I am nowhere near being an authority on the state of Orthodoxy in Russia, but I thought it about time to share my thoughts--meager as they might be (in other words, be warned).
After my visit to Russia in 2006, I came back summarizing the religious state in this country by basically saying that in it existed two worlds. There exists the Western world, by which I mean the one that loves materialism, liberality, frivolity, and considers religion a "thing of the past". I was under the impression that this world was being forced upon Russia by European and American thought and philosophy, and that "Religious Russia" didn't want it. The other world--the Religious Russia, which I called "Orthodox Russia" was decidedly against the "Western Russia". They continued much as they had before the Soviet Times in their Liturgy, their conservative ideals, and their simplicity until the Soviet interruption.
My summary of Russia's religious state also said that "where Russia was Orthodox, it was extremely so" (i.e. churches, monasteries, etc.). Rules of conduct and belief were not very flexible, as was evident by the ever-ready babushkie waiting to correct me. However, the Western Russia was like walking into any European country.
I don't really know how much my summary has changed, although I know it has. I still see Russia as two worlds colliding with one another, both fighting for superiority in the public eye. I still see that a great many Russians are only nominally Orthodox. Of course, this might only be what I see and not what is really happening.
I've also been introduced to the fact that as inflexible and staunch as the Church might seem, it really is being "reborn". When Russians dive into something, they dive into it wholeheartedly. Orthodoxy is obviously not something that could be taken from them. Despite the Soviet interruption, their Faith has not been uprooted. Perhaps it's safe to say it's been savagely trimmed? In 1991, when Communism collapsed, churches reopened, and people lined up to be baptized. From what I am told, many of them had only a vague idea of what they were signing up for. The result has been this rebirth of an old Orthodox heart. In short, many of the current believers themselves are converts. Russia, en mass, is a country of converts. They are all relearning about their Faith, and relearning how to incorporate it into their lives. They are re-educating. But then again, aren't we all?
I also previously thought that beliefs Communism and Orthodoxy could exist together. I had read an account of an Orthodox Christian who made a strong case for this. Let me say that the Soviets/Communists wronged the Orthodox Church and Russia in many, many, many ways--more than they realized. The foremost of these being the horrendous murder of Tsar Nicholas II and his family, and with them the murder of all that Russia had previously stood for. Do I now currently think that Communism and Orthodoxy can co-exist? I have no idea. I think someone can actively hope for the best for society and be religious. I think that's what this person I read about might have been trying to do.
These are all of my thoughts right now. I'm sure the longer I live here the more they'll change. Or maybe not.
Saturday, December 6, 2008
Thursday, December 4, 2008
The Most Difficult Things...
The most difficult thing about being away from the people I love is not being able to physically be there for them when bad things happen. Anyone who knows me knows that I am the "mother hen" type that cries as at the drop of a hat. It's impossible for me to make it through movies like Homeward Bound without hiding my face in my pillow and ignoring half of the film. I just want to hug whoever is in pain with a great, big, far-too-long-lasting hug.
When dear friends painfully part ways, when there are scary hospital visits and surgeries, when there are people who pass away--it hurts to not be there with them. It makes me question why I am here doing what I am doing in Moscow. It makes me wonder what kind of person these experiences will make me become in the future. No matter what concerns I have, I DO know that my being in Moscow is for a purpose, and that God fixed every step of the way--pretty much, I'm not allowed to question myself on this.
If there is one thing I have definitely learned, it is that regardless of my presence, the only affect it is possible for me to have on anyone comes from God, and He really doesn't need me to be there to be of any assistance. I know, I know. This is so cliche and obvious, but it's always those things I have to relearn. They're never fun the millionth time around just like they weren't the second time around.
Anyhow, if you're one of those people that I seemingly have shunned, please forgive me and know that you are always in my thoughts and prayers.
I'm going to stop before this becomes anymore dramatic and mushy. Ick.
When dear friends painfully part ways, when there are scary hospital visits and surgeries, when there are people who pass away--it hurts to not be there with them. It makes me question why I am here doing what I am doing in Moscow. It makes me wonder what kind of person these experiences will make me become in the future. No matter what concerns I have, I DO know that my being in Moscow is for a purpose, and that God fixed every step of the way--pretty much, I'm not allowed to question myself on this.
