was a day for graduate students to meet other graduate students and enjoy the excitement of the big city. Actually, it was more like an outing for Chinese students at VU, because 75 percent of all students that participated were from China.

At 8:30am we packed a bright yellow school bus to maximum capacity and took to the interstate on this bone-chilling, overcast fall day. The roads were clear and we arrived downtown as expected, just before ten. We toured the Chicago Cultural Center, the building on the corner of Michigan and Randolph, which used to be the city's public library. To be honest, the tour was rather drab because it was essentially a man spouting off trivia about a building who's history is rather distant from the present day.

After the tour, we ate our boxed lunches we had prepaid for in advance, split up, and walked our separate ways. Some went to the Art Institute or Navy Pier. I walked down Michigan Avenue, dubbed "The Magnificent Mile." To be honest, my only goal was to pay a visit to the Apple Store, one of my most favorite stores in the world, to play with Apple's new line of MacBooks and iPods.

But the best part of the day was after the Apple Store. I walked into Borders Books to crack open an unused book and just sit. And as my eyes scanned strings of words, lined row after row, page after page, I realized something. I like words. I like the beauty of how each word can procure a feeling or imagery. I like how words, when used just right, can open one's mind to new ideas. I like how they have power to make one contemplate and examine one's life. Not just words in English, but I like words in Chinese too, any language for that matter.

It was just a small thought, but it really got me thinking. I like words.

Tuesday is Gone, Wednesday is Here

2008-11-05T01:15:00.004-06:00

What a Tuesday! What a night! It's been a long political race between the candidates and a sense of closure has been achieved. Now, it's not my aim to discuss my personal opinion on the outcome of the election, I am merely pondering the fresh events that just transpired. It all happened so fast. At 11pm eastern time, NBC announced the presidential elect, Barack Obama. And just minutes later at 11:15pm, Senator John McCain gave a difficult, yet bravely heartfelt message to all of America about his concession.

Meanwhile, thousands gathered in Chicago's Grant Park, thousands of eye witnesses fortunate enough to experience the full emotion of the moment. And emotions revved high. Tears flowed as they celebrated victory. Then, just before 12am, Barack Obama took the stage and gave his speech as presidential elect. It was a moving speech of hope, freedom, and a better America. It was well delivered and Grant Park ate it up.

In the coming days, it will interesting to see how the U.S. and the world responds. I can only pray that God will bring about peace between the two parties and that the generous promises of Barack Obama this evening will not be forgotten, and sincere actions will follow through to back his word.

St. Louis and a 1991 Honda Accord

2008-11-01T10:31:00.002-05:00

Last weekend, my friends and I made a day trip out of St. Louis, MO. We live only 5 hours away and since pump prices have dropped, splitting gas expenses four ways allowed a cheap escape from Northwest Indiana. But that's where the adventure starts, because we decided to take my car.

I own a 1991 maroon Honda Accord which has racked up a total of 253,000 miles. The car has endured many taxing trips, including last August '07 from the state of Washington to Indiana, earlier in March from Indiana to Key West, FL, and earlier in June from Indiana to Toronto, ON. The thing runs like a charm, so I offered to drive.

However, as we were making the final 5 mile stretch of arriving in St. Louis, we began to notice signs that not everything was okay. The battery light went on and the odometer quit working. We started to lose power. By God's grace we were able to pull into a parking space and begin sight seeing. Much to our surprise, the car performed for us the whole day in St. Louis, getting us around the city.

But on our return trip, 80 miles out of St. Louis, we broke down. It took us nearly 4 hours to finally decide on a plan. You would not believe how we vacillated between options of how we were going to get back once we got towed. We couldn't decide if it would be better to take Amtrak back to Chicago or to rent a car and to drive back, and since it was late at night, we thought about a hotel room too. Actually, we never did fully decide because I eventually just called a nearby towing company and requested a tow to Springfield, IL.

That's when a miracle happened. The guy who towed us also brought the four of us back to his shop and a couple of his buddies offered to fix the car immediately--at 1 AM--. Initially, we were wary that they were going to scam us, but after they quoted a price, it sounded reasonable. The problem was that the alternator had gone out and was hardly generating enough power to even run the headlamps. Two hours later, with a newly installed alternator, the problem was fixed and we were back on the road.

It was a wonderful trip! St. Louis was an ideal city to explore and the breakdown added just the right element of suspense.

St. Louis

2008-10-24T12:54:00.003-05:00

Tomorrow my friends and I are taking a road trip to St. Louis, Missouri, the "Gateway City" and the 1904 host of the Olympic Games. It's not a city that's on the top of everyone's must see list, the city obviously isn't quite as happening as it's former years, but since the city isn't that far away, I figured it was worth a visit while I live in the Midwest.

Now, St. Louis isn't exactly just down the street from Northwest Indiana, but it's close enough. I googled it and found that it is possible to make the 5 hour drive to and from in one day! I know that sounds crazy, but we are crazy people who do crazy things. My friends and I are getting up at 4am to start the drive. This way we can get there at a decent hour and still have the whole day to explore.

I'll update when I get back.

Deeper Into Fall

2008-10-22T21:11:00.003-05:00

I've got to leave for work in 15 minutes, but I couldn't resist a quick word on the blog. October has really set into the Midwest. The leaves have evolved into beautiful red and golden shaded colors gracing the treetops, yards, and roadsides. Piles are everywhere. The air is cooler by the day, and the degrees are dropping like dead flies. It's hard to imagine that only a couple of weeks ago shorts and t-shirts were adequate, but now scarves, coats, and long pants are necessary. The Weather Channel has been broadcasting snow in the northern parts of New York, Vermont, and Maine. That means that snow season is drawing closer and closer to Chicagoland. I can't wait!

Funny Old People

2008-10-21T08:13:00.003-05:00

On Sunday evening, my friend Deidre and I went to her parents' church to hear a speaker, Jennifer Shelton, share about her recent experiences in China. Jennifer had been teaching English in China for the past 10 years for ELIC. Neither Deidre or I personally knew Jennifer, but we were curious to hear about her experiences. The talk was held in the church basement and a lot of people who came to hear Jennifer were in the older age bracket. Afterwards, there were refreshments.

I really enjoyed hearing snippets about Jennifer's long-term stay in China. Her stories were fascinating. But after the talk was over, that was the funny part. Apparently, one old lady thought Deidre and I were dating or should be dating, so she had a little talk with Deidre. Here's Deidre's side of the story:

When you (Derik) were getting food this older lady (probably in her late 60's-early 70's) came up to me (Deidre) and asked me if you were my boyfriend. And I said, no we're just good friends. And she looks at me with this weird look and said, and I quote, "Well, why not? If I was forty years younger and I had a chance at someone as cute as that I would snatch him right up!" Then she turned around and walked off.

