One week…almost over! January 17, 2009
Well, the first week is almost done. It’s been exhausting but really fun. The food has been good and company even better. There are some really amazing people here. Both speakers and future missionaries. One speaker in particular has really had an impact on me. His name is Chip Kirk. He spoke one session on Bible reading. He made is so fresh and convicting. It wasn’t like “Go read your bibles! What is wrong with you missionaries?” It was just down to earth and made me think about how much more passionate I want to be about spending time in God’s Word. I mean, you can’t guilt someone into reading the Bible. I was talking with one of my roommates about how there is a difference between desiring to read the Bible and feeling like you have to.
Last night Chip spoke on personality differences. It was hilarious and so much fun for the whole group! We all took a short personality test and then discussed the differences between everyone and how we’ll face lots of differences on the field. We have another follow-up one next week with more information on relating to other cultures. There have been some wonderful times of worship and reflection. I’ve been journaling like crazy…not wanting to forget a thing.
I wore my Zack Morris necklace today and quizzed a roommate (from America) on how good of friends we could really be. She passed with flying colors! In fact, she mentioned how during the personality test she kept thinking of Mr. Tuttle. One of the personality groups was called “Movtivators”. She kept imagining Mr. Tuttle chanting to his class “Motivate, Motivate, Motivate”. Haha, needless to say…I love her!
Tomorrow we are taking a day trip after lunch to Heidelburg. I’m looking forward to having an afternoon to just relax and explore Germany. I wanted to post some pictures for those of you are interested in what’s been going on so far.
Yay! Germany!
Me and my roommate, Gina
The Youth Hostel
First day of school?
Exploring the city
More of Mosbach
That’s all you get for now. I am web-chatting soon and can’t use all my battery! What would I do without internet?
Aww, Rach, you found a Saved By the Bell lover! How awesome!
I’m glad you’re updating a lot right now! It’s wonderful to read about all that’s going on with you! Also, I went to Heidelburg once when I was really little because my cousin Erika was born there. We went when I was four. Needless to say, I remember next to nothing. I love you and I’m glad things are going so well! xo
I’ve been to Heidelburg. It’s a fun little town. You’ll like it. Take a picture with the baboon for me.
Aren’t you glad you took that Zack Morris necklace. You knew it would come in handy.
thanks for sending along the pics. can’t wait to hear more, esp after you went to Heidelberg. I’m so glad the speakers have been good and helpful to your growth. And, I think it is so funny/great that God so in tune with you that He sent along someone who loves Saved By the Bell,too. That is amazing!! How is it going with your other roomies? Can you relate to them as well? i know you are anxious to get onboard but this time is important,too. I know you aleady knew that but I can’t help ‘being a mom’>>haha
How exciting! I love your quick little thoughts
I’ve been thinking of you and praying for you too! 
Can’t wait to read the next installment of Rachel’s journey! 
Love you!
Dear Rachel,
I have received your email.
I’m sorry that I have no time right now to scour over your blog, but I did take a look at these pictures, and they are gorgeous!
I must admit…when aunt Shannon told me that a missionary lady wanted to meet with me, I thought I was to be expecting a very severe and strict-looking 70-year-old missionary lady. teehee!
Hmmm….I would love to meet you while you are here. The only thing is, Metro Manila is so diverse in geography, I cannot promise that we can meet IF your location is hard to get to. That would only be for our safety reasons. But if everything is fine, sure, we can hang out! Hee hee!
love lots,
Charity