If there is one thing I have definitely learned, it is that regardless of my presence, the only affect it is possible for me to have on anyone comes from God, and He really doesn't need me to be there to be of any assistance. I know, I know. This is so cliche and obvious, but it's always those things I have to relearn. They're never fun the millionth time around just like they weren't the second time around.
Anyhow, if you're one of those people that I seemingly have shunned, please forgive me and know that you are always in my thoughts and prayers.
I'm going to stop before this becomes anymore dramatic and mushy. Ick.
Monday, November 17, 2008
More Funny Stories...
So tonight when I came home, I had quite an interesting experience.
I pressed the number on the keypad to enter the building. Strangely, as I walked inside, I noticed that the entrance to the basement was open and letting out a musty stench. It's usually closed and letting out that same stench. I stopped to listen for a moment, curious to find out what was going on. After realizing that faint Russian is even more difficult to understand than normal Russian, I resigned and entered the elevator, pressing the button for the seventh floor. When the elevator stopped, it shed light into an otherwise pitch black stairwell. Is this normal? I thought. Is it usually so dark in here? The answer was no. So, I whipped out my handy-dandy cell phone for some lighting (which, of course, was so meager that I could barely see my hand in front of my face) and held it down to the lock on the door.
While I was fumbling with my keys, I heard some shuffling behind me.
I froze.
What or who could possibly be behind me? If it's an intruder, how do I get out of this situation? I could run up the stairs...but to where? I could run down the stairs, but they're blocking the way. I could jump back in the elevator, but it's already closed and gone back down to the bottom. I could run into my apartment quickly, but it stinking takes me five minutes just to unlock the door...what do I do?
What else could I do? I turned around and peered into the darkness. As my eyes adjusted, I saw a hunched figure glaring back at me. "Kakoe kashmar," it said, which means "what a horror" or "how awful". New rule: Babushkie should NOT lurk around in the darkness.
She and I chatted for a minute, and I told her that I had heard voices in the basement, so I thought they were probably just working, and everything would be back on in a moment.
I turned back around to continue unlocking the outer door. Once opened, I stepped into the entryway for my neighbors and I share, but not before hearing something to my left.
Seriously? Again? I thought as I froze in place.
I let my eyes adjust to the darkness of the entryway and saw my neighbor standing there in her pajamas, peering back at me.
For the love of Pete, I thought, don't these people give any warning? GET A FLASHLIGHT!!!
My neighbor and I chatted for a moment, and I told her the same thing I had told the lurking babushka. She, in turn, asked me if I was a new tenant, and I reported to her my current living situation. Then she began calling to the floor above us for Vlad. I don't know who Vlad is, but I'm guessing he's a man who knows how to fix things. Because Vlad is a man's name...and the lights needed fixing?
When I finally got inside my flat, the lights had all been turned back on.
THE END.
I pressed the number on the keypad to enter the building. Strangely, as I walked inside, I noticed that the entrance to the basement was open and letting out a musty stench. It's usually closed and letting out that same stench. I stopped to listen for a moment, curious to find out what was going on. After realizing that faint Russian is even more difficult to understand than normal Russian, I resigned and entered the elevator, pressing the button for the seventh floor. When the elevator stopped, it shed light into an otherwise pitch black stairwell. Is this normal? I thought. Is it usually so dark in here? The answer was no. So, I whipped out my handy-dandy cell phone for some lighting (which, of course, was so meager that I could barely see my hand in front of my face) and held it down to the lock on the door.
While I was fumbling with my keys, I heard some shuffling behind me.
I froze.
What or who could possibly be behind me? If it's an intruder, how do I get out of this situation? I could run up the stairs...but to where? I could run down the stairs, but they're blocking the way. I could jump back in the elevator, but it's already closed and gone back down to the bottom. I could run into my apartment quickly, but it stinking takes me five minutes just to unlock the door...what do I do?
What else could I do? I turned around and peered into the darkness. As my eyes adjusted, I saw a hunched figure glaring back at me. "Kakoe kashmar," it said, which means "what a horror" or "how awful". New rule: Babushkie should NOT lurk around in the darkness.
