Classes have been rolling along quite well. I feel like I’m teaching a lot more smoothly than last semester. Planning and administering lessons is noticeably easier—and more enjoyable—not that I’ve had a bit of experience
This afternoon we had our fifth meeting of the NLG (New Life Group) that I’m leading through VPU (Vida Para la Universidad, Colombia’s branch of Campus Crusade for Christ). I’m so thankful to God for the great leadership team he’s given me and for the students who have attended the group. Today our topic was loving others—especially the seemingly “unlovable” people (EGRs—Extra Grace Required people—in the words of Rick Warren). The other VPU leaders have gotten their groups underway as well, and this semester we’ve opened groups on two other campuses in Barranquilla. Now we’re looking ahead to Campus Mission 2011, the national conference in Cali in July!
In February I finally visited Parque Tayrona, a gorgeous national park near Santa Marta, a couple hours west of us on the coast. Honestly, it has the most beautiful beaches I’ve ever been to. On the 90-minute hike to the beach, palm trees of all heights and shapes usher you along the path. Arriving at the beach of El Cabo, your eyes are almost overstimulated by the rich blues of the water and greens of the mountains.
A now for the highlight of the semester thus far: Miriam came to visit me! I can’t even describe how refreshing that week was. Though in many ways I feel in my element (in my “salsa” as they say in Spanish) here in Barranquilla, what I miss the most is connecting at a deeper level, not inhibited by language and cultural differences. Spending a week with my best friend was exactly what I needed!
On March 5-8th Barranquilla’s biggest event of the year took place: Carnaval! Second in size and fame only to the one in Rio de Janeiro, Barranquilla’s Carnaval is four days of recocha (partying, disorder, crazyness). Though it has historical and cultural significance, it’s also an excuse to party, drink, take time off work, and in general live it up. Actually, among Christians, Carnaval is a really controversial subject, because of the “vices” associated with it. After hearing Barranquilleros proudly talking about this celebration all year, I definitely wanted to check it out. Knowing that there are unsavory aspects, I see Carnaval as an important part of the culture I’m living in and worth experiencing. So Miriam and I attended the parade of the opening day, called Batalla de Flores (Battle of Flowers). Elaborate floats, traditional costumed characters, and just plain weirdos walked, ran, rolled, and danced down Via 40. And from all sides we got sprayed with foam and cold water—that’s just part of the deal. I’m not sure I agree with Celia Cruz—that “la vida es un carnaval”—but Barranquilla’s Carnaval is certainly an experience like no other!