Let's hear it for old people! When I get old, I'll be making comments like that all of the time.

Twenty-Five Cents

2008-10-19T16:11:00.004-05:00

Today while driving home from church with Rich, my pastor, we came across this sign, "Gigantuous Garage Sale." We weren't sure what to think of it, and curiosity got the best of us, so we ventured inside the warehouse-type facility.

It was a dream for a broke college student. The Valparaiso firefighters in the area had organized a community garage sale fundraiser where you could find almost anything, dinosaur computers, microwaves, kitchen tables and chairs, file cabinets, books, TV's, and a host of trinkets. Unfortunately, we walked in on the tail end of the weekend sale and the selection had already been well picked over. But still, I wagered to Rich that I could furnish an entire house for under $100.

Under my circumstances, I didn't need furnature, but I did pick up a vintage green American Tourister suitcase for 25 cents. What a steal! That will come in handy when I make the move back to Washington State in mid December. Oh, and there was a bonus; I even found a deodorant stick cap inside. Not sure how I'm going to use that, but I'm sure it will come in handy sometime in the future.

New Music

2008-10-17T20:14:00.006-05:00

It's been hard for me to get my hands on new music for a couple of months now. With my budget tighter than it's ever been, affording new music is a pleasure that I've had to give up for a while. For the last couple of months I've been listening to Chinese pop stars Jay Chou and Lee Hom.

Although Chinese pop has become one of my new favorite genres of music, last Friday I received a breath of fresh air. Chris Tomlin's Hello Love just gave me somewhat of a high. There are many anthems that are sure to become favorites in the car and on Sunday mornings. Hello Love is a reminder of all that is bright and good and new. The truth of God just comes through from the first chord to the last. Not to mention, it sounds excellent on my old school personal CD player.

Has anyone else heard any other good music lately?

A Long Time

2008-10-17T19:23:00.003-05:00

I kind of feel out of touch with this blog. It's been almost a month since I've written last. That was when I took a short weekend trip to Minneapolis, which I never gave a followup on the outcome. Has my life changed so much since then that I don't have any time to update a blog? Well, maybe the rhythm has changed a bit.

I guess the biggest change is that I hold five jobs, five rather eclectic jobs. The job requiring the most hours is for ResCare Inc., a company that takes care of people with mental and/or physical disabilities. The gig begins at 10pm and ends at 7am in the morning Monday through Thursday, my first time working graveyard in my life. At first I imagined that working at this time of night would be unbearable, since I enjoy my sleep so much, but it is actually not so bad. Besides, my work mainly is to ensure that the consumer is okay (so I pretty much just sit on the couch reading and watching films the whole night). My goal is to stay awake.

My laundry list of other jobs include leading worship at my church. I also teach Chinese on Monday afternoons at a local elementary school. On Tuesdays I teach piano lessons for three young aspiring pianists. And on Thursdays I am a mentor at an after-school program for teens who need direction in making healthy life choices. Every once-in-a-while, I mow a lawn for friends from church. So, as you can see, things have changed a bit.

On top of that, I am taking 6 credits, two classes, at Valparaiso University. Life is a bit different, but I'm rolling with it. Tomorrow, some friends and I are going to be checking out the film Call and Response and seeing the Blue Man Show in Chicago. So, as you can see I'm still having a bit of fun too.

Corn Maze

2008-10-04T17:04:00.002-05:00

Yesterday, some friends and I took a drive to a corn maze. I had never been to a corn maze before, so I figured it was about time I go. Actually, the drive to the corn maze was about the extent of the evening. After finally finding the place, we realized that it was already closed for the night. They closed at 5:30pm, not 9:30pm, as we discovered.

By most standards, our evening was a failure because we didn't do what we had set out to do. But on the contrary, it was a success in my eyes. We had so much fun. Just as our luck would have it, along the way we waited for one train at two crossings. Can you say that that happens to you often? Nope. In the car, the four of us had great conversations about life and just chatted. Driving back to Valparaiso, we stopped in at an ice cream parlor and savored ice cream outside in the cold right downtown.

I am convinced that spontaneity is the spice of life. Sprinkled in just right, it allows any circumstance, no matter how bad, to turn out just right.

Autumn in the Midwest

2008-10-03T18:37:00.003-05:00

I'm writing this Friday evening. Autumn has come to the Midwest! I'm sure of it because of changes I see happening around me:

Leaves are accumulating on the ground.
The air is crisp and cool.
The days are getting shorter.
University assignments are piling up.

It's hard to believe that fall 2008 is already upon us. The seasons always seems to amaze me. The arrival of each new season sparks a fascination for how something so familiar could seem so new. Even though I have been blessed to live through autumn twenty-one times, this year, my twenty-second autumn, is not just another fall season. It is fall. It is the only fall I have.

Minneapolis/St. Paul

2008-09-19T07:28:00.003-05:00

Well, I think it's time for another excursion. It's not an extended trip like the summer was, but just a weekend deal to see another great American city, Minneapolis/St. Paul.

I've never been to the area before, but from what I hear, it's a city that is thriving, especially with the GOP convention taking place in St. Paul only a few days ago. Right now, I don't have too many plans, but here's what I have so far: seeing Mall of America, as well as some of downtown, hearing John Piper speak at his home church and visiting some old friends. Not too ambitious, I hope.

I arrive bright and early tomorrow morning!

Ladies and Gentleman, Good Evening...

2008-09-17T10:44:00.002-05:00

Last night was the second night in a row being up in front of a crowd. This time, instead of performing, though, I was the emcee.

The Jiangsu Silk and Bamboo Performing Troupe has been in Valparaiso for the past couple of days doing shows in the community. They were invited to come by the University's Confucius Institute, to encourage the exploration of Chinese culture. Yesterday evening they performed at the Center for the Arts on campus at VU.

But instead of their usual emcee, I was the one holding the mic, and to top it off, I did it all in Chinese. I never spoke a word of English on stage. In the beginning of the performance, I was a bit nervous, but as the show progressed, I became more and more relaxed. It was a great opportunity to try my hand at emceeing since I've never done it before. I liked it.

I even got some pointers from their "professional emcee," such as, don't sway, keep shoulders and head high, project loud, smile, and look confident. It was truly and honor for the professional to give up her spot for me and let have a shot at this opportunity.

Who knows, maybe someday I'll be a news anchor on CCTV, Chinese television.

Handing Him the Green Hat

2008-09-16T14:53:00.005-05:00

Yesterday evening, Valparaiso University held its annual Mid Autumn Festival celebration on campus. Every year, the Chinese department organizes a gala which closer resembles a talent show with skits and musical acts performed primarily by Chinese students. Last night was one of the better events; a professional Chinese musical troupe gave a nice touch at the end of the show.