She and I chatted for a minute, and I told her that I had heard voices in the basement, so I thought they were probably just working, and everything would be back on in a moment.
I turned back around to continue unlocking the outer door. Once opened, I stepped into the entryway for my neighbors and I share, but not before hearing something to my left.
Seriously? Again? I thought as I froze in place.
I let my eyes adjust to the darkness of the entryway and saw my neighbor standing there in her pajamas, peering back at me.
For the love of Pete, I thought, don't these people give any warning? GET A FLASHLIGHT!!!
My neighbor and I chatted for a moment, and I told her the same thing I had told the lurking babushka. She, in turn, asked me if I was a new tenant, and I reported to her my current living situation. Then she began calling to the floor above us for Vlad. I don't know who Vlad is, but I'm guessing he's a man who knows how to fix things. Because Vlad is a man's name...and the lights needed fixing?
When I finally got inside my flat, the lights had all been turned back on.
THE END.
Serpukhov
Serpukhov is a lovely little suburb of Moscow. I went there with a few friends a couple of weeks ago and it was lovely. We just walked around and looked at stuff. Here are some pictures:
This is just a nice little street.
This is just a nice little painting on a gate. It made us laugh.
Sasha? Help me out here. This is the entrance to an old monastery, I think?
I desperately wanted to explore the insides of this building. I can't remember if this was an old church or if it was an old part of the monastery wall...Sasha?
A nice monastery with a nice wall...
This is just a nice little street.
This is just a nice little painting on a gate. It made us laugh.
Sasha? Help me out here. This is the entrance to an old monastery, I think?
I desperately wanted to explore the insides of this building. I can't remember if this was an old church or if it was an old part of the monastery wall...Sasha?
A nice monastery with a nice wall...
Fact: I should really start putting pictures up sooner before I forget all the details.
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Funny Stories...
My priest here is a LEGEND.
During one of my first visits to St. Antipa's, I came to confession with Father Vladimir. I handed him my list, which I had thoughtlessly written in English, he looked at it confusedly, realized what I was (an American) and absolved me. This led him to believe that I spoke absolutely no Russian whatsoever. That same day, when I began to approach him to venerate the cross at the end of service, I heard him whispering to the acolyte, "Here comes the American woman. Here she comes. Do you see her? Here she comes. Oh, here she is. Here's the American woman. She's right here. There she goes. There goes the American. Did you see her? She just passed by."
A few weeks following that great moment, I came up to take communion. Father Vladimir knows my name. I'm the only American in our parish. So what does he decide to communion me as? "American woman". Be sure to say that with a heavy Russian accent. I almost died laughing. On that same day during coffee hour, my friends and I are seated and talking, and down comes Father Vladimir playing the blues on the harmonica. WHAT??? He was actually really good at it! I was totally surprised, however, when he walks up to me and is like, "You're an American woman, you know the blues! Sing with me!!" I, regretfully, said no. He proceeds to calm himself for about five minutes before he gets up again and starts walking behind people, blowing the harmonica in their ears to scare them.
THAT is my new priest. Legend.
During one of my first visits to St. Antipa's, I came to confession with Father Vladimir. I handed him my list, which I had thoughtlessly written in English, he looked at it confusedly, realized what I was (an American) and absolved me. This led him to believe that I spoke absolutely no Russian whatsoever. That same day, when I began to approach him to venerate the cross at the end of service, I heard him whispering to the acolyte, "Here comes the American woman. Here she comes. Do you see her? Here she comes. Oh, here she is. Here's the American woman. She's right here. There she goes. There goes the American. Did you see her? She just passed by."
A few weeks following that great moment, I came up to take communion. Father Vladimir knows my name. I'm the only American in our parish. So what does he decide to communion me as? "American woman". Be sure to say that with a heavy Russian accent. I almost died laughing. On that same day during coffee hour, my friends and I are seated and talking, and down comes Father Vladimir playing the blues on the harmonica. WHAT??? He was actually really good at it! I was totally surprised, however, when he walks up to me and is like, "You're an American woman, you know the blues! Sing with me!!" I, regretfully, said no. He proceeds to calm himself for about five minutes before he gets up again and starts walking behind people, blowing the harmonica in their ears to scare them.
