Citizenship

This week, my friend Vy, and a few hundred other people, participated in a naturalization ceremony to become U.S. Citizens. A ceremony like this happens every week all over the United States. I attended my first ceremony in Kansas City many years ago to celebrate with my friend Gamil, who is originally from Egypt. 

There are a number of things that are striking to me about these ceremonies:

First, there is not a person who participated who did not struggle or sacrifice for the distinction. A distinction I was given at birth. I didn't earn it. I didn't even ask for it. And, if I am honest, I usually take for granted the rights and privileges that come with the distinction. In fact, I may even engage in unfair criticism of a nation that so many still flock to as a beacon of freedom and prosperity. When I traveled to foreign destinations, on the regular I was reminded of this gift - especially as a woman. 

Second, there is an oath of allegiance that is part of the ceremony. The current oath follows: 

I hereby declare, on oath, that I absolutely and entirely renounce and abjure all allegiance and fidelity to any foreign prince, potentate, state, or sovereignty of whom or which I have heretofore been a subject or citizen; that I will support and defend the Constitution and laws of the United States of America against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; that I will bear arms on behalf of the United States when required by the law; that I will perform noncombatant service in the Armed Forces of the United States when required by the law; that I will perform work of national importance under civilian direction when required by the law; and that I take this obligation freely without any mental reservation or purpose of evasion; so help me God.

I could write a dissertation on the meaning of the various statements in this oath. What strikes me as note worthy is that I, as a U.S. born citizen, never had to take an oath of allegiance.

Finally, scripture says (Philippians 3:20) that as a follower of Jesus my citizenship is in heaven. Like these new U.S. Citizens, this will require a leaving behind of the old and embarking on an unknown future. It also involves an oath of allegiance, that I am subject to an authority and have a duty to support and defend this rule/kingdom. And, that I will do so willingly. But, in the challenges, God is with me.

just Sheri, grateful for my citizenship status

death of my social life

Last week marked the start of something unexpected - my return to school. Yes, I have been a student the majority of my adult life. Yes, I am committed to life-long learning. However, when I left (without completing) my PhD many years ago I figured that was the end of my academic pursuits.

The Hubs has asked many times in those years, "when are you going to finish your PhD?" I had no intention of doing so. In fact, I described that period of life as self-imposed torture - why would I subject myself to that again?

Why? Because we are place-bound for a while, this reality leaves me restless and my mind has been hungry to learn....Because I suspect that just as my masters degree opened doors, doctorate credentials will do so also...Because, after a series of stops and starts, I found a program that sparks my interest and is located six blocks from my new employer...Because I am ready to dream about the possibilities of a new future, that may or may not involve hopping on airplanes to destinations around the globe.

At the end of August I attended my first class. The reading load seems unattainable and the course requirements will be demanding. As if this were not enough, I am adding a job change accompanied by a daily commute of more than two hours. Someone asked me if I was going to survive. My response, "I am pretty sure I will survive, but my social life is dead."

This has already proven to be true as I spent the bulk of a holiday weekend (Labor Day) in my house reading and writing for school.

Friends, I will be hibernating through the winter - for the next three years (at least).

just Sheri, here we go (again)

storyteller

In my homeland of New Mexico there is a common image - the Native American storyteller. There are variations on the theme; but it is basically a woman, surrounded by children with her mouth open because she is telling a story. Something like this.

Photo via The Children's Museum of Indianapolis (Wikimedia Commons)

Well, I recently participated in a real life reinactment.

Actually, I really like this picture and I am glad someone captured this moment. Recently, I have been surrounded by families and welcomed in to their lives in very meaningful and intimate ways.

While I may not have children of my own...to run round and round and round the dining table....or duck behind the couch because they just can't resist crawling in the space between it and the wall...or slide on the wood floor in their socks...or be amazed at the small trampoline in the basement...to color with or read to. Other people have kids that will come to my house and make the space a play zone or leave pretty pictures that they colored.

I am honored these families have invited me in to their lives and I like the frenzy of activity and creativity their children bring to our home.

Matthew 19:14 Jesus said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these."



just Sheri, looking forward to the next storytime

Hatch Green Chile

When I say the word "chili" most people think of this...