I even did a little performing myself. I did a cover for a song by Wang Lihong, "Incomplete Melody." It turned out great.

Actually, I was trying to be a bit stylish for my performance by wearing a hat that I bought in Seoul earlier this summer. I love it. It's stylish. And bold. But the problem was the color, green. Now, I didn't have a problem with it, but what I didn't know is that wearing a green hat in Chinese culture has a rather negative connotation. Let me explain. Interestingly enough, there is an idiom in Chinese, "handing him the green hat." And actually, it means that your wife has betrayed you for another man. So, without knowing it, had I worn the hat for my performance, I would have broadcast to all of my Chinese friends that my lover had just walked out on me!

Rain

2008-09-08T22:15:00.003-05:00

Why does rain have to be such a downer? In modern American society, rain tends to have a negative stigma. We start to moan and complain when we hear a weather report calling for rain. Usually we plan our days around the weather and tend to stay indoors more when it is raining. But why? How bad is it to get a little wet?

Today, I didn't let rain stop me from a 10 mile bike ride from Valparaiso to Portage. I got to wear my rain gear that I bought from REI, my favorite sporting goods store, and watch the countryside pass by at 10 mph. My glasses got so wet that it was easier to see without them on. I felt so accomplished once I arrived at my destination, to think I had traveled all by human power.

The next time it rains, there is only one thing to do, get out there and get wet! Why avoid it?

Awake? Yep.

2008-09-07T17:50:00.004-05:00

This semester I will be teaching Chinese one hour a week at a local Valparaiso elementary school. It is a new program set up in cooperation with VU to open the eyes of youngsters up to the worlds that exist outside of the bounds of English. Languages that will be offered include Spanish, French, German, and Chinese. (I'm teaching Chinese, just in case you are wondering.)

Today was the first training session. I listened through four hours of creative ideas for the teaching elementary students. Most of the ideas I plan to use in class. They were brilliant. Ordinary I'd be excited with attending a meeting like this, especially since it was paid, but during the last two hours something unexpected happened. I got tired. I fought for my life today to appear in perfect alert state, but I must have failed, because near the end of the presentation, the girl sitting next to me told me that the students sitting across from me were snickering.

Maybe I wasn't so alert after all. I guess I'll have to try harder next time.

Popcorn

2008-09-07T17:15:00.004-05:00

Every year at about this time in September, the city of Valparaiso pulls out the big guns for its annual Popcorn Festival. After all, Orville Redenbacher did used to live in Valparaiso and have a seed corn plant in the area. The festival first started in 1979. At that time Mr. Redenbacher used to lead off the parade, but not anymore, bless his soul.

I've attended to two of the festivals, last year and this year, and already I have had two completely different experiences. Last year I was new to Valpo. I got up early to see the parade, and walked around a pedestrian friendly downtown with copious booths selling all sorts of crafts and other useless items. This year, I participated. I skipped the parade and arrived in the late afternoon just in time to sell a couple dozen hot dogs to support the men's homeless shelter in Valparaiso. Our church organized a booth to both raise money and support the community. I didn't have time to walk around to see much of the festivities, because by the time I was done volunteering, vendors had already decided that it was time to pack up and go home.

Even though I didn't see the parade, I think I enjoyed myself much better this year. Instead of getting, I gave. And it gave me a sense of belonging, to good ole' Valpo.

Big and Juicy

2008-09-03T16:04:00.004-05:00

Bright ideas always come to me at the last minute.

Today, while I was making my way to the checkout line at Aldi, my favorite grocery store, something caught my eye. Right next to the conveyor belt, 'big and juicy' was staring me down. The urge was tremendous. I was just an arm's length away from a large bin of 99 cent large seeded watermelon.

Now, today was not any typical day. You need to realize that I was riding my borrowed blue bicycle. This puts a twist on things. Ordinarily, I would never pass up purchasing a 99 cent beauty, but two wheels and two hands were limiting to say the least.

So, as I reasoned away how I was going to get the watermelon home, I carefully selected the perfect one and placed it on the conveyor belt, adding a 10 cent plastic bag to carry the melon back home.

However, once outside, I came to my senses. Not a chance could I ride my bike while carrying a 15 pound watermelon. It was way too heavy to manage with one hand and one hand on the handlebars. Thankfully the Valparaiso public bus stops nearby, so I climbed aboard and placed my bike on the front rack. In all, 'big and juicy' ended up costing me $2.09 (bus and plastic bag), but how can I complain, it's not everyday that watermelon calls one's name at the grocery store.

Hello Valpo

2008-09-02T12:56:00.002-05:00

The summer has ended. The school year has begun. I'm back in Valpo.

Returning to Valpo is like coming home, but it's different this year. I am living with new friends which are farther away from school. I am only taking 6 credits and have class on campus on 3 hours a week. I am working a job 40 hours a week. I am getting around on a bicycle.

Even though things will be different, that's not a bad thing, it just means I will have to adjust. Actually, that's what I have been learning to do all summer. Adjusting to speaking Chinese and eating Chinese food for an entire summer has been challenging at times, but an adventure. So, as I leave the house today to go grocery shopping and check up on car insurance, you'll be sure to hear about it. Because life, no matter where you are, is meant to be enjoyed and lived to its fullest.

Happy Tuesday everyone!

Montreal

2008-09-02T12:05:00.003-05:00

It's hard to sum up in a couple of paragraphs the wonder of Montreal, the largest French speaking city outside of Paris. It is truly a precious jewel of North America. The people are bustling with creativity and vigor for life and pride for their city.

I experienced Montreal in two and a half days, the perfect stay. Arriving on Friday evening, my three friends and I made our temporary home at a hostel on the bustling rue St. Denis. Rue St. Denis a special place for its abundance of restaurants offering an eclectic assortment of foods from all around the world. In fact, one of our evenings was spent on rue St. Denis at an Ethiopian restaurant savoring African cuisine, with our hands! No silverware was provided. All of the countries of the world seemed to be represented on that street. Asian to African to Middle Eastern; they were all there.

We got around on the city's metro and bus system, a marvel in itself. In downtown, there was no location too far out of reach of the transit that needed more than a 5 minute walk. Definitely a walking city. The metro brought us to the Olympic Park, where the 1976 summer Olympics were held, the underground city, a stretch of 20 miles of underground tunnels and shops, and Old Montreal, a historic area with cobblestone streets and old architecture. Each time I stepped on the subway, I got another chance to experience what Montreal is like for locals.