THAT is my new priest. Legend.
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Not What I Expected...
When I thought “Hey, I’ll move to Moscow”, there were things that, despite all of my scheming, I could never have imagined would happen to me. When I think of Moscow, I think of wild fashions, grumpy babushkie (grandmothers), and enormous churches in the midst of a rapidly disintegrating (yet still very prevalent) Soviet atmosphere. I think of McDonalds on ever street corner, and the groups of young teenagers that loiter there. I also thought, “Yes! The Orthodox Motherland!”, but as it turns out, my naivety and ignorance to spiritual things inhibit my connection with this beautiful piece of Russia.
Many of these things are unexpected but entirely joyful situations I have been placed in as of late:
The gay community in Russia is, I have been told, a rising phenomenon. While many of my students cringe at the mention of gay men, it nevertheless seems to be a force to be reckoned with here. My assumptions as to why this might be are not the point. The point IS to say that, ironically, I have become acquainted with about ten gay men that have treated me better than most men I know ever have. Plus, they’re really fun ☺ They love helping me with my Russian, respect that I am a “religious” Christian (although I’m sure many of them have had negative encounters with religion), produce deep conversation, and are very protective of my eyes and ears. I am very, very appreciative.
I also never thoroughly thought through the process of becoming involved in a church parish. It’s not been a negative experience, merely prolonged. After about 6 weeks, I have finally settled on St. Antipa near the center of the city. Through Matushka Nektaria, I have met friends James and Alevtina, as well as a few others who, in turn, have made kind efforts to include me and encourage me. I wondered if the feeling of awkward solitude would pass because it seemed to last forever, but I think I’m finally starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel. I guess I just assumed that since Russia has a rich Orthodox heritage, that I would be swept away in its wake. I will just say that solitude makes you realize more about yourself than you are probably willing to admit. Alas, things are improving, and I continue to hope that they will keep on doing so!
From St. Antipa, I have also been given a few job offers that seem rather promising. One of them I started today—tutoring two young girls (ages 5 & 6) English. They’re seriously SO adorable. Also, my friend James is leaving in December to go back to England, and we’ve been discussing the possibility of me taking over his job. It’s a rather “advantageous” kindergarten teacher position. I was thoughtlessly resigned to my career at Language Link for the next two years, but it’s funny how God is stealthy like that. The only thing is that it would most likely change my plans of moving to a smaller city, and possibly change my summer plans. I’m not worried. Whatever happens is for the best.
Many of these things are unexpected but entirely joyful situations I have been placed in as of late:
The gay community in Russia is, I have been told, a rising phenomenon. While many of my students cringe at the mention of gay men, it nevertheless seems to be a force to be reckoned with here. My assumptions as to why this might be are not the point. The point IS to say that, ironically, I have become acquainted with about ten gay men that have treated me better than most men I know ever have. Plus, they’re really fun ☺ They love helping me with my Russian, respect that I am a “religious” Christian (although I’m sure many of them have had negative encounters with religion), produce deep conversation, and are very protective of my eyes and ears. I am very, very appreciative.
I also never thoroughly thought through the process of becoming involved in a church parish. It’s not been a negative experience, merely prolonged. After about 6 weeks, I have finally settled on St. Antipa near the center of the city. Through Matushka Nektaria, I have met friends James and Alevtina, as well as a few others who, in turn, have made kind efforts to include me and encourage me. I wondered if the feeling of awkward solitude would pass because it seemed to last forever, but I think I’m finally starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel. I guess I just assumed that since Russia has a rich Orthodox heritage, that I would be swept away in its wake. I will just say that solitude makes you realize more about yourself than you are probably willing to admit. Alas, things are improving, and I continue to hope that they will keep on doing so!
From St. Antipa, I have also been given a few job offers that seem rather promising. One of them I started today—tutoring two young girls (ages 5 & 6) English. They’re seriously SO adorable. Also, my friend James is leaving in December to go back to England, and we’ve been discussing the possibility of me taking over his job. It’s a rather “advantageous” kindergarten teacher position. I was thoughtlessly resigned to my career at Language Link for the next two years, but it’s funny how God is stealthy like that. The only thing is that it would most likely change my plans of moving to a smaller city, and possibly change my summer plans. I’m not worried. Whatever happens is for the best.
