As has already been mentioned, we intend to use this blog to keep people informed in a way that is not really possible in a prayer letter. That said, the following is a train of thought that I was going to include in the last letter, but I decided it wasn't really prayer letter material.
The longer we are here, the more we realize how much we have to learn – about Wales, about ministry, about everything! Obviously, we are not required to learn a new language, although even the language part can be tricky (we've been told that we speak “American,” not English). However, we are finding that there are plenty of cultural differences to which we must adjust, and the sameness of language makes the process all the more subtle. Thankfully, for the most part we have been able to avoid any awkward or embarrassing situations. ☺
Another major adjustment for us has been the transition from the deputation lifestyle to that of a “normal” life. Whereas life for us formerly revolved around our next travel stop, we are now working our way into a family routine that continues beyond the next few days – something we've never had. Working hours, family time, grocery shopping, and many other aspects of life have all changed for us, and we need wisdom to find the right balance in each area. Pray especially for Marcia, who faces the challenge of running our household while adjusting to our change of pace in a new culture.
Anyway, I think we underestimated the degree to which adjusting to life in Wales would be a challenge!
2 Feb 2009
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