Engineering Overseas

I just returned from Nigeria where I got my first experience of putting engineering skills to use overseas. It was a whirlwind of a trip, but I was surrounding by the beauty of God's creation, generous nationals, and a team of knock-out professionals. Here are some pictures of the civil engineering assessments I took part in:

Climbed the water tower to understand the process flow

My "office" for one of the mornings

Assessing the existing septic tank

Reviewing a newly build septic tank and soakway pit

Performing a perc test

Measuring the existing stormwater drainage system

Seeking God's Presence

Last weekend some Egyptian friends took us to experience a whirling dervishes’ performance. We navigated the crowded streets of old Cairo full of vendors selling everything from persimmons to ceramic pyramids until we reached a pair of large, wooden doors. Beyond the doors, was a courtyard surrounded by stone pillars and open hallways three stories high. By the time the performance began, people were standing in the hallways all around because there wasn’t enough seating to meet the number of interested spectators.  I later learned this show occurs 3 days a week.

 The performance itself was spell-binding. The musicians played Egyptian horns and drums skillfully … and there was even an older gentleman with mini cymbals on his fingers! He was very lively and quite entertaining. There were three phases to the performance. First, the musicians played traditional music and took turns high-lighting the uniqueness of each instrument. The second phase had a more serious mood to it. While the instruments were playing and a gentleman was singing in Arabic, one central dervish whirled and 7 other men danced around him with synchronized moments holding tambourines. (This is very hard to describe. Please refer to the pictures below.)

For my readers who are unfamiliar with the origin of whirling dervishes’ they are individuals who practice Sufis Islam and believe that the art of “whirling” draws them closer to Allah. When they initially begin to turn in a circle they are typically wearing “skirts” that combined weigh close to 10kg and are holding weighed objects as well. As they turn, they slowly hand off the objects and remove the weighted skirts. The feeling of becoming physically lighter and lighter is a correlation to the soul becoming closer and closer to Allah.

This second phase lasted 40 minutes or more. I was amazed at the physical stamina and mental concentration displayed to turn in a circle for that long. It really made me ponder the spiritual discipline of meditation. And how while those who practice whirling in order to be closer to Allah are missing the mark – belief in the name of Christ; however, they push their bodies to great physical limits to act on their desire to be in God’s presence. Do I desire to be in God’s presence that much? Have I ever spent that much time or put in that much effort to focus exclusively on God’s Word and seek communion with Him?

The third phase of the performance was much more light-hearted. Three other whirling dervishes emerged, but they did tricks in order to play to the audience.  The whole performance was incredible! Afterwards it sparked a genuine conversation amongst the group of spirituality and how man can relate to God.  I’m hopeful for more opportunities like this. J

The middle dervish is in the process of removing a weighted layer.

In the desert

This morning I had the privilege of running a 5K in a wadi just outside of town in support of a local international school. It was a beautiful day with a fun group of people! Even though it had been almost a month since I had gone for a run, it felt really good. Part of my energy came from the people I was with and part of it from the new surroundings … running in a desert? There were rocks, dirt, and sand of all the same color everywhere. No real sign of life. And yet, it was beautiful.

Start Line

I’ve been reading in Exodus were the nation of Israel had just crossed the Red Sea and began to wander in the desert. (I have a very real image of what that probably looked like for them now.) Honestly, I can’t blame them for complaining about the relentless heat or lack of water. And yet, God had a reason He led them that way. He did so in order that they might learn who He was and how they should depend on Him.

Climbing the Canyon Walls

I hope to continue to learn who God is and how I can depend on him … especially here in the desert. 

Shannon and I post-race! 

Technology

I am so thankful for technology!
Even though sometimes it is a time-sucker, it has sustained me this last week. All of the fb messages, emails, and Skype calls really make living on the other side of the world from family and friends bearable. If I'm honest with myself, I have cried myself to sleep at least one night this week  (let's assume jet-lag had something to do with it) because I miss familiarity with people. I've become very comfortable in my Western bubble in the last few years surrounded by family and friends. I'm praying God pops that bubble (as gently as possible) and leads me one step closer towards His heart for the Muslim world.
But along the way, I will be grateful for situations like the joint birthday song my family sang to my Grandmother and I from halfway around the world :)

Changes

In the last week, life has changed drastically …

Last week, I was attending meetings about cultural awareness and how overseas development work differs from the US. Today, I attended a meeting in Egypt about company expectations and safety precautions.

Last week, I could call anyone I wanted to at any time and wi-fi was prevalent. Today, my phone was a camera and calendar only.

Last week, I had my own car, blended in wherever I went, and could communicate with anyone. Today, I walked to work and a market with a friend, while attempting to communicate with the only relevant work I know so far: “Shukran” / “Thank you”.

I am ever thankful to be living in the beautiful and historic city of Cairo! I am even more thankful for the blessing of people to make this transition easier!

Tomorrow is a holiday … January 25^th, Revolution Day! 

Last Week

Today

Small Blessings

As I wandered around the airport in Denver for 6hrs prior to my flight, God gave me a unique and precious gift. I decided to walk outside for a stretch because it was so nice and I was tired of being inside. As I was strolling down the “departures” sidewalk with my luggage in tow, I suddenly spotted a friend dropping family off. They had been in town for her bridal shower. Shocked as we both were at our paths crossing in this manner, I received a few strong hugs before she drove off. Thank you, Lord, for knowing just what I needed before I left. 

Jehovah-Jireh

Jehovah-Jireh ... the LORD will provide!
I have definitely seen Him at work providing for me in the last couple of weeks:

• Leading up to my defense I was overwhelmed by the support and encouragement I had from the Body!
• Finances have been tight this month, but He has provided just enough when necessary.
• Financial support for my trip is hovering at 50%! Praise God for moving in the generous hearts of my friends and family members!
• He provided an extra day to chill with my boyfriend and parents this last weekend due to weather delays.
• He provided a phone with international sim-card capabilities through a friend.

He truly sustains and provides all we need. Praise His Name!