Unless you grew up in New Mexico like I did, then "chili" is not a stew. It is a chili pepper; specifically, a Hatch green chile.

These tasty, spicy green chiles are grown in Hatch, New Mexico and are an essential ingredient in most foods we eat. Yes, a true New Mexican eats these chiles for breakfast, lunch and dinner. We eat it on pizza, hamburgers, with eggs, or smothering any other food we can think of. The peppers are harvested in fall and every grocery has them outside roasting. They can be purchased by the pound and usually they are brought home in a burlap sack after the roasting process is complete. I have lived outside of New Mexico for the bulk of my adult life and have never found a substitute for Hatch chile. Thankfully, in Virginia I don't have to.

A local grocery story in the town where we live held a chili festival one weekend in September.

They even had the authentic roaster sitting outside, which resulted in the same aroma of roasting chiles that I remember from my younger years.

They were selling the chiles by the pound or the case.

I brought home a case. My car held the aroma for weeks.

Then I hosted a party. All of the dishes served that evening contained this special ingredient: green chile, chicken enchiladas; spanish rice; fresh salsa; and posole. I also made some frijoles and had tamales shipped in for the event. I enjoyed sharing a bit of my homeleand with our friends here.

just Sheri, a green chile enthusiast

Fall Activities

Obviously I am a bit behind in updating the blog, but life hasn't slowed down. Here are some of the highlights from the fall season.

I took a road trip with these lovely ladies to Colonial Williamsburg.

It was Ms. Josephine in white that opened my eyes to the ways Americans lock themselves in their homes creating a voluntary prison.

At a dinner party I was reminded how our palletes are influenced by what we are exposed to...this young man was dunking sushi in soy sauce the way most kids dunk chicken nuggets in ketchup.

Kenyon and I spent some time exploring the District. We went to a Smithsonian museum known as "the castle." I am sure you can see why from the picture.

We also made a stop at the botanic garden. Which is where I learned about carnivorous plants.

The botanic garden is across the street from the capital building. I took a picture because it was looking particularly regal that day. Each time I see the capital building, I still feel like I am having a celebrity sighting. I want to say, "Hey look, there's the capital!"

My dear friend Phim took me to the fish market at the wharf. I felt like I had been transported back to Psar Toul Tom Poun in Phnom Pen, Cambodia.

Every year I set aside time to participate in the Global Leadership Summitt. This year the destination was Kansas City. I had the privilege of participating in the annual event with one of my sister friends. This was a photo from dinner with ladies who encourage and inspire me.

While Kenyon was between jobs, we took some time to date (again). This photo is from a double date with Joyce and Victor at the National Harbor.

Another date was an inaugural visit to the county fair. We saw lots of curiosities - a fuzzy chicken, acrobats, and this...fried Kool-Aid. We didn't order any, but I do wonder what that is all about. Can anyone explain this to me?

I also took a trip with my adopted dad to a warmer climate.

These are just a few of the fall activities that occupied my time, and the people who make life enjoyable.

just Sheri, blessed with wonderful memories and relationships

house rules: no spectators

Spectator: an observer of an event

When I host a game night at our house, there is one rule: no spectators. Sure, it can be entertaining to watch. It's a lot more comfortable to sit and observe than to create...it's also a lot easier to be a critic from the side lines. 

I make this rule because we [humans] are made to be active participants, rather than observers. The best products, or experiences, come when shared and each person gives their unique contribution. Criticism becomes more constructive when there is "skin in the game" or ownership of the activities and their end product.

I shared this house rule at a recent birthday party with friends: no spectators.

I've been thinking about it in relation to church.

[insert photo of one person at the front speaking and all others sitting and listening]

Church wasn't made to be a spectator sport. It wasn't meant to be entertainment that we come to watch. While it might be more comfortable to sit and observe rather than to create - we miss out on life changing, full on, mind blowing experiences; because our comfort zone keeps those things out. An environment where ownership isn't shared is ripe for criticism and discontent - when things aren't going right, who's problem is it? Not mine. I am not in charge, they are.

I want to be a part of something where folks are engaged. Where things are happening and where each person's unique contribution (regardless of age, gender, race, or background) has a place to grow and develop and be shared. Me and a few of my friends are setting out on an adventure to create such a place. 

Where will it lead? Only God knows....

just Sheri, embarking on a new adventure

What church are you with?

