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CHINA Year 3: Shandong's Eastern Coast

10/6/2019

As I shared in my last China blog, I led a brand new fall trip for our eighth grade students during the last week of September. Unlike the previous two years' trips which took seventh graders to explore cities on the 'westside' of Shandong Province (read HERE and HERE about my time on those trips), we decided this year's eighth graders would travel to famous locations along Shandong's Eastern Coast. I was more nervous about this trip, considering I’d played a major role in planning this trip without any assurance the students would enjoy it. I’m thankful to report on the other side of the trip that it was not only a safe and successful trip, but one of profound Heavenly Movement (more on that later).

So, on Tuesday, September 24, four other teachers and I headed off with 24 eight grade students to conquer some new territory in Shandong Province.

DAY ONE
Weihai, Shandong Province

The first morning, we headed out around 7:00 AM driving almost four hours to the coastal town of Weihai. There we visited ShenDiaoShan Wildlife Park. I’ve shared before that I am not a huge fan of Chinese zoos or aquariums (see HERE). While this park left certain areas to be desired, I will say that it was the most spacious animal park I’ve been to in China. Most of the enclosures were overcrowded, but the animals looked healthy and cared for which is good. The students were able to get up close and personal with all types of animals, both domesticated and non-domesticated. I saw visiting this park as an opportunity to educate a younger generation on the importance of wildlife conservation. As one of my heroes Steve Irwin once said, “Share my wildlife with me, because humans want to save things that they love.” The love I have for animals is great, so I was excited to share another passion with my students. The animal knowledge I’ve gained through the years, from having animal loving parents, growing up in Africa, being on the wildlife judging team in high school, watching hours of Animal Planet shows, and general interest and reading about animals, was put to good and healthy use during this leg of the trip.

Here is the blurb in the students’ “travel guide” about ShenDiaoShan Wildlife Park:

The ShenDiao Mountain Wildlife Park is named after the tall mountain at the center of the reserves’ grounds. It hosts hundreds of species from around the world along with breathtaking coastal views in Rongcheng County in Weifang. Guests can see wild animals up close and personal. The zoo is famous for its successful tiger breeding program (featuring a number of rare white Bengal tigers).

Photo by student

This english translation of a sign had us all dying with laughter. It was supposed to be information about Black Bears...

Photo by student

Here you can see me passionately sharing outside the African enclosures about the need for people to take a stand against poaching rhinos and elephants due to false beliefs about the "miracle cures" of ivory tusks and rhino horns.

After leaving the Wildlife Park and eating lunch we headed to a beach nearby. This was probably the part of the trip I was most nervous about in retrospect. I really, really wanted to take our students camping this year. Firstly, because I love camping and I think it’s a great way for people to bond. Second, camping is also something most of our students have never done before (#citykids). The kids had been taught by our school’s scouting club the week before how to set up a tent. So, their learning was put to the test as the group worked in pairs to set up over 17 tents. It was so fun to watch the kids helping each other (sometimes successfully, often not so much) to organize the place where they would sleep for the night.

After that we played countless outdoor games, from soccer and volleyball to ultimate frisbee and more. A highlight for me was teaching the kids to play Duck, Duck, Goose; a game that none of them had ever played before! They loved it and we all laughed a lot at the challenge presented when playing that game in sand.

As China does not allow fires on the beach, so we weren’t able to have a bonfire like I would have loved. However, we did have pizza delivered to the beach and enjoyed delicious hot pizza by the sea as the sky painted a beautiful sunset.

DAY TWO
YangMaDao, Yantai, Shandong Province

The next morning, after a chilly, but exciting campout on the beach we had a lovely breakfast at a nearby hotel before heading to an island outside the city of Yantai along eastern Shandong Province. I was especially excited to visit this island because of its historical “horse” focus and the many horse-themed attractions found along its shores.

Here is the blurb in the students’ “travel guide” about YangMaDao:

The Yangma Island is located in the middle of Yellow Sea, 5.6 miles north of Muping District and 18.6 miles east of Yantai City. Owing to its beautiful sea scenery and pleasant climate, The Yangma Island enjoys the fame of ‘Oriental Hawaii’. In 219 BC, the first Chinese Emperor, Emperor Qin Shi Huang [the same emperor who started building the Great Wall of China and the Terra Cotta Warriors in Xi'an], passed by the island and was impressed by the flourishing grasses and thousands of galloping horses. Therefore, he regarded the island as a valuable land with a good geomantic omen, and ordered some persons to raise imperial horses here. That is why the island is named Yangma Island (an island for raising horses). Following the legend, a horse-race ground has been built in the island, which has held 11 national and international horse race events since its completion. When there is no formal competitive activity, the ground becomes an entertainment park, where activities such as horse riding, archery take place to entertain visitors.

The hotel we stayed in that night on the island sits on a decommissioned racetrack. There are still privately owned horses on the property and the hotel itself has been renovated from what used to be the inside of the stadium seating. I mean, isn’t that super cool?

An unexpected hiccup was that we had to take one student to the hospital that night for severe stomach/abdominal pain, thankfully the doctors were able to provide her with some treatment that helped and she was able to continue with the rest of the trip.

DAY 3
YantaiShan, Yantai City, Shandong Province

The next day we headed into Yantai city to visit a location right along the cities’ largest port area. I have actually travelled to this location last fall to visit friends. You can read my previous experience and some of the history of Yantai in my blog HERE.

Here is the blurb in the students’ “travel guide” about YantaiShan:

Despite its name as a Yantai Mountain, this lovely historical park isn’t really a mountain, but instead features a gently rising hill which boasts picturesque views of one of China's busiest harbors, along with a number of tourist attractions. The name Yantai Mountain (煙台山) came from a beacon built in 1398 during the Ming Dynasty. It was used to signal an early warning of the pirates from Japan.
Later, the city was named Yantai City after the beacon. According to the "Tianjin Treaty" (天津條約), Yantai opened to foreign countries later in 1861, and became the earliest port opened to foreign countries in Shandong. Many well maintained villas throughout the park were formerly consulates during this time period. The area is the location of four former foreign consulates representing the UK, the US, Denmark, and Japan, as well as other ancestral temples, a war memorial, some museums and a tea house.

I think the students’ favorite part of this visit was playing Duck, Duck, Goose and Line Tag in a parking lot along the paths below the lighthouse.

Next, we traveled to a mall nearby where the students had the opportunity to experience a climbing challenge at a rock wall location inside the mall. Some students enjoyed this more than others, but I loved seeing the students cheering for one another and trying something new.

Day Four
Penglai, Shandong Province

Our last location for the trip was the fabled home of the eight immortals at Penglai Pavilion. Penglai is one of the most visited location in Shandong Province due to its beautiful scenery and legendary significance.

Here is the blurb in the students’ “travel guide” about Penglai Pavilion:

Penglai Pavilion or Penglai Pagoda (蓬莱阁) is a famous tower perched on top of Danya Mountain at the northernmost part of Jiaodong peninsula, Yantai. It is noted as one of the Four Great Towers of China. It is said that Penglai was the place that Emperor Qin Shi Huang looked for the elixir of life, and the place where the great Emperor Wu of the Western Han Dynasty (206BC-24) paid his sacred visit. In addition, the legend of the Eight Immortals Crossing the Sea adds a more mysterious atmosphere to this place. The legend goes that the eight immortals crossed the sea using their special powers after they got drunk in the Penglai Pavilion. Penglai, Yingzhou, and Fangzhang were said to be the three divine mountains in the sea for immortals to live in. The dividing line between the Yellow Sea and Bohai Sea is also marked and clearly visible from the area. Warlord Zhang Zongchang (1881-1932) wrote a famous poem titled "Visiting Pengai Pavillion" about the pavilion's beauty. The Penglai Pavilion has been regarded as a 'Fairyland' since ancient times.

We then headed home to Qingdao. I sure was happy to see the familiar coastline and busy streets preparing for the 70th Anniversary of China’s Independence from foreign power (the first week of October is a National Holiday in China).

A Commissioned Heart

All in all, I feel really thankful how well the trip turned out. The students seemed to have a really good time (many of them saying camping on the beach was their favorite part). They also had the opportunity to see a lot of unique locations and learn some more about not only China as a whole, but also the cultural history of the province they currently live in.

However, the most amazing part of this trip for me wasn’t about any of these things. Prior to the trip I really felt my spirit being moved with a challenge: to pursue the hearts of my students for my Father. I realize that while I am very open with my students about what brought me to China and how my Father’s teachings guide my daily steps… but I also reflected and noted that not once in my last two years here have I openly invited a student to come to know my Father like I know him. I was convicted by this truth and my spirit felt a direct command to go into this whole trip with that as my focus and intention.

It was terrifying. You feel so vulnerable and overwhelmed. What if they say no? What if no one is interested in what I have to say? Can I still be fearless enough to obey my Father’s calling? My Father encouraged me through His word and instilled bravery and confidence into my spirit as a response to his challenge.

Every night before bed the students and teachers met for small group reflection on my favorite Book. And over the course of the trip three students made decisions that led to their names being permanently written in another special Book. I can’t even explain to you the triumph of those moments… even amidst my own terror and insecurity that I had been entrusted with the open door.

Honestly, I felt so unsure and clumsy as I shared with the group, all while intentionally looking for opportunities to pour into individuals. Despite my doubts, I feel completely in awe of how faithful my Father is when I listen to His voice and obey. Dear Reader, if someone has been put on your heart to share with; I hope you will be encouraged in this moment to speak out and be brave. Take the risk. Trust Father. After this trip, I can confirm that whatever lack of preparation you feel doesn’t matter. My Father doesn’t call the equipped, he equips the called… you are called to sing out His Truth.