Perhaps the most memorable moment for me was when my friend Jordan and I waited in line to buy poutine, french fries topped with cheese curds and gravy, at a local restaurant. This restaurant we went to was the size of a postage stamp. Two employees, a fry cook and a cashier/server, managed the entire restaurant, which seated about 10 people. Despite the size, the line of customers was out the door, but that didn't matter. Watching the cook grill steaks and the server squeeze fresh grapefruit juice was all the atmosphere needed. I've never ever seen employees work so hard and manage customers with their level of patience. On my next visit to Montreal, I'll be back for sure.

Continental Breakfast

2008-08-30T19:31:00.000-05:00

I am in the middle of eating a wonderful continental breakfast at our hostel in downtown Montreal. Light Spanish music is playing in the background as guests chat over croissants and coffee, traditional breakfast European fare. Outside the sun is starting its arch above the city.

Yesterday it was downtown Montreal, a place where culture is alive and happens spontaneously. Today, we explore Mount Royal, the vast park that was the blueprint for Central Park in New York.

We're just about ready to head out into another adventure, so I'm going to have to cut my post short here.

Road Trip

2008-08-29T03:50:00.005-05:00

I'm in the state of Michigen and the clock is blaring 4:52am Eastern Standard Time. I convinced everyone to leave the house by 5:15, but chances of that are getting slimmer as the minutes roll by.

We're three hours into a long haul up to Canadian Montreal, where French is the dominant lingua franca. Today we aim to conquer eleven hours of driving, with minimal potty breaks, in a blue four door Honda Civic. We'll pass the cities of Detroit, Winsor, London, and Toronto.

I'll keep you posted whether or not we kill each other along the way. Even with friends, you never know what can happen in close confines.

Moving In

2008-08-28T09:09:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, Bloomington, IN was invaded by baby boomers and their college bound teenagers at Indiana University. Scores of cars line up one-by-one in front of the dorms to unload the "necessities" for life at college: the TV, the laptop, the mini refrigerator, and of course, the clothes. Mothers protected the goods outside while fathers and sons or daughters hauled it upstairs.

You gotta admit, the dorm move in experience is one-of-a-kind. No where else in the can you see nearly grown 18 year olds being doted on by their parents. No where else can you see 18 year olds stand by as Mom and Dad arrange the dorm until everything is "just right."

Although I never experienced dorm move-in for myself with my own parents, I did experience it vicariously while tagging along with my good friend Nasser and his parents yesterday. I may never forget the experience. A word of advice, don't forget clothes hangers. Bloomington was clean out.

Waikiki Wonderfulness

2008-08-24T19:43:00.002-05:00

I got sunburned on my layover! Waikiki was all that I had hoped for and more. The sand was gorgeous, the sun was searing, the water was clear, and the sky was deep blue. Surfers were out riding waves to the shore and the Aussies were camped out on the beach, taking solace from winter in Australia. The Japanese were very well represented too.

In between transit from Tokyo and Chicago, I spent about 3 hours swimming, laying out, and trying to get over the fact that I was in Hawaii. It was just too unreal for me to grapple with. Four dollars got me to Waikiki Beach and back to the airport on public transit with time to spare to catch my Chicago flight.

If you're wondering if I arrived at O'Hare safely, the answer is yes. Hello USA, hello Midwest, and hello Valpo!

Really?

2008-08-24T05:20:00.004-05:00

So, I arrived in Tokyo ready to check-in and board. However, the plane was overbooked. Fun!

First I thought, hey, why not stay the night with friends in Tokyo. I LOVE Tokyo and wouldn't mind another trip into the city, but then it turned out too complicated. The airport isn't exactly downtown and time was another issue. I do want to get back to Valpo sometime this week.

So, then I got the next best thing, a layover in Honolulu. Yep, I'm going to Hawaii. My plan is to find my way to Waikiki Beach and chill for a couple of hours while I wait for my connecting flight to Chicago. I will be getting back later than planned, but hey, a swim in Hawaii is totally worth it for me.

Peeps: I'll see you sometime Monday.

Chapter Two, The Hoosier State

2008-08-23T17:50:00.003-05:00

My to-do list today is pretty simple: cross the Pacific Ocean. No biggie. It's time to fly again and that means one thing, I'm going home. My adventure has come to a close and it's time to begin a new adventure in the Hoosier State, starting tomorrow. You never know what kind of encounters I will have. Will it be a thriller? Action? Romance? Comedy? I come across the most awkward circumstances and odd situations so I'll try and keep things lively as I make the transition back to life in the USA.

Chinese Hospitality

2008-08-23T08:35:00.002-05:00

You know when you're in China when somebody you just met invites you for dinner. That's one of the selling features of China for me. Chinese people know hospitality like no body's business (except my mom of course).

After finishing up my last day of volunteering for the Olympics, rather emotional I admit, I made the last trek home. Along the way I made myself quite productive, buying seaweed, taking a swim, and getting a haircut. Possibly my last ride on the my daily bus route, I began to think about all of the good memories I have spent on the bus this summer.

However, on arriving at my friends' apartment, I quickly realized that they weren't home, so I had no choice but to wait outside. After sitting on the steps outside their door for about 15 minutes, I took a walk around the neighborhood, returned, and repeated. For an hour and a half! I didn't have my phone so I couldn't contact my friends.

That's when a neighbor asked what I was up to sitting on the steps. She invited me to her family's apartment to call and wait for my friends to get back home. Her mom, in her 70s, made me some noodles and we sat down to watch the Olympics while I waited for my friends. So hospitable!

The Chinese Variety Show

2008-08-22T10:26:00.003-05:00

If you've ever spent any time in China, you've probably been asked to participate in some sort of variety show. Maybe it was the beginning of the school year or a major holiday, or maybe for no reason at all. In any case, somehow you got roped in to perform and you had no choice but to put on some cheesy act to pass 5 minutes on the stage.

A day or two ago I volunteered to sing in a choir for the closing ceremony for the Olympics in Qingdao. At first it sounded like a great idea until around 1:37pm today when I realized that I wasn't just "singing in a choir," like I had originally envisioned.

First of all, I need to note the condition of the preparations when I got to the venue. Workers were still gluing down the surface of the stage, setting up chairs, the sound system and other crucial details. Thick wires littered the ground and electricians fiddled with junction boxes. That's not even to mention that the stadium looked about 30 years old, its age showing through the rusted guard rails and the dust ridden seats and ancient structural design.

So, I arrived at this busy swarm of activity and realized that I wasn't going to get out within 2 or 3 hours. Nope. As I asked around, I kept hearing estimates more like 8pm in the evening! Why? Well, it wasn't just a choir sing-along, it was a group choreography where we would probably end up doing group lip sync some 80's or 90's Chinese pop song.

Under my circumstances I decided that it was too much to commit to. A couple of hours into the practice, I just politely said that I never realized how involved the performance was and walked out. Simple as that.

