THIS is why we're here.

Not everyone is cut out to be an expat.  It's only been a month, yet I can see clearly where problems may arise in the experience.  Between leaving your family and friends behind, and practically everything else you "know", be it language, customs, cuisine, or even how to fill up your car with gas, your pride is stripped away as you literally start from scratch in unknown territory.  So why would anyone be willing to go on such an adventure??  THIS is why:

Miss B brought home this picture from school this past week. She is 5 1/2 years old. You may not notice anything extraordinary about it, but I sure do! In the past her artwork has always been very predictable. Everyone had blonde hair and blue eyes. Just like her. So what do I see?  I see a little girl who has been immersed in CULTURE!  A girl who is embracing the beauty of diversity, and I am in awe! Three girls - perhaps a Brazilian, a Korean, and herself - just a sampling of what she sees in her class and on the playground each day. They speak English in the classes, but outside and at home they most often speak in their native tongues, yet all find a way to understand and love one another despite differing customs, beliefs, appetites and passions. What an amazing opportunity this is to open our eyes to all the world has to offer. I may not speak fluent Portuguese (yet!), know how to cook with all that I find at the grocery stores, or even see eye to eye with all of the cultural mindsets had here, but I can tell you one thing - I LOVE these people! There is so much we can learn from one another! People are friendly and SO willing to help. In fact, they won't leave your side until they are sure you've received all the help you could ever need! They LOVE children and have an abundance of patience for "childish ways". They part the aisles in the stores to let you go first if you have kids with you, and rather than shying away from a fussing child, people come rushing to your aid to try and make them happy again! Relationships are key and valued above all else. I feel so privileged to be in such an amazing and unique country. To learn from the people, try new things, and grow from our experiences. I thank the Lord that my kids are already embracing the people, the culture, and all this country has to offer! EU AMO AO BRASIL!!!