I hope you will lift up the young hearts who heard and responded as they begin their new lives. Please lift up me too, as I seek to obey and be guided by Him.

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SOUTH AFRICA Part 1: Kruger National Park

10/2/2019

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My roommate Grace and I spent seven days of our Lunar New Year holiday break in the beautiful, friendly, summer-y, and wild country of South Africa! It was my first time back on the African continent since my family moved away when I was a preteen, and I was beyond excited! My hope for this trip was moments of wonder, laughter, and lots of animals!

We left Qingdao on Tuesday, January 29th flying three hours to Shenzhen, China before our fourteen hour flight to Johannesburg (our fourteen hour flight that actually became sixteen hours when we ended up sitting delayed on the runway for two additional hours before finally taking off). There is a six hour time difference between China and South Africa and we landed on the 30th at 8:00 in the morning!

DAY 1
Wednesday, January 30, 2019

Upon arriving at the Johannesburg airport, the most prominent thought that came to my mind when exiting the airport was, “It smells like Africa here.” My senses experienced something so familiar when we exited. We were picked up by our driver, a man named Mike from Africa Spear Safaris. We then had to drive about five hours across South Africa to Kruger National Park. Along the way, Mike answered our many questions about South Africa and Kruger. We were shocked to learn that Kruger National Park is 19,485 km² (over 7500 miles)! This means that the park is “about the same size as the whole of Israel, a little smaller than Belgium and about a third of the size of Ireland” (Source). Meanwhile, the roads in Kruger cover less than .15% of its area!

Miles and miles of open, wild country did wonders for my heart.

When we arrived at Kruger we were immediately picked up by our guide. Our guide’s name was Cedric and I think he is without a doubt one of the most passionate, clever, and funny people I’ve ever met. Within seconds we were swept in off into the bus in the back of the famous open safari vehicles. It would be insulting for me to try and describe the beauty and awe I felt as we headed into the bush, so I’ll share my photographs first and then describe what I felt and saw.

Our first animal siting of the safari!

This was our first siting upon arriving in Kruger. Not even five minutes after Cedric picked us up, we were able to watch this male elephant wading into the water and bath. I love the African elephant. Larger and far more territorial than their Asian counterpart (you can tell the difference between an African and Asian elephant by looking at the size of their ears and the head shape).

This old bull would be a prime hunting prize if it weren't for his broken tusk.

Our guide was an incredible tracker, these elephant tracks stood out to me.

One of the first questions my roommate Grace asked Cedric, “Which animals are your favorite?” He answered, “I studied leopards for a long time so it’s always exciting to have a siting of a leopard. I really like to watch the wild dogs because they’re the most accurate and effective hunters we have. But really I like to see all the animals, though there are some animals I find over rated.”
“Like?” I asked.
“Giraffes,” he laughed.
“But they’re so cool and pretty!”
“Yeah, they’re cool, but I still find them pretty overrated.”

The awesomely overrated giraffe.

Shortly after having this conversation, Cedric got a call over the car radio. The guides communicate with each other in a tribal dialect of the area (so that visitors don’t get too excited or in turn disappointed if they miss an animal another group has sighted). Cedric answered the call and suddenly we ourselves speeding off through the bush. We had no idea what we were racing to see, but we finally turned a corner and spotted an entire pack of wild dogs! There were anywhere from 11-16 dogs in the pack, moving together along the road. Cedric was so excited about it, so we knew we were seeing something incredibly special.

Cedric explained how the wild dogs are extremely accurate hunters. They rarely miss a kill, unlike lions, leopards, and cheetahs, who often fail. Cheetahs, leopards, and male lions often fail because they are solo hunters. Female lions are cautious hunters and will give on a meal if it poses too much of a threat or they become too tired. The reason is that all the big cats seek to choke their prey and/or break its neck. The wild dogs, however, work together to all grab a part of the prey and rip it apart. The animals go into shock and are killed before they really have a chance to run away.

We followed with the wild dog pack for a good twenty minutes before they faded into the brush. We glimpsed the pattern of a large leopard in some tall grass before rushing to our camp right before the park gates closed at 6:30. We were to spend the next three days and two nights staying in a one room hut inside the Skukuza Rest Camp. Skukuza is the largest campsite in Kruger; its name can be translated as “to sweep” in a dialect of the tribal Tsonga people. Again, in this tiny hut I had the most uncanny familiarity to Senegal. I found myself become quite emotional on a few occasions.

Warthogs grazing outside our hut in the safari camp.

DAY 2
Thursday, January 31, 2019

Our second day was similar to our first. We laughed and awed at a variety of animals. It was so nice to be so far from everything. You looked across the valleys and hills, through the brush and savannah lands and you could see nothing, but untouched land. The roadways were covered with calmly grazing impala, giraffe, zebra, warthog, elephants, and wildebeest. We also spotted a small female leopard that made our guide super excited (Cedric was so shocked at how we had seen a leopard every day as they are quite private and not often seen).

A little Warthog family

In my opinion Wildebeest are one of the most unique animals to walk the earth

A young bull waves to us along the road.

Our second leopard siting, a young female stood attention before disappearing into the dense brush.

I told Grace on our first day that the one thing I really wanted to see was a male lion, and I was thrilled to have my wish granted. Though a long way off having a nice nap under a bush during the hot afternoon, he was a gorgeous tawny male in the prime of his youth.

Our first lion siting! This guy was comfy and relaxed while taking a nap under a bush.

He woke up to give us a better look at his gorgeous mane.

DAY 3
Friday, February 1, 2019

The highlight of our final day in Kruger was seeing a mother leopard with her cub (yes, another one)! Cedric couldn’t stop saying how incredible of a sight that was. We then had more encounters with amazing wildlife and were finally able to check off our Big Five siting. The Big Five are the five most dangerous animals in Africa (the title of most dangerous was determined by poachers as the most difficult to hunt). We had seen Cape Buffalo, the African Elephant, Leopards, Lions, and the last being a rhinoceros. We finally saw four rhinos, including a rhino family of mother, father, and young adult. I found myself really reflecting on these gorgeous creatures, considering that someday … perhaps even in my lifetime … children might not know what a real life rhino looks like. Poaching numbers on rhinos are bad.

A mother leopard and her cub. Cedric told us this kind of siting, especially of well-protected and carefully hidden leopard cubs, almost never happens.

Not to be confused with their Asian cousin the Water Buffalo, Cape Buffalo are fiercely territorial and strong.

Kruger boasts over 500 different species of birds that live throughout the park.

This European Roller uses his bright color to attract insects he can eat for supper.

Did you know? Not only to Zebra's stripes confuse their predators, the dark stripes absorb sunlight while the white stripes reflect the sunlight. This creates a cooling effect around a zebras entire body keeping them cool on the hottest days.

Cedric explained to us that the park loses about 70 +/- elephants a year to poaching. Meanwhile, the Vietnam and Chinese herbal markets cause the poaching of up to two to four rhinos a day in the park. Cedric’s insight on this was truly insightful. Cedric grew up around the park, his father worked inside Kruger. Cedric has worked as not only a guide and researcher, but also for a time as a anti-poacher. These are the brave men and women who travel throughout the park tracking poachers and seeking to prevent them from hunting and killing endangered and protected wildlife within the park. It makes me angry and sad at the same time. Why is it that man refuses to care for the environment we’ve been entrusted. Our first commandment before the coming of the Father was to have dominion over all the animals and care for them. One of Adam’s first tasks was to name the animals. Why is it that we, the body of Chr-st especially, refuse to protect and preserve the beautiful creature that have been entrusted into our care?

A lone white rhino

Elephants don't begin to grow tusks until they are four years old.

A white rhino family, male, female, and young adult.

The stories and insight our guide Cedric had to share were absolutely incredible. From showing us which plants are edible, poisonous, or make a great natural sunscreen, his experience and passion for nature was inspiring. I found myself telling him how envious I was of his life. As we drove, he could stop and note which animals had been by from their tracks. He would say things like “A hyena just came this way” or “There was a leopard headed in this direction last night” or “Look here! A young rhino has left scorches in the earth here with his tusk to mark his territory”. He saw so much in things I never would have even known to notice. I loved asking him questions (even if something he gave me some sassy answers because “Americans are good at being gullible and taking a jokes”, haha). I honestly recommend to everyone, if you want to go on a safari, go with a guide. I love how the guides work together to help and encourage one another.

This zebra had survived an attack by some sort of predator, escaping with his life, but losing an ear in the process.

Another highlight of our final day was parking by a quiet watering whole drinking some coffee only to realize that a crocodile was sunning itself on the grass only a few feet from where we relaxed, and we hadn’t even noticed him until he sneezed!

Can you spot the crocodile in the tall grass?

How about now? Can you spot him?

We left Kruger that day and I said to Grace, “If I had the time and the money, Kruger National Park would be a place I would want to come back to every year for the rest of my life.” It was honestly the most glorious place and can’t imagine living my whole life and never going back again. Reader, if you are questioning where you should go, I recommend Kruger with everything in me. It will change your life and you will never want to leave.

That afternoon we drove out of Kruger National Park and back through the South African countryside passing villages and little towns along the way. I found myself getting emotional all over again, but it was over simple things. It was the way the children smiled walking by us on the road, the sight of babies tied to women’s backs or ladies carrying giant buckets of water on their head. It was the images of a place that for over fifteen years has become nothing, but pictures in my memory. Suddenly, it was real again and I knew how desperately I had missed it.

