Finished

Done with the CELTA.  Finally.  It's been quite the adventure over the last month.  A lot of work, but I never felt more overwhelmed than at various points in time at tOSU.  I was glad I didn't have a job during it, which is something I always had while going to school at OSU.  The students we had, as I mentioned before, we absolutely fantastic.  Most were refugees from Sudan ho were here in Cairo.  Some had higher education than I did even, and all were so eager, or as my British friends say "keen" to learn English.  On my last lesson I taught the theme song from "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air" to pretty much everyone's enjoyment.  Learning how to lead and effectively deal with people is one of the most important things we can learn to do.

I also have began a job.  It's 7 hours on Friday (2 classes) of 30 men each working on a bi-lingual MBA.  This will make enough to pay rent for the next couple months (it goes for 10 weeks).  So, I'm working 1 day a week.  I need to find something to fill those other 6, not necessarily work though, but something.  Look for a book from me in the next 4-6 months.  Maybe a novel?  Maybe a TV show?  Maybe non-fiction?

Call to prayer just came on.  I've wanted to talk about this, but haven't had a chance.  Let's get this clear from the beginning -- I will not be a Muslim.  I am a Christian.  I believe religion is an intensely personal thing, and is between you and the man upstairs.  It's the same with your actions and your character.  It's all YOU.  We regulate society based on some things we agree are norms--like not killing each other.  But other than that, your eternity, morality, etc. is all up to you.  It's a blessing and a curse that we have free-will, use it wisely.

It's tempting to go and pray when the call to prayer comes on.  As most know, an Islamic prayer is quite involved, and looks as much like pilates as anything (no offense meant).  Remember, though, that "Muslim" means "submitter" and by placing your self on the ground, you are submitting yourself to God. I do not believe Mohammed is the Prophet, and I believe that Jesus died for my sins, but it's pretty incredible to think of "submitting" to God in the way that Muslims do, and to do it 5 times a day.  Christians say we should always be talking to God--it's a consistent conversation when he has your heart, and I don't disagree with that.  But, to take 5 to 10 minutes to STOP EVERYTHING every day and submit to him.  Wow.

I should clarify that not everyone in Egypt does this.  I'm still trying to work out about what percentage of the population does this and what part doesn't.  My current estimate is about 60% do, 40% don't.  I think it depends on where I am, though.

America so often thinks of itself and calls itself a "Christian" nation.  I started my class last night 15 minutes late so all but 2 people could pray.  Other than at a religiously affiliated school (which this school is not) where would that happen in the US?

Also, Breanna has a job interview right now.  Should be back soon.  We'll see how that plays out.

Lastly, we're probably (98% certain) heading to Korea in mid/late February.  Thus, there's a high probability (90%) we'll be back in the states for a couple weeks beforehand.  Write it down in pencil, though, not in pen, as things tend to change in Egypt.  Quite often.

Nate - OUT!