(After a week of absolute busyness, I finally had a free day to sit down and write a post. Sorry for the wait. Thanks for bearing with me.) Let me preface this post by saying that if you have never before played the game "Quelf," you should get on that. I was first introduced to... Continue Reading →
No Worse than a Paper Cut – RGAT
Design to completion of my first tattoo. Final product. Copyright Renee Rhodes. July 7, 2013. So I have ink permanently drawn on my skin. In the shape of a raven. Done with a bamboo stick. In Thailand. Suffice to say, I'm feeling pretty cool. Per the suggestion of my good friend, I designed the tattoo... Continue Reading →
“Service and Confession” Haiku Series
Covered in discussion by both Lauren and Lisa, these two disciplines resulted in a lot of conversation. I think most of the group is amused that, instead of taking notes, I write haikus. Same, same, but different, right? Basically. No point standing back When there is need for service, We must step forward More than... Continue Reading →
Ain’t Money Funny – RGAT
(above: me sitting in a window frame overlooking the courtyard of Angkor Wat temple, one of the most beautiful places I've ever set eyes on) Shortly after our arrival in Cambodia, frustrations sky-rocketed. Getting through immigration was frantic enough (considering it was rainy, muddy, and we had to haul our luggage all over the place... Continue Reading →
“Simplicity, Solitude, and Submission” Haiku Series
The next installment of my spiritual discipline haiku series. I have had a harder time comprehending and connecting to these specific disciplines and so there are fewer inspired poems. Led by Meredith, Mama Zone, and Julia, these discussions help us grow as interns while we daily strive to serve. Reach simplicity Stripping the material To... Continue Reading →
A Bad Day in Bangkok – RGAT
When I think of Bangkok, I can't help but quote my favorite musical "Chess." The song is catchy and fun and paints the picture of a beautiful city, despite it's shortcomings. I don't know if it molded my expectations at all, but only one line from the song really stuck true to my experience. "One... Continue Reading →
Unable to Leave — RGAT
I would be lying if I said that my trip to Thailand wasn't – in part – an attempt to escape West Texas. It wasn't the whole reason. And it wasn't an escape like the kind I talked about in my post "Escape to Atlantis". I just needed a reprieve from the dull, rolling plains... Continue Reading →
A Quick Note from Cambodia
A quick note to my followers (and those who care to read this blog): My time in Cambodia has consisted of food poisoning, smoke-filled lungs, and little to no wifi. My apologies for the lack of posts. Everyone should expect a slew of them over the next couple of days. Okay, maybe not a slew.... Continue Reading →
Going Out On a Limb (Or Leaping Off It) – RGAT
Meet Lima. Lima lives in a tree near one of refugee camps in the mountains of Mae Hong Son. She hates cameras. Point a phone or camera at her and she'll screech and try and grab it away. Mainly it's the flash, but she is completely unwilling to get to know you. The first time... Continue Reading →
Bubble Shows – RGAT
While showing me several video clips on YouTube, my Chinese friend Karen asked me if I like bubble shows. Lately, she's been showing me all of her favorite Thai, Chinese, and Taiwanese dramas and introducing me to some of the actors she likes. "You think he's cute, yeah?" she'll ask. Of course, I'll agree. It's... Continue Reading →