THINGS TO CONSIDER ...

Visiting the village of Killokoti

2011-10-26T00:00:00.016+05:30

The first picture is that of a rice paddy. It needs to be constantly irrigated until the rice is ready to harvest. We went to the site where JC Bailey and Myrtle and their three girls resided along with Jim and Eva Johnston. The well with the stone steps going down is the second well that was put on the property and it is not used. The baptistry is also the second generation and only the middle part is used as the two outer ones developed leaks. Later we visited a small village congregation where a villager objected to a church building going up so he built a Hindu temple opposite the church's building. The Hindu temple is slated for bulldozing as it encroaches the road and the road is supposed to get fixed. After Ray, Laura and Shelby went back to the hotel,
Roy Knight took me to Killokoti village to speak to the people there. I spoke on the topic of "Fear" and Roy interpreted. After giving garlands to the locally elected politicians they asked me to pray for them. Then after praying for several others I ended up in a small hut where they wanted me to pray for a baby. Then they wanted me to name him so I said, "Ray." Everywhere we go people feel that they have to honour us in some small way. So the is the reason for the fancy shawls in the last picture.

2011-10-26T00:00:00.000+05:30

NOW!

2011-01-25T20:36:00.002+05:30

"I am going to do what I want to do!"

How do we save our precious teenagers from themselves?

Something to consider.

Wrong Place -- Wrong Time

2008-10-31T17:36:00.002+05:30

Some of you will have seen the devastating news about the bombs in our city (Guwahati) yesterday. If you haven't (and want to) you can find the details at

http://prafulkr.wordpress.com/2008/10/30/blast-in-guwahati/ http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/south_asia/7699105.stm

It all seems quiet in the city today. But we would not know if it were not. Yesterday, Ellen and Becky were at home and didn't know anything had happened until I got back from teaching at Kalapani.

In the morning I had parked the car right were the Ganeshgiri (where we do most of our shopping) explosion blew things apart. I left Autumn & Andrew in the car and took a computer to a shop 50 metres away. If we had been an hour later we might all be goners. I am wondering if the computer is no more ... doesn't matter. I hope that the brothers at the computer shop are OK. They are so helpful and friendly.

Wrong place -- wrong time. I don't even know if that makes any sense. But I do know what does make sense: A & A in the right place -- at home!

WWW

2008-05-13T13:12:00.001+05:30

http://WWW - The Whole Wide World.

The book of Proverbs offers more wisdom re spoken words than I know how to remember, much less practise. But consider the similarity between escaped words (from our lips) and the hasty (reply) emails and less-than well-thought-out blogs!

The “publish” command is much more danger than the spoken word. In those “olden days” when we laborious, cautiously scripted out our thoughts on paper with indelible ink, we recognized that “putting things in print” can be beneficial--but also very damaging and regrettable.

“Send” has left many a regret and imparted multitudes of misunderstandings. And made fools of “the best of us”!

Diaries and journals used to be for private introspection. Today they are often thrown to wind and cast upon the waters of time for the whole wide world to read … now and forevermore!

Bloggers are many, but lurkers outnumber them … and for a good reason!

Something to consider!

Counterfeiting

2008-04-08T18:01:00.000+05:30

While returning from Shillong last evening, along with a driver and 8 other Canadians, we pulled over to a very modern type of “petrol station” to secure fuel (diesel) for our Sumo. I handed Kuldip (pronounced cool-deep), our driver, Rs.1,000 which usually does the required. Drew, our friend from Yellowknife treated us with some delights from the ice cream vendor. Having just descended from the cool mountain heights of Shillong into the oppressive heat of Guwahati, ice cream could not be refused.

While waiting for us, Kukdip drove the Sumo out of the pump area. Then, he ran up to me and said that the attendant claimed that I had given him a counterfeit Rs.500 bill. Without much thinking I exchanged it for another.

Then I noticed that the bill was all crinkled as compared to the other notes in my pocket which here fresh from the bank and in series. We demanded to see the notes (3 500’s now) that the attendant had from me. He assured us that he had already sent them to the till. A shouting exchange ensued between Kuldip and the attendant plus my friend Shyam, who was quick to join the fray!

I headed for the office and asked for the manager who had already appeared. He called us all into his office. Lots of loud exchanges followed in various languages of which I understood very little. The manager then reached over and grabbed the money bag from the attendant and pulled out the 3 500’s, matched them with another I had in my pocket, and promptly fired the attendant.

Something worth considering if you are contemplating passing on counterfeit bills!

WATCHING IT HAPPEN!

2008-03-28T18:27:00.003+05:30

After living in beautiful Aizawl, the capital of the state of Mizoram (remote NE India) for three delightful years, we “shifted: (as they say in these parts) to the plains city of Guwahati.
I dreaded the thought of the moving of our “stuff.” We first located a place to locate in Guwahati and then I flew to Aizawl, employed a couple young fellows to dismantle the dismantleables and to create crates for the fragiles.
I was fortunate to have the generous help and advise from a couple of our good friends in Aizawl to engage lories to make the 525 km (18 hours) trip down the precarious mountain trail to Guwahati. After approaching several offices which gave me the impression that everything was going well till I showed up with some business—we agreed on a price for two of the biggest trucks available. They would also provide the muscle to load the trucks—with neither trolleys nor ramps!
A couple observations were of interest. The amount of weight the loaders could transport on their heads was incredible. Two others would hoist the boxes up and one fellow would take off with it on his head! But just as incredible was the inability to lift things with their arms and shoulders. I could out lift any two of them by just picking things up!
The second fascinating observation was that the two drivers—of considerable physique—never lifted their hands or head to anything. They were simply stand-byers with the usual expert counsel of spectators (or sports casters)!
Oh well, three days later everything arrived and, contrary to the naysayers, furniture and “stuff” arrived in great shape.

Welcome to Canada

2007-11-16T07:25:00.000+05:30

If you missed it on the news last night, you might (not) want to check out this web site: http://www.cbc.ca/canada/british-columbia/story/2007/11/14/bc-taservideo.html

Dziekanski, 40, died on Oct. 14, hours after he arrived at Vancouver International Airport. He was on his way to Kamloops to live with his mother in the B.C. Interior.

This Polish immigrant arrived from Europe the previous day around 4 p.m., but for some unknown reason he did not clear customs until after midnight.

An eyewitness's video recording of a man (Robert Dziekanski) dying after being stunned with a taser by police on Oct. 14 at Vancouver International Airport has been released to the public.

Perhaps the most disturbing revelation came from CBC's interview with the airport CEO. He was asked, "Are you ashamed?" His (calloused) response, "Shocked, but not ashamed." His staff had allowed a visitor who spoke no English to go unnoticed and unhelped (in spite of repeated requests from the man's mother) for 10 hours!

Apathy is a deadening virus . Some of us have person experiences with the apathy of Canada's front line welcomers. A little caring goes a long ways -- might make some friends -- might even save a life!

Something for all of us to (re)consider.

THAT KILLER INSTINCT

2007-09-30T10:10:00.001+05:30

Years ago a friend of mine destroyed the first few days (and maybe more) of his married life. Shortly after leaving the church and heading out on his honeymoon he intentionally ran down a jack rabbit with his car! Not a good idea for the jack or for my friend!

I was reminded of that (male) killer instinct the other day. I was giving a young man a ride in my car. We came upon a white tailed deer with her delightful fawn. Up came the young man’s arms into a shooting stance and he was heard to mutter, “If only I had my gun!”

I was never much of hunter, nor marksman. However, I remember the last buck I dropped in mid flight. At dusk, on a chilly evening in November 1976, on my way back to the farm, after trudging for a couple hours, a beautiful 5-pronged buck bounded across the clearing at least 100 metres away. On one of his high jumps, I pulled the trigger and sent him nose diving back to earth. Never again. I sometimes tease my hunter friends that when I became a Christian I came up several bad habits … and the first one was the murdering of innocent animals!

On a much more serious note, the killer instinct in men throughout the world is appalling. How can murders and terrorist do it? But, maybe worse yet, it is done daily by the media, athletes and (most despicably) politicians who set out to destroy their opponents. I am dumfounded at the “hate literature” that supposedly mature, veteran politicians have the audacity to drop in my mail box.

And professed “church folk”! Better not go there.

It is no wonder that Jesus warning about gossiping, slander, and malicious anger (Matthew 5:21-22).

Why do we tolerate it? Something to consider.

Daughter-in-laws

2007-09-05T21:26:00.000+05:30

An aged sage once advised me, "you can choose your friends, but you must accept their relatives." How true this is when it comes to the "in-laws"! Three times this summer I have been informed by "sons" that their mothers were hard on their daughter-in-laws. That does turn life into a challenge!

However, my experience has just been the opposite. My observation is that my mother (Marie McMillan) has enjoyed a very amicable relationship with all four of her daughter-in-laws: Carolyn, Heather, Kay, Ellen. (I guess the sons chose well!)

Ellen and I have certainly been bless with special daughter-in-laws: Deista, Rebecca, Tara. (I guess Ellen and I taught our sons to choose well!)

So, those of you who are still in the process of choosing ... choose well so that there will be no "in-law" regrets. Something worth considering.

Those 800 Numbers!

2007-08-21T22:55:00.000+05:30

They call from everywhere and at the most inopportune times -- usually during family meals! Call Display is so helpful. Just let them ring it out! Or, the alternative is to answer is nasty tones.

The interruption is annoying. We live in a culture which hates interruptions. However, you might be surprised to discover that not all cultures are programmed to despise interruptions.

We might not appreciate telemarketing. We are not interested in what they have to offer. So ... I have a right to be nasty!

But we might stop and consider. The folks who work at those call centers are not likely working for big wages. Many of them are on minimum wages. Single parents ... trying to get by.

Sure, you don't want what they are offering, but how about blessing them with some kindness and courtesy? What would it cost you? What would it give them?

Something to consider, especially if you style yourself as a Christian!

Where's a Good Church?

2007-06-15T23:29:00.000+05:30

WHERE’S A GOOD CHURCH?

When I was a boy, I remember people asking the question, “Which is the right church?” In 1993, our Canadian “church” specialists, Don Posterski and Erwin Barke, authored a book which pursued a more contemporary query: Where’s a Good Church? I suppose “right” and “good” might have the same connotation for some people, while others would not bother themselves with either the similarities or distinctions of those terms!

The answer to this question becomes important when we move from one place to another or when we become disenchanted with our current church. Our answer will be determined mainly by our personal definition of “good church.” Not long ago, “good” was determined by the quality of the pulpit because the “message” was considered to be of utmost importance. More recently, “good” seems to be primarily determined by the desirability of the music, since we live in a culture where music carries the day! And, of course, there is the not-so-biblical criteria which determines “good” by the acoustics and splendor of the “church building” or by the number of people who enter it. “Good” tends to suffer severely from “what suits me”.

If you are looking for a “good church” I suggest you place all other indicators on the back burner and search for a church that—may not have the most eloquent preacher nor the most scintillating music—but one that is making a distinctive difference in its neighbourhood (Matthew 25:35-36; James 1:26-27). Surely it is past time for us to stop focusing on “going (in)to church” and to start giving all our energies and resources to “going into the whole world” – making disciples by sharing both the mercy and message of Jesus!

Only In India

2007-03-07T18:52:00.000+05:30

FIRST CLASS HEALTH CARE … ONLY IN INDIA!

Nov 06: Ellen developed a 40oC temperature. We taxied her to the local Presbyterian Hospital and within two hours she was settled in for a week of first class care… and subsequent diagnosis as having cellulitis.

Feb 13. Kimi (18 year-old Myanmar bible student) complained of a serious tooth ache. She had never seen a dentist before. At 4 PM I phoned the dentist who invited us to come immediately. It is a 30 minute taxi ride. By 5 PM we had paid the $40 for a root canal and were headed back to the hostel. She has been going weekly for treatment. The final process is to be concluded on the 10th.

Feb 17. Thui (a 22 year-old Myanmar girl who is here as a Bible student) was gasping for air. At 5 PM we taxied her to the Presbyterian Hospital. By 7:30 PM she had had several tests, including a chest X-ray and diagnosed as having gastro problems, so sent back to our hostel.

Feb 22. Pran, a 21 year-old Bible student fell off the roof smashing his head and breaking his left arm. We were so amazed that he was still alive and sure that he had other serious injuries. This happened just after 3 PM. Fortunately, our usually taxi driver was at home and responded in minutes to our call for help. By 5 PM Pran was in the operating room of the Presbyterian Hospital, soon to be fitted with a cast and tucked in for a three-day hospital stay.

Mar 04. At 2 PM, during the afternoon church service, eight-year old David (youngest son of a Myanmar couple) collapsed on the floor. He was rushed to the nearby Civil Hospital and by 5 PM had already had a CAT scan! He is doing fine. He may have been suffering from dehydration and even malnutrition. He is the youngest of five children. The only family income comes from his father’s garbage collection job which nets $75/month.

Mar 05. Yesterday at 5:30 Becky came running up saying that Kimi was crying from severe abdominal pain. I called a taxi, rushed her to the local Presbyterian Hospital and by 7 PM she was bedded down in the female surgical ward for observation with the suspicion that she was suffering from appendicitis. She is more comfortable today. The doctor is hoping to solve her problem with medication. She remains in hospital.