Instead of standing in line waiting to run through a routine, I dined in style with my office staff at a local eatery. Tonight was our going away party for the closing of the Olympics. My taste buds are still dancing with delight!

Lasts

2008-08-21T06:58:00.004-05:00

The Olympics are on their way out of China. The Games officially ends on Sunday. How time flies!

The domino's of 'lasts' have already been set off with the last sailing and the last medal ceremony in Qingdao. Just as it began with rain, it also ended with rain. Chilling showers drenched spectators and medalists alike at the ceremonies this afternoon. I skipped the second ceremony because I was soaked to the bone; not having an umbrella didn't help either.

I'm starting to wrap up too. I'm beginning to say goodbye to friends, shopping, and packing up. It's going to be hard to leave Qingdao for the friends I have made and the good times I've shared.

But I also look forward to the fall. A whir of new adventures are just around the corner, starting with a trip to Montreal, QC next weekend. I know God's timing is perfect and I am thankful for every moment He gives me wherever I happen to be.

KTV

2008-08-20T09:03:00.002-05:00

Tonight is going to be short because I'm utterly exhausted. It's 10:05pm and I just got back to the house 5 minutes ago.

As a wrap up celebration for our office, a lot of us went out to KTV for karaoke. We rented a room for about 2 hours, ordered some chips, popcorn, sunflower seeds, and Chinese tea, and sang our way through the evening. I don't think I've hear any more off key singing in my life. We enjoyed lots of laughs and a bunch of 80's music (almost repulsive). I held my own whenever Jay Chou came up on the song line up, but other than his music, I just encouraged my friends to belt it out.

I'm starting to count down for my reentry to the States. I'll be back this Sunday evening, US time.

As for the blog, I'm not sure what direction I will be heading with my writing. It may end up becoming a travel blog, but I haven't decided that yet.

Gold!

2008-08-19T08:00:00.005-05:00

Today I counted myself a very lucky man for two reasons. First, I celebrated USA taking home her first gold medal in Qingdao. Second, I got close to it. Real close.

After the ritual trip to the cafeteria and afternoon nap, I ventured out of our air conditioned icebox office to the Media Center. I was not about to miss a medal ceremony with USA winning gold. Are you kidding me? But unlike the past two days of ceremonies, I didn't have to stand out in the nosebleed section, like I usually do.

Spectators have several vantage points to see the medals. Those with day passes to watch the games stand three hundred feet away on the breakwater. Staff and volunteers watch 150 feet away on the steps near the media center. Those with a special day clearance are permitted 100 feet away. And VIP, family members, and media are permitted onto the stage.

You guessed it; I got permission to mount the stage. I felt so proud walking the red carped and I did my best to pretend to be a big somebody. My pride just swelled for fellow American Anna Tunnicliffe, 25, who won the women's Laser Radial class. Seeing her standing above the other two medalists and her parents 5 seats beside mine was surreal. Hearing the Star Spangled Banner never sounded so patriotic and seeing red, white, and blue flying in the sky was stunning.

What's more, after the ceremony, I attended the press conference. It was my first one of the summer and I just loved it. To be honest, the questions from the media weren't as thought provoking as I anticipated. Actually, since the women's bronze medalist was Chinese, a lot of the questions were directed to her. It was a bit embarrassing actually and I was taken aback.

Concluding the press conference, I snagged a picture with Anna. It turned out.

Let the Show Go On

2008-08-17T07:27:00.003-05:00

Rain. I love it!

While chillin' in the Mixed Zone today, I altogether scrapped the umbrella and just got drenched. Picure a kid jumping in mud puddles and you can picture me. So as the media was cursing under their breath because of the inconvenient amount of percipitation, I was in high spirits.

But not just because of the rain. Qingdao gave out its first Olympic medals today. Rain did nothing to keep the show from going on at the outside medal presentation ceremony. In the women's Yngling class, Great Britian's Sarah Ayton, Sarah Webb, and Pippa Wilson, scored gold. The Netherlands and Greece took the silver and bronze. In the men's Finn class, Ben Ainslie also of Great Britian scored gold. USA and France won silver and bronze.

In the words of one of the UK medal winners I overheard passing by, "it's pretty heavy." The medals were elegant and stunning, even under gloomy storm clouds. The rounds of metal were passed out at an outside ceremony next to the splashing waves of the bay. I experienced the works, the athletes, the raising of the flags, the anthem, and the the gold. Just seeing the medals with my own eyes was a treat of a lifetime and to think that I was standing just several feet away from world class Olympians who sacrifice so much to compete as such a high level was even more of an honor.

There will be more days like today this week. USA is not necessary the leader in sailing in Qingdao, but gold is possible.

The Mixed Zone 2

2008-08-16T08:24:00.005-05:00

I made my second trek to the Mixed Zone today. More interviews and pictures! My buddies and I had expected to be quite busy because of the scheduled first metal race. But due to poor wind, the race was cancelled and will be held off until tomorrow.

The wind here in Qingdao seem to blow like an oscillating fan; it comes and goes. This presents difficulties in racing due to its uncontrollable nature and unpredictability. The forecast is for stronger wind tomorrow, but we can only wait and see what will happen.

Almost Like a Moviestar

2008-08-16T07:21:00.006-05:00

Has a photo journalist ever followed you home? Into your house? Your bedroom? Well, that's what happened to me today.

This morning at 10am I had an interview scheduled with a local newspaper. They wanted to do a story on me about my experience as a volunteer in Qingdao, similar to the papers back home in Washington and Indiana. We decided to meet outside of the Olympic Sailing Center and she interviewed me in right on the sidewalk.

She began to fire away questions and I began to fire away answers; my Chinese has come a long way since my junior year at WWU! The interview lasted about 25 minutes and was even interrupted by a near fiasco of a Croatian woman being denied access to the Olympic Center. For some random reason, the policeman on guard would not let her pass through. Thankfully, I was able to convince the policeman to allow her to pass; her patience had dwindled rather quickly. After the end of the interview, we scheduled for a photographer to meet me as I finished up work this evening and photograph my daily routine back to my apartment.

We met up as planned and things went smoothly at first. He took a couple of pictures of me en route home in the park and on the bus. However, I quickly realized that he also wanted to take pictures of me at home too! I quickly texted my host family asking if this was okay. Conspicuously, of course (praise God for texting).

Surprisingly, it wasn't as awkward as I braced myself for. I just posed eating, watching TV, reading a newspaper, and a book. Not too bad. But nevertheless, one time is one time too much for me. How do movie stars survive?

The Mixed Zone

2008-08-15T09:13:00.002-05:00

The Mixed Zone. Yep, it's a mix. Sailors and reporters from a mix of countries. Quite a mix. I guess why they call it the "Mixed Zone?" (I really have no clue.)