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Playtime is Over
For the last two weeks, I'd just been meandering around Moscow seeing the sights and doing what tourists are supposed to do. Unfortunately (or fortunately?), playtime in Moscow is over, and I have been given work.
My group Russian lessons have been replaced by individual lessons which began on Monday. My tutor is so helpful and kind. I think she'll help my Russian improve a ton. I'll be meeting with her twice a week for two hours (four hours total).
I also started working yesterday (Tuesday). I'll be teaching on Tuesdays and Thursdays for a school here (as opposed to a building in which Language Link just HAPPENS to have a location). Each time, I have three classes of children ranging from 6-7 year olds, one class of 9 year olds, and one class of 10 year olds. I then have 2 hours for a break that I spend travelling to my next location for a class of beginning adult learners. With lesson planning, preparation, travel time and the classes themselves, I am running to and fro for no less than 12 hours on those days. My young students are absolutely adorable and so well-behaved! It's so nice to have the innocent faces of children looking to you for help rather than the typical Russian skeptic that one usually encounters. But even my adult learners had fun in their class--and after all, that's what makes learning worthwhile, right? I hope to be a teacher who makes learning enjoyable.
I really think I'm going to enjoy this :)
My group Russian lessons have been replaced by individual lessons which began on Monday. My tutor is so helpful and kind. I think she'll help my Russian improve a ton. I'll be meeting with her twice a week for two hours (four hours total).
I also started working yesterday (Tuesday). I'll be teaching on Tuesdays and Thursdays for a school here (as opposed to a building in which Language Link just HAPPENS to have a location). Each time, I have three classes of children ranging from 6-7 year olds, one class of 9 year olds, and one class of 10 year olds. I then have 2 hours for a break that I spend travelling to my next location for a class of beginning adult learners. With lesson planning, preparation, travel time and the classes themselves, I am running to and fro for no less than 12 hours on those days. My young students are absolutely adorable and so well-behaved! It's so nice to have the innocent faces of children looking to you for help rather than the typical Russian skeptic that one usually encounters. But even my adult learners had fun in their class--and after all, that's what makes learning worthwhile, right? I hope to be a teacher who makes learning enjoyable.
I really think I'm going to enjoy this :)
Monday, September 15, 2008
My New Home
St. Basil's...with Freckles?
Some friends and I were out walking around Moscow, and I just thought this was a really neat picture of St. Basil's in Red Square...my camera, on the other hand, thought it was lame and sabotaged it.The Metro
This is just one of the beautiful metro stations I go in every week. They're typically crowded with people though. Metro stations are perfect places to people-watch. Hilarity ensues.
My Room
This is my room from the doorway. My window faces out onto the street, and evidently everyone who has lived in it hates all the noise and consequently moves to a different room/flat. I, however, fell in love with the noise of the city, so this room and I are a perfect fit. You can't really tell, but the room is very, very long, but not very wide. About 20 ft. x 7ft.
My Bed.
This, quite obviously, is my bed. It has a race car comforter (either that, or it's some awful 1980's mess). It was free, it was clean, so I took it. I don't think you can really tell, but above my bed are some pictures I sporadically collected before I left. Send me pictures, and they will go up there too.
THE WALLPAPER!!!
This is the wallpaper I told you about. Note the lovely garden-like ivy AND the brick--the raised brick. Ridiculous. I love it.
The Kitchen Table
This, ladies and gentlemen, is where it all happens. Actually, you can tell that we don't often use it for the dining table it was meant to be. Anyway, this is how most flats are. There is room for 2, sometimes 3 people to sit comfortably in the kitchen. 4 or 5 people if you cram.
The Other Half of the Kitchen
I think this is self-explanatory.You've just had the mini-grand tour of my flat here. It's special.
This is a typical Soviet-style apartment here. Everything is old, and I love it.
This is a typical Soviet-style apartment here. Everything is old, and I love it.
Friday, September 12, 2008
New Developments
As of today, I have internet and a telephone in my flat. You can either call me or contact me on Skype (providing I'm there...).
Flat Number: 8-495-369-7127
Skype: Shwalizabeth.