How does that kind of efficiency compare to your health care? Or, maybe “it’s only in India”!

Old Friends

2007-01-01T21:29:00.000+05:30

Almost 40 years ago, Para, Moya, and Kamkhup studied at Alpha Bible College in Shillong. ABC was located in a house owned by Lalkhama (sitting beside me). Today we are again living on his property—Silver Oak School.

These fine Christian gentlemen blessed me by sharing my 65th birthday celebration engineered by my wonderful wife (Ellen) and beautiful daughter. Harmony is here for a week from Hong Kong where she teaches grade 5 in the Alliance International School.

What great memories! In another 40 years, I pray that our present bible students will stand as tall as these men do as faithful disciples of Jesus and valuable citizens of India. (I don’t plan to be around to verify that!)

Artificial Boundaries

2006-12-29T09:58:00.000+05:30

On a recent visit to the small NE Indian state of Tripura I was reminded of the harshness of political boundaries. There was a time when Tripura extended in all directions as compared to its present demarcations. The result? Tripurees are stranded in other states and countries and separated from other tribesmen.

Of course, they are just one of many people groups which have suffered from imposed political boundaries. The population of the state of Mizoram is estimated at one million but of course there are Mizos not included within the prescribed this state’s boundaries. I suppose this unfortunate reality is true of almost every political boundary in the world. Every group wanting its own designated territory … and reaping the consequences.

The result? Homesickness, unsettledness, strive, even riots and killings.

The theologian in me immediately laments the same dysfunctionality among church groups. Each wants its own real estate (preferably more spectacular than that of the one next door), its own distinctives, its own membership, and, often, its own protected territory. Attractive signboards display who is included and who is not.

I have often dreamed of a magic wand with which I could pass through our cities and erase all the distinctive/exclusive signs and all that they represent … and maybe, just maybe, some of the hurt which they have imposed.

The apostle Paul must have had a similar desire for the splintered Corinthian church of the first century. “One of you says, ‘I follow Paul’; another, ‘I follow Apollos’; another, ‘I follow Cephas’; still another, ‘I follow Christ.’ Is Christi divided?” (1 Corinthians 1:12). Note: just because they used “Christ” as part of their designation did not exonerate them!
Paul’s ultimate solution: “I will show you the most excellent way.” (1 Corinthians 12:31b). And, then comes that great dissertation on the effectiveness of genuine LOVE, which (according to Colossians 3:14) ‘binds everything together in perfect unity.”
Maybe, as we step into 2007, the love of God will be more evidenced in Jesus’ followers than ever before. I pray so.

Communication Challenges

2006-12-27T14:02:00.000+05:30

Those of us who aspire to be communicators of the 2,000-year old (and older) biblical message face some (perhaps) insurmountable challenges. Biblical everyday pictures and not-so-everyday symbols do not translate smoothly into contemporary cultures. Ships, sheaves, soldiers, seraphim, shepherds, sheep ….

As a boy I remember chanting “Onward Christian Solders,” but growing up in southeastern Saskatchewan didn’t give me much of an idea of what a soldier looked like or did. War was only for the movies (which were out-of-bounds for us)! However, after spending many years on the other side of the globe, I have become all too familiar with both soldiers and war!

Last week, I visited the delightful, tiny Indian state of Tripura. Its history outstrips its current status just like first century meanings must exceed today’s casual usages. The State of Tripura has a long history. The Kingdom of Tripura in its peak included the whole eastern region of Bengal (Bangladesh) from the Brahmaputra river in the north and west, the Bay of Bengal in the south and Burma to the east during the 14th and 15th centuries AD. The last King of Tripura was Maharaja Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya Bahadur who reigned from Agartala died (at the age of 39) in 1947 and after whom the Kingdom of Tripura was merged with India in 1949.

As I observing the extravagance and contemplated the self-centeredness of this king, I pondered the difficulty of considering Jesus as King. What do Jesus’ kingdom parables mean to those who understand “king” in terms of this egotistic despot? His extravagant Neermahal (one of several retreat castles), 50 kilometers south of his main castle in Agartala, lies in deserted ruins. It is less than 100 years old! It reminded me of standing in front of Shajahan’s Tajmahal and trying to comprehend how one person could conclude that he deserved that much of human and natural resources.

No wonder that Jesus insisted while on trial before the Roman Governor, “My kingdom is not of this world.” But, what do we mean when we sing songs like “King Jesus,” “come and reign over us”? And, even if we think we know, how do we clearly communicate kingdom-ness?

The Precariousness o

2006-12-05T17:33:00.000+05:30

The Precariousness of Pretension
Have things changed, or is my memory (just a little) exaggerative? Stored in the annuals of my memories are recollections of Saskatchewan snow banks as high as the house and temperatures that dipped to that brittlizing minus 50! Not that we need or want them, but how is it that we don’t have those kinds of Sask winters any more?

Another childhood memory that I don’t care to have repeated is that of major chest colds, bronchitis and the like with no anti-biotics to even give hope of relief. Instead, Mom had those flaming mustard plasters that inhibited any hair growing on a boy’s chest!

Last week, we viewed the video of the life of Fanny Crosby, writer of more Christian songs than any one else—ever (I suppose). What spiritual insight for one who lived almost all of her life blind.

And it was mustard plaster that did it! A quack doctor who pretended to know what to do with a little girl’s eye infection—blinded for life!

So, I got thinking about the dangers of pretentiousness, especially among professionals: doctors, teachers, consultants, nurses, counselors, ministers, parents, grandparents, to name only a few. When one’s word carries so much weight that a lifetime can be marred (or benefited). When an eternal destination might be determined by a sentence, a word, a tone—or absence thereof! Holding another’s destiny in ones hand is no small responsibility.

Perhaps this is at the heart of the biblical admonition: “Let not many of you presume to be teachers… because … we who teach will be judged more strictly” (James 3:1). It is no accident, I am sure, that that verse comes in the context of a discussion concerning the importance of controlling ones tongue.

How presumptuous of me to pose as a “teacher.” But I did and I do! Scary!

The Dentist's Chair

2006-10-30T21:51:00.000+05:30

It was one of those numerous times when I have wondered, ‘Where is my camera when I need it?” It was also a “That reminds me” moment. Back in 1964, I remember a dental experience that lingers vividly in my “unique experiences.” I was clinging to the rudimentary dental chair of Dr. Chandra as he balanced himself on his right foot and peddled confidently with his left foot to keep the drill whirring on a cavity deep in my mouth. Dr. Chandra and his little, street-side office in Shillong (NE India) is long gone but I believe the filling still functions in my back molar.

Last June, in Regina, Dr. Kent Goldade installed braces on Autumn’s wandering teeth. He declared the process to be a two-year project. A year ago I had contacted an orthodontist here and tested her abilities by allowing her to clean my teeth. I am sure autumn is now thinking, “That was really brave, Grandpa. But it doesn’t hold a candle to what you have put me through!” Today was Autumn’s third visit to Dr. Lalrintluangi. It was really the first major adjustment—three wires inserted and tightened—ouchy, tonight!

About three-quarters of the way through the ordeal, the lights brightened up wonderfully. Then … darkness for the next 30 minutes. The doctor lit a candle and had me hold it, but I guess I wasn’t certified for that task. She informed me that, if we weren’t in a big hurry, that we would have to wait. So, I left autumn resting in the dentist’s chair went to a nearby to shop of groceries. When I return 20 minutes later, the assistant had two candles burning brightly on a tray and the orthodontist was busy at her assignment. Fortunately, the electricity returned for the last ten minutes of the 90-minute ordeal. So Dr. Laltluangi got to make sure every clip and brace and wire was where she wanted it.

Fortunately, it was Autumn and not her Grandmother or Andrew. Last week, I was with Autumn in the little dentist’s office. Andrew and his Grandmother were waiting on a bench just outside the door. Andrew’s curiosity could not be contained. He had to sneak in for a peak. The assistant made small conversation with him and then asked him about his teeth. (Last month, I had to take him to another dentist to remove a baby tooth). Now he has another baby tooth that has almost said good-bye to him. So, I suggested that the orthodontist take a quick look at that tooth. Andrew bolted for the door and down the steps—curiosity cancelled!

Contrary-wise, Autumn never whimpers. The only thing she asked for was a bottle of coke on the way home. Brave girl, Autumn.

NO ROOM

2006-10-23T08:15:00.000+05:30

NO ROOM
The time of year is fast approaching when Luke 2:7 will again be an appropriate text for sermons asking the question as to whether our hearts, homes, lives, families, churches are as congested as the Bethlehem inns of two millenniums ago. “There was no room in the inn.”

Sometimes the “No Vacancy” sign clearly displays the “stay out of my territory” warning. Or, those welcome signs on businesses, “Absolutely no soliciting”! I remember when I (like many parents) stuffed mailboxes with advertisement fliers. What a novel idea to initiate ones children to the work-world … and, while they were swallowed up by the demands of their sports teams, you trudged through the snow to keep the business afloat! Remember those “no junk mail” edicts? Then, you had those articulate, old ladies who called the distributing agency complaining that they hadn’t got any fliers … for the last month! And, I expect you had one or more of those nasty old men who banded his door open to swear at you and inquire as why you can’t read English (in a blinding snow storm). “’No junk’; that means no fliers, you ….” How’s a guy supposed to win? Or, is he?

No room. Sometimes it isn’t that easy to read the signs. Have you ever dropped in (unannounced, of course) on a close friend, thinking you might have a quick chit-chat only to be greeted by, “What do you want?” or, perhaps more tactfully (or, tacitly), “What can I do for you?”

Time, energy, resources are all used up. Over-loaded. Over-committed. Learn to say, “NO,” at least that’s what our wise counselors tell us. No more room in my mailbox, my inbox, or my life.

Churches have learned to fend off fund-raisers, especially those crafty missionaries with the neat formula: “No room in the budget”. “You can come and talk to a few people—but absolutely no fund raising. Talk all you want about what you are trying to accomplish for the poor, the lost, and the Lord, but do not mention money.” Recently, I told our story under the auspices of those by-laws. I stayed half-a-globe away from money-matters but one brave saint ventured to give me a small cheque with the qualifier, “Please do not put me on any mailing list.”

I don’t remember ever receiving complaints that my reports where too long and/or too frequent. However, yesterday, from an acquaintance (he likely wouldn’t consider me a close friend), a retired professor of a Christian university, I received this memo: “Ray, please remove my email address from your mass mailings. … If not, unfortunately I would have to block your email address from virtually all correspondence.”

On the other side of the coin, I remember another college professor. It was registration and class scheduling time. My little brother was and the end of a long line of new students. Considerably after noon, he arrived at the door of Dr. Raymond Kelcy’s office. John apologized for being late and meekly suggested that Dr. Kelcy would likely want to go for lunch, since he was already quite late. (“The late”) Dr. Kelcy’s response (along with his positive influence) lingers with us, “Jesus always had room for one more person and so do I!”

And so, I wonder about my own "protected space"!

NOW THERE IS WATER

2006-10-15T19:34:00.000+05:30

NOW THERE IS WATER, WATER, EVERYWHERE, BUT …

From mid-May till mid-October, the monsoon season usually brings an abundance of rain. During that time the mountain spring provides a generous supply of excellent water which is collected in a huge reservoir for the Silver Oak campus. However, about two months after the rains cease the spring dries up. From early in the new year we are faced with purchasing water from truckers who bring it up from the river.

Years ago another large cement reservoir was constructed just below the spring. However, it has been neglected and overrun with weeds and dirt. For the last month we have had a couple men working on cleaning and re-plastering and covering this valuable hole in the ground. If my calculations are anywhere close, it should contain more than 80,000 litres which will be very precious in a couple months.

Precious stuff, that water! I wonder what all might be included in Jesus’ claim to provide “the water of life”.

Steep Climb

2006-10-13T08:31:00.000+05:30

Steep Climb

The structure for our bible college here at Silver Oak School in Mizoram, NE India is borrowed from NationsUniversity, “a school without walls that offers affordable, accessible higher education to build faith and develop culturally rooted Christian leaders around the world.” Our fall quarter of studies consists of four Old Testament subjects. Each subject (course) is arranged in 5 modules which are, in turn, subdivided into three units. Our study schedule allows for three weeks (15 class-days) per subject. If you have followed up to this point, you might also conclude that each day (3 class-time hours) is given to each unit! At the end of each module there is an examination via the internet.

On September 25, eight young men--we hope some women will join in the future--from various points in NE India embarked on a steep learning curve due to:

No familiarity with the Old Testament

Zero typing skills

Strangers to computers

Deficiencies in English

As though those were not challenges enough, their schooling to date is of another kind. I think it would not be far off the mark to state that the majority of schooling in these parts depends on the art of memorization. Teachers provide probable test questions accompanied by expected answers. Hours are spent memorizing “questions and answers.” Many teachers publish books which supply students with the “set of possible questions and required answers.” Analyzing, summarizing, discussing, questioning, exploring, interacting … are (unfortunately, in my opinion) supplanted by the “prepare-for-the-exam” syndrome. So, when faced with a subject as vast as Survey of the Old Testament, the traditional method of out-guessing the exam and memorizing answer comes up rather short!