This afternoon I got to go to the Mixed Zone, the waterfront area where athletes clean and store their boats. During late afternoon, the Mixed Zone becomes a busy beehive of a place. At about 5 in the afternoon, athletes come onto shore and begin to flood the dock with boats, boats, and more boats.

Before spraying down their crafts, they must pass through a comb of reporters who pepper athletes with questions about the outcomes of the day's races. Most reporters are from foreign press and ask questions in English. TV cameras are present for broadcasts and it is somewhat of a media playground. The lens caps of cameras are off and shutters are clicking away. I tagged along with some of my coworkers to help out just in case there were any language needs. To enter this area of the Olympic center, an extra clearance card is required, and since I didn't have one prior to today, I was not previously allowed in this area.

I'm crossing my fingers for many more days like today.

"Busy"

2008-08-13T21:32:00.003-05:00

I am embarrassed to say it, but the past few days have been rather slow in the office. After the Qingdao Opening Ceremonies on the 9th, there have not been many pressing deadlines or projects for us. That’s not to say that there isn’t anything to do; yes, we still work (don’t get me wrong). However, I have to occupy myself more often than I used to. Usually, I read the news online from sina.com.cn or nytimes.com. I am also finishing up my presentation and essay about my experiences, which I will share at Valparaiso University on September 5.

Despite the light workload, the appearance of idleness is strongly discouraged. Yesterday a notice was circulating about a volunteer who—during working hours—was excessively watching live broadcasts of the Olympics on one of the flat screen monitors scattered all across the center. A dispute broke out with the management staff and his ID was confiscated. He no longer volunteers for the Olympics.

At our office we often take breaks to see some of the fierce swimming or gymnast action. But similarly, our staff is also discouraged from watching the events too much. Today, a sign went up on the TV saying that permitted viewing hours are from 11:30am to 1:30pm, our daily lunch break hour. I guess we’ll be seeing a little bit less of the Games.

It is a great lesson on Chinese culture, where “saving face” is highly important. Appearances are everything. I now spend my days in front of an LCD screen “looking busy.” (Shhhh, I’m translating.)

Chinese Cafeteria

2008-08-12T08:31:00.009-05:00

Today I'm writing about something very dear to my heart. FOOD!!! Many of you know that eating is something that I take very seriously (Mom, Aunt Debby, Tante Anja, Deb Nabhan). So today, this entry is all about the cafeteria I eat at everyday for lunch. I'll fill you in with all of the details, so that you too will know what to do in case of eating at a Chinese cafeteria yourself.

When I come in every morning to volunteer, I first clock in via fingerprint. At the same time, I receive a ticket to eat at the cafeteria. The coupon is good for that day and includes an all-you-can-eat buffet along with one bottle of a Coca Cola product (Coke sponsors the Olympics). Lunch is divided into three periods, one at 11:30, one at 12:00, and one at 12:30. It's the luck of the draw that determines what lunch period I get.

Later around noon--depending on which lunch period I get--I head downstairs with my fellow volunteer-friends to the cafeteria designated for our office. There are about 3 cafeterias for staff to eat at, and they are scattered around the Olympic Sailing Center.

Okay, here's the process. I first hand my ticket to the ticket-taker at the door. They check the ticket's date and time to make sure the ticket is valid. The drink coupon, I tear off for later. Next, I grab a set of plastic chopsticks (no forks), a divided tray, and a napkin. Going through the line, I select a couple of entrees that look good out of about 8 different dishes. Sometimes it is eggplant, or potatoes, or chicken, or bok choy. Next, I grab a couple of carbs, such as white rice, or a couple of slices of bread. Finally, I grab some fruit and soup. Fruit that we've had lately has been sugared tomatoes, watermelon, and honeydew.

The next part is a no-brainer: eat!

When I'm done, I separate the chopsticks and soup bowl, and hand the tray to the girl who cleans off the tray scraps. As I walk out, I grab my bottle of Coke or Sprite to enjoy on my own time.

As a little side note, I find it quite interesting on the beverage choice of most of my Chinese counterparts. About 90 percent of them grab a bottle of uncarbonated Minute Maid. The drink is not distributed in the USA, but it seems to be a favorite of China. It tastes like orange Tang! And after trying it once, I'm sticking to Coke or Sprite.

Sails Raised

2008-08-11T07:57:00.005-05:00

Today, I spent the afternoon watching sailing races out on the bay. The sun was hot and a light wind was blowing to create a wonderful atmosphere. Actually, I unexpectedly got a little burned on my face and neck; I guess the rays were a little bit stronger than I thought!

At one o'clock, the races for women's and men's windsurfing took off. Before beginning, they congregate around each other until the whistle is blown. The time prior to starting is crucial because of positioning. Unlike other sports, there is no way to completely stay still, line up, and start exactly at the same time. Instead, it's whoever manages to get closest to the starting line without passing it, before the starting cue.

Thankfully, I met some Americans and Frenchmen who knew sailing and gave me a great commentary of what was going on. This was extremely helpful because (as I learned today) sailing is not a spectator's sport. Why? Well, it's difficult for spectators to get close enough to the boats to see clearly, and because of how technical sailing is, it is important to know some of the ins-and-outs of sailing competitions for the races to have significance. Without my newly met friends, I would have little idea of what was happening.

Later this week, I hope to go out in a boat to get closer to the action. The spectator's pier is much to far away. I look forward to more sun, more spray, and more stiff competition.

Qingdao Opening Ceremony

2008-08-09T10:11:00.003-05:00

Of those of you who watched the Beijing Opening Ceremonies, what did you think?

Today, I attended the Opening Ceremonies for the Sailing Games in Qingdao. I had already been to the rehearsal, but since I had another opportunity to go, I thought I had better not pass it up. Good thing too, it was much better than the rehearsal two days ago. There was more atmospheric contribution from the athletes in the audience and fireworks shot up throughout the whole show.

I stayed for the whole thing and afterwards the city was a mess with people trying to catch buses and taxis back home. I've mentioned before the bus being packed, but I think today topped it for me. The three central bus stops around the venue were just mobs and mobs of people! I made it on my bus by sneaking in the rear door of bus 321. (I don't have to pay anyway since I am a volunteer.) Were it not for my creativity, I would still be waiting for a bus.

World Watches Beijing

2008-08-08T11:18:00.006-05:00

Beijing has really pulled out all the stops to start the 29th Olympic Games with a truly phenomenal performance. From start to finish, it was transparently clear that China has spent long long hours preparing for one of it's greatest moments in history.

And why wouldn't it? An astounding 80 heads of state and nearly .1 million people gathered on 08.08.08 at 8 at Beijing's iconic National Stadium, also known as the Bird Nest Stadium. No other games have had so many important leaders in attendance. This is China's moment in the spotlight; the whole world is watching.