We headed to the next part of our South Africa adventure in the city of Pretoria!
Stay posted for PART II!

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CHINA Year 3: The One in Which...

9/21/2019

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J and I visiting Penglai Pavillion for safety pre-trip.

After celebrating Mid-Autumn Festival last week the air in Qingdao has already slipped on a cool breeze as the beaches shook free of their crowds… a sign that summer is truly over and fall is shuffling quietly in. The school routine is in full swing and the busy travel of the fall semester is about to take off.

...I teach (and attend) classes

I was hard to believe that at the beginning of August I was dancing carefully into my sixth year of teaching. What to expect? We’re into week eight of the school year and I am pleasantly surprised to I find myself content and confident. I finally am feeling like I maybe know what I’m doing. Don’t worry, I’m sure something will come along to make me doubt myself all over again – throwback to my college year’s teacher motto “Monitor and Adjust”! Still, I am breathing a sigh of relief to be walking through the year with a new mindset and a hopeful perspective. I am holding onto the belief that my contentment and hope are coming from above and not from any circumstantial happiness.

Pictures my Chinese teacher sent me as our class completed a Chinese holiday themed scavenger hunt around the school.

Here I work with a Chinese classmate (who is also one of my English students) to complete our scavenger hunt questions.

My English classes are focused and familiar. Meanwhile, the Fundamentals of Performing Arts course (FOPA) is bringing me so much joy and learning! Just this past week my students had a “mini-unit” final where they took blank scenes and crafted them into stories featuring full lighting and sound cues. It’s been so fun to get behind the scenes and expand my knowledge and experience when it comes to theatre tech. I’m really loving this class. There is something so freeing about being a learner alongside my students. I get to play more of the role of “The Karate Kid” Mr. Miyagi, rather than being a strict professor – possessor of all the knowledge – I’m getting to challenge the students, practice and learn alongside them, then watch with pride from the sidelines as they become masters of the craft we both love. It’s really awesome.

Hand cut GOBO for stage lights, designed by a student.

Student work from our Technical Theatre Unit.

...I wonder over my fellowship's future

If you’ve been following my life in China over the past few years, you are aware that one of my favorite things about living in Qingdao is the fellowship I have become a part of here. I have been faithfully attending a Korean fellowship here for two years this October. I love my fellowship. I have been mentored through this fellowship. I became of member and completed their “one-to-one” discipleship program. I have been so welcomed and loved by this gathering of Brothers and Sisters. I was heartbroken to learn a couple weeks ago that local administration has told the fellowship leaders that they are no longer allowed to w0rship as a foreign fellowship. They are putting pressure on the congregation to relocate, but have made it clear that any landlords who give the fellowship space to meet will face severe fines and risk imprisonment. This puts the fellowship in a very difficult decision. The rumor is that we will be forced out by the end of September and, as of the time I write this, the locations that they are looking into relocating to are over an hour away from where I live. There is also a chance that the fellowship will no longer be able to provide English translation services, making it impossible for me to attend. At first, I felt really heartbroken about the situation, but to be honest, I probably should be surprised it didn’t happen sooner. Still, I know that my Father knew this would happen and He has given me encouragement to know that whatever happens, it will bring glory and good. I ask that you remember this situation (and the many Brothers and Sisters impacted due to this enforced restriction by the powers that be) in your thoughts.

I recently received a certificate for complete a 10 week one-to-one discipleship training. My roommate came to celebrate with me.

...I basically compete in the Amazing Race,
but with no million dollar prize

I am leading a middle school fall trip next week (September 24 - 27). It is a new trip that will take our 8th grade students along the east coast of Shandong Province, visiting cities like Yantai and Weihai. Being the trip leader meant that I had to complete a pre-trip safety walk through. Basically, we must physically visit and walk through all locations, complete risk assessments, get health/safety certificates from locations, and analyze for safety and security. This is a really important step in leading overnight trips with students, but was even more important for this year as this trip is brand new. Two weeks ago, one of my national coworkers (you all remember J? I was a bridesmaid in her wedding this summer) and I travelled to different locations in four different cities in less than 31 hours to complete a safety pre-trip. Have you ever watched the television show “The Amazing Race”? My family loved to watch that show together growing. I pretty much felt like I was in that show. We took a train to Yantai, sprinted to make it on board with minutes to space, then took a taxi from site to site, resting in the car, then running and rushing through locations to complete the safety checklist. I feel like I held up well throughout the craziness despite the fact that every time we got in the taxi and had to travel anywhere from 30 minutes to 1 hour to a new location I fell asleep. When we got to the next location, I was up and ready. We even did one of those crazy “movie moments” where we rented a taxi for an entire day! He drove us to a location, we ran in, he kept the car running outside until we sprinted back and jumped in, then he drove us to the next location. It was totally wild, but a new and exciting adventure that I was happy to share with J.

As the trip comes up, I ask you to lift up the students, safety, and connections made throughout the trip. Also, my Father has really encouraged me to share the Good News with the students in a big way during this trip. Please think of hearts, open doors and the transforming power that brings life.

Selfie in the back of the cab around hour 21, headed to location 4!

Celebrating finishing our last location with ice cream! Hour 27.

Hour 29, waiting for our train home to Qingdao.

...I read the Good Book

Achieving a strong and wonderful habit of daily personal devotions is something that I am grateful my Father helped me finally acquire since moving to China. Recently, I have been reading through the first 16 chapters of the book of L-viticus. The Old Testam-nt, admittedly, has never been a firm part of my spiritual understanding. I hope it’s okay that I admit that. In my first two years of living in China I read through the entire New Testam-nt. I must also confess that when I started reading L-viticus most of my notes and comments were a lot of “What?”, “Why?”, “This is so repetitive/weird/confusing?”, and “How can this possibly relate to modern day believers?” However, as I read more and came to understand that the book actually teaches a lot more about JC than we may realize (especially the significance of his role as the High Priest), I was really touched by a number of different aspects of the book. I would love the opportunity to share both with you.

When commanding Moses and Aaron how the many different sacrifices are to be made before Him who sits on the alter a repeated phrase is that the burned offerings will create “a pleasing aroma to the L-rd.” This repeated phrase has bounced around my mind a lot over the past few weeks. We all understand what an aroma is. When someone walks by with a tray of freshly baked cookies, we all know the deliciousness that fills our nostrils and ignites our salivary glands. In the same way that I know when my class has had P.E. class right me because I can smell them long before I walk into the classroom. I’ve been asking myself, what would it look like to live a life right now that is 'an aroma pleasing to' my Father? How would the people around me be impacted by a life lived with that purpose?

The second thing that stood out to me about the Father’s commands given to the Jews the scapegoat ritual (16:1-34). Can you talk about how powerful the symbolism of the scapegoat is? One goat is killed as punishment and payment for the sins of the people. The other goat is released into the wild, to walk freely. I have dwelled for days on my relationship between the scarified goat and the scapegoat. It is humbling. It is horrible and beautiful at the same time. Am I living my life like I recognize that power of both of those truths? It is a responsibility of faith in my mind. It is a challenge and a new perspective of myself and Him that has given me True Life.

...I have some final thoughts

I’m as busy as ever, with lots to be thankful for in life. Though I have been battling a cold and had a small, but painful ankle injury this week, I know things are far from slowing down this semester. I covet all your thoughts and heaven-sent hopes to continue racing faithfully and living in obedience with hope and love.
I’d love to hear from you, be sure to comment below or send an email to sarahssaga@gmail.com. Blessings!

A few weeks ago, I traveled with friends to visit one of Qingdao's biggest tourist attractions: The Tsingtao Beer Museum. Built in the 1920s, when the German's occupied the city, it is now considered China's largest export brand. The museum teaches about how Qingdao has developed throughout history from being a fishing village, to a German outpost, followed by a Japanese naval base until China took it back in 1945. The city has been through a lot of change and cultural development and it was really cool to learn more at the museum.

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CHINA Year 3: The Girl Is Back

8/24/2019

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I’m back!
Back in China!
Back to school!
Back with writing!

After a whirlwind summer, I was off to a busy start for the 2019-2020 school year. I arrived back in country on August 3rd with no issues through my travels. PTL. On August 5th, in-service week started and it was full days and busy nights. A week of prep, meetings, and a lot of dusting, redecorating, and rearranging in offices and classrooms alike. Reuniting with friends and meeting new. There wasn’t much time to process my summer.

I helped film & run tech in the auditorium for in-service week!

It had been emotional and a little heartbreaking to say goodbye to my family and my Benji boy after a long summer with them close. Life in America felt so “easy” in certain ways and I cherished the over 6,000 miles I traveled during my time in the States. However, once I arrived back in China, I found myself relieved to be back in a place that felt familiar and a little more like home than I when I left.

It was great to catch up with friends and hear about their summers. New staff have arrived steadily and we’re all getting used to the new dynamic that fresh personalities bring. I told people all summer that the school year was going to look really different for me this time around. I tried not to have too many expectations (impossible) and keep a positive outlook on all the change. New staff, new principals, new scheduling, new courses, and so much more! Here are the highlights!

An activity to turn the feelings you hope for into verbs (actions)

BACK TO SCHOOL

I have one 6th grade English class (24 students) and two 7th grade English classes (13 & 16 students). It’s so great to be back teaching the same kiddos and watch them grow and mature. I’m looking forward to a year of English with these classes.

