Who Knew!

In It Together

Dear Friends,

We want to send out a quick update just to let you know about the current situation in Asia Pacific - not that it is very different than anywhere else in the world at this time. Our area is in lockdown, and the ports (air and sea) in our region are closed, but we have everything we need, and are doing just fine.

As a family, we have just finished two weeks of strict isolation, as we had a mild virus. Covid-19 is in our area, but testing is quite sparse out here, so it is difficult to get a grasp on what the situation actually is in this area, or to predict a timeline.

Despite the challenges, this pandemic has actually served to make us feel much more connected to you all back in the US! As socializing can only be done over the internet and phone, we have enjoyed being able to connect with many of you all in ways we cannot connect with many of our local friends!

Just For Fun

There are a few ways missions has prepared us for the Caronapocalypse. These are some of our normal, every-day experiences here:

Grocery shopping is always a scavenger hunt. The availability of items changes each time you shop.
Things you once assumed were basic necessities (electricity, internet, clean running water, stocked restroom amenities), you often have to do without.
What constitutes "adequate" medical supplies is actually quite subjective. Local medical procedures are always an exhilarating adventure; not for the faint of heart. For treating some ailments, though, our family holds out for first-world healthcare.
We miss hanging with our besties.
Easter and Christmas come without all the commercial distractions. So, while we often miss the traditions we grew up with, we also really appreciate the extra time and space to get to reflect on the joyous significance of those seasons.
And last but not least, lest Jim and I are tempted to think we are the only ones whose lives are, despite our best efforts, completely and utterly unpredictable...it turns out all of humanity is in that same boat! Who knew! Praise be to God, He is still on His throne!