This also means that I don't have to travel 40 minutes to get to free internet anymore!!! I AM SO EXCITED!!!
I'll post another blog tonight with more developments.
Flat Number: 8-495-369-7127
Skype: Shwalizabeth.
This also means that I don't have to travel 40 minutes to get to free internet anymore!!! I AM SO EXCITED!!!
I'll post another blog tonight with more developments.
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
Blog By Popular Demand..heh heh
So there are a few things about Moscow that you should know (if you do not already):
1. The smells of the city (exhaust, gasoline, paint, cigarettes, etc.) eventually start to smell fragrant to you. For example, as I was walking home the other day, I began blissfully inhaling what I thought might be flowers. I was so convinced! As I got closer, I realized a block of flats was being painted. I immediately questioned why God allowed me to continue life on Earth, as I obviously did not know how to enjoy it.
2. British people exist here in abundance. Sometimes I have a harder time understanding them than I do the Russians. No. Really.
3. Grammar, contrary to popular belief, is NOT fun.
4. Bruce would have a heart-attack with the disorderly communion line at church. Pushing and shoving included here.
5. Only in Russia does ONE switch control the electricity in a building, looking exactly like any other light switch that you can thoughtlessly switch on and off. "Blackouts" (aka someone pressing the "electricity off" switch) that include NO internet are NOT okay. THEN! It would take all day for the ONE guy who knows how to turn it back on arrive to actually turn it back on. Why in the world is their only one guy with the knowledge to do this, and why does it take him an entire day to get here?
I've now been here for two weeks. It feels like I've been here for a month. Classes are over on Friday, and I finally become a real teacher. Unfortunately, they're not really certain of where they will place me yet. According to my contract, however, they are forced to pay me whether I teach or not. YES. Why can't all jobs be like that? Although it's only been two weeks, I've already been considering different places to move after my four months here are over. Volgograd? Ekaterinburg? Those are the two I'm really considering. Whatever God places before me, I know it will be for the best. I'm just really hoping it's not the ginormous city of Moscow. Actually, I'm not really certain of that...I HAVE only been here two weeks. I might end up really, really loving it!
Also, I'm teaching a lesson tomorrow about Amish people using the words "can" and "can't". Only in Russia...
There's not really a whole lot else to write--BUT NOW YOU CAN WRITE ME!!!
Russia
Moscow 127-55
Ulitsa Novoslobodskaya 5/2
Language Link
Shannon Berry
Pictures will come soon enough. I have to have things to take pictures of in order for there to be any of those...
1. The smells of the city (exhaust, gasoline, paint, cigarettes, etc.) eventually start to smell fragrant to you. For example, as I was walking home the other day, I began blissfully inhaling what I thought might be flowers. I was so convinced! As I got closer, I realized a block of flats was being painted. I immediately questioned why God allowed me to continue life on Earth, as I obviously did not know how to enjoy it.
2. British people exist here in abundance. Sometimes I have a harder time understanding them than I do the Russians. No. Really.
3. Grammar, contrary to popular belief, is NOT fun.
4. Bruce would have a heart-attack with the disorderly communion line at church. Pushing and shoving included here.
5. Only in Russia does ONE switch control the electricity in a building, looking exactly like any other light switch that you can thoughtlessly switch on and off. "Blackouts" (aka someone pressing the "electricity off" switch) that include NO internet are NOT okay. THEN! It would take all day for the ONE guy who knows how to turn it back on arrive to actually turn it back on. Why in the world is their only one guy with the knowledge to do this, and why does it take him an entire day to get here?
I've now been here for two weeks. It feels like I've been here for a month. Classes are over on Friday, and I finally become a real teacher. Unfortunately, they're not really certain of where they will place me yet. According to my contract, however, they are forced to pay me whether I teach or not. YES. Why can't all jobs be like that? Although it's only been two weeks, I've already been considering different places to move after my four months here are over. Volgograd? Ekaterinburg? Those are the two I'm really considering. Whatever God places before me, I know it will be for the best. I'm just really hoping it's not the ginormous city of Moscow. Actually, I'm not really certain of that...I HAVE only been here two weeks. I might end up really, really loving it!
Also, I'm teaching a lesson tomorrow about Amish people using the words "can" and "can't". Only in Russia...