In November, a few friends and I participated in a random act of kindness. We made some welcome home baskets for families who had been displaced by flooding last year and are now returning to their renovated homes. During the delivery of these baskets to homes, one of the families asked: "what church are you with?"

Well, we weren't with any one church. My two friends each attend different church buildings on Sunday, I myself am currently in what I call a "displaced" state (not feeling at home in any one place).

I have contemplated this question quite a bit in the weeks that followed - what church are you with?

Isn't the church made up of people? My friends and I - we ARE the church. 

Why does it matter that we don't have a clearly defined institution to affiliate with? We are Christ's ambassadors; not marketing agents for a particular building/denomination/pastor. The glory (or credit) should be attributed to Christ alone.

I think the next time I am asked this question, I will smile and say, "we are here because God loves you and He asked us to show you that love today."

We, you and me, ARE the church. God isn't interested in a building, or titles, but the condition of our hearts. 

What have you done recently to show Christ's love to another?

just Sheri, ambassador for Christ

Where am I?

Recently, I attended a house warming party with my friend Vy. The food: Southeast Asian cuisine. The people: primarily Vietnamese. The entertainment: karaoke. The language: not English.

For a few moments, it took me back to my time living in Asia, where the restaurant next door would have karaoke four nights a week until the wee hours of the morning.

Then Vy showed up with a serving of dessert she had made. What was it? Flan. As in, the Latin American favorite...and a favorite of mine from childhood.

As I sat eating my flan and listening to karaoke (where I could not read or understand the lyrics), I thought to myself, "it's a wonderful life!"

Thank you, Vy, for sharing unique experiences like this with me.

just Sheri, gratefully transported to a different time and place

inspiring community

I have a friend, I call him "my prophet" because God has used him, on more than one occasion, to speak truth to me - especially when I didn't want to hear it. My friend has been going through a tough time of unemployment.

"The church" (meaning Christ followers) have done so much in this extended time of struggle - as an observer, it is encouraging to the heart. My friend visited a Sunday service and filled out a prayer card. As the weeks turned in to months, the pastor of that church called often to "check-in." My friend couldn't give money due to his circumstance and eventually moved to another state because he lost his housing in Virginia - the pastor kept calling.Why? Because he cares for people.

People, even those who never met my friend, gave money to help. Because they cared about those who are struggling.

When my friend moved to the new state he attended another Sunday service. This group welcomed in the stranger, not just to make him feel welcome, but when they heard of his plight - they gave up food and interceding on his behalf that God would intervene.

When my friend got a job and announced this news - this group cheered audibly and celebrated with him.

There was a church the Hubs and I attended for a number of months, and at the end of each service people would join hands and pray for one another - whoever was next to them, whatever the Spirit put on their heart. Near the end of prayer time, the pastor would say a similar prayer each week. There was one part that I will always remember, "God bless my neighbor...and help me celebrate their success as if it were my own."

When my friend announced his good news - a spontaneous celebration erupted on his behalf. When my friend described it to me, it brought tears to my eyes. How wonderful that there is a group who cares so compassionately for those in need.

just Sheri, celebrating (from a distance) the success of another

Active Summer

These days, I mostly live life off-line. But from time-to-time, I come back to give a short news report. It has been an active summer full of new and interesting activities.

My dear friend Phim and I took a couple of road trips early in the Summer. One trip was to New Jersey, prior to that trip I had only seen the Newark airport. We had an excellent time with girlfriends in Atlantic City - walking the Boardwalk, looking at the ocean, sitting by the pool of our hotel, listening to live music and laughing until the wee hours of the morning.

Our second road trip was inspired by a calendar with a photo of the Blue Ridge mountains. She made a comment that she wanted to go there...so we did. We spent some time in North Carolina with her friends and with mine. We felt welcomed everywhere we went, but at one stop, our hosts made sure we knew it.

One of the highlights from the visit to North Carolina was meeting beautiful Valentina. She was a baby born of the heart, but conceived by others. This family and ours shared this journey. Valentina is their blessing brought through adoption. My friend Jan used to be such a curmudgeonly Brit, it was a pleasant surprise to see him smiling so much!

