Impressions of Albania... it continues to be so winsome in so many ways. Each time I come, my circle of friends increases. This time, I had the opportunity to sit down with Elna, the lady who has changed all those $ into Albanian legal tender. She is a Muslim by tradition, but her sister is a Christian missionary in Guatemala. Interesting? It is common here. I've met Pajtim and his wife, Jona, energetic and dedicated Christians whose interests parallel some of the goals I've been pursuing. Then, there is Nik, a dynamo and involved with ABC clinic. If only I could bring these people back with me, so you could meet them.
The country as a whole continues to change. Traffic is more orderly - a result of increased penalties for running a red light. Now there is the possibility that you could go to jail if you don't obey the traffic signals. Pedestrians, however, continue to walk and cross at will (I hate to admit, but to cross the street, one often has to be aggressive here... my training in NYC has come in handy). There continue to be a great number of stray dogs, but an increasing number of pets, pet stores and vets. Road construction continues... now that the Socialists (primarily from the south) are in power, the road to Berat (in the south) is receiving some attention. But, you still have to watch where you plant your foot! New sidewalks are dotted around the city, and usually accompanied by rough concrete, loose tiles, or outright holes without a cover. Sidewalks are a place for conversations, to park cars, motorcycles or bicycles, for tables, produce or merchandise spilling out from a local cafe or shop, or for blatant enclosures to increase the square footage of the existing businesses. So, walking anywhere - or driving for that matter - always requires careful attention to detail and the ability to change directions at lightening speed.
There continues to be a committed and dedicated Christian community - both ex-pats (read foreigners) as well as nationals. They are an inspiration... such an encouragement to me personally, and hopefully that enthusiasm will be contagious to all of you when I return. Despite hardships, separation from family, an often apathetic populous more interested in materialism or simply surviving, they soldier on. Instituti jeta e re, a national Christian organization affiliated with CRU, evangelizes on campuses, but also plants churches, builds partnerships, addresses issues important to the Christian community both here and far. They are active in foreign as well as domestic missions... and are meticulously interested in the spiritual health of their staff. I don't know how they do it all, to be honest! I thoroughly enjoy just chatting with them over a coffee, or addressing serious and deeply held beliefs. Despite our mutual transparency, we remain friends... amazing! Man, is it going to be fun in heaven!!! It was an honor to meet with many of my Instituti friends last night and catch up on their news, see their spouses, and think about some serious issues. Thanks, everyone, for including me!This morning I will address issues related to the community nearby, and will fill you in when I get home. It is easy for me to be an American... more difficult to change gears. So, as we contemplate the future of that ministry, I'd appreciate your prayers... not for any problems, but for direction.
OK, pafshim for now. Today and tomorrow SHOULD be a little less busy, and perhaps I will manage another blog-post before I step up out on the tarmac to fly away from here. If so, I'll list in more detail the last few days... otherwise, I guess you'll just have to wait until I get a chance to share with you in person. Mirupafshim!