On top of all that, a passing mark in these parts is usually around 30%. NationsU uses 70% as the passing mark!

However, I think we are all getting “in the groove.” NationsUniversity (http://www.nationsu.org/) provides a flexible structure with appropriate objectives for the making of disciple-makers here in the NE. The facilities are very adequate and the climate is ideal for those who wish to concentrate on studies.

Travel Tips

2006-08-21T23:06:00.000+05:30

My travel agent blessed me with some neat tips for making my journeying a little less stressful. How did she guess?? Perhaps you might find them humorous or even useful sometime!

TEN COMMANDEMTNS FOR TRAVELLERS

1. You must not expect to find things as you have them at home, for you have left your home to find them different.

2. You shall not take anything too seriously – for a carefree mind is the beginning of a vacation.

3. You must not let the other tourist get on your nerves, for you have paid good money to have a good time.

4. Remember your passport, so that you know where it is at all times, for a person without a passport is a person without a country.

5. Blessed is the person who can make change in any language, for l he shall not be cheated.

6. Blessed in the person who can say “Than you” in any language, for it will be more valuable than any tips.

7. You shall not worry, for he who worries has no pleasures, and few things are ever fatal.

8. When in Rome, you shall do somewhat as the Romans do; if in difficulty, you should use your Canadian common sense and friendliness.

9. You must not judge the people of the country by one person with whom you have trouble.

10. Remember, you are a guest in every land; yes, he who treats his host with respect shall be treated as a n honoured guest.

Landon Saunders

2006-07-21T21:54:00.000+05:30

In Asheville, NC, a special weekend is planned in appreciation of Landon Saunders, founder of Heartbeat Ministires. You can check out the details at the above address on the web. Landon had a significant impact on my early (and late!) ministry. Here is some of that history:

I am sure I must have some Kodachrome slides (pictures) of Landon. However, I am not home (in Canada) to search through those boxes. I also am not definite of the year or month when Landon dropped in on us in Shillong, India, as he circled the globe. However, his coming was a god-send for us.

I believe it might have been in the spring of 1966 (maybe 1965). Ellen and I were living in a small apartment in Laitumkhrah, Shillong in NE India. We had been drawn into what today might be called “Campus Evangelism”, but, at the time, we didn’t have any fancy title for it! We had planned a weekend “gospel meeting” and were expecting Don Green from Malaysia to come and do the speaking. However, mid-week we received a telegram from Don saying he was not going to be able to make it. We had advertised extensively, so we were left scrambling to find an alternative.

Thursday morning (I believe it was) a knock at the door introduced us to a slender American traveler whom we had never heard of before. However, in those days, anyone from the English speaking world was a very welcome guest. Landon had noticed the banner over the gate so we had to tell him our distressing predicament. His response was, Well, if you would like, I would be happy to fill in.” “… would like, go for it, brother!” We had no idea of the magnitutde of the treat we were in for. Of course, he related marvelously with the college students who attend.

At that time I remember serious discussions among evangelists as to the requirement of an invitation at the end of the message. I have never been comfortable with the lengthy “invitations” that I was exposed to as a boy. Landon asked if he should give an “invitation” and I gave him freedom do as he might choose. Then, he humbly told me, “I have learned how to push the buttons that bring people down the isles but I refuse to push them.” I remember thinking, “Lord, give me access to some of those buttons!”

However, Landon’s greatest contribution to my life and ministry was not his serendipitous visit but, rather, his impact on my transitioning mind-set. Uponn my arrival in India in 1963, I had been thrust into a legalistic environment. As I worked my way through (out of) that, Landon’s messages, videos, and life-style have been contributing factors. Thanks, London, for the freshness that you have brought to our lives, our message, and our ministries.

Ray & Ellen McMillan, Silver Oak School, Durtlang Veng Thar, Mizoram, India

Watching the Blogs

2006-07-20T22:37:00.000+05:30

If you are an addicted blogger, you may have a hard time understanding how some of us get weary of the constant borage of instant information.

However, this week I have been very grateful for the constant updates that have come via Stephen Bell’s blog and Wendell Bailey’s emails regarding Stephen’s dad, Stan, who is in the Regina hospital battling “flesh-eating disease.” www.healthatoz.com describes the seriousness of the situation:

Flesh-eating disease is more properly called necrotizing fasciitis, a rare condition in which bacteria destroy tissues underlying the skin. This tissue death, called necrosis or gangrene, spreads rapidly. This disease can be fatal in as little as 12 to 24 hours.

I, among thousands, have been in prayer for Stan (and Maxine and family) and pondering anew the value of friends such as Stan Bell and families such as the Bells.

The journey of life is often rough, but those friends and families make the journey not only doable but also often very delightful.

CRISSCROSSING PATHS

2006-07-17T05:32:00.000+05:30

In the “good old” days, one of the delightful things about going and coming from India was the privilege to become acquainted with fellow-workers in various points along the way. On the way back to Canada in 1966, we connected with the Hendersons in Bangkok, the Reeves in Hong Kong, and the Betts and Smiths in Japan. Some pretty choice kingdom folk.

In June of 1968, Ellen and I returned to NE India, taking with us our close friends, Bob and Sharon Parker. We interrupted our flight from Vancouver to Calcutta by stopping in Taipei, Taiwan, for a couple days. Ellen and I stayed with the Mullinaxs while Bob and Sharon stayed with another young couple—Ed and Sharon Short. They were new to the field but were already immersed in learning the Mandarin language.

While in Nashville, three weeks ago, I contacted Kok Hai Tan (Western Christian College’s new college dean). On the phone he said, “I will be staying at Ed and Sharon’s, let’s meet there.” Well, I tried to help them remember me but to no avail! However, the reconnection was special. They are both fluent in Mandarin and working with a Christian radio station which beams the good news out of place like Alaska and Madagascar. Their faithfulness and focus is an definite encouragement for my journey.

The Nasty and the Nice

2006-07-05T03:33:00.000+05:30

There are lots of things about traveling that are delightful, but some things that are depressing. I just concluded a two-week sojourn which started in Regina and touched down in (other) major centers: Calgary, Dallas-Fort Worth, Midland, Louisville, Nashville, Gonce (if you find that on your map – NE corner of Alabama, you have been reading the fine print!), and Yellowknife.

Each time the steward(ess) forces me to bucket down I ponder the fact that I am flying in style—at least 32,000 feet above my actual status in life. I grew up on horseback in an out-of-the way corner of SE Saskatchewan. What am I doing flying around in high class?

None-the-less, flying is an amazing way to sit down in Dallas and, in less than 4 hours, stand up in Calgary; enjoy a coke and be transported from Calgary to Yellowknife – to say nothing of waving goodbye to Kolkata and, in less than a day, step into our “home” in Regina! I wonder what William Carey would have accomplish if he had the likes of this!

It’s (often) very exhilarating. But it can also be tiring and discouraging. One way to limit depression is not to accept the newspaper offered to you while boarding. There are too many nasty people (and evens) in our world … and how do they deserve he front page of every newspaper.

On the other hand there a so many nice people. You can encounter some of them are in the air, but most of them are on the ground. In Midland, Texas (the antithesis of Allan McCrea’s “poverty canyon”), I was treated to the generous lifestyle and hospitality of Gary and Connie Tate. What a pair. In their 80’s; 60+ years of marriage. During the closing months of War II, Gary served as a soldier in NE India. His dreams of making a difference in that forgotten corner of the earth go on and on. Connie arises daily at 6 AM to go swimming with the girls. Her evening walks take her speeding around a course which encircles the neighbourhood. Life, Service, Hospitality. Vision.

Thank you, God, for the nice people who have dropped into my pathway.

Aunt Pansy

2006-03-29T20:02:00.000+05:30

Some folks have that special gift of making everyone feel special. I am sure that all the nieces and nephews, and hosts more, would testify to that godly characteristic of Aunt Pansy. Last June we were making a quick trip past Moose Jaw and, very fortunately, interrupted it for a delightful little visit with the Biens. And how grateful we are, since she won't be there to bless us this June when we plan to make that same trip. Thank God for up-lifters like Aunt Pansy and thank him too for opportunities to connect and journey with these spiritual encouragers.

Religion ... who needs it?

2006-03-28T20:13:00.000+05:30

History, sociology, economics, and real state seem to strongly suggest that everybody does, in one form or another. Consider the wealth of our world that is tied up in religious land and buildings! Consider the employment provided by mega religious organizations! Consider the multitudes of temple, mosque, and pagoda goers! I doubt that many of us share Thomas Edison's blatant agnosticism, but we surely must ponder his notorious quip: "Humans are incurably religious".

Sure we can point to hospitals, schools, clinics, water-wells, famine relief, Livingstone, Carey, Brandt, and Mother Theresa. Certainly stars in often very dark nights. But then we are confronted with irritating, frustrating, intrusive, obnoxious, loud religiosity. Loud is "in".

How many travellers in the East have bedded down in an economy hotel, thinking that a peaceful night of rest would be worth the price only to realize that a religious festival is blaring its music into your room through every key hole and crack? Most Asian travellers have experienced the disturbance of a before-dawn un-welcomed loudspeaker transmitting the reading of the Scriptures or prayers in an incomprehensible language.

My picture of Jesus is that of one best described as "meek and gentle". The old movie popularized "have gun will travel". For would-be preachers it is often "have microphone will preach"---LOUD and l o n g.

I find it difficult to be grateful for the youngster in his Corvette who bounces up beside me at a red light and the decibels cause my little car to tremble as though it were the target of 7.7 earthquake. I experience the same challenge when religious folks share loudly what they seem to have too much of!

Religion, who needs it? Especially the "yelling-and-telling" variety.

Oh well, likely just another grumpy day! But, if you have something spiritual that you believe is worth sharing, please don't yell it at me!

IN THE GRANDSTAND

2006-02-04T14:26:00.000+05:30

IN THE GRANDSTAND
Most of us have discovered a few hindrances as we run the race of life. Some of us seem to have such great stamina that nothing slows us down. The rest of us need all the encouragement available. Sometimes our journey-fellows provide enough incentives to keep us on plodding onwards. My foot-racing days were never spectacular and, of course, are now so far in the distant past that even with embellishment they don’t make much of a story. However, I do remember the cheers from the sidelines which caused me to stay on track and to dig deep and put a little more pressure on the accelerator.
One week ago, a precious couple were snatched from this life via a tragic accident in Moose Jaw Saskatchewan. Uncle Ed and Aunt Helen are now in the grandstand, doing just what they have specialized in doing as a couple for 65 years, cheering us all on to run with perseverance the race marked out for us (Hebrews 12:1).
And if you don’t buy that picture, then be spurred on by their memory: hospitable, faithful, focused, honest, friendly …
Last June, Ellen and I enjoyed our last cup of tea with them and fortunately took this picture.

ROAD SIGNS

2005-12-10T20:45:00.000+05:30

ROAD SIGNS

Roads in this part of the world (Asia) are often rough and long. Some people’s road of life is also rough and long; others have rough, but short, roads. Few of us have entirely smooth, long and straight roads. Some folks just have very tough “rows to hoe”. If that’s your trail, I pray that there will be plenty of roses to compensate for the painful thorns. And, may encouraging folks be available to cheer you on your journey. Some travel hints might also help.

While travelling these winding Mizoram roads, I have often wished I had time to photograph the numerous advice-loaded signs which (at least) entertain weary travellers. I recently made the tiresome (17-hour) summon(jeep)-journey from Guwahati to Aizawl and jotted down the quips along the way.

Blind curve ahead, drive slow … Cats have nine lives, you have only one … Check your nerve on curves … Drink and drive, you won’t survive … Driving faster can cause disaster … Expect the unexpected … Fast drive, last drive … Keep your nerve on curves … Life is precious, don’t waste it … Safe drive, no liquor … Safety first, speed next … Slow and steady wins the race … Slow drive, safe drive … Someone is waiting for you, don’t disappoint them … Speed thrills but kills … Start early, reach safely … This is hiway, not runway … Wish you a happy and safe journey!

Then, I guess this one is intended to be the ultimate maxim—not only for the winding Guwahati-Aizawl trail, but also for the twists and turn and surprise curves of life:
Travel enemies: alcohol and speed.
Speed. A poem from public school often reappears in my memory: “What is life if, full of care, we have no time to stand and stare.” (Davies). Or, the classic lyrics: “You got to stop and smell the roses.” (Davis).

Alcohol. What can we say in its defence? Ruin. Waste. Sickness. Poverty. Dysfunction. Malfunction. Fetal Alcohol Syndrome. Brokenness. Death. No better source can be found for guidance on life’s journey than that of the biblical Scriptures which allow for drinking of wine to quench thirst but totally condemns drinking to alter ones mood.

The road signs are clear: less speed and less drink and the journey will be less rough and, likely, much longer.

HOW TRUE

2005-11-20T08:25:00.000+05:30

HOW TRUE
Today’s “Daily Bread” inspiration is written by David McCasland.

A story in our local newspaper reported that a $1.73 billion highway and mass transit project in Denver, Colorado, was nearing completion on schedule and within the budget. But the story was not on the front page. In face, it was tucked into a sidebar of brief summaries in small type on page 3 of the local news section. If the project had been plagued by fraud, delays, and cost overruns, no doubt it would have been headline news.