We also hosted a housewarming. I learned why they call it this - "housewarming." After everyone left, it felt more like home than it had before. Why? I think because it was filled with memories of people and laughter and fun. Thanks friends (and family) for warming our house.

I've had some wonderful times with Vy, too. We continue to share new experiences. I took her and her sister to an Independence Day parade -thier first live parade.

They took me to a celebration at the Vietnamese Buddhist Temple in Maryland. There were Vietnamese celebrities, lots of food, and a fun atmosphere.

This is only a sampling of our active summer. There has still been plenty of kayaking and hiking adventures. Some golf outings. Lots of food. A visit from family and time spent with people.

As kids are headed back to school and (supposedly) the weather starts to cool - what are the highlights of your summer?

just Sheri, active off-line

the BEST birthday party

I have made some friends here in Virginia who are originally from Liberia. We bonded because they didn't know many American's who had been to their country - West Africa is not exactly a top tourist destination. Since most of my travels were not as a tourist, but instead as an international development worker, I had not only been to Liberia but to some of the more remote parts outside the capital city of Monrovia.

This post is not about my past travels. It is about the encouragement I have received from these gentlemen.

They have been in a tough situation in recent months. No income. Distant from family and long-time friends. Dreams that were taken from them by self-serving individuals. Injustice suffered. Trying to survive in a place where they are not welcome. An uncertain future. The ripple effects of someone's choice has been heartbreaking to witness. Not only are they suffering undeserved consequences, but so are their children.

Many times I have thought, "If I were in their circumstances..." What I know is I would not be handling it with such grace. I am, after all, an American and thus consider it an injustice when someone cuts in front of me in line or too closely while driving.

Last night we were talking about African politics, the American presidential election, scripture and more...as we do when we get together. I always ask how they are doing. They always tell me amazing ways that God is meeting their needs and the generous people who are helping them.

Last night one of the men informed me that it was recently his daughters birthday back in Liberia. At her school they had a birthday list posted on the wall. The kids would look forward to their day because their parents would bring in snacks and a party would be thrown in their honor. As it grew closer to her birthday his wife and he were sad for their daughter as they could not do this for her given his current, and unfortunate, circumstances. They decided to lift their concern up to God.

When the birthday came, a generous soul gave to meet this need. Not because they were asked, but out of care for this family. My friend told me, with the biggest smile on his face, that his daughter had the BEST birthday party of any all year. It brought tears to my eyes (even today as I retell this story).

Kindness is a beautiful thing. A birthday celebration can offer hope. Don't ignore those quiet promptings to be generous - you have no idea what it could mean in the life of another.

just Sheri, inspired by the faith and kindness of others

catching up: winter activities

As faithful readers have noticed...and commented - I don't post as often as I once did. I do, however, still carry my camera with me everywhere I go and take lots of pictures.  The winter months were filled with lots of time with girlfriends.

For New Year's Eve, my friend Lily and I had a night on the town. We had a nice dinner at a Thai restaurant, then headed to a late night improv comedy show. Along the way Lily found a guy who sold blinking 2012 eyeglasses and negotiated for a couple. Hands down the glasses were the hit of the night. We got LOTS of attention walking down the street with these on - people would stop and talk with us, or yell out car windows, etc. I have learned the secret to making friends with strangers on New Year's Eve - blinky glasses...who knew?

The next day we walked the town and happened upon an Occupier's camp. We talked with a few different people; none seemed to have the same story of why they were there. I assume the lack of a clear objective is problematic for a movement that wants to bring about change, but decided it unnecessary to point that out during our visit. A nice group of ladies came with lunch for the campers, that is when we made our exit.

There were also a couple of ice skating adventures. This one was outdoors and included s'mores over an open flame. The other was indoor and amounted to chaos. I hope to repeat the outdoor adventure next year.

There was also the welcoming of new life - Naomi and her beautiful mother Joyce. I enjoy hangin' with these two as often as possible.

Spring season and spring activities have arrived. I thought you might still like to see some of the photos from winter events and the people who make life a joyful journey.

just Sheri, blessed with great friendships

Aloe Vera - edible?

I learned something positively fascinating last week. My friend Vy came over with food one night. She cooked a fabulous dinner like she owned the place (at least the kitchen) and I got to be treated like a spoiled guest. Yeah, she's wonderful.