The past 48 hours have really been a test to see if Beijing is ready, especially at the airport. On Thursday, the Beijing Capital International Airport received 1,300 flights, more than three hundred of them Olympic related with heads of state and other VIP guests (China Daily). Friday had another expected 100 VIP flights.

I cannot begin to describe, nor would I want to describe (and spoil) all the surprises of the event for my friends in America who will be able to watch it on Friday evening on NBC Prime time. From the start to finish, the creativity of the program seemed to know no bounds. From the countdown to the lighting of the Olympic Flame, it never seemed to end.

I was especially impressed with the use of color, light, and technology, and the continuity of the entire production. Each portion of the performance was drenched in a palette of colors that seemed to dance, spin, and evolve right in plain eyesight. Fireworks obviously played a major role with exploding showers throughout the entire night. I really liked how large LCD displays were integrated into the performance to add to the visual effect, but without drawing too much focus to the screens themselves either. Lastly, the synchronized choreography absolutely rocked! The entire performance was smartly engineered to move from act to act without making the spectator impatient. Good planning.

I would suggest getting out a map and learning some geography during the final portion as the athletes take the floor and are represented. There are still a lot of countries that I don't know the names of that I wish I did. Over 200 countries are participating this year!

7m32s

2008-08-08T06:53:00.001-05:00

The journey from the office to my front door was quite the experience this evening. As I passed through May 4th Square, Qingdao locals were out in force to celebrate the Olympics. A large screen was set up for the crowds to watch the opening ceremonies outside. The sound of shutter buttons were almost like the sound of birds chirping on a spring morning. I've never ever seen so many people on a bus in my life either. I didn't think I would make it on.

I've just downed dinner and I'll be watching the ceremony with my host family in their home. That's all I got for right now, I'll be back for another post when the ceremony finishes up.

It's Almost Here

2008-08-07T09:16:00.006-05:00

Tonight, China is electric with anticipation for the opening ceremony of the Olympics that begin tomorrow evening, 08.08.08 at 8pm. The countdown, which started 500 days ago is now about 20 hours away. At every significant date before the opening ceremony China celebrates. I still remember last year when I was in Hangzhou on 08.08.07, there was a special CCTV broadcast to mark one year away. New Years was was a big deal this year too. And so was the hundred days mark.

Although I will not be attending the spectacular show in Beijing tomorrow evening, I did get a ticket to the rehearsal of the opening ceremony here in Qingdao. Unlike Beijing, Qingdao's opening ceremony will be one day later on the 9th. It's actually a pretty big deal in its own right.

The tonight's show started at 7pm (as it will in two days). It was held at an all-outdoor venue at the Olympics Sailing Center. Unique to any other venue I've been to, the 3,000 seats ingeniously face the marina, allowing the boats and piers to provide an unmatchable atmosphere to the front and sides. Qingdao highrises are visible to the rear. With such an idea temperature and the absence of rain, it was a beautiful evening. Even though the whole set up is outside, it wasn't a simple production. There were tens to hundreds of colored lights satisfying spectators with all of the colors of the rainbow. There was even a grand piano on the stage.

The first hour, from 7pm to 8pm, was filled back-to-back with pop songs about the Olympics, Qingdao, sailing, etc. At 8pm, the official ceremony began. About 50 flags were brought to the center of the stage, while their names and number of athletes were announced by an emcee. The rest of the evening was filled with all types of excellent dances, singing, and even acrobatics. Phenomonal!

A lot of the work we have been doing at at language services has gone into the Qingdao opening ceremonies. Anything from tickets to speeches, we've done it all. It's very humbling to hear my work being spoken from the sound system or displayed on the big screens in front of the audience. Actually, I noticed a couple of mistakes that I need to correct, so it was a good thing that I was able to go.

It's time to get some rest before tomorrow; I am just dragging.

U.S.A.

2008-08-06T06:43:00.004-05:00

Okay, so I'm kicking myself right now. As I was getting off work for the day, I ran into the USA team taking pictures in front of the marble Olympic rings carving in the pavilion outside of the Village. (That's awesome!) What I regret doing is taking a picture with the camera that was at the bottom of my bag. About 25 members of the team were posing for about 3 minutes while a photographer took their picture. I was just standing by watching, embarassed to take out my own camera and snap one of my own!

I don't know what I was thinking.

Anyway, I was able to meet one of the guys in charge and exchange telephone numbers. Nothing is promising, but maybe I'll be able to hang out with them in the future. From what it the sound of it, they are from all across the States. Most of them are in their 20's to 30's. (Unlike other Olympic sports, it's possible to compete in the Regatta even when your in your 40's or 50's.) They seem like a very fun bunch of people to hang out with and I really do hope to be able to meet some of them soon.

Unexpectedly, on the way home, I instantly got this surge of American spirit well up. I got this feeling of pride for my American culture, heritige, and my team that will be competing in a few days. Perhaps being away from the States this past month has given me fresh eyes of appreciation of my own culture. Something almost magical happens when leaving the States and going abroad. In one sense, there is a fascination for the foreign culture; in another sense, there is a reaffirmation of my home culture. Although I certainly have an affection for Chinese culture and the Chinese language, I will never be able to have the same quite the same feelings as I do to my home land. America, I love you, and miss you lots!

The Studio

2008-08-04T07:37:00.007-05:00

Cell phones are great; you never know who is going to call you! It makes life interesting.

Today while I was at work I got a call from a fellow Olympic volunteer acquaintance. He had a friend (also a volunteer) who was in need of some help. She volunteers for the media department and needed some help doing some recording at the Qingdao Radio/TV Station studio. I'm all over that stuff, so I said yes immidiately! We decided to meet after lunch.

Around 12:30pm, I took a 15 minute taxi from the Qingdao Olympic Village to the radio station. Since facilities like this are all guarded in China, she met me at the gate and let me in. The guards just had me sign-in and I was good to go. We walked up to the audio recording studio on the second floor. On the whole, the studio was pretty empty, not that many people around.

Inside the recording studio, there were a couple of young people who aparantly worked there and ran the place. We sat down on a couch inside the control room and she showed me the couple of paragraphs that she needed recorded. When I read the paper, I realized that it was something that I had translated the previous week as part of my volunteering! It was short energetic-like slogans about the Olympics that were to be broadcast outside on loudspeakers at the Olympic Village.

After I figured out what I needed to read, I entered the recording booth. Actually, I was more like a fairly large room that could be used to record a whole band or small orchestra. Raising the mic, I faced the spit screen and the passion just began to flow. Pretty simple actually. A couple of takes and that was it.