He then goes on to urge us not to try to “make news”, but to “aspire to life a quiet life, to mind our own business, and to work with our hands” (1 Thessalonians 4:11).

How true! And, I am sure you have noticed how long it takes to establish a credible reputation and how suddenly it can be forfeited. Secondly, you have also likely noticed how eager human beings are to initiate that (almost) irreversible event. I almost called it a “process”! Accusations, allegations, gossip …. And thirdly, have you noticed how much greater the temptation is to defame than it is to build up Of course, any dummy can tear down, but takes a craftsman to construct.

HEADING HOME

2005-11-06T08:25:00.000+05:30

Heading home …
Karin Giger, under the auspices of InterServe, has been nursing at the local Durtlang Hospital since March. Shortly after her arrive we connected with her and adopted her into our family. Autumn and Andrew bonded immediately with her. She was much like a replacement for Auntie Harmony who had just been with us for the month of January. Karin and Harmony share many similar interests and personality traits.

In July, Karin referred her friend, Tabea Laslo, to us with a request that she come and teach at Silver Oak School for September and October. Each of them has strong Christian convictions and has had several international experiences (in Egypt and Israel, respectively). They have both engaged actively with the local culture. On Friday (Nov 4), they left Aizawl to visit other points in northern India before heading home to Schorndorf, Germany.

Service opportunities, like these, abound through out the world. Perhaps one of them is calling you!

THE JOY OF GIVING AND LIVING

2005-10-27T13:45:00.000+05:30

THE JOY OF GIVING AND LIVING
My first memorable experience of Lallawmawma (Lawmtea) occurred just about one year ago. There is a huge cement reservoir on the path that extends from the main buildings to the upper, terraced and jungley portion of Silver Oak School’s 10-acre compound. The grades I-IV and I were taking a break from classes and enjoying an excursion to higher ground. As we trudged past the reservoir, one minute Lawmtea was by my side, the next he was on top of the cemented reservoir lid, and the next he had somersaulted head-first into a cave-in beside the reservoir. I retrieved him feet first, and no lasting damage seemed to have taken place.
Yesterday, I had the grades VIII’s doing a little art work so provided them with water-colouring pens. Lawmtea caught wind of this followed me around the rest of the day begging for “colours.” At one point I accused him of being a “big beggar.” His response was, “No, I am just a little boy … and I want colours!”
So, I found 45-cent packages of “colours” in the market, bought four and left them on the grade I-II desks after dark. Lawmtea spied on me and soon all four students were jumping up and down with delight. For English classes, I had previously given each of the older students a mini-dictionary. It is rather difficult to learn English without a dictionary. Lawmtea complained bitterly that his class had been left out … so I gave in. The next day Lawmtea’s friend, Tlanga informed me that he had read his new book “from A to Z”.
According to his teachers, Lawmtea has yet to learn any of the three R’s but like many of those of us on “slow side” he makes up for that slowness with the fastest, winningest smile in history!

TO THE TOP

2005-10-26T00:38:00.000+05:30

TO THE TOP
Wednesday, October 12 was a school holiday, so our family took to the hills! We rented a vehicle and, at 10 AM, the seven of us--Ellen, Autumn, Andrew, Becky (our helper), Tabea (teacher-in-training from Germany, Karin (nurse from Switzerland), and I—climbed into a (jeep-like) Summo, and headed for Reiek (Ray-ek), a quiet village on the northern slopes of Reiek Mountain. It is an hour’s drive from our village of Durtlang through to the southern side of the city of Aizawl. From that point Reiek is visible off to the south west even though it is another hour and a half down into the river valley and up the twisting road to Rei-ek. From the village it is another hour—or two depending on your endurance—walk to the top of Reiek Tlang (mountain).
Reiek is not nearly the tallest mountain in the state of Mizoram. Phawngpui (Blue) Mountain in the southern corner of the state reaches up to 2157 m (7,075 ft.). However, Reiek does give one a majestic view at 1,465 m. (4,800 ft.). From that stony perch, I hesitated to peer down the steep cliff to thousands of metres below. It didn’t seem to affect the younger generation the same way! In the picture: Becky, Autumn, Karin, Tabea, and our driver. Andrew had already been to the top and headed back down by the time I arrived at the summit.
After that climb and that view, I determined to leave Mount Everest entirely to Sir Hillary and his Sherpa guide! However, there is something thrilling about making it to the top… no matter how (in)significant it might seem to others. A delightful adventure. Weary hikers arrived home after dark.

BEANS ARE UP

2005-10-25T20:56:00.000+05:30

BEANS ARE UP!
Planting a garden in October is a new –delightful—experience for me! And, after just seven days the beans are six inches high! We had a small plot, actually three small terraces, dug up just west and up the hill from our apartment. The top one was much too rocky but the bottom two yielded choice soil. Ellen brought several varieties of seeds from Canada. She was especially hopeful about the lettuce. I think a couple short rows might make something but of the rest of the seeds—carrots, cauliflower, cabbage—it seems that the beans are the only ones that are really happy to be here, even though these vegetables do grow here.
We experience heavy rains from May to September (254 cm.; 8 ft. 4 in). The second week of October hosts a Hindu festival (puja) which usually heralds the end of the rains. However, fortunately for our little garden, we are still experiencing drenching rains.
I remember growing a bean plant back in grade 3—I think it was. It is still fascinating to observe what life there is in a seed. I am reminded again for what Jesus said: “A man scattered seed on the ground. Night and day, whether he sleeps or gets up, the seed spsrouts and grows, though he does not know how. All by itself the soil produces grain—first the stalk, then the head, then the full kernel in the head.” Marvelous!

WATCH FOR THE MISTAKE

2005-10-11T18:56:00.000+05:30

Watch for the Mistakes!
Yesterday our students participated in an all-day cultural dance competition here in the village of Durtlang. There were seven other schools – hundreds, perhaps a thousand kids. Mizo people as melodious and agile as any people on earth! Just a prejudiced opinion since I haven’t seen all the rest! These cultural dances have their roots in their agricultural heritage and battles of long ago. They are especially renowned for their illustrious Cheraw (bamboo) dances.
The same two dances were performed by each of the schools. So, it was bamboo banging from 10 AM till 3 PM with an hour’s break for lunch.
Two judges sat on opposite sides of the dances—with a pretty young lady holding an umbrella over each of them to shield him from the sun, and ultimately from the rain before the program moved indoors. Maybe judging isn’t such a bad job after all!
This was our school’s first appearance in this kind of competition. The roof was lifted when the judges concluded at the day’s end that we were number one! Number one is most often easy to take!
However, I pondered as to how the judges could place one performance ahead of any of the others. Admittedly, they know a lot more about bamboo dancing than I ever will. However, I inquired as to what the selection process might be. I should have guessed it on my own. You and I have seen (and done it often enough)—“count the mistakes”.
And I thought of other competitions: figure skating, ballet, musical recitals, concerts, speech making, and on and on. Some of us, in our “professionalism” find it difficult to enjoy entertainment, church, ballgames, … because we are entrenched in a mind-set opposite to (1 Corinthians 13) love which “keeps no record of wrongs.” Everything “could be done better”, at least from my lofty perspective!
Back to the dance! Perhaps I was at an ignorant advantage … not knowing where to look for mistakes and being absolutely positive that I could never improve on the performance of the most novice bamboo dancer.
So, may I carry that ignorance (or grace) to the many other imperfect performances of my fellow pilgrimagers.

BREAD OF LIFE STUDY CENTRE

2005-09-28T07:26:00.000+05:30

The temporary home for the Centre is a makeshift room on the roof! Before the end of the year, it is hoped that the Centre will inhabit the entire second floor - some 2,000 square feet of space.
The Bread of Life Study Centre is the brainchld of Shyam Salam (in both pictures above). Samuel Salam (left) has a full time job taking care of the office work.

Its aim is to present the story of The Gospels to not-believers, giving them the information and opportunity to choose. To that end, 10,000 copies of The Book of Life have been printed in English. half of those have already been distributed. Each booklet contains survey questions which are returned to the Centre for correcting. A second level of more indepth studies is then sent to the participants. Then, in the second week of January approximately 50 of the graduates will be invited to a 5-day camp in Guwahati.

Translation has been completed and printing is in progress for 10,000 copies of the same in the Assamese language spoken by more than half of the 43 millions people of NE India. Other languages - Bengali and Manipuri - are a part of future plans.

GUWAHATI

2005-09-26T20:54:00.000+05:30

GUWAHATI
I spent last week end in Guwahati (population 1 M+), the hub of NE India (43 M +) as well as the capital of the state of Assam (26 M+).
In July, Shyam Salam initiated the Bread of Life Study Centre. Its basic aim is to provide not-yet believers with the information and opportunity to choose faith.
To that end 10,000 copies of a correspondence-like study of the Life of Christ was printed and distributed. To date more than 5,000 have enrolled. The first level of questions is of the simply, survey type. We have prepared a second level set of in-depth study questions which are being offered to those completing the first set.
From the graduates of the second course, 50 will be selected to attend a camp in Guwahati, January 9-15.
In the picture at left, Samuel, Salam, Shyam’s son, is busy working the mail.
Silver Oak School
We arrived back in Aizawl on September 2. Looking back on the last three weeks, Ellen commented, “It seems like we never left (for 4 months), we just slid right back into the school routine.” Enrollment is still about 70 students, much lower than desirable. Staff changes have been multiple. The school has great potential, but has suffered from inadequate management the last couple years. There are rumours of new management in December.
Ellen and I are busy teaching three Bible-English classes each week to each grade. I am also teaching grade XII English and Education (an introduction to teaching). Tabea Laslo, a teacher-in-training from Germany, is staying with us for a couple months and also helping at the school. Our kids enjoy her.
Autumn and Andrew celebrated their birthdays (Sept. 4, 20) in grand style and are back in their respective classes (grades). Andrew enjoys life here immensely! Autumn would enjoy it more if she weren’t the only girl in her class.
It is good to be back. We appreciate the opportunity to share our lives with these special people in this gorgeous corner of God’s world. ~ Ray & Ellen McMillan, Aizawl, Mizoram, India

NEW IS BETTER

2005-09-11T15:20:00.000+05:30

NEW IS BETTER

East is East and west is west and neer the twain shall meet. This proverb comes from the refrain of The Ballad of East and West, a poem by Rudyard Kipling (1865-1936). Unfortunately (I believe), the last 75 (especially the last 20) years of history have proved that they are indeed meeting in a multiplicity of ways. Many are not, in my opinion, for the better, especially for the East. Via television and internet, the beautiful people of the East are exposed to, and often adopting, the worst of the West.

However, there are some cherished values that persist.

The Indian auditorium is full to capacity. The program is underway. A white haired gentleman hesitantly makes his way through the entrance. There is a scurry of activity to provide him a space in a comfortable front seat.

Along with an older couple, a Canadian woman in her thirties recently visited various points in NE India. She relished the experience except for one thing: the women persistently requested that the more senior woman do the speaking. However, she acquiesced when it was pointed out to her that in Canada the value system is reversed.

Scanning the pastors wanted columns often reveals requirements such as looking for a person with experience between the ages of 30 and 45. Perhaps this value should not surprise one when we consider the high price the West is willing to pay for athletes, most in their twenties.

New is unquestionable better; old might be interesting, but rarely exciting. Contemporary music (especially in churches) leaves little space for the traditional. Today can be so with us that we may ignore the learnings of yesterday.

Perhaps there is no newness in our pursuit of the NEW. In Acts 17:21, we read an aside: All the (first century) Athenians and the foreigners who lived there spent their time do nothing but talking about and listening to the latest.

Vulnerability & Negativity

2005-07-28T23:04:00.000+05:30

I wonder if you can resonate with the transparency of Harold Kushner on page 131 of his commentary on the Twenty-Third Psalm. I’m a long ways from being a “nationally known author” but, re the reaction, I’ve “been there, done that!”

His admission and discovery goes like this…
“When I first became a nationally know author, in 1981, with the publication of When Bad Things happen to Good People, I began to receive letters by the carload from the readers. Ninety-five percent of them were complimentary, and I was deeply gratified by them. A few were efforts to convert me to the faith of the letter writer. And one or two a week would be critical, accusing me of blasphemy and of undermining people’s faith. To my distress, I found that one nasty letter bothered me more than fifty nice ones pleased me. I would brood about it for days. If some obscure newspaper ran a negative review of my book, I would be tempted to write an angry letter in response, refuting the criticism point by point. I didn’t enjoy feeling that way, and, on an intellectual level, I knew it was foolish of me to let one critical letter bother me that much, but the feelings continued. Finally I realized that instead of asking myself, What’s the matter with those people that they don’t appreciate me?, I would be better off asking, why am I so bothered by their criticism?”

Perhaps this is excellent counsel for either (both) the receiving or (and) giving of criticism.

One-another-ness

2005-07-23T03:56:00.000+05:30

In his refreshing commentary on the 23rd Psalm (p. 150), Rabbi Harold Kushner relates this insightful result of an experiment by a psychology profesor at a major university. He was exploring "pain tolerance." So, he invited several dozen students to measure how long they could keep a bare foot in a bucket of ice water. One of the things he learned was that if there was someone else in the room, a person could keep his/her foot in the bucket nearly twice as long.

