What a great day we had today! This is a little group of LDS ladies...4 Japanese and 4 American. we got together for a cultural exchange in Susan's home and had such a wonderful time getting to know each other.
The funny thing was, when they made the announcement at church that we would be hosting these cultural exchanges between the American Military District and the local Okinawan Stakes, I was racking my brain trying to think of what kind of craft or cooking skill I could offer to teach that Japanese ladies would be interested in. They just seem to be so talented at so many things. Anyway, I never thought of anything to offer, but Susan invited me to join her group.
Susan is from Texas, so she offered a class about Texas, and it was brilliant. She had a big US map and she showed them where Texas is and where she is from, then she had the rest of us American women show where we are from as well. She taught them lots of interesting facts about Texas, she made chili and pecan pie and lemonade for lunch, and we snacked on Texas caviar and guacamole and listened to country music, while sitting in Susan's beautiful garden. All of the Japanese sisters seemed to really enjoy themselves, so it felt like a success. We all helped each other with our languages, and it really got me excited for my Japanese lessons.
But my favorite part of the day was at the beginning, when all of us introduced ourselves and told whatever facts we would like to tell...including how we were introduced to the Church. It was so wonderful to hear what brought these Japanese sisters to the Gospel, whether it was missionaries knocking on their doors, or a neighbor's invitation to attend English class at the church building. I was overwhelmed with an appreciation for our missionaries, and how they change lives for generations, forever. The sister standing right in front of me now has a daughter on a mission in Hawaii.
We had such a great time, we've decided to do it every month, so Misty will host it next, and then it will be my turn. I don't really think I want to teach a class on California (Brenda's from SoCal, too...maybe she could teach that one) and I think all Mormons know about Utah...so now the challenge will be to come up something good. I welcome your suggestions!
6 comments:
OK, so what do you have against doing a presentation on CA??
Nothing against California...just am not feeling inspired to give a class about it. Besides, what would I serve? Fruits and nuts?
What a way cool thing to participate in. I just have to believe that these sisters would be interested in revisting the Saint's move west from Winter Quarters, since the 24th of July is approaching. I mean, we here are pretty well versed in the exodus, and the Willy and Martin handcard saga . . . but I wonder if the Okinawan sisters are. The stories are most inspiring. Then perhaps tie that in to Pres Hinckley's remarks about the sister who once asked the prophet why there seems to be so little sacrifice asked of the Saints today and his response to her about how the seemingly mundane things the Saints do everyday in sacrificing there personal agenda for the sake of husband, children or aging parents are just as acceptable to God as those who gave so much at the Sweetwater River. I could E you some notes if you like the idea. Then again, perhaps these sisters already have a sharp awareness of the Pioneer Spirit.
Another idea is your military family traditions and service. How different it was in the Asian Fleet in 1943, and our close relationships with Japan now. Add your personal feelings and it could be a tremendous time together.
Much love,
Dad
OR handCART saga
:::::::sigh::::::
Fruits & nuts? haha No, I think tacos & burritos would work. ;) Actually I like your dad's idea!
Thanks, Dad...I'm using that idea, only focusing on Pioneer day...I'm going to share some of my pioneer heritage and some modern day Utah stuff, too...I think I'll be needing some bath salts from the Great Salt Lake to hand out...I'll call you! I'm also, of course, going to have to serve funeral potatoes and green jello with shredded carrots...and some fry sauce!
Love you!
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