Also, for the first time, I am teaching a high school Fine Arts course. The class is a year-long study titled, “Fundamentals of Performing Arts” (or as I’m lovingly calling it FOPA). It is a course I’m building on my own (with the help of a number of online resources, my own experience, and co-workers). Units of study include Theatre Tech, Improv and Black Box Theatre, Solo Performance, Musical Theatre, and Directing and Acting. We’ve only had 4 classes so far, but I am absolutely loving teaching this course! It is my pr-y-r that my Father will use this course in ways I can’t even imagine. I’m learning right with the students and am adoring the learning I’m doing and feeling the excitement to pass on that learning.

I’m also having an opportunity to build relationships with my middle school students through a new FLEX time that has built into our schedule for the first time this year. We’ll be doing some fun activities like learning how to knit and cross-stitch. It’s not middle school theatre, but I recognize the opportunity I’ve been given.

My P. Requests when it comes to school is for time, on Tuesday/Thursday/Fridays I teach back to back classes from 8-1 and then go to my own Chinese class at 2:15… somewhere in there is a 15 minute break and lunch. I’m still figuring out my schedule, but this past week I felt like I had no time to breathe, much less check email, grade, or plan. I’m hoping that a routine will come with time and I’ll stay motivated and productive. I also would like g-dly wisdom in relationships with coworkers and heavenly guidance with leadership opportunities I am taking on/have been given.

Meet the Teacher

First Day of School

BACK TO THE BEACH

Can you believe I’ve lived in Qingdao (known as a tourist destination for it's beaches and beer) for almost three years and just last weekend was the first time I went swimming in the Yellow Sea? I live a ten minute walk from the beach and have been down countless times, but this was the first I had actually gone in the water to swim. Not only did I have an opportunity to swim, but also I’m learning to surf. By learning to surf I mean I’m learning how to fall off a surfboard. Some of my coworkers from South Africa have been giving me the opportunity to try out their surfboard/paddleboards. At the moment I only have bruises and sore muscles to show for it, but maybe it’ll be a cool thing I learn to prove that I’ve lived by the beach for three years. We’ve had some gorgeous days of sunshine and clear air, so I’m trying to make the most of it before winter comes.

Clear Qingdao skies last weekend

BACK TO RUNNING

Few of you probably know that I was a member of my high school’s cross country team back in the day. I wasn’t great, but I really appreciated all the sport taught me about myself. Through the discovery of an app (Nike Run Club), I have totally fallen in love with running again. NRC has “live” coached runs and helps you track growth, progress, health, and workout routines. So far, I’m loving it. My PR for this would be continued joy in being proactive about my health, but also avoiding injury (a few of you will remember when I started running again last summer I ended up with severe soft tissue damage and was on crutches for a while).

BACK TO THE MOUNTAINS

This morning, my roommate Grace and I got up at 4:30 and hiked up Mount Fu behind our house. It was so fun to get “away” from the city and into the forest. We enjoyed a cloudy sunrise of color and chatted while passing German mountain bunkers and caves. I love Qingdao and I adore every opportunity I have to explore the things that make it beautiful and unique.

BACK TO THE BEST BUDS

I’ve enjoyed reuniting with friends, both furry and not. I’m thankful for the support and love I’ve found in Qingdao. PTL for no coincidences and His perfect timing!

I couldn't ask for a better office mate/roommate/coworker. Love this gal.

I was so happy to reunite with the best boy in China: Oliver! Love him.

FINAL THOUGHTS ON BEING BACK

Today is actually the third year anniversary of my arrival in China. August 25, 2017. I can’t believe it. I made a comment in a staff meeting the other day that I’m not necessarily an “long-timer” when it comes to being around… a few people I consider long timers came to me after the meeting and said I was wrong. Year 3 and beyond constitutes the title of “Long-timer”. Haha. I guess I am.

So, you know what? PTL for that, too. That’s a pretty cool thing to celebrate. When I look at life right now I feel really good and thankful. I don’t want to be a person of circumstantial joy. I am trying my best to recognize blessings, and walk through hurts with thanksgiving in my heart… seeing the opportunities to grow and learn apart from doubt and fear. Thanks for joining me on another year in China! We’re back!

Hiking selfie outtake

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CHINA Year 2: My First Chinese Wedding

7/14/2019

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On June 10th I had the privilege of serving as a bridesmaid in the bridal party of my friend J in Qingdao. I was so honored when she asked me to be in her wedding. She was actually the first national friend I made when moving to China. I had been in country for 2 months when we ended up being week-long roommates as chaperones on a middle school trip around Shandong Province. Therefore, my first impressions of China, and my many questions in regards to those impressions, were kindly answered and enlightened by J.

Last year, I used to ride the bus home from school with her and was excited when she first talked about reuniting with a former classmate – now her husband – through a school safety trip to Shanghai.

PREPARATION AS A BRIDESMAID

My roommate Grace and I were both asked to be bridesmaids and had fun preparing for the wedding together. Some of the hilarity of the wedding lies in getting our bridesmaids dresses.

When I saw the pictures of the dresses I told J, “I don’t know if that dress is going to fit me. You must remember that I do not have an Asian body.”(read: There’s a lot more of me to fit into clothes than you find on your average Asian girl, haha). J assured me it was no problem and she would order me the largest size dress. I ended up trying on an Chinese dress marked at 3XL… (a humbling reminder to me that size should not determine happiness), but I found myself a little worried when it was too small! This is why when I visit America I spend a lot of money on clothes. It’s feels impossible to find things that fit me in China. The 3XL was sent back and I ended up wearing a Chinese 5XL!

REFLECTION: I share this story, first because I think it’s kind of hilarious. I’m definitely not a tiny, but imagining I would ever wear a 5XL… it’s all about perspective and I feel it’s a good lesson to share. What do clothing sizes even mean? I see my students (and to be honest adult women in my life as well) who put a lot of their confidence and identity in what size dress or pants they wear. It’s a number that doesn’t really mean anything. What matters is being healthy and taking care of the physical body that the Father has given to you. I share this story second to give you an insight into just another unique occurrence in my life as a foreigner in China.

Now to the wedding!

THE REHEARSAL

The rehearsal was what you would expect. Figuring out who would enter when and stand where, the order of the ceremony, etc. However, when some of the logistics were being decided I ended up having a conversation with some of J’s friends (they spoke English). One of the girls asked me about my beliefs on marriage. She herself revealed she didn’t believe that a marriage that lasts was possible. I found myself sharing that the reason J and her fiancé are making the commitment to one another isn’t just about love and romance, but based on a shared spiritual foundation that I also believe. I was able to give her insight on this good news and felt humbled that my Father had perhaps called me to be at this late night wedding rehearsal perhaps in order for this conversation alone to happen. I ask you to remember this girl in your thoughts* as I feel she was really curious how someone could truly believe in a marriage that lasts based on these principles.

WEDDING MORNING

The morning of the wedding was the most fun. Grace and I arrived at the hotel (the bridal party and a majority of the guests stayed in the hotel that night) in our bridesmaids gowns at around 7 AM. J had been up since 4 AM preparing.

Most Chinese weddings are held in hotels (due to their being very few ch-rch buildings in China – the ones that do exist being run by the reigning powers). I attended the rehearsal dinner at a restaurant around the corner from the hotel that was hosting the wedding. We had a very traditional Shandong meal with lots of variety of meats (mainly types of fish, oysters, and mussels) with some steamed vegetable sizes such as celery, cauliflower, and cabbage. The dinner was filled with people (not just immediate family and bridal party) as the bride and groom organize the dinner for all friends and family who are attending the wedding from out-of-town. We then went to the hotel to rehearse for the wedding. J and her fiancé had a wedding party of seven bridesmaids and groomsmen each.

A Chinese bride will wear many dresses on her wedding, having anywhere from 3-6 outfit changes throughout the day.

A Chinese bride will typically start out in a traditional red Qipao dress on the morning of her wedding. Red is a lucky color in China, representing happiness, love, honor, etc. Qipaos will also be decorated with gold designs in the hopes of bringing the couple future wealthy. J wore a gorgeous 3 piece headpiece on her head that are usually worn by a bride in a Chinese wedding.

The bridesmaids posed for photographs with J. Then J was situated on the bed in her hotel room. After a while all her friends and family show up and crowd into this tiny hotel room. The bridesmaids were asked to hide her shoes somewhere in the room (more on that shortly). Then all the friends and family stand in the doorway of the room blocking the way of the groom and groomsmen when they arrive at the door to “pick up” the bride. Upon the grooms’ arrival, the friends and family being to grill the groom with questions!

Children asked questions like, “Who are you?” and “Why are you here?” To which the groom replied, “I am here for love!” Then the brides friends and family asked questions like, “Who will wash the dishes?” and “Who will do the cooking?”. Then came the more personal questions in which the groom is having to “prove” himself worthy of the bride. “What is the bride’s favorite verse?”, “What is the bride’s love language?”, “What is your favorite thing about the bride?”, “What is the bride’s favorite thing about her job?”, the questions went on and on. Some of the friends and family gave the groom challenges to complete! “15 push-ups!”, “Sing the bride a love song!”

Meanwhile, J was sitting out of sight inside the room listening to his answers. If she didn’t like an answer she could make him elaborate or do the challenge better. J teased her husband-to-be by telling him his singing was bad. If the groom “fails” a question or challenge, his groomsmen are there to help him out. When J told him his singing was bad the groomsmen got beside the groom and sang a song together with him until J approved it. This time was full of a lot of laughter, but also provided a heartfelt insight into the couples love and connection. I was told in some other Chinese weddings the groom even brings little red packets (of money) to pretend to “bribe” the friends and family into letting him through to reach the bride.