There's not really a whole lot else to write--BUT NOW YOU CAN WRITE ME!!!
Russia
Moscow 127-55
Ulitsa Novoslobodskaya 5/2
Language Link
Shannon Berry
Pictures will come soon enough. I have to have things to take pictures of in order for there to be any of those...
Friday, August 22, 2008
I'm here.
I've finally arrived. Months of waiting, and I'm here. It's still hard to believe.
I got off the plane, struggled for about 20 minutes through passport control, then for about another 20 through baggage claim. Finally, I meet Alexei. He is standing there with a sign that says "Language Link", and he smiles sheepishly at me. He asks me if I speak Russian, and I stupidly respond with, "No. I'm an American". He manhandles my baggage all the way to the car, and doesn't let me touch it. When we get to the car, I go to roll down my window because it's hot, but alas, the handle is missing. He rolls down his own window, and then hands me the handle as though the situation was totally normal. Only in Russia. Our drive was about 40 minutes in traffic, and it wasn't until "Dancing Queen" came on the radio that I realized he had put it on an English station for me. "Dancing Queen"...seriously??? We talked about traffic and how old we were, and then he had me listen to some random stuff on his phone to make me laugh. That's as far as my Russian could take me in that situation, and the silence was awkward. OH! And he took me to an ostrich farm. That's right. Ostriches.
My flat.
So I get to my flat, and no one is home. Alexei drops me off and I start to unpack. My roommates are missing, but I've since learned that one is French and the other is Italian. This is going to be hilariously fun. My room is about 7 ft. by 20 ft., and has ivory wallpaper with fake, raised bricks and ivy on it.
Thus far, I have been totally humored. I wish I could write more, but my time on the internet is running out, and I'm starting to get "the eye" from the directors (who've got tempers like lions..eek!). Love you all! I must go!
I got off the plane, struggled for about 20 minutes through passport control, then for about another 20 through baggage claim. Finally, I meet Alexei. He is standing there with a sign that says "Language Link", and he smiles sheepishly at me. He asks me if I speak Russian, and I stupidly respond with, "No. I'm an American". He manhandles my baggage all the way to the car, and doesn't let me touch it. When we get to the car, I go to roll down my window because it's hot, but alas, the handle is missing. He rolls down his own window, and then hands me the handle as though the situation was totally normal. Only in Russia. Our drive was about 40 minutes in traffic, and it wasn't until "Dancing Queen" came on the radio that I realized he had put it on an English station for me. "Dancing Queen"...seriously??? We talked about traffic and how old we were, and then he had me listen to some random stuff on his phone to make me laugh. That's as far as my Russian could take me in that situation, and the silence was awkward. OH! And he took me to an ostrich farm. That's right. Ostriches.
My flat.
So I get to my flat, and no one is home. Alexei drops me off and I start to unpack. My roommates are missing, but I've since learned that one is French and the other is Italian. This is going to be hilariously fun. My room is about 7 ft. by 20 ft., and has ivory wallpaper with fake, raised bricks and ivy on it.
Thus far, I have been totally humored. I wish I could write more, but my time on the internet is running out, and I'm starting to get "the eye" from the directors (who've got tempers like lions..eek!). Love you all! I must go!
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Preparations for Departure
"Are you scared? Are you nervous?" everyone keeps asking me.
My answer? No, not really. I suppose you could call me pensive or thoughtful, but I am not scared. I've had a lot to do to get ready for this--visa processing, financial planning, tedious ticket searching, and AIDs testing (Yep. Seriously.). Packing and moving out of the apartment I shared with my best friend was quite possibly the saddest moment I've had in a long, long time, but then it leads me to think, "Be strong, Shannon. You have so many more goodbyes to say. Don't be sad yet."
The realization that all of my planning and hoping is coming to fruition with the blessings of those I love and admire most in the world has been...shocking. I feel like thus far, I've been planning someone else's life and thinking, "I hope this works out someday for me." Now that THAT day is three weeks away, I...well...I am starting to get really excited.
Two years seems such a long time to commit to something. What will happen to those I love at home? Will my godsons get more siblings, and will I not be here for the most important moments of their spiritual lives? Will my best friends move on and not remember me when I go? Will my family have times of rejoicing and grieving without me?