Kushner's conlcusion is that "the presence of another caring person doubles the amount of pain someone can endure. Guilt feels less deserved, pain is less painful, misfortune is less oppressive, when someone is there with you." Perhaps, the lesson is obvioous.

Kushner's claim-to-fame is usually associated with his previous book, When Bad Things Happen to Good People. Much of that book is brought forward in a refreshing way in this book, published in 2003. His caring insights are a potiential blessing to both care-giver and care-receiver.

Beyond that, for Bible students, it is delightful to get a glance of the Shepherd's Psalm from a Jewish perspective. But, be careful, he might just challenge some your perceptions re God's involvement in our world!

Make Poverty History

2005-07-10T05:59:00.000+05:30

"Make Poverty History" -- sounds exciting! And very gratiifying. Most everyone would be delighted if that aspiration were realized. "Most"; not "everyone". Do we assume that the elimination of poverty is compatible with the retention of luxury?

And, dare we suppose that there exists some simplistic solution? Gifts are delightful and refreshing, but handouts are often debilitating, and loans are down right enslaving.

Again, let’s remember that it is a lengthy, dwindling journey from the coffers of government to the hovels of the homeless of the massive mega cities of third world countries.

Perhaps this task parallels that of deposing a dictating and supposing that peace will be the direct result. Liberty—maybe; peace—far from it. If you need a current example, consider Iraq or just about any country which has “gained” or been “granted” its independence in the last 50 years.

Perhaps this whole endeavour is related to the follower-ship call of Jesus. If you want to be my follower you must put something down (SELF) and then pick something up (CROSS) – the burdens and misfortunes of others (Mark 8:34).

As long as we have sumptuous-ness, poverty will remain. As long as greed and avariciousness abound, oppression and hopelessness is a surety.

Blame the (our) government? Perhaps. Reform our own lifestyles? Change our value systems? Ouch.

THINGS TO CONSIDER

2005-07-09T01:59:00.000+05:30

My father-in-law, Walter Elvin McCutcheon (1912-1983) did not write many letters after his name but that did not mean that he was not well-read and well-spoken. He loved to cultivate both qualities. For several years he hosted a short radio program on CFRY (Portage la Prairie, MB) entitled "Things to Consider". Not a presumptuous title, but it does invite one to explore -- options, values, priorities, directions, relationships, destinations -- as we navigate our pilgrimage.Meditation is in short demand among evangelicals these days. Celebration is in; contemplation is out! Our recent Good Friday service (involving most evangelical denominations in Regina) was more of party-time than cross-examination. This quest for hype may well explain the scarcity of repentance and confession.So, that all sounds (no, is) negative. On the other hand after a lengthy winter, consider the greenness of spring--leaves bursting forth, dead grass coming joyfully to life. Consider Canada. I've been around this globe several times. Threaded my way through various immigration queues. No passport is more welcome the world over. I did not earn it or ask for it. I am a Canadian. Gratefully proud of it.And, consider Christ. And, much more!

More Sunshine than we need

2005-07-08T21:09:00.000+05:30

My daughter, Heather, and I arrived in Yellowknife a week ago. Except for a few dim hours between midnight and about 2 AM, there is more sunshine than we can use... at least at my age! If only we could "freeze" some for releasing in December-January!
But that seems to be the way of our world. Too much or too little: energy, education, money, possessions, relationships ...

Playing

2005-03-08T19:09:00.000+05:30

I am studying at Silver Oak School in Aizawl, Durtlung, Vengthar. School starts at 8:40 A.M. and ends at 4:00 PM. My best friend is Anjali and she is 8 years old. Every day after school I go down to Anjali's house. She has to change out of her school uniform. We go up to the football field and run around the field. I like to climb trees and play house. I like to play at the school with the hostelers and play on the swings with Anjali. I like to play games and racing at Silver Oak School. Autumn

2005-02-21T20:57:00.000+05:30

Autumn in black salwar

2005-02-21T20:54:00.000+05:30

Mrs. Mary and Autumn

2005-02-21T20:52:00.000+05:30

Autumn in white salwar

2005-02-21T20:42:00.000+05:30

Autumn in her salwar

Thinking

2005-02-16T17:48:00.000+05:30

I have been thinking about teaching here at Silver Oak School and thinking what a privilege it is to have been taught to teach in Canada. Not that I was privileged to go to University but from teacher workshops, teaching alonside real teachers, and just from having the opportunity, I have learned to be a teacher. This morning as I prepared my lessons for Classes 1-4, I was able to find a lesson in a teachers manual, find a neat visual and also a coloring page for the children. Yesterday we had the story of Jesus calming the storm and again I found a very nice set of pictures which I colored with bearutiful colors of canadian markers, found a neat picture of waves and a boat and by putting a brad (from Canada), the boat would rock! The children were quite fascinated with that little item. All in all the lesson went quite well and the children were able to use Canadian scissors (kids ones), color with crayons, pencil crayons and markers, all from Canada. Now don't get me wrong they do have some of these things here, but most teachers do not have the money to purchase them and maybe not even the creativity to think of doing it. Sometimes I have been a little critical of teachers because I thought why don't they do something more than read out of a book to the kids. I am sorry for that attitude and am just so grateful for the many wonderful helps I have to make preparation and teaching so enjoyable. Thanks too to Laura and to Sharon for sending most of the things that I am able to freely use and to others who helped us buy the scanner and the printer that we so easily use. If you are a teacher and I think many of you are, I hope you will not take for granted all the great teaching aids that you have available to you. At Silver Oak we have cement walls so the first few days I thought why don't we put up some posters etc., so I proceeded to have the children make All About Me posters. Each one was stuck on the wall with good old grey tape. Unfortunatley it didn't work well. I guess that is why we don't put much on the wall!! Be nice to have some bulletin boards!! So we made folders to put our crafts and artwork in and will let the parents have them on Sat. when they come for visiting day. Well that is my thinking for today. Hope you are having a good day being thankful for all the good things that are given to you every day. Love Ellen

2005-02-16T09:18:00.000+05:30

a little help from Grandpa

My Adventure

2005-02-14T20:44:00.000+05:30

Let me tell you about my adventure. It was fun because I went flying down the road on my and Arun's Kar that we made, I jumped off and the Kar crashed! Andrew

My box.

2005-02-08T07:22:00.000+05:30

Let me tell you about my box. It is Spider-man. It is cool. I will show you a picture. I got it because I had a prize for not whining.
-Andrew

2005-02-07T20:26:00.000+05:30

Here is Andrew's "box" (Mizo English!)

Aunty Harm

2005-02-07T19:56:00.000+05:30

I'm going to miss my aunty. She is so fun. I hope she had fun here. We went to market and bought a new barbie for me. Every Saturday if we have all our stickers then we get a prize.
I'll miss her so much when she leaves us.
AUTUMN

2005-02-06T23:00:00.000+05:30

On a recent lunch outing at the new hotspot, "David's Kitchen". Check out those fancy drinks! They are the big treat...

2005-02-06T22:58:00.000+05:30

You can't beat that backgrounod!

2005-02-06T22:56:00.000+05:30

I'm going to miss my Autumn! (Aunty Harm)

2005-02-06T22:55:00.000+05:30

They're pretty cute, I'd say!

Finally!

2005-02-05T09:39:00.000+05:30

Hi Everyone!
It has been a long while since I have written much from this corner of the world. We have been so thankful for all the visitors we have had in the last two months. We enjoyed a very relaxing and encouraging time with Wilf and Laura, then just after the new year we enjoyed Bob Parker, Robert and Melissa Orr, Joyce Taylor , Mike Parker and Uncle John McMillan, as well as Harmony who met up with them at Singapore. She is still with us until Feb. 8. It will not be easy to say goodbye to her and Autumn is already fussing about that!!
After Wilf and Laura left us we spent the time preparing for the team from Canada and the Retreat that was planned for the time they were here. Because the upstairs was close to being ready for them to use we worked hard to get elelctricity up there, to clean (workmen here leave a real mess, especially the cement guy!), and to get beds, blankets, pillows etc ready for the 7 of them. Altho it wasn't 5 star, we think they were reasonably comfortable and we enjoyed having them able to share our home. The steps up to our house, were an interesting feat for all of them. Ray declares that he does not think he will ever get used to them!! The Retreat was planned for any in NorthEast India who could come. We were disappointed that not many came but we still enjoyed it a lot. Tuanzachin, from Imphal, along with his wife came and I was especially delighted to see him after 35 years, and to meet his lovely wife who has met five of my children and who each of them have really enjoyed. He has not changed and we really enjoyed his fellowship through the week. They traveled by jeep here and it took two days. During the time Bob and team were here they also taught at a VBS for our community. Ray advertised by delivering invitations and we were pleased to have over 60 children come for classes every day. Also that week John offered a teachers workshop for our teachers here at Silver Oak. I think this was very useful and John did a great job of relating to the teachers. We all received a certificate at the end of the three days. It was a very busy time for us here but we were thankful for the time they were here. They left a couple of times and came back due to flight changes, however they did arrive finally in Manipur and we hear they have had a wonderful time there with much encouragement to our brothers and sisiters there.
The day they left we began the first session of the school year. It was a little hectic at the beginning for Ray especially with getting the teachers and timetable and everything set up. We were under the idea that school was beginning on Monday however, this is India and we are still getting students and we got a new teacher yesterday and slowly it is getting into a routine. Ray and I are teaching Bible and English classes. Ray does administrative work as well. I only teach Mon-Thurs and have two classes each day. So far that has been going quite well. The children seem to enjoy the crafts, coloring, and visuals that I have been using. Education here is quite different than we are used to in Canada and can be quite frustrating. Autumn and Andrew seem to be doing well. We are in somewhat of a routine now with Ray heading down the hill at 8:00AM along with Autumn and Andrew who begin at 8:30. School goes until 4:00PM. Harmony has been a great help to the school and has taught classes in English, Music, sports and has done a great job of getting to know the teens and all the students in the few weeks she has been here. Last week on Republic Day she organized a day of games for the students. The students were divided into teams and then went to different stations such as the obstacle course, relays, sponge toss, egg toss, and cheer and poster making. Watching them at the final egg toss and the tug-o-war, I delcared it a success!! She also has taken piles of pictures and is in the process of organizing a Picture Wall for the hallway at the school. On Friday night all of the girls were invited to a Princess Diaries pyjama party and the whole dorm watched the movie and ate lots of junk food. The girls loved it, as did the wardens (dorm mothers) to the point of allowing a second movie!! I think the boys were a little disapopointed not to be invited. We will miss her ideas and especially her energy!!
The weather is getting warmer here, that is likely around 20 during the day. It is very nice. It is also getting very dry and the water shortage is becoming somewhat of a problem. Many people here in our community do not have access to good water. They have to fill containers at wherever they can find some coming from the mountain. We are fortunate here to be able to buy water and fill our tanks. there is a water tap just down the road from us and we see many little carts going down the hill with water jugs in them. They ride the little carts down the hill and have to push it up!! The Canadians all like to take pictures of them! The people here are hoping for rain to come early this year.
While Harmony has been here she has organized some extra school work for Autumn and Andrew especially in the area of writing. So if you are interested they will be adding little blogs to our Heartwarmers blog. They also are doing some computer fun stuff like doing reports, and some math games. Andrew is doing a report on Cheetahs and has really enjoyed that. I wonder if Ray and I will be able to keep up to it but we do plan to try!!
This is becoming way too long so will close for this week. I will take this opportunity to thank each of you who sent gifts with Wilf and Laura and with Bob. WE could not feel more loved!! Everyday as we use the things that have been given we think of you and are so thankful. Love and Blessings, Ellen

2005-02-04T09:58:00.000+05:30

Andrew and Sristi

2005-02-04T09:55:00.000+05:30

Autumn with her little sister Sristi...

2005-02-04T09:53:00.000+05:30

Here are some pictures of us with sweet baby Sristi- our next door neighbour, and the "baby sister" to Autumn and Andrew!

Andrews food.

2005-02-01T05:28:00.000+05:30

This is what i eat in India: rice and dahl, banana, meat, apple, pappaya and tomatoes! my favorit food is tomatoes!

2005-01-31T21:20:00.000+05:30

Outside our window...

2005-01-31T21:19:00.000+05:30

Well, sort of like home...minus the layers of mountains hiding behind the wheat!

2005-01-31T21:17:00.000+05:30

A recent sunset...

2005-01-31T21:13:00.000+05:30

This is where we live!!!!

2005-01-31T21:09:00.000+05:30

Happy Birthday Mom!

2005-01-31T21:06:00.000+05:30

The Nepalese heartbreakers....Anjena and Angita....tooooooo cute.

2005-01-31T21:02:00.000+05:30

Egg Toss!

2005-01-31T21:00:00.000+05:30

A Tug-O-War Victory!!! (It's like it was the World Cup or something!)