So, she had a drink I had never heard of...an Aloe drink. Made from the plant Aloe Vera. Imagine my surprise. I only thought aloe was something you rubbed on sunburned skin. Boy was I wrong!

Vy told me the drink is good for the skin. Apparently there are some Asian dishes where they also cook with it.  I must admit I NEVER considered eating Aloe Vera. Aren't there little spiky things on the leaves? Who wants to put that in their mouth?

When I posted this discovery on Facebook, I also learned it is good for upset stomachs too. Really? I thought the remedy for that was Sprite.

Anyway, I learn something new from Vy all the time. Thanks, girl, for expanding my horizons and teaching me things I wouldn't know without our friendship.

just Sheri, a life-long learner

Christmas Day

On Christmas Day, Kenyon and I hung out with the Senavanh clan.

We ate excellent food.

We watched young ones enjoy themselves.

 Santa made an appearance to hand out the gifts.

Even some big kids received gifts from Santa.

just Sheri, getting caught up from the hectic holidays

Chirstmas Ornament Exchange party

When I lived in Kansas my friend Elaine held an ornament exchange party every year in December. She did this for a decade. Each year it grew bigger and bigger and bigger. After year 10 she stopped hosting the party. I loved the party. And I loved pulling out the ornaments each year and remembering the party. So, I decided to host one in our new town.

For those of you who are asking, "what is an ornament exchange party?" Let me explain. First, invite some friends. New friends are ALWAYS welcome.

Second, each person brings a wrapped ornament for the exchange. Numbers matching the number of people in attendance are put in a bowl and drawn to determine gift selection order. Then presents are opened.

This one was a hit...and I am told made it's way back to the nation of Liberia as a souvenir. 

My student, and now my friend Vy, was also present. She met her learning goals so I am no longer her tutor, but we agreed to stay friends.

 This was the night I became discontent with our little apartment. Why? I had to severely limit the guest list beyond what I wanted to...and we still didn't have space or seats for those who came. Notice the large number of folks sitting on the floor. I plan to remedy that problem in the near future...more on that soon.

just Sheri, (re)establishing traditions

hiking in the Shenandoah

Once upon a time I lived in the Appalachian Mountains along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Now, I live NEAR these destinations, but in a different state. The beauty extends beyond State boundaries and this past weekend I soaked it up!

One of my new friends, Sarah, and her fiance Greg acted as the tour guides for the journey. Sarah and Greg have been mentioned in posts before, but not by name - such as here. This wonderful couple were our only helpers when we moved. As if that was not enough of a gift, it was also raining and cold that day. They were our angels...in more ways than I can count. But, we also have fun together too. This weekend is one example.

We picked a trail along the river. While it was lovely, and I did know a large portion of it would be uphill while climbing over rocks. I hadn't factored in leaf covered rocks. I was also unaware of the exact distance - which was approximately 8 miles that took our group over 4 hours to complete. Whew!

However, Greg had packed the group a sweet treat that we indulged in on our journey.

What is that she is drinking - you ask?

HOT CHOCOLATE!!! with marshmallows y todo. Ooh-la-la! I had never considering packing such a thing on a hike, but I am sure glad Greg thought of it!

Thanks to Sarah and Greg for creating a wonderful Saturday experience!

just Sheri, still sore from the climb - but loving it

Food Street

For dinner on our last night in Wuhan, we toured "food street." This was a first for the Whincop family and we had a great time checking out the stalls and tasting a bit of what they had to offer.

D.J. was impressive! Here she is eating squid from a food booth. There wasn't a thing she didn't sample. Not only is she nearly as tall as me (and likely to surpass me by our next visit), but she is braver than me when it comes to cuisine. Well done!

 D.J. does have a mentor when it comes to adventurous eating. Her dad! Like father, like daughter. Look at those smiles!

 This man was smoking while cooking. I tried to get a snap (photo). He caught me and this was his response. Uh-uh-uh!

There were many wonderful smells and tastes...and some not so wonderful (stinky tofu for instance). But, this delicacy called "chocolate fish" left a big impression. Warm dough with melted chocolate inside - in the shape of a fish. Tough to beat - especially for someone who likes bread and chocolate. Mmmm, good! I want another, please. Too bad they are so far away.

just Sheri,  samples make a great meal