I got in yesterday (15th) at 6:30am Aussie time. The flight was pretty good, watched a couple of movies and slept on and off. I sat next to a 3 year old hahaha, but it was actually not that bad- kicked and screamed a little but nothing dramatic. Got to the airport, got picked up and sat on the left side of the car as it was driven by the right side....so weird!!! I think I'm use to it and then he makes a right turn into the left side of the road and I have to remind myself not to panic because it's normal! We drove on the Harbor Bridge and I saw the Opera House, and it was a fantastic day- sunny and fluffy clouds- it was really pretty.
After getting to the girls living quarters, reality set in- I realized how I'm half way around the world, that I don't know anyone, and that I'm truly 100% on my own. It's a really scary feeling. And I cried, because it's just so overwhelming, there's a bajillion things I have to do and learn and go through- I wasn't mentally or emotionally prepared for what I was getting into. Plus, I was really tired from the ride, so I'm sure that contributed to it. So I prayed a little, took a nap and saw the Baha'i Temple. It's so delicate and pure and lovely looking. It radiates love and support. It was a really nice sight to see. I'm here for Baha'u'llah, I'm here for a reason, and He will protect me. It's the 2nd day now, and I'm feeling better.
I went to the bank and changed some money, set up an account (tried to anyways, problems came up but it's too much to go into), and went shopping. Australian money is so awesome. Parts of the money are transparent! So awesome. And unlike US money, it's colorful! Imagine that :) I know Taiwan (where I'm from) has different colored money, I know Europe does also...etc. But I've never seen transparent money!
I was dead tired by 4pm but tried to stick it out. The girls held a devotional (prayer gathering) and some of the boys came and we had a good time- prayed, ate cupcakes, played games. Good bonding. There are 7 girls here in the living quarters (it holds 8)- one from Scotland, one from Italy that just came, one is coming from China, others are Australian that are here only for a couple of weeks. There are about 5 boys, one from Sweden, one from Canada, one from Cameroon, and others from Australia itself.
I did some training today- looks like I will be working in the bookshop, helping out in the offices, and some other stuff here and there. I'm a bit glad I won't be doing much gardening because my back in hurting and heavy stuff won't be good. Also, roommates like to cook! 2 prayers answered :)
That's it for now. I have a feeling I won't be updating this as much as I would like- I have to learn the ropes here, and write in my private journal, and be social! But I'll try :) love to all!
6 comments:
my money is transparent too,
i never seem to see any of it!
AWESOMMEEEEE
take a bajillion picture for me
im visiting no matter what mom says lol.
hope its all good! if anything
take a lot of hot showers to relax when your stressed or sad.
Love ya!
Ian
Extemely pleased to read this beginning of the great adventure. I'll bet most things are better than what you worried about right.
I've been in the bookstore! Now I can envision you there.
Yes, I love Temple, lovely grounds and you know you are close to the ocean.
Love you,
Auntie Susie
Dear Ailene, am so glad to read about your first encounter with Aussie. It's hard to be alone at first but later things will be better than you expect. Wish your year of sevice there will be a wonderful experience. P.S. if you happened to see my Persian friend Mrs. Pouneh Saghi, please say Hi to her, and convey my love to her family, her two boys must be in their teen aleady, her phone number is 299246353, hope this number still work since I didn't write to her for ages. Love from Phoenix
Two prayers answered immediately - that's awesome! It's also an indication of what's to come, Hon, as you're right, He will help you with all you need and then shower upon you delights and blessings that you can't now imagine. I loved what you wrote about the House of Worship and your reminding yourself why you're there...half-way around the world where they have colorful, see-through money, wallabies jumping around nearby and different food (not to mention the 'foreign' language)...you're there to serve. Your intention will draw to you opportunities and, don't forget, we also learn and grow from the happy things! You are lucky to have the Temple in your backyard you so can get solace and comfort there, celebrate your joys and be centered. So proud of you! Thanks for taking all of us along on your journey :o)!! Love lots, Mom
Dearest Ailene! Just got your blog address and read all the posts to date. Wonderful! Congratulations! Life changing experiences here you are! :) Ya Baha'u'Abha!
David just returned two days ago from a youth year of service in Namibia - A WONDERFUL experience!
Everyone sends their love and prayers your way!
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