Autumn's food

2005-01-31T18:36:00.000+05:30

Let me tell you about the food In India . I like to eat rice, dahl, curry, papaya and bananas, especially fried rice. Auntie Harm thinks that papaya tastes like dirt. I don't like tofu and dried fish with chillies and the eyes are inside of it. I don't really miss anything from home except my friends and family. AUTUMN

TIME FLIES

2005-01-31T15:43:00.000+05:30

TIME FLIES

Well, I bet youre saying thats sure a novel title for a report! My father turned over the 91^st leaf of time on good ole Robbie Burns birthday (for those of you non-Scots, that was January 25). I remember Dads comment a dozen years ago, I am 80+ years old and I have no idea how I got here. I remember an intellectual dissertation by Robbie Zacharias, in which he confessed that time is one concept he does not comprehend. I am also reminded a favourite prayer line of my Dad: Lord, please remind us that life is short but eternity is long.

Another man of considerable experience and wisdom put it this way: Time is like a roll of TP. The closer it gets to the end, the faster it goes!

On January 1, Ellen and I gave the years edition of Our Daily Bread to each of our staff here at Silver Oak School. Just like it were crafted for me (and likely you), our morning devotion (January 31) was entitled, TIME FLIES. If you are following the monthly version of ODB, you likely didnt read these comments by David Roper.

Many metaphors are used in literature to describe lifes brevity. It is a dream, a swift runner, a mist, a puff of smoke, a shadow, a gesture I the air, a sentence written in the sand, a bird flying in one window of a house and out another. Another symbolic description was suggested by a friend of mine who said that the short dash between the dates of birth and death on tombstones represents the brief span of life.

When we were children, time loitered. But as we get closer to the end of our lives, time moves with increasing swiftness, like water swirling down a drain. In childhood we measured our age in small increments. Im 6½, we would say, for it seemed to take so long to get older. Now we have no time for such childishness. Who claims to 63½?

Ouch! For those who know me, thats a little too personal for comfort!

And, an often distributed plaque states:

Only one life.

Twill soon be past.

Only whats done for Christ

Will last.

Meet My Friend

2005-01-25T05:20:00.000+05:30

Let me tell you about my friend ARUN. ARUN is from Nepal. He is 10 years old. He is cool because he's a monkey when he climbs trees. He is GREAT!
-Andrew

The blogging children...

2005-01-24T18:40:00.000+05:30

Hello, everyone. Well, Autumn and Andrew are now official bloggers! As a part of their writing homework, they will be doing some weekly entries on the blog. So check in on Mondays to see what the Canadian Mizo kids are up to! Here are their first two entries. Feel free to leave a comment! :)

Awesome Anjali

2005-01-24T17:41:00.000+05:30

Let me tell you about my friend Anjali. She is 7 years old. She has 2 younger sisters and an older brother, Arun. She is in class 2. She is Nepali. We like to play dolls together. We tie our babies to our backs, just like the mothers do to their babies . We like to climb trees and go exploring, just like monkeys! We are always pushing people on the school swings. Anjali is my best friend!
-Autumn

If you want to see some pictures...

2005-01-19T22:31:00.000+05:30

Hey, this is Harmony writing! I've snapped a number of pics during my week or so here, so if you are interested you can view them here

A Canadian visit!

2005-01-12T23:53:00.000+05:30

Wilf and Laura got to spend some time with us recently, her are some of Laura's reflections:

Frozen Land: We are back to the frozen land of Canada. We were glad to get home before the storm on December 30^th. But it has been mighty cold since we have been back. Thanks to the many who told me they asked to have winter wait till we got back. It is much appreciated J. We had a great time on our trip. We enjoyed beautiful weather the whole time, met many wonderful people and saw a totally different way of living. It makes you stop and wonder why we have so much or even need so much. It made me realize the hectic life of Canadians is something I wish I could change. Really, you can get just as much done at a slower pace!

Our time in India was relaxing; most of the time you had no choice, because most things in India take time. One day Ellen and I wanted to make gingerbread men, but, no ground ginger; so the next day (because you can’t just run to the grocery store, a trip to town is min 4 hrs) we went and bought some fresh ginger root, grated it, dried it in her little oven then borrowed a mortar and pestle (an old axle from something) and pounded and sieved it until we had ground ginger. Then we had no molasses so we used sugar cane rock candy and melted it down until we had something similar. So we got the cookies made, and got them in the oven, six at a time, because Ellen’s oven is just a small toaster oven. Electricity there is interesting. It is supposed to be 220 volts but it is seldom that high. We were lucky that day, because the electricity was coming in between 160 and 180 which worked well to bake. Other days it comes in at 110-120, so cooking is nearly impossible, but it didn’t really matter. It was all fun.

We spent a week with them in Shillong, walking around and visiting places they used to live, the school where Ray taught, the church they were married in and much more. It was great to watch them interact with the people they knew from 30 years ago. As they have here, Ray and Ellen have touched the lives of many people over there.

Ray, Ellen, Autumn and Andrew are all doing fine. They have adjusted well to their environment. Ellen has spent much of the last few months figuring out how to cook, get to the market, do laundry the Indian way. She is very good at it now and quite comfortable with it. The kids jumped right into school and have been learning to write the Hindi language, speak Mizo and keep up with Canadian studies. They have lots of friends and seem to be adjusting well. Ray is busy as he always is. While we were there he spent a lot of time fighting with his computers. (Sound familiar?) You think it is frustrating here taking them to the shop; just try it there. He was also busy organizing teachers and classes. Before we got there he was teaching full days at the school, English and Bible classes and some English at the University in Aizawl. So he is busy, but really enjoying it. It was great to see them doing so well in their new home land.

Autumn kept saying “When you come next year Laura…”

Thanks to the rest of the staff, and Melissa and Jill, for taking on extra work so I could be gone. Thanks to everyone who fed my kids or just checked to see how they were doing. It has been a good experience.

~Laura

Quick update

2004-12-30T06:45:00.000+05:30

Message

It is 18 degrees Celsius. Relative humidity is 70%. Sun sets at 5 PM and rises again at 5:30 AM. Absolutely no wind--not even close to kite-flying weather--much to Wilf's disappointment! He has crafted several models of kite in the last couple weeks.

The major earthquake in Indonesia and the Baby of Bengal had absolutely no effect here. Pictures on TV indicate devastation in a lot of places including south India.

Wilfred & Laura Olson leave tomorrow afternoon for Kolkata, Delhi, Hong Kong, Vancouver, Calgary, Regina by December 29. It has been a delight to have them here this month. Autumn and Andrew will miss them. Ellen & Laura put together a fabulous Christmas dinner last evening. Christmas is a big deal for most here in Mizoram.

It has been four years since Wilf was in these parts before. He, and we, were quite disappointed when we were unable to obtain permits to visit Manipur.

School year follows the calendar. The new year begins January 17.Harmony McMillan, John McMillan, Robert & Melissa Orr, Bob Parker, Mike Parker, Joyce Taylor arrive January 9. A retreat to which we have invited friends from all over the NE will take place here at Silver Oak January 9-12.

Back from Shillong

2004-12-16T20:19:00.000+05:30

Here it is almost a week since we returned from our trip to Shillong. We thought that we would be home only a few days but as it turned out we were unable to get our permits to go to Manipur and so we are staying home and enjoying the company of Wilf and Laura!! Dad is still very busy with school stuff so it is nice for Autumn and Andrew to have Wilf and Laura to help them with their Canadian schoolwork and do other fun stuff like building and flying kites, baking gingerbread and cookies and decorating a gingerbread house that Laura brought with her. Great to have them!

We took a vehicle to Shillong a very long windy road it was very interesting to pass through several different cultures and to think about the changes in clothes, appearances and the countryside was quite different on the 3 hours of plains that we drove through. the rest was mountainous. Andrew was sick most of the morning , poor little guy. Even the rest of us suffered from uneasy tummies. We got to our friends house in Jowai and were greeted very warmly, Tina, ThyWill be Done(yes, that is her name!) and Don as well as Mother Grace and little girl Sharon. Ray has visited them many times and always enjoys a visit. They fed us fried chicken and french fries etc and we really enjoyed that. Thy Will and Heather especially connected in 1995 and Thy Will was so happy to see pics of Heather and all the rest of our family. They remember each team that has come and always have a story to go with each one so we had lots of laughs!! Of course they had to sing for us and it was so beautiful. They sang He leadeth me.

We arrived at our guest house, after an hour delay by a truck jam, actually that happened before we got to Jowai. On the way to Shillong in the dark we passed many many trucks since they only let them go at night. The guest house was wonderful. We enjoyed it very much for the whole week. The next day we went to Umroi a place that we used to visit often and have mtgs, but this time it was to the airport to meet Wilf and Laura, at the airport we met up with the singing group PETRA who had finished a concert in Shillong and were flying to do one in Aizawl. I had seen hundreds of posters in Aizawl so recognized them so we had a little visit with them. They were very friendly. I told them Billy that you used to listen to them as a teenager!! Andrew was quite delighted unfortunately I didn't think of getting an autograph.

The rest of the week was very interesting, a little stressful and mostly delightful!!. We visited what seemed like dozens of old friends and all of our houses that we lived in and all the places ABC was held and had dinner with old friends 4 times, it was wonderful. We enjoyed especially the times we got to be with our wedding party. The bridesmaid, Basra, the bestman,Shellson, Portia , Rissla and Bilansy , the flower girls, we were all delighted to spend time with them. They all have large families and we enjoyed meeting all of them and sharing the story of our wedding day with them. WE had a nice visit with Brother Lester whose wife passed away this last year. This is the man who taught Ray Khasi and who translated for him many many times. Malki his wife was a very special lady to me. Ray and I went our for supper as a last celebration of our 40th to the Pinewood Hotel. It was fun and connected with a waiter who had probably served us many times 35 years ago. I'll have to admit way back then it was very British and elegant, but we often got sick!! This time we didn't!! The food was lovely and because of the cold in Shillong they lit a fire in the fireplace so we lingered quite a while!! Wilf and Laura stayed with the kids, many thanks for them!!

It was the consensus of all of us that we fly back to Aizawl, which we did and enjoyed leaving Shillong at 10AM and arriving back at the school at 3PM!! rather than the 14 hour trip by car. Shillong has changed a lot in 30 years and I found myself struggling to remember places. I did remember our homes, some store names and the places were we went a lot. The market has burned down and so was all different. We were able to find lots of different and useful things in Shillong so came home loaded!! I enjoyed the whole time very much and having Wilf and Laura to share it with was a real bonus!! WE visited Elephant Falls and Shillong Peak were we always picnicked at this time of year. Of course the best part was the people we were able to connect with and to encourage. They were a real blessing to us.

When we got back there were lots of things to do. School was finishing up and there were grades to give out, Farewell to participate in, and goodbyes to be said to the students. Since we got here we have been to places for tea, served tea to students and staff and done shopping and baking. One night we made pizza (found some cheese in Shillong that sorta melts!) . It took ages to bake since the voltage was way down!!.. It was tasty when we got it baked. Laura is finding that it takes ages to do anything here but is enjoying the little quieter atmosphere of Silver Oaks as compared to Delhi and Calcutta. We love having them here and sharing our lives and the lives of students and staff here, as well as the little group we meet with on Sunday. The days are quickly passing and soon it will be Xmas, we plan to have a few more people over between now and then and then to have some in for the day as well. Laura and Wilf leave on the 27th. That will be a sad day but we are so thankful for their visit. The children have especially enjoyed Wilf and Laura. Well, Ray has returned from yet another trip to town to get the internet and computers all working. We were without it for several days upon our return, we don't like that!!

I wanted to get this written so you would know we are all well. I also wanted to wish each of you the blessing of a joyous Xmas with many happy family memories and especially the Gift that we have been given and that we share with folks at this time of the year. Have a wonderful holiday,
Lovingly
Ellen

Check out these pictures!

2004-11-17T00:05:00.000+05:30

Here's our photo site - enjoy!

Hi!

2004-11-15T21:25:00.000+05:30

I understand that the days are nice in Regina these days, a little wintery in Yellowkinfe. It is a little on the cool side here. I am not complaining, it is still very warm through out the day until about 4:30PM. At that time it starts to get dark and cool, since we have no heating in the house. So we close all the windows and put on a sweater, socks and shoes and have a cup of tea! The people here find it really cold so they put on turtlenecks, jackets scarves and tougues, and sometimes even a blanket. We don't find it that cold. We have added blankets to the bed and Ray says he is thinking it might be a little cool to be showering at 6:00 AM. The children don't seem to notice it very much. The sun comes up early so it isn't long till it warms up outside.

The last week had several exciting happenings. The first was on Monday when I taught my first class in this school. This was in Autumn's classroom because her teacher is off having a baby. It was a fun English class and I will do that for the next couple of weeks. The teachers are just covering for her since the course work is all finished now and it is all review. They would like to have me teach more but so far I have hesitated. I will consider doing more in January when the new term begins.

On Tuesday the excitement was about the new baby on campus. We hesitated going too soon and then missed the visiting hours so waited until the next day to see her. Ray did see her that day and most of the staff were up with Supreme (the father) when the announcement came that it was a baby girl. Fathers are not permitted in the delivery room, so it was a long wait for him. None of his or Mary's family live here. The baby is beautiful and the parents are very happy. They have said we are to be grandparents to the little girl and we are happy to be that. We are just not sure what all that means yet!! The baby doesn't have a name yet. They arrived home this afternoon and treated us to a special dessert as soon as they got home. Autumn and Andrew are quite fascinated and Mary is happy to have them visit often.