Finally, the groom reached his bride sitting on the bed. Except! The bride cannot be married because, as you heard earlier, her shoes have gone missing! The groomsmen scour through the room trying to find the brides shoes so that she can be married. One shoe was found inside a lampshade. The other was on top of a the high hotel curtain rods. The groomsmen lifted up one of the men in order to be able to reach it. It was so funny to see these grown men running around looking for the shoes like a childhood game of hide and seek. Finally, the groom was able to put the shoes on his bride and lift her off the bed. The wedding could now begin!

BUT! The bride had to change into her second outfit now! J’s second outfit was a traditional white wedding dress. She looked like a princess. The ceremony began, not too different from what you would expect in a western wedding.

The bridal party marches in. A group of flower girls and boys come down the aisle (all children of J’s international co-workers at our school) and two of them carried a sign that said in English “Here comes the bride”. J was then escorted down the aisle by her mother (J’s father passed away when she was young). The rest of the ceremony included a message from J’s fellowship leader, a choir made up of brothers and sisters whom she fellowships with, words of encouragement from married friends who the couple look up to, vows by the couple and the exchanging of rings. The wedding itself was mostly in Chinese, but a few parts were translated into English for the many foreign friends J had in attendance.

Two “differences” in the ceremony included a moment when the groom and bride honored their parents by performing a ritual tea ceremony and verbally thanked their parents for investing in them and preparing them for this life step. The bride and groom also opted to perform a duet together at the wedding and sing a spiritual song about the Father’s love. It was lovely and such a unique, personal touch to the wedding.

After the ceremony, there was time for attendees to take pictures with the newly married couple. Then J was off to change into her next dress before the wedding banquet. The wedding banquet, catered especially for friends and family from out of town, welcomed any and all guests with a great feast of all different foods.

It was a really special experience to get to share in J and her husband’s special day. I loved witnessing the Father’s presence in their joining together. The cultural experience of the day was so much fun and I learned a lot about the way the Chinese value family and in all things hope to honor those people who have invested in their lives. I’d like to get better at that. I hope you will keep J and her new husband in your thoughts as they begin to live out their lifelong commitment and seek to follow in the path of JC, setting an example to those around them, as well as, future generations.

Thanks for reading!
I hope you enjoyed what will be my last "CHINA Year 2" Blog!
Coming up: South Africa, Summer in the USA, & CHINA Year 3!

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CHINA Year 2: Closing Out the School Year

6/21/2019

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ISQ's Secondary English Department (18-19)

Nothing Says Hurricane like the End of the School Year

After “Robin Hood” ended in mid-May the school year propelled itself like a hurricane toward its conclusion. I could barely catch my breath with the rush of final projects, final preparation, clean-up, class parties, end of the year events, such as awards ceremonies, Fine Arts Galas, and graduations (not to mention I celebrated my 28th birthday!).

My favorite birthday "tradition", eating Dak Galbi (Korean spicy chicken stir fry) with some of my favorite ladies!

With the end of another school year, I find myself once again saying goodbye to friends and co-workers. In both my departments (English and Fine Arts), I am one of only two people staying through this year. Last year, my departments were basically untouched by the leaving season. This year, it’s everyone except me and one other person (The English Department is made up of 5 people and Fine Arts has about 6 full time staff). It will certainly be another year of change and transition next year. Our school, just as they did last year, is once again getting a whole new administrative team… which has me both nervous and hopeful.

For Middle School Fun Day this year we celebrated International Day! It was a day filled with global food, friends, and a flag ceremony for every country represented in our students and teachers!

I am most sad to say goodbye to my English Department Head. He has been a mentor and friend for the two years I’ve been in China. His children are some of my favorite people to spend time with and his wisdom and guidance in the department will be missed greatly. Surprisingly (but I guess not surprisingly for those who have lived the expat life), with the exit of so many staff members this year, next year I will be the “longest” remaining staff member in the English Department. It’s amazing how in two years you can go from being the new kid in the class to the one “in the know”.

My roommate Grace has been such a blessing in my life this school year. She is a gift from G-d to me!

Celebrating finishing our one day turn around for grading our 8th Grade English Final exams!

One big change I know is awaiting me next year is the loss of Middle School Theatre. I was told in March, pretty suddenly, that the upcoming administrative team was making some major changes to scheduling and staffing when it comes to the secondary program. A long story short… I was told that my middle school theatre program was being cut from the middle school curriculum. The schedule made it impossible for me to teach the class and my department head was against going fully extracurricular. Needless to say, I was absolutely devastated by the decision. I chose to come to Qingdao because I wanted to do middle school theatre. I can teach English Language Arts anywhere in the world, but I felt called to reach middle school students (the community that surrounds them) through the opportunity of Middle School Theatre. Whilst I understand the decision based on a desire to not burn out our staff with responsibilities (we’re a small school accomplishing a lot of things that giant schools do), it was honestly the most heartbreaking outcome of this school year for me. The admin gave me an option to teach only middle school English Language Arts or to teach ELA in combination with a fundamentals Theatre course at the high school level. I said yes, of course, as I have really discovered how much theatre means to me… despite the excitement about this class, I am really grieving the loss of middle school theatre.

My best boy, Oliver :)

Due to this major change and my conviction that the L-rd called me to Qingdao to min-ster to students through the platform of acting and drama, I have changed my contract to one year (ending in June 2020). I don’t know what the L-rd has in mind for me, but despite my feeling of loss I am working hard to be positive and move forward with this high school class with enthusiasm and passion. I have named the class FOPA, Fundamentals of Performing Arts. The vision is that through this year long class we will study everything from spoken word performance, poetry, monologues, pantomime, scene cuttings, musical theatre and dance, improv, to Blackbox theatre. Though the course is not performance based (there will be no big show this year), my department head and I are hopeful to take these performances to the streets and stage during the school day. My department head, and friend reminded me, “G-d calls us to be faithful in the little things, so that when we show our commitment He will then give us the opportunity to be faithful in even greater things.” I am holding onto this as I mourn. As of right now I have five students enrolled in the high school course, all of them are 10th graders who during my first year in China were 8th grade students involved in “The Jungle Book”. That was comforting to me.

Which department has the quirkiest people? The ISQ Fine Arts Department (missing some people) 2017-2019

The Seasons Change

I really love Qingdao. If I haven't said that enough this year with all the craziness, I want to say it right now. I never could have imagined I'd love living in a city of millions of people between the mountains and the ocean, but I really love my city. I didn't get out much with my camera this year, but my goal for next year is to take as many pictures as I can of this breathtaking city. To be honest though, I do prefer Qingdao during spring, summer, and fall over winter. That ocean wind just chills me to the bone. I am happy to enjoy my final days in this glorious weather before heading to the sunny Carolinas!

Qingdao began putting on spring.

Warm winds returned with the summer.

Reflecting on the 2018-2019 School Year

I want to take a quick moment to reflect on this year in its entirety. The beautifully good, the painfully bad, and the imperfectly in between.

This year, I learned that I could do things I only dreamed I could do, things like writing a script or trusting and obeying G-d even when it seemed like everyone and everything was against me.
This year I learned that I have a long way to go when it comes to not being crushed by criticism and rejection. I need to build the foundations of my self-worth not on what other people tell me they see or think of me, but instead my value should be found in the fact that in J-sus’ eyes I am already enough.
This year I completed a one-to-one discipleship program with a mentor from my fellowship in China. The entire process was a comfort and a challenge for me to grow in my faith and be bold in sharing the Hope I have.
I learned that G-d doesn’t promise me an easy path. He doesn’t guarantee me any amount of happiness or worldly success. He does promise me that He will be with me and I will not be overcome.
I grew to realize that it’s okay to tell people you need prayer. That there are a lot of people out there willing and eager to know how they can pray for you. It’s also okay… not to be okay.
I learned the hard lesson that you can’t win people over with your own passion and enthusiasm. You can just do your best to follow the path you feel G-d has called you to… and there will likely be opposition.
I am thankful this year for the my support team in China. The friends who will cry with me and give me words of hope and encouragement even when I am beyond reason with anger, hurt, and doubt. I am thankful for friends who don’t give up on the people they love. I am thankful that even 5,000 miles away from my family, I feel like I have people who are family and who love me despite my flaws.
The 2018-2019 school year may have been my most challenging yet, but the L-rd remained faithful to me and I know that He has a plan for me. Also, one of my professor’s at university once said, “The hardest years of teaching are the first five. If you can survive those, you can survive it all.” Happy 5th Year of Teaching to me! Here’s a toast to year 6 and beyond!

ISQ's Graduating Class of 2019!

Oliver waiting for me outside a local coffee shop. The love.

Upcoming Events

I am now preparing to be a bridesmaid in my friend’s wedding. My friend, we’ll call her J, is the first Chinese friend I made when I moved to Qingdao. I feel so blessed and honored that she has asked me to stand beside her on her special day. I am also super excited to be able to share with you all about some wedding traditions in China!

The day after the wedding I will head back to the USA for my first summer home in two years. I will be traveling up and down the east coast for the course of my seven weeks "home". I hope to get to see many of you (but also rest and get some much longed for Benji time). Send me an email at sarahssaga@gmail.com if you are interested in reaching out!

Love and blessings, friends!
Thank you for reading through another year with me!