Now, sometime in the future, I will hear my voice outside echoing around the Olympic facility. I'll be sure to post when that happens. I'm hoping to go back to that radio station. Recording studios are like home for me and anything with audio equipment and music is heaven.

Random Things I Learned

2008-08-03T07:01:00.005-05:00

I'm learning all the time. Usually, it's useless random things, but nonetheless, I'm learning. Here's some of the things I learned today:

The country of Tanzanea in Chinese is 坦桑尼亚, Tansangniya.

Air conditioning irritates a cough.

Taking a different bus route home with less riders allows you to sit instead of stand for 40 minutes.

Beijing has the largest bus system in the world and it also operates a fleet of natural gas busses.

What did you learn today?

Chillin' in Qingdao

2008-08-02T07:58:00.009-05:00

Today I got a much needed break from the office. I slept in and saw some of Qingdao's sights.

First, I started out with a tour of the Tsingtao Beer Brewery. Qingdao is world famous for its own brand of beer--spelled Tsingtao--that has had over 100 years of history. The beer has been influenced by Europeans and Japanese over various periods of the previous century. It is China's premiere beer and is marketed all over the world. Has anyone heard of it before? (Franklin, I know you have.)

After the tour, I headed for the beach! I commute past the beach everyday, but today was the first day to get in the water. I think it may be something that I need to do on a regular basis. The saltwater felt so good and laying out on the sand was refreshing too. Today, was actually a good day to go out too. Because of the cooler weather, there weren't quite as many people on the beach.

As you can see by the picture, one of the favorite parts of my day was the food! After swimming, I took a walk along the seashore. Along the way, I stopped at a small restaurant on the water to get some seafood. I was hungry and couldn't pass up an opportunity for seafood with a view of the ocean, especially at the price! I paid $3 for lunch. I'm not sure what I had; does anyone know based on the picture? I'm guessing mussels? All I can say is that they were out of this world!

Into the late afternoon, I checked out a local outdoor market to spot prices for some items I'm thinking about buying. Now, I'm just hanging out back at the pad. It's been a good day.

Friday

2008-08-01T07:05:00.003-05:00

I don't know if it is worth writing about, but I did make a small bit of progress in meeting the USA sailing team. I got hooked up with the office that corresponds directly to the Olympic teams through one of my coworkers. Unfortunately, the liaison that works with the USA team was out of the office and I could only give my name. Hopefully I'll be able to get in contact with the liaison and the USA team next week before they get busy competing. I really only want to see if there is anything I would be able to do for them during their stay in Qingdao.

Tomorrow I get off! I'm going to relax and maybe do some sightseeing around Qingdao. Maybe I'll go to the beach!

Welcome to Qingdao!

2008-07-30T07:35:00.003-05:00

Sailing teams from around the globe are starting to arrive at the Qingdao Olympic Village. About 10 teams arrived earlier this weekend and about 15 more arrived today (or yesterday evening). A welcoming ceremony was held on Sunday and another one was held today to welcome teams such as Holland, Norway, Denmark, Israel, Australia, and New Zealand. It was a pretty big deal and included a speech from the mayor of the Olympic Village, a presentation of commemorative gifts, and a short performance by a local girls choir. I got to participate by being a flag-bearer. Actually, all I had to do was stand on the staircase and wave a flag at certain times of the event, but it gave me a good view of what was going on.

Two days ago I realized that my office buiding is directly connected to where the athletes live. Additionally, I have clearance to enter their building at will! Since I'm so close, my next goal is to meet the USA team and see if they need any help while they are in Qingdao. I'm not sure how to get in contact with them. Maybe I'll just try and walk through the athletes center and hope I bump shoulders with them. I'll keep you posted on my progress.

1,321,851,888...And Counting...

2008-07-29T07:35:00.003-05:00

There are some things that textbooks just can't teach. One of them is just how many people there are in China. I get reminded of it everyday I ride the bus, go to the beach, or buy rail tickets.

My bus route has service every 5 minutes, but even so, there never an empty seat. The aisles are so full that you have to squeeze through to get from the front to the back of the bus. There is nothing like being packed in a bus full of 100 people for forty minutes everyday to and from work. Oh, also there is no air conditioning, so you can check "go to the sauna" off the to-do list. My shirt is already soaked by the time I get home.

The beach isn't much different from the bus. I was browsing through the Xinhua News Agency website the other day and stumbled across a picture of locals at the beach. The water was packed body to body. At first I couldn't believe it when I saw the picture, but then I checked out one of the beaches here in Qingdao and realized that it was about the same, packed! Area to spread out is impossible and privacy is forgotten.

Rail travel is just about the same. Two weeks ago when I went to Beijing, I realized that buying rail tickets is not like Japan. Pre-booking tickets is a must. In Japan, it is okay to buy tickets hours before riding the train. Not in China! Most often you have to buy tickets a couple of days or a week in advance, sometimes more. Movie theaters are the same way; you might have to take a trip to the box office to just to buy movie tickets. Otherwise, the only seats that are open are showings in the morning.

Please Speak Chinese

2008-07-28T06:51:00.006-05:00

On my way home today, I noticed a peculiar sign on the bus that caught my attention. I suppose the only reason I noticed it was because I had to stand and my face was more-or-less directly in front of it. It reads, "Please Speak Chinese," or "Please Speak Mandarin."

Now, do realize that China is full of dialects and not everyone speaks Mandarin in their homes and workplaces. In Qingdao, they speak a dialect of Mandarin that I have a hard time understanding. A reminder to speak Mandarin may just be out of courtesy to fellow bus riders.

Nonetheless, I thought this sign draws up a rather comical point. Could you imagine a sign on a public bus in the United States saying, "Please Speak English." Think about it.

Okay, so here's what I look like with my volunteer uniform (and sporting the fanny pack)! We had a bit of down time in the office today and so we got our cameras out and did some faux press release photos. In this picture you can see some USA-Switzerland diplomacy with my colleague Francine and myself. Volunteers wear blue and paid staff wear red.

Chinese Traditional Medicine

2008-07-27T03:04:00.005-05:00

You gotta be careful when you come to China. If you get sick, you have two medicine choices, Western or Chinese. Are you going to take Western medicine, or be adventurous and take Chinese traditional medicine? I guess I've been trying some of both!

Today, my host family suggested I try some baguan. I'll do my best to describe it. Using these plastic cups and a reverse air pump, the cups are put on your back and the air is sucked out so that it gives your skin red hickeys! They do several of these at a time so that you have 5 or 6 welts on your back. I'm not sure exactly what the theory is behind it, but supposedly if you do it on different pressure points on your back, it heals different ailments.

I wasn't really in the mood today, so I only tried one. It didn't hurt, but it didn't make me feel much better either. Would you try it?