On Wed. night Ray showed some pictures that we had taken of the school, students, and staff to the students after evening devotion. It was very fun to hear them laughing at themselves. Not much studying tht night as plans were being made for the school picnic. I walked out to the dining hall and they were painting a big sign for the front of the bus, and just out in the yard they were in the process of skinning the little goat that had that afternoon been enjoying the grass in the yard! Andrew was sitting on the bench with other little boys thoroughly enjoying the proceedings!! One boy showed me proudly that he had the eyeball!! and Andrew was delighted to show me that he had been given the horn and ears! Of course there were many details that he had to share. An unforgetable experience for this little city kid!!

Thursday morning two buses came to load everything up, children, food, pots, water, everything one needs to cook for 100 people. We went on a very windy and bumpy road for over an hour to a nice place in the hills. It had a swimming pool which the boys patrticularly enjoyed, Andrew was interested in the fact that the little boys just took off their shorts and went naked. He couldn't quite figure that! and even more interesting was that the little girls went in their panties!! The girls here are very shy but Autumn and a few others did enjoy the pool after the boys tired of it.

I enjoyed the cooking or rather watching the cooking. Several of us joined in peeling onions and slicing them-a very large pail of them. There were several cooks. The onions and piles of garlic and ginger went into the pot with lots of masala (spices for meat) tumeric and coriander, as well as the goat and lots of oil. There were about 8 special dishes cooked that afternoon and when it came time to eat the students and staff had a wonderful feast. Andrew just smelled it and gave his plate to Grandpa. Autumn is more adventuresome and is loving hot and spicy these days so enjoyed it. I tried most of them and enjoyed some of them!! The goat was quite tasty actually.

We arrived home at about 6:30 PM. It was a fun day. The next morning all of the children were gone home when Ray went down at 8:00 AM to see them home for the long weekend!!

On Friday two of the staff here, Cathy, a teacher, and Muani, a warden for the small boys, and I went up to the orphanage. It is actually a home for children from troubled and split homes. They have about 220 children. They also train some of the girls to do weaving and that is why we went. I was interested in some Mizo cloth for a skirt. They have two weavers fro Myanmar who do the weaving and instructors that come out from Aizawl to train some of the girls. Cathy and Muani also wanted to look around at the home which is really quite impressive. I did buy some cloth and am having a piece made for me. We then went to the hopital to see Mary. I enjoyed the outing with these young ladies.

Saturday, Muani (who calls me "Mom") and I went out again and this time it was for a hair cut! It was right here in Durtlang and it was a lady. She didn't take long to cut my hair and charged me Rupees 40 which is just over $1:00!! On arriving home I did notice that one side was longer than the other!! So, Muani had to repair the damage. I was just happy to be able to get it trimmed here.

On Sunday we travelled into Aizawl for service. I am teaching the children and am quite pleased with how well they are learning. We have learned all of the books of the Bible and can find almost any scipture I ask them to look up. After we do that then we have a Bible story and I usually have an activity fro them. After church yesterday we came home because we had invited the staff that were still here (the others had taken advantage of the holiday to go elsewhere) for tea. That included Bojen, Ali, Muani (the only lady), Jeremy and Muana. We enjoyed having them. I served, egg sandwiches, carrot sticks, cookies, carrot cake, and apple crisp and tea. In the evening we enjoyed a slide show of our family at home, our trip over and the Regina church and lots of other fun times. The kids loved it.

So begins another week. God has been very good to us. We are healthy and being well cared for in every way. We look forward to what God has in store for us in the next few weeks. We are headed to shillong on November 30 to meet up with Laura and Wilf. Love and Blessings to each of you. Ellen

Providing an Opportunity

2004-11-12T19:28:00.000+05:30

PROVIDING AN OPPORTUNITY

Adjacent to the Tropic of Cancer (comparable to mid-Mexico), Silver Oak School is located at the northern end of Durtlang village (of several thousand people) in the picturesque Mizo Hills of NE India. From the northern extremity of Aizawl, the capital of the state of Mizoram, your taxi takes a steep climb up to an elevation of some 3,500 feet before utilizing an impressive pass to the eastern slope of the mountain range. Monsoon rains are often heavy from mid-April to mid-October. Temperatures range from 10 to 30^o C.

Silver Oak is a private, Christian, English medium, co-ed boarding school with a current enrollment of 90 students studying in classes (grades) 1 -10. The school session follows the calendar year. The campus consists of 10 acres of sloping, quiet, scenic landscape. Facilities include a three-storey main building, a two-storey dormitory, and a three-storey teachersÂ quarters, as well as several outlying dwellings.

This delightful setting is providing us with an opportunity to provide opportunitiesÂ

Â· For students, ages 5 to 15, to expand their limited English as well as encounter the One who expands life itself for all those who come to know Him. There are regular Bible classes plus devotions four times a week.

Â· For introducing teachers to some basic essentials for fostering creative learning experiences for the students. Of the 13 teachers and wardens, none has had any formal teacher training. Most have college degrees. A couple even have graduate degrees. Beyond academic improvements, there is a vacuum of spirituality which is looking for fulfillment.

Â· For ministering to parents. Most homes are invitingÂbeggingÂus to enter!

Â· For Autumn and Andrew to learn languages, cultures, and create fascinatingÂhopefully, long-termÂfriendships. A common sight is to see either of them between friendsÂstrolling arm-in-arm!

Â· For our long-time and new-found friends to reconnect and be renewed. Many of our former acquaintances have been affected by a theological narrowism which openly portrays our valued friends--such as Anderson, Fudge, Lucado, ShellyÂas Âimposters and false teachersÂ. Silver Oak is providing us with an opportunity to present a more grace-oriented perspective. January 9-12, a retreat-reunion, ÂOnward and UpwardÂ, is planned here for many from all over the NE. Bob Parker and team from Saskatoon plan to be with us for that event.

Â· For you to partner with us in making a difference.

Coming. We pan to return to Canada for the months of June Â August, 2005. Our home, on the third floor of the teachersÂ quartersÂ150+ steps up from the main buildingÂwill be available for some(s) to come and teach Bible and English for 2 or 3 months.
Sending. We are in the process of establishing a library for students and friends. At present, there is not even one shelf of books for reading. A room is being designated for this purpose. Story books. General knowledge books. Max Lucado books. Bible studies. I know that postage is expensiveÂbut you might consider collecting and forwarding some books for our library. You just might make a real difference for a young (or old) person!

Ray & Ellen McMillan and Autumn & Andrew

Silver Oak School, Durtlang Veng Thar, Aizawl, Mizoram 796 012, India

011-91-389-236-2093, http://heartwarmers.blogspot.com, www.heartwarmers.ca

NEI News

2004-11-12T17:14:00.000+05:30

Some NE (India) NEWS

November 7, I shared the sad experience of the passing of my former student, B. Kapthanga. He and his little (and poor) family came to Shillong in 1970 to study at Alpha Bible College. Even though Ellen and his wife, Buki, did not have a common language, they developed a close friendship. Kapthanga died of diabetes complications. His family was so appreciative of our presence. A really precious experience.

November 9. Supreme and Mary Sinha are teachers, class IX and class IV, respectively, here at Silver Oak. The birth of their first child(daughter, yet to be named) was born in the local Presbyterian Hospital. This created lots of excitement for all of the Silver Oak familyÂespecially for autumn and AndrewÂ Ellen who, in my absence, even got to say the prayer as Mary headed off to the hospital.

November 12 is a Hindu holiday and November 15 is a Muslim holiday, so our school gets a break. I used a little persuasion with the management to allow this extended holiday. They said, if the children go home it takes too long to get them back into the groove! However, I made points with children, parents, and even teachers, by voting for a long-weekend! The school has suffered from a deficiency of leadership so the management is leaning on me to do some coaching in administrative areas.

November 11 was of no significance as far as Remembrance Day is concerned but the school did celebrate an annual picnic. Two buses were engaged. We went to a picnic spot about 20 kmsÂ80 minutesÂaway where the children swam in a pool and the adults cooked (all day) for a 3:30 PM feast of goat and dozens of other items. The goat was butchered the previous day here at the school by one of the teachers. Andrew witnessed the entire procedure andÂyou will be surprisedÂhe found it quite fascinating and supplied his grandmother with the details!

November 30, we plan to head down the (mountain) road to Shillong for another reunion. Last month it was 40 years since our wedding in Shillong. We have been blessed with lots of celebrations but want to add one more by being reunited with those who served as our wedding party in 1964. And, an extra special bonus will be getting to spend that time with Wilf and Laura Olson who will meet us there, travel to Manipur with us (December 10 Â 20) and then return here for Christmas before they return to Canada.

Ray & Ellen McMillan and Autumn & Andrew

Silver Oak School, Durtlang Veng Thar, Aizawl, Mizoram 796 012, India

011-91-389-236-2093, http://heartwarmers.blogspot.com, www.heartwarmers.ca

2004-11-10T23:10:00.000+05:30

Autumn and baby

2004-11-10T23:09:00.002+05:30

Baby (no name yet!)

2004-11-10T23:09:00.001+05:30

Mary and her baby

2004-11-10T23:09:00.000+05:30

Mary Sinha has a baby!

Connecting (Ellen)

2004-11-02T07:13:00.000+05:30

Hi everyone, Thanks to all who have responded to my new email address. it is working much better and we are able to check our email much easier. Thanks too to all of you who are praying for us on a regular basis. We are adjusting very well to our new home, new surroundings and new work situation. All have provided us with much to think about, be thankful for and wonder about! Andrew and Autumn are making new friends almost daily and our house has become the new play place for many children. Andrew would much rather be outside climbing trees, digging holes, taking apart every bug or flying insect he can find or playing hide and seek or just exploring than being inside. He has piles of friends (young and older, girls and boys, ) . Autumn is a bit more selective in whom she brings up (150 steps from the main school building) here but still enjoys the newness of the place. She and her friend, Angeline arrived up here the other day with a big green fruit they had plucked from a tree. I do not know its name, but it is in appearance like a large grapefruit. They asked me to peel it. It has a thick white layer under the skin and we take all that off to find a pink or red fruit (if it ripe, green if it isn't) and then they tear bits of it off and dip it in salt and sit under a tree and enjoy!! It tastes and looks like grapefruit. Twice as big though. The children are doing fine in school. Andrew is not crazy about learning Hindi, that is of having to write it (Hindi has its own script). He is quite fine with learning to speak it. Mainly because he has to write pages of the alphabet and learn the vowels and how to print them. This is brought home for homework. We are all looking forward to a school picnic next week. We will take buses and travel for a couple hours, prepare special foods over an open fire and have all kinds of fun!! There will be over 100 of us to go. School finishes here on Dec. 7 I think it is.

On December 1, Ray and I and the children will go by Sumo(a big jeep) for 12 hours to visit Shillong and meet up with Wilf and Laura Olson. Ray is planning many activities for us while we are there. I am looking forward to meeting old friends and living in the "pasture" for a few days. We hope also to visit Manipur. The situation there is a little unstable so we are not sure that will work out. We will all be very disappointed if we cannot go there. I am looking forward to a good visit with Laura and of having them in our home here and showing them what goes on here. We will have Xmas with them here. I imagine we will do lots of entertaining and be entertained in many of our friends homes.

We have really enjoyed being able to see most of our children on MSN, using the webcam and the Skype (computer telephone system) program. What a blessing that is!! From Harmony in China, to Steve and Tim in Yellowknife, to Billy in Calgary, and Heather in Regina, we are able to communicate quite freely. We love it! Holly has a telephone now, so we phoned her yesterday. It was nice to visit with her as well.

Ray and I have been thinking a lot lately about the servant attitude. Many people here have paid servants. Someone said it is a status thing, if you can have a servant -- then you are really somebody! I really didn't like that comment since I am thinking I may need to have someone to help me!! I don't want to be a "somebody" in anyone's eyes. We have been watching the people in this school who serve so willingly, and we are humbled. They always seem to do it with a smile! Ray and I are pretty independent. We like to do our own work, if we can. Ray was burning the garbage for a few days. As soon as they noticed him doing that, along came a boy to gather and do it for him. I decided to paint the window casings in my living room. During the day along came several people to comment on me painting. Then soon along came Mr. Sinha with a former student of his who would like to volunteer to paint the rest of the windows and whatever else I wanted him to do! When I go to market, and arrive back in a taxi, almost immediately, one of the boys runs up the stairs to meet the taxi at the top of the hill so he can carry the groceries up the long flight of steps. In this case, and in all the others, I am very grateful!! The dorm mother of the small boys knows how to sew so offered to sew the curtains for me; she is doing the kitchen ones for me today. She has many duties besides the dorm work and I am so grateful for her willingness to help me out. These are only a few examples of the serving that we have been the recipients of in the last six weeks, and it has really caused us to think about our role here and how we also can be of service to these people. We came here wanting to be of service and find ourselves being served !!