The Peek kids gave me stickers for my birthday! We all decided to wear our ages on our forehead... good luck figuring out how old little Henry is!

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CHINA Year 2: Robin Hood, A Hard-won Bullseye!

5/17/2019

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DIRECTOR’S NOTE
(featured in the show playbill)
By: S.D. Manning

In the opening scene of our tale, Robin’s father tells him, “You must learn that often the easy path is not the right path.” When I wrote those words, I didn’t realize how many times, throughout the course of this semester, I would be confronted by challenges that made me wonder whether or not I truly believed them.

Usually one might start a director’s note by explaining how it was decided that Robin Hood’s story would be the focus of this spring’s performance. The truth is, I didn’t choose Robin Hood for middle school theatre. No, I was minding my own business when the outlaw himself chased me down, pinned me to the ground, held an arrow to my throat, and refused to release me until I agreed to tell his story. In the end, he gave me no choice. He wanted to be in Qingdao and come into ISQ’s Middle School Theatre. And so, here we stand.

Truthfully, not long after last year’s show, I found myself thinking of Robin Hood. I’d grown up with his story and had always been touched by it. Was it possible to find a stage adaptation? I mean, what’s not to love about his tale? The Middle Ages are overflowing with exciting components: sword fights, righteous outlaws, evil princes, grand romances, thrilling tournaments, and the mystery that encompasses a legend. There was no small number of scripts that sought to flash those iconic scenes across the stage. Yet, with each one I read I still felt unsatisfied. I realized I had a profound need for Robin’s story to embrace something deeper, something more meaningful. A man doesn’t risk his life, become and outlaw, and defy the crown simply for a good laugh, does he? I believe not.

When I began writing this adaptation of Robin’s life, I started off with a simple question. I wanted to figure out what motivated Robin to become the legendary hero we know and love. As a result, I instead found myself puzzled by more questions. What does it look like to stand up in the defense of others? What does it mean to do the right thing? What are the risks? What creates a cause? What is commitment? What makes something worthy of our passion? How does what I choose to do with my life impact others? The questions flowed out of my heart and brain and somehow made it to the page.

Amidst these many questions, I determined to write a script that contained all the qualities I love in a story. Flawed heroes, strong women, suspense-filled fights, selfless friendships and finales where good triumphs over evil. I wrote in the hopes that the students of ISQ would be touched and feel empowered by the message they were sharing with the world.

With all this adventure on mind, I discovered that the key to my many questions first lay with Robin’s father. I want to do the right thing regardless of the risks. It is my hope to live with integrity, passion, and faith. Mostly, it is my prayer to set a good example for the generations to come – recognizing that I may never live to see the incredible impact my actions have on others. Despite that, I hold onto a promise that my time on this earth is a small part of something bigger. Robin’s story preaches that a humble act of kindness, love, and friendship are strengths not built from things such as wealth, power, or popularity. They are from a heart of selflessness.

Thank you for joining us for this adventure in Sherwood Forest. May you go forward to traverse the difficult path in order to bless the lives of others. May you stand in the strength that comes from walking selflessly while speaking Truth.

ISQ's MIDDLE SCHOOL THEATRE PRESENTS
ROBIN HOOD PHOTO HIGHLIGHTS

DIRECTOR MOMENTS

BEHIND THE SCENES

REHEARSAL PHOTOS

ON STAGE

WHEN THE CURTAIN FALLS:
REFLECTIONS ON ROBIN HOOD

It’s been a week since our production of “Robin Hood” has come to an end. Five months of hard work and long hours filled with stress, doubt, failure, and of course, many, many tears completed in three action filled days. I don’t feel like I’ve truly processed, but standing on the other side I find myself feeling thankful, grateful, and unable to fully understand all that my Father did through this show.

What can I say about the show? It was awesome. It was challenging. There’s something so special about seeing months of effort finally be experienced and appreciated by hundreds of people. It’s incredible to see my students come alive on stage. Students I’ve pushed, challenged, fought with and laughed alongside own the stage. Students that I feel I have truly grown with and been changed by. I love these young actors and actresses so much.

In my ‘final’ speech to my cast and crew before our closing performance, I told them, “Guys, I know that you know that this semester has been really hard for all of us. I know that you know that Miss Manning has really had a difficult time getting through these past weeks. There were days when I wanted to walk away and give up. As we stand here I want you to know that there have been only two things that kept me from quitting. The first thing is the L-rd. He’s been good to me. The second thing is you guys.”

There were times during the preparation of this performance when I wondered if we would even have a show at the end of it… and yet, deep down I felt confident that I serve a faithful Father. Though I was afraid to voice my confidence, I felt it. I serve a G-d who – having showed me His will in the adaptation of this book and performance – would come through and bring about His glory through every hardship and trial.

As director, playwright, and leader of “Robin Hood”, I find myself grateful to have been chosen, no – trusted with the responsibility of being the Father’s tool in this transformative story.

My biggest takeaway is this, it’s hard to be obedient to the L-rd. It’s even harder to trust in that obedience when faced with challenges, trials, and struggles. I lacked faith many times. I became angry. I doubted and I wanted to turn away from the Father, but He didn’t give up on me. He kept pouring his words and spirit into the words of the people around me, both those beside me and those thousands of miles away.

Our students performed for over 600 students, staff, and community members during our three official performances. People raved about so many things: The set, the costumes, the actors… each time people told me I did my best to give a humble thank you and then immediately send up a pr-y-r praising the L-rd that it had been His will to do this. I’ll be honest, the comment that meant the most to me, was when audience members acknowledged of the show’s principal message. A story of selflessness, sacrifice, and doing the right thing no matter what the risk. Obedience in the face of obstruction, rejection and dismissal brings about miracles, blessings, and unexpected conclusions.

PR-Y-R REQUESTS

My follow-up Pr-y-r Request are as follows:

Finishing the school year well
Starting on the path to getting the “Robin Hood” script published.

Thank you to all of you who pr-yed for me or sent me messages after my last post. I was afraid to be vulnerable and honest in that way, but now, I am grateful to have had so many people rally to pray for me. I am currently writing this blog this sitting in a coffee shop nearby my house, as Oliver—who accompanied my over by choice—lays outside the doorway waiting for me to emerge. I can’t help, but wonder if this loving stray dog was sent to remind me that no matter how much we fail in our own true loyalty to G-d, He remains faithful through all circumstances and situations. It is as comforting as it is terrifying to realize that nothing I ever do can make me worthy of that sort of devotion. I just say thank you and try and live my life today with more faithful obedience than I did yesterday.

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CHINA Year 2: Spring Break Update

4/7/2019

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This past week has been our spring break and I am exceedingly grateful for the time off of work. Below are some of the things I've been up to over my break.

Maidao Island

Along the coast of Qingdao city is an islet called Maidao (This "dao" is the same 岛 in Qingdao 青岛and it means island). Maidao used to be a somewhat barren, unused area that has been recently renovated with paths and flowerbeds that create a beautiful park overlooking part of the city coastline. I enjoyed an afternoon picnic and wander with some friends on my first day of break.

Paintball

A group of expats (made up of current and former colleagues and their families) met up for a game of paintball. I’ve never played paintball before, but it was both exhilarating, challenging, and painful. I have more than a few bruises on my legs to show for getting shot, but the game itself was a lot of fun. Three of my students (children of my colleagues) were along and it was fun for them to target me as their teacher. Nothing gets your adrenaline pumping like trekking around a wooded hillside, dodging bullets, and aiming to shoot rival team members who could be waiting around any corner.

One thing a little weird (but hilariously “China”) was that we were playing paintball in the middle of an open park. So, at any point in the game we may have to stop and freeze when an innocent old couple or young family would go walking through on a footpath in the middle of our game. A liability that would never stand in the USA, but somehow we managed to play and not injure any unsuspecting park-goers (though one lady was definitely was displeased at being caught in the crossfire when it interrupted her afternoon dance).

Hospital Visit

I ended up spending one morning and afternoon in the hospital with a close friend who was visiting me. She fainted during a routine bloodwork procedure at the international hospital in town. The doctors were concerned about the reason for her fainting and asked me to come in and stay with her while she had some tests done on her brain and heart. Thankfully everything checked out as normal and we were able to leave the hospital together that afternoon. I contemplated how the L-rd had managed my plans so that I would be available that day to be with her at the hospital. Being in the hospital is no fun, but it’s even less fun in a foreign country with no family and limited friends. I am thankful I was able to be there for her that day. Please be uplifting this friend as she continues to face some physical challenges in her daily life.

Game Night

My roommate and I hosted a game night with some friends. We had lots of laughs playing games like “Guesstures” and “Codenames”. My roommate brought back some chocolate from her recent visit to Japan. ROYCE’ Chocolate is identified by some people as the best chocolate in the world. It is so exclusive that it can only be bought in the Duty Free section of Japanese airports. Listen, I’m not chocolate connoisseur, but I do think that this chocolate somewhat ruins all other chocolates I’ve ever tried.
We had four countries represented in the seven friends at game night. China, America, Slovakia, and Korea! It's so fun to have friends from all over the world!

Weifang Day Trip

I was privileged enough to go with two families from school on a day trip to the city of Weifang in Shandong Province. Many of you may remember that I have traveled to Weifang twice before on our school’s seventh grade fall trip (see previous blogs). We visited the Wexian Internment Camp and the Eric Liddell Memorial, as well as, the Weifang Kite Museum in the World Capital of Kites. We had a delicious Korean BBQ lunch. It was wonderful to get “family” time in with beloved friends and their children.

