One day at a time.

I’m in Cambodia and I live in a giant tree house.

Today is Sunday and it is the one day that the volunteers at Sustainable Cambodia have off. Needless to say, it has been one of those glorious Sundays where there is no concern for time or schedules. On my first night here, we stayed up having beer and playing spoons. There are three from one from Australia, Germany, Canada, New Zealand and two others from the States. One is Indian, one is Paki and so there is a lot of diversity here. They have all been here for varying months and some are staying onward for a few more months.



When I first got here, imagine the level of intimidation I felt. These volunteers have all traveled and have now gotten so familiar with Pursat and the locals. They all have experience with the outdoors. And then there’s little me – straight out of Los Angeles with no idea about what it’s like to “rough it”. Well, it’s my second day here and I’m learning to live with dirt on my face and waking up to a screaming gecko. I’m also learning to not freak out when I see cats (though stray dogs are much more common). Small victories. The fact that I’ve even made it here is an incredible feat that I remind myself.

I took a bike ride today into the market area of the town. Outdoor markets, like a flea market only literally – there were flies everywhere. I attempted to buy three apples only to decline when I found out that it cost 6000 riel, which is about $1.50. I should have accepted but I am still getting used to the currency here so everything that is more than a 1000 makes me nervous but then I have to constantly remember that 4000 riel = $1. I know it’s a Global Studies faux pas to barter with locals when they are already making next to nothing trying to sell their goods. But, I will be here for awhile (God willing) and I do want to be smart about my spendings because if I am too liberal, I can see my limited budget experiencing a quick depletion. Plus, I won’t be employed when I come back and I do so much want to travel and visit friends (like Tina in Phoenix).

One thing I need prayer for is some spiritual direction on where to put my emotional energy and physical resources into. There is a lot of opportunity here for service in the different projects (most of which focus on either education or development). I think I would also like to make a financial contribution to the organization in some capacity. What might end up being the most likely outcome is a contribution to help support a kid to come to the school. At this point, I still have so much to learn about Sustainable Cambodia (SC).

So much to learn.

As I was trying to fall asleep under my mosquito net last night, I had a momentary freak-out because I just felt the pressure of these five months and the demands of GLT and these 15 units I’m in. But then, when I was sitting on the porch this morning, looking around at this incredible place, I experienced some alleviation. All I can do is give God my today. Today I can do what I can to live life here and to accept bug bites, ants crawling everywhere and the hot weather (and we’re not even in hot season yet!) and press on to learn Khmer and become involved with working at SC. I have discovered some of the greatest wisdom in these words: One day at a time.