Well, I think this will be enough for this time. If you sent an email, I will eventually answer it. I love getting them. There are many things to write about, so till next time, Love and Blessings.
Ellen

Ellen the Cook II

2004-10-27T20:31:00.000+05:30

(a paraphrased msn chat)

I went to Baunkhun today for marketing. I found some kitchen curtain fabric and went down into the market and found some seeds for the garden and some chicken and veggies. Quite a feat on my own. Carrying the stuff is the hardest. The chicken was a half and it was about 3 lbs for l60 rupees. Probably paid too much but the lady was sweet and probably won't hurt me to be out a few rupees. It was clean and in a screen covered box. I was impressed! I like going to this market as it is only half as far as Aizawl and I can leave at 10 and be home for lunch. I can't get all the canned stuff or stuff like TP though. I need to learn to speak Mizo a little though these ladies don't speak much English. Cooking and Cleaning washing clothes, doing dishes all take a lot more time than ever. Oh well, I have the time so far! Sometimes supper is a bit late or confusing because I don't allow my self the time for cooking the meat. I am getting better and learning to do things ahead of time. They have these neat hot pots like a thermos bowl and they keep the food very hot so its quite possible to do things up ahead of time.

2004-10-25T21:34:00.000+05:30

Ray and Ellen. August 2004

Don't Count On It

2004-10-23T06:16:00.000+05:30

The Indian culture and country has so very much going for it. Two of its obvious strengths are generosity and hospitality. If you want to be looked after and even “babied”, come to this great corner of God’s earth. This remote, northeasterly corner specializes in these essential qualities. I have often commented to those who have been here that I fear the day when visitors from here would drop in on me in Canada… because I would never match their care and concern for the guests’ welfare.
I’m repeating myself (if you’ve read what I’ve written recently) but it deserves repeating. Mizoram is a gorgeous place and the people, in general, are fantastic. So, anything I say now is not meant to demean this culture or country in any way. I love them both.
But things are different here, and contentment comes not from trying to impose changes, but from the blessing of that old gem--acceptance. The electricity comes and goes and frequently fades and then spikes! The telephone follows much the same routine. Water supply ebbs and flows. Internet… well, the last few days it has been unable to supply a web browser. So….
I got to wondering this afternoon: “How and when did these utilities take over my value system?” Last Sunday our class looked at the beatitudes of Matthew 5. Even now, after many readings of this passage, it shocks my Canadian mind-bent to be reminded that our God smiles on “the poor”, “the mournful”, “the meek”, “the hungry and thirsty”.
Could it be that we often long for, pray for, and preach about things—health, wealth, safety—that represent a skewed value system? “Consider Jesus,” the encourager urges: Was rich, became poor. Was safe, underwent the worst of tragedies. Was exempt from pain, endured the excruciating cross.
You might experience comfort, consistency, health, wealth, predictability, security. But… don’t count on it (them). I doubt that these are the destinations of our journey. Last evening, with our class, grade ten students, I worked through Charles Dickens’s “Christmas Carol”. Ebenezer Scrooge came so close to missing the essence of it. So might I. Might you?
In brief, we are called to be different and to make a difference. I am grateful to the opportunity to do just that here in NE India… with God as my strength.

Ellen the cook

2004-10-15T01:50:00.000+05:30

I found some pasta yesterday so had that for supper last night. The kids loved it. Of course they did - it had velveeta cheese on it! I think most of the canned foods are pretty good, though they cost about twice as much as at home. There is not much variety in fresh veggies and fruit, mostly people here eat leaves, and sqashy type things, pumpkin. We can get green beans, expensive carrots and tomatoes, someone gave me beets that are really nice,and onions and potatoes. Last week I found a cabbage but none this week. So far for meat we have had beef (very tough,even ground) and chicken which I pressure cooked and it was good. I am finding it a bit of a challenge to get used to the cooking, how much time it takes in particular.

Almost a month!

2004-10-12T01:46:00.000+05:30

Well, it almost a month since we arrived in Aizawl. We have just gotten our email up and running after a rather frustrating month of trying to communicate. However here we are and it seems to be working wonderfully well. We were able to talk on msn with Harm, jand s and Billy, and Heather,and Steve using the web cam so we could even see them. It is quite amazing and exciting for us and especially for A and A. We will talk to Tim tonight and Steve said he would try and get one for at home so we could see the kids, wouldn't that be great? It just really makes it so much easier. We feel so blessed to be here. We have been so well received and everyone is so kind and accomodating. We really could not have asked for anything more. When we arrived we stayed at a guest house and ate with the manager of theschool. His name is Lalfela and his wife Muanpuii. They have been so kind and the children have really loved being with them. Their driver Biacca came to get us whenever we need ed to go anywher and their servant girl became a real favorite with the kids. Netae is her name. We spent three weeks ther e and a week ago we moved out to the school (45 min from Aizawl in a small village) . We live in the staff quarters. They have made an apt for us. It has four rooms. Quite large. It is built from cement. There are several other apts. in the building. Our neighbors are teachers as well. They are Sir Sinha and Miss Mary (Autumn's teacher) , they are epecting their first baby any day, and Sir Jeremy and Miss Kathy. They have a 2year old boy. We are blessed with a bathroom off each bedroom since they joined two apts for us, a living room and a kitchen. There are small hot water heaters in both bathrooms, as well as Flush toilets and hand held showers. WE have everything we could want and the people are so kind to us. The carpenters are still her fixing whatever we ask them to do , like building shelves, putting in extra plugs, etc.
The children have adjusted very well. They are in school here and are doing well. They are very popular and do not lack for attention. They are doing well in classes and are learning Hindi and Mizo. Andrew has homework every night in Hindi, mostly learning the alphabet. The teachers give a lot of tests here and Autumn has found that a little hard to get used to. She got them all right on Friday so she was happy. They have lots of friends and for the most part are content to be here.
We have been going to a little church in Aizawl. Ray is preaching every Sunday now and I am teaching the sunday school. They are very happy to have us to help them out. They mostly do it in English but sometimes if there is someone there who does not understand then they translate. IWe have visited with Ginpu and Alemla a lot. They have children same age as Aand A and so after church we go there for tea. This Sunday she served tea and sticky rice with pork in it. Last week it was noodles just like at home and the kids love it. The food has been very different for them and they are happy for me to be making mashed potatoes for them since we moved here. WEll, this is getting long so I better stop fior this time. Hope all is well with each of you. If you promised me you would answer my emails please do ! I will look forward to hearing your news. We are well, and feel very thankful for all our friends who are supporting us.

From Ellen

2004-10-11T20:53:00.000+05:30

Well, it is almost a month since we arrived in Aizawl. We have just gotten our email up and running, after a rather frustrating month of trying to communicate. We live in the staff quarters. A large, four room cement apartment has been prepared. We are blessed with a bathroom off each bedroom--since two apartments were joined, a living room and a kitchen. There are small hot water heaters in both bathrooms, as well as flush toilets and hand-held showers. We have everything we could want, and the people are so kind to us. The carpenters are still here repairing whatever we ask them to do-- building shelves, putting in extra plugs, etc.

The children have adjusted very well. They are in school here and are doing well. They are very popular and do not lack for attention. They are doing well in classes and are learning Hindi and Mizo. Andrew has homework every night in Hindi, mostly learning the alphabet.

We have been going to a little church in Aizawl. Ray is preaching every Sunday now and I am teaching the Sunday school. They are very happy to have us to help them out. Services are mostly in English, but sometimes, if there is someone there who does not understand, they then translate.

Arrived!

2004-10-05T20:26:00.000+05:30

We are into our apartment at Silver Oak School in Durtlang, a northeasterly superb of the fascinating hill (mountain) city of Aizawl in northeastern India. In his family-parenting videos, Gary Smalley suggests that men, more than women, are eager to arrive, to conquer the road and reach their destination. However, in this case, I think Ellen’s eagerness surpassed even mine for getting in our own dwelling, setting up house and making a home! Our new home is a four-room apartment on the second floor of a two-story cement structure built for staff-quarters. A larger dwelling is being built for us on the top floor. It will be sometime before that is a reality. Basic kitchen appliances include of a 242 litre refrigerator, a butane powered four-burner stove, a 6-litre spin-drier washing machine, a small electric-toaster oven, and a 30-litre, candle-type water filter.

We hope that no one is feeling sorry for us! The scenery is majestic. You need to come to realize how good God was when he created this corner of his earth. And, to re-quote a famous apostle, as I have said before so say I now again, the only thing more spectacular than the landscape is the people that inhabit it. Now, the weather (for those of us accustomed to the arid prairies) is tediously rainy! The result is that clothes maintain a dampness that can easily turn into mildewiness, and more annoying, our roof is leaking at several junctures. Oh, well, the rainy season will soon (maybe) come to and end and winter (with its chilly plus 10ºC nights will soon be upon us! How does that sound to you brave prairie folk?

Silver Oak School has two more months of regular classes before examinations take place in early December. The new school year will commence on January 17. Opportunities to make a difference with students, staff and parents are many. My English and Bible classes seem to be going well, as does my English class at the Mizoram University.

Today, a 12-hour bandh has been imposed on all of northeast India by the students’ union of all seven states. They are sympathizing with grievances of students in the state of Manipur. For those of you who, to date, have not been privileged to experience a bandh, it is a forced shut-down of all traffic—not offices, school, and very few shops. Joy!

However, since it is anniversary time, I have arrange to take Ellen out for supper—rice, curry, dalh down 140 steps at the student mess (cafeteria)! Enjoy!

One last item. Our plan is to return to Canada in June and, then, return to Silver Oak in September 2005. The May – August segment would be a very opportune time for two or three college students to replace us—teaching classes here at SOS. Or, there may be teachers who would like to spend the better part of July-August making a difference here in NE India.

The first ten day in Aizawl

2004-09-25T20:20:00.000+05:30

Would it be too trite to say that the last two weeks have been “very full”? The last couple days in Regina did not afford much sleep. The “up side” to that is that one is more apt to sleep on the plane. Autumn claimed that Papa slept all the way from Vancouver to Korea (11 hours). As usual, she exaggerated… considerably!

What a wonderful memory our church-family made for us on September 5! Some much careful thought went into the entire morning, lunch and afternoon program. Scott has blessed us with a delightful DVD of the day. Thank you over and over. The next morning at the airport was the usual emotional parting but wonderful for the four of us. Later in Vancouver, we were blessed with the company of more friends sending us prayerfully on our way.

And Korea. What a place! Extremely modern and so welcoming. Snowy’s family treated us to such royalty and a fascinating variety of experiences. Snowy’s father is director in a huge ship-building company in Ulsan (south-eastern Korea). They build 60+ ships per year. The countryside and the people are marvelous.

We had one restful night in Singapore. I got to meet Dave Hogan. That was a treat. His Dad, Gordon, visited us in Shillong back in the 60’s.

And Kolkata… late on Saturday night. Quite a contrast from Singapore and Korea. However, we were fortunate to engage a couple taxis to transport us and all our bags to the Host International Hotel, about 15 minutes from the airport. We had a decent sleep and enjoyed the next morning in a service with Swami and Violet Das. They are few in number. Swami has a Bible school in which he has 5 students. Monday morning we thought we were headed for Aizawl but, due to cloudy weather in Aizawl (not uncommon this time of year) the flight did not leave on Monday nor again on Tuesday. So, not wishing to return to downtown Kolkata (where the airlines put us up Monday night), we took the one-hour flight to Silchar… followed by a 12 hour (4 PM – 4 AM) bus ride up the mountain to Aizawl!

Aizawl was dark, dark, rainy, and (seemingly) deserted when the bus dropped us off (with eight large suitcases and 7 small ones) on the side of the street! Fortunately, another passenger went to his home and telephoned Lalkhama who sent a couple vehicles to rescue us and deposit us at the synod Guest House, where we have been for the last 10 days.

A usual day goes something like this:

Up at 6 AM. Breakfast of cornflakes and toast in our room. Picked up at 8 AM and arrive at Silver Oak School (70–mostly boarding--students, grade 1 -1 10) by 8:45. I teach classes till noon (Monday – Friday) at Silver Oak and Tuesday and Thursday afternoon at the Mizoram University (2^nd year M.A. English). Ellen usually stays at the guest house (busy with washing clothes, writing letters, cleaning up the mess we leave). Autumn, Andrew and I take sandwiches for lunch. At 2:20 PM Autumn and Andrew finish their classes and the vehicle returns to take us back to the Guest House. The Guest House is located on the south (west) end of the city while the school is situated about 5 kilometers northeast of the city. At about 5 PM the vehicle picks us up again and we go to Fela & Muanpuii’s for supper. (Lakhama owns the school, but his son, Fela, seems to do most of the operating. Supper usual takes a couple hours.

Somewhere in there the kids try to do their homework (which is in good supply over here) and head for bed by 8:00-8:30.

We have been disappointed in our inability to access the internet. However, we are discovering some possibilities that may help our communication desires. Internet is all dial-up and, of course, takes time. If you wish to use the post office: c/o Silver Oak School, Durtlang Veng Thar, Aizawl, Mizoram 796 005. I hope to soon purchase a fax machine to use from the school. The school is preparing a four-room for us on campus. The heavy, persistent rains make it difficult for the carpenters to make noticeable progress.

We are happy to be here. We are blessed with some of the most majestic scenery on earth... and the people match the landscape. We love the Mizo people. Their singing causes me to suggest that they are part angel! At breakfast this week, Andrew suggested we build some kind of a bridge so that we could just go back and forth from Canada to Mizoram!

Blessings,

Ray, Ellen, Autumn & Andrew