Kite Flying

I bought a handmade, hand-painted kite from the Kite Museum. My roommate and I returned to Maidao Island to try it out. It was Grace’s first time flying a kite and the wind was perfect! It brought back a lot of memories I have of flying kites with my family as a child.

Other Spring Break Highlights

Movie watching, daily group yoga, archery practice, book reading, babysitting opportunities, and beachside walks beneath city lights. I enjoyed time with friends, as well as some unstructured alone time.

Window view from a seaside hotel.

Oliver, still my best bud.

Spring Break selfies with smiley little faces.

HOW ARE YOU?
and other questions that are hard to answer right now

The blog you just read was written over my Spring Break (March 30 - April 7). I had finished everything except this section. A section I usually title, "Pr-y-r Requests". It is now April 28th when I am finally writing this section. I found myself stumped. I didn't know what I wanted to say or how I should write it...

The short answer is, "Guys, I am not okay." This semester has turned into one of the most difficult seasons of my life. I am so blessed here in China, I know this. I have a home, a good job, amazing opportunities, a loyal support system, and a life so blessed some people can't even imagine. That's probably why I find myself feeing it guilty to admit that I am disheartened, discontent, and really struggling right now. The simple conclusion is that I need pr-y-r desperately.

This semester (January on), I have faced battles in every portion of my life. Work, extracurricular, and personal relationships... you name it, it's been a trial. The theatrical show I am currently directing (an original adaptation of "Robin Hood") has been a nightmare to get off the ground - we open next week - May 9, 10, 11. I have come in conflict with people in my immediate circle due to a number of unfortunate circumstances and distressing situations. I have faced major personal crisis in response to false rumors and accusations. There are drastic changes coming to our school next year - including significant changes in scheduling that have resulted in the cutting of certain programs that are my greatest love - and change has always been something I've found difficult to face (kind of ironic coming from a TCK, I know). Meanwhile, an overwhelming sense of loneliness and being misunderstood whilst crawling through the messiness of having your coworkers, also be your community of friends and family (not to mention be the parents of some of your students) has pounded an enormous amount of energy and joy out of me. Honestly friends... the world is looking more than a little ugly from where I am standing at the moment.

My fa-th... while I tried to keep it strong amidst the hurt, hardship, and confusion... I have found to be far too easily weakened. The Father has been asking me, "Do you trust me?" I've come to face some truths to that question that haven't been easy. I feel a little as though as I have lost sight of my calling and my joy. I have the knowledge and the foundation, but my belief - and the action to live in response to that belief - is lacking. I am holding onto the hope that I serve a good G-d, but I am full of fears, insecurities and doubts. And so, I am calling on you, people who for some strange reason are reading this blog and invested in my life.

PLEASE PR-Y FOR ME. Not only for me though, but also for my school, my students, and at the present moment our middle school's production of "Robin Hood".

Thank you for waiting for an update. Thank you for your pr-y-rs. And thank you for following along on this written diary of honesty and imperfection.

Count it all joy, my brothers,
when you meet trials of various kinds,
for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness.
And let steadfastness have its full effect,
that you may be perfect and complete,
lacking in nothing.
James 1:2-4

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CHINA Year 2: Where Did You Go?

2/16/2019

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Where did you go?

I can answer this question in so many different ways.

Where did you go?

As in traveled? Since my last update blog, I have been to eight cities in China,
traveled inside three different continents, and moved to a new home!

Where did you go?

As in “Why haven’t you written more blogs?” Oh, well… I was travelling a lot in the fall, then I was sick, then I moved, then I was traveling again, then I was writing a book… I’m sorry!

How have six months gone by and I haven’t updated? Ah!

This school year has been unbelievably crazy. It was so unexpected, considering I imagined things would calm down as I settled into my life in China. However, my second year here has been more challenging and difficult than the first year for sure! The excuses I could make as a “newbie” are no longer valid and everything has moved away from being shiny and adventurous and now it’s just a little more mundane… on top of that, I still don’t have it all figured out and certain parts of life are still hard (grocery shopping is still the worst)…

Let's slow down though because I’m not trying to complain! I’m just recognizing how my circumstances have changed and this school year looks really different than last year. Nothing is quite the ‘normal’ I expected it to be. My responsibilities have grown and while I have flourished in commanding most of them, a few others have left me desperate and gasping for air. I didn’t mean to be so out of check with my blog, which honestly is really more like a journal for me, so here I am trying to get back into the swing with 2019!

(Some of you are like, “it’s already February, so that’s not 2019”, but I’ll have you know by the Lunar calendar we are only one week into 2019, so “Haha!”)

2018-2019 Highlights
(that have happened since we last "talked" properly)

SEPTEMBER 2018

1. I went on a week-long fall trip with our seventh grade students again this year. Two highlights of the trip were reaching the top of Mount Tai and going inside the museum of the Wexian Internment Camp.

2. I joined a local photographer’s club and went on a portrait outing in order to practice some photography skills. It was fun and I learned a lot from watching the technique and style used by others.

3. Did I ever mention that wild city hedgehogs are one of my favorite things about living in China? Seriously, catching these guys for a friendly hello is the best.

OCTOBER 2018

1. During our week-long October Holiday, I traveled to the city of Chengdu, China as a chaperone for a Youth Retreat geared toward our school's staff kids. I was able to camp out in a tent in the Chengdu Mountains and go hiking in southern China. My favorite part of the trip was singing around a bonfire at night and getting to know our guides from the tour company Extravagant Yak. Check out their website!

2. I also chaperoned a trip to Tianjin, China. Our sister school in Tianjin was hosting an MUN competition. For those of you who don’t know what MUN is, it stands for Model United Nations. The students debate and discuss real world events while playing representatives of different foreign countries. It’s really impressive to see these students putting in the time and research in order to think of ways to solve the world’s problems. The focus of this year’s MUN was technology and I enjoyed being a part of their growth and learning.

3. I began reading script adaptations of "Robin Hood" in order to pick one for my middle school spring show. I also did some hands-on prep at a local indoor archery range.

4. I got ridiculously sick during the middle of October and missed about a week of school due to fever, sneezing, coughing, the works... I know it was from overextending myself and all the travel I was doing (with more to come). Apparently, I'm bad at saying "No" when someone asks me to be a chaperone, haha. Thankfully, friends got me on some antibiotics and after a lot of rest I began to heal.

5. I celebrated the 1 year anniversary of attending a Korean fellowship here in Qingdao! I am really thankful for my fellowship family!

NOVEMBER 2018

1. In November, our school hosted a retreat for students in our school system throughout China. I was blessed lead a small theatrical portion of the weekend. I really enjoyed introducing some new skits that I had brought from my youth group drama club days! I think this weekend reminded me how my value is not found in how much other people do (or don’t) need me, but instead it comes from my Father. In a world full of global affirmation it can be hard to keep perspective on that.

2. November was also filled with rehearsals for the high school theatre’s performance of Louis Sachar’s “Sideways Stories from Wayside School”. I took on my role of director’s assistant and producer with vigor, but found myself quite overwhelmed and stressed during the shows prep. We are praising the L—d that the show itself had great success. The cast and crew were so comfortable and confident by the final performance that they just shined.

3. Spirit Week meant fun and memorable costumes for things like “Character Day”, “Hero Day”, “Wacky Day” and more! Any reason to dress up is a must for me!

4. Dog sitting for other expat families is such a blessing for my dog-sick soul. Missing my little Benji so much!

DECEMBER 2018

1. We don’t get snow days because it never stays long, but we do occasionally get enough to play in. I was excited to take my small group advisory class outside to play in the snow one cold morning!

2. I moved! I now have a new apartment and roommate here in Qingdao. My new roommate is also a TCK who is Korean by passport, but grew up with M parents in Thailand! We seem to get a long really well, which I am thankful for. I am also grateful that my move wasn't too extensive as I still live in the same complex. I just moved from building 12 to building 15. I must admit that the process of moving was still stressful… and doing it right before holiday break had me a mess.

3. Christmas festivities continued at school. From a school house caroling competition to our annual Christmas Fair the days were packed with holiday fun!

4. I held auditions for my spring show, “Robin Hood”. At the time, I still had not found a script. I had read about 10-12 scripts and hated them all. I was going on faith though that the Father had told me to do "Robin Hood" and he would provide the perfect script. I bought three additional scripts to read and had mailed them to my parents in the USA hoping that I would like one when I visited my family for Christmas… more on that later.

5. I did get to spend Christmas with my family. I was in the USA, for a total of 11 days and it was a complete whirlwind and not very restful. All the same, it was splendid to spend the first five or so days with all my siblings and my parents. The second half of the trip was just my parents and I (with Benji) and I spent quite a bit of time clothing shopping (something I haven’t done in over a year), getting new contacts/glasses, and other stateside necessities.

JANUARY 2019

1. I headed back to China on January 4th and started back to school on January 7th.

2. Upon return, we had three weeks of school where my Theatre class started with my cast and crew of "Robin Hood".
Now, I told you earlier that I was reading through scripts while I visited my parents. The bad news is that I hated all the scripts I had bought. Over 20 some Robin Hood adaptations and I couldn't find a single one I believed in. Long story short, I have come to discover that I am the type of director who has to believe in the message of a show in order to be able to do it. All the Robin Hood adaptations I read were either too mature for middle schoolers, were merely comedies meant to make people laugh, had weak female characters, or painted Robin Hood as this egotistical, cardboard cutout kind of hero.
I wanted to tell a story of Robin Hood that had themes of friendship, selflessness, courage, and I wanted a story that challenged my students to help those in need.
So, after bawling my eyes out to my mom the night before I flew back to China. I decided that I would still do a Robin Hood adaptation, but if I couldn't find the perfect script... I would write it myself (I know, it sounds as insane to me as it does to you.)
I wrote the initial draft in the two weeks back in school in January. (updates in February)

3. At the end of January, we were out of school again for another two weeks to celebrate Lunar New Year Holiday (Chinese New Year). My roommate and I travelled to South Africa together. It was my first time back on the continent of Africa after leaving Senegal when I was 12.

FEBRUARY 2019

1. After an amazing eight days in summery South Africa (of which I will write a much longer blog about soon), I returned to China ready to go back to work.

2. After a number of edits and adjustments the final draft of my “Robin Hood” script was given to my cast and crew on Thursday, February 14th (Happy Valentine’s Day!). I am thrilled and terrified to finally begin putting our show together. I never imagined being in my second year in China and writing my own show to stage. It is the L—d’s doing for sure, I just knew I felt called to do a “Robin Hood” adaptation… and when I couldn’t find one with the heart and message I wanted, I felt the Father telling me to do it myself. I’m really thankful for my coworkers here in China who pushed me and believed in me. It’s honestly, in my head, a total miracle that the 76 page script is complete.

I guess that leads me to Pr-y-r Requests ...

PR-Y-R REQUESTS

Please lift up our show. It is my pr-y-r that the message of "Robin Hood" touches the lives of the students and that my Father is glorified in its presentation. We have a lot of work to do!
I signed another contract! I can’t believe I’m already speeding toward the end of my second year working in China. On January 10th, I signed a second contract to stay in China for another two years (till 2021). I pr-y-d about it a lot and felt that the Father is not yet finished with me here. He has work He wants me to do and I am trying to be obedient to His call.
My Health (this is a constant battle, especially during the winter season as the pollution levels increase throughout China)
Motivation and productivity (Show season means my schedule is crazy busy and it’s hard to teach classes, be the director, continue learning Chinese, clean my house, oh and have a social life somewhere in there, too?)
Please lift up my students. It is my greatest desire to be a blessing to them for the kingdom. I’ve been feel discouraged in this area and want to take more time to lift them up regularly, recognizing that the Father has greater plans for each and every one of them than I could even imagine.
Staffing needs. Hiring season is beginning for international schools! With the end of the school year coming, the preparation to say goodbye to coworkers who are moving back to their home countries or going to other international schools begins. As a result, we are in need of more teachers! If you know anyone who may be interested in teaching in China, please feel free to give them my contact information and I’d be happy to answer questions and/or give insight into living abroad as an educator!

I hope this was a welcome update. Thank you for waiting around for me to reach out. I promise it won’t be this long before the next one! Blessings!

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Reflections: A Little Lot of Good

12/8/2018

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Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above,
coming down from the Father of lights,
with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.
James 1:17 (ESV)

Today was an exceptional day. I make this statement recognizing that it is only two o’clock in the afternoon and the day is hardly over, but I feel my heart is full of thankfulness today.

This morning I slept in until about 7:30 AM. I got out of bed and decided that after getting ready for fellowship, I would go to a coffee shop down the road to get some breakfast and caffeine before heading to fellowship.

On my way, I stopped to look for Oliver (the stray dog I befriended after moving here) and was delighted when instead of me finding him, he found me and greeted me with big wags and lots of begging for belly rubs. He and I then walked together to the coffee shop where I told him I was going inside and if he waited I would be right back out. I looked outside as I ordered my coffee and breakfast and saw Oliver laying down patiently in front of the coffee shop doorway. He waited for me until I came back out and together we shared a ham and cheese sandwich on the steps of the coffee shop. My first thought was, “Humans don’t deserve dogs. They are too good.” Then I realized it’s not that dogs are good, it is that He, my heavenly Father, is good. I have been so blessed. I know that my friendship with this patient stray is undoubtedly from the L-rd.

After a shared breakfast on this chilly morning, I walked Oliver back to his street before boarding a bus and heading to fellowship. In October, I celebrated one year of attending this Korean fellowship in China. A bit odd yes, but such a blessing. As I sat down in my seat I noticed a little boy observing me curiously from a row across the way. I began making silly faces his way and in a few seconds he was squirming with giggles and wore a big smile on his face. I continued to make funny faces as the boy’s father noticed his laughter and saw my ridiculous expressions. The father laughed too at the boy’s happy amusement.

As I sat in my chair awaiting the start of the service, I thought about how simple my morning had been, but how blessed I felt in response to it. A morning full of dirty belly rubs, patient furry eyes, goofy faces and a child’s laugh. I continued to dwell on why I haven’t felt this way for much of the past month. I knew the answer immediately. I haven’t been seeking out the little bits of good that the Father has given to me.

My focus of late has been my unfinished to do list (why does it only seem to get longer?), my lack of time (this wasn’t supposed to take this long!), the emotions of relationships and doing life with people (why are people so complicated?), the ever growing number of grey hairs on my head (I’m only 27!), the stress of organizing this event or that activity (I think this is supposed to be fun, but I’m feeling too frazzled to enjoy it right now), the pressures of parent contacts, grades, the end of the semester (Chicken + chop - head = me!), and the simple, but strenuous challenges that come daily with being a teacher (Did I really choose this career?). Most of the month, my internal thoughts have been wrapped up in one very true and taxing statement, “Man, life is really hard right now.” I hope you can imagine my surprise at finding myself wholly content and at peace over something so simple as sharing breakfast with a dog and making a kid laugh. Those tiny things seemed so GOOD. However, I realize that what made them good was not the events themselves, but my recognition that they were from the L-rd. By accepting them as beautiful, truly good gifts from above… I loved them all the more.
I wonder how many times in the past month I have missed out on seeing the little goods my Father has given me because I chose instead to focus on what I perceived as the big “bads”. Noticing the little bit of good from Him, surprisingly helped me feel overwhelmed by a lot of good. I just can’t help, but think this lesson I have been reminded of today is a perfect reminder of the reason for the season.

A peasant girl.

A carpenter.

A stable.

A star.

A band of shepherds.

A baby.

A cross.

Out of context all these things can be perceived as little and insignificant, but altogether – when we recognize the gift they all make up – I suddenly see a whole lot of good.

My pr-yer for you today – friend, family member, and reader – is that you stop to see the little bits of good that you have been gifted today. The Father above is thinking of you as He holds you in his hands with a little, lot of His goodness.

The L-RD is good to all; he has compassion on all he has made.
Psalm 145:9 (ESV)

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<<Previous

DAY ONEWeihai, Shandong Province

DAY TWOYangMaDao, Yantai, Shandong Province

DAY 3YantaiShan, Yantai City, Shandong Province

Day FourPenglai, Shandong Province

A Commissioned Heart

DAY 1Wednesday, January 30, 2019

DAY 2Thursday, January 31, 2019

DAY 3Friday, February 1, 2019

...I teach (and attend) classes

...I wonder over my fellowship's future

...I basically compete in the Amazing Race,​but with no million dollar prize

...I read the Good Book

...I have some final thoughts

BACK TO SCHOOL

BACK TO THE BEACH

BACK TO RUNNING

BACK TO THE MOUNTAINS

BACK TO THE BEST BUDS

FINAL THOUGHTS ON BEING BACK

PREPARATION AS A BRIDESMAID

THE REHEARSAL

WEDDING MORNING

Nothing Says Hurricane like the End of the School Year

The Seasons Change

Reflecting on the 2018-2019 School Year

Upcoming Events

DIRECTOR’S NOTE(featured in the show playbill)By: S.D. Manning

ISQ's MIDDLE SCHOOL THEATRE​ PRESENTS​ROBIN HOOD PHOTO HIGHLIGHTS

DIRECTOR MOMENTS

BEHIND THE SCENES

REHEARSAL PHOTOS

ON STAGE

WHEN THE CURTAIN FALLS:REFLECTIONS ON ROBIN HOOD

PR-Y-R REQUESTS

Maidao Island

Paintball

Hospital Visit

Game Night

Weifang Day Trip

Kite Flying

Other Spring Break Highlights

HOW ARE YOU?and other questions that are hard to answer right now

Where did you go?

Where did you go?

Where did you go?

2018-2019 Highlights(that have happened since we last "talked" properly)

SEPTEMBER 2018

OCTOBER 2018

NOVEMBER 2018

DECEMBER 2018

JANUARY 2019

FEBRUARY 2019

PR-Y-R REQUESTS

Archives

Categories

DAY ONE
Weihai, Shandong Province

DAY TWO
YangMaDao, Yantai, Shandong Province

DAY 3
YantaiShan, Yantai City, Shandong Province

Day Four
Penglai, Shandong Province

DAY 1
Wednesday, January 30, 2019

DAY 2
Thursday, January 31, 2019

DAY 3
Friday, February 1, 2019

...I basically compete in the Amazing Race,
but with no million dollar prize

DIRECTOR’S NOTE
(featured in the show playbill)
By: S.D. Manning

ISQ's MIDDLE SCHOOL THEATRE PRESENTS
ROBIN HOOD PHOTO HIGHLIGHTS

WHEN THE CURTAIN FALLS:
REFLECTIONS ON ROBIN HOOD

HOW ARE YOU?
and other questions that are hard to answer right now

2018-2019 Highlights
(that have happened since we last "talked" properly)