I remember the hardest thing about being away for a semester was not being here to hold someone when they hurt or have the ability to talk something through with someone. So much changed last time--what will two years do??
I have high hopes for these situations. I know that God will lead those things in whatever paths He chooses, and that my presence here or there makes no difference.
Another question I keep getting (or rather, not a question, but an assumption) is if I am going to "find myself a sexy Russian man". No. No no no. I know all of you are laughing to yourselves thinking, "She has no idea what she's saying. Just wait till she falls in love with one and has to eat her words." Russian men are a different breed. Almost every marriage between an American woman and a Russian man ends in great unhappiness or divorce due to the different trains of thought and culture--so, unless you are wishing all kinds of unhappiness and evil upon me, please don't hope this for me. *runs speedily in the opposite direction*
The countdown has begun for August 20th!!! WISH ME LUCK!
My answer? No, not really. I suppose you could call me pensive or thoughtful, but I am not scared. I've had a lot to do to get ready for this--visa processing, financial planning, tedious ticket searching, and AIDs testing (Yep. Seriously.). Packing and moving out of the apartment I shared with my best friend was quite possibly the saddest moment I've had in a long, long time, but then it leads me to think, "Be strong, Shannon. You have so many more goodbyes to say. Don't be sad yet."
The realization that all of my planning and hoping is coming to fruition with the blessings of those I love and admire most in the world has been...shocking. I feel like thus far, I've been planning someone else's life and thinking, "I hope this works out someday for me." Now that THAT day is three weeks away, I...well...I am starting to get really excited.
Two years seems such a long time to commit to something. What will happen to those I love at home? Will my godsons get more siblings, and will I not be here for the most important moments of their spiritual lives? Will my best friends move on and not remember me when I go? Will my family have times of rejoicing and grieving without me?
I remember the hardest thing about being away for a semester was not being here to hold someone when they hurt or have the ability to talk something through with someone. So much changed last time--what will two years do??
I have high hopes for these situations. I know that God will lead those things in whatever paths He chooses, and that my presence here or there makes no difference.
Another question I keep getting (or rather, not a question, but an assumption) is if I am going to "find myself a sexy Russian man". No. No no no. I know all of you are laughing to yourselves thinking, "She has no idea what she's saying. Just wait till she falls in love with one and has to eat her words." Russian men are a different breed. Almost every marriage between an American woman and a Russian man ends in great unhappiness or divorce due to the different trains of thought and culture--so, unless you are wishing all kinds of unhappiness and evil upon me, please don't hope this for me. *runs speedily in the opposite direction*
The countdown has begun for August 20th!!! WISH ME LUCK!
Tuesday, May 6, 2008
Moving to Russia...
On or around August 20th, I'll be moving to Moscow, Russia for about two years. My purpose? To learn enough Russian to pass a fluency test so that I can go to graduate school. I'm not entirely certain as to what my concentration will be in, but I'm leaning toward Russian Literature--hence the necessity to learn Russian Language.
I'll be working with a company called Language Link (http://jobs.languagelink.ru/) as a Work-Study student. This means that I'll be spending half of my time teaching English, and the other half learning Russian. I'll live in a flat with one other person (whom I do not know), and get paid a stipend each month to cover living costs. There are many reasons why I chose to do a work-study program rather than just an interning or teaching program. I'm going to Russia with a goal, and I intend to see that goal through (God-willing). If I had chosen to intern or merely take a teaching position, the chances of my Russian improving would be slim. I decided to dive right into cold water because I'm ridiculous :)
Anyhow, I'm pretty excited :) Two years is a long time, but I feel confident that it will be entirely worth it--hard, but worth it. Russia is unlike any other place I've ever been, and I'm so excited to go back. I know there is all sorts of adventure awaiting me, and so much humor to be found. It's always difficult to say goodbye to those I love, but I know God will protect them at home. It'll be hard to attend church services in a language I don't understand, but as I was told last time I lived in Russia--When a church service is in another language, it's a better idea to listen with your heart rather than try to comprehend with the mind.--Kind of cheesy, but true.
Anyhow, in the future, feel free to read this blog. It will be a general posting for everyone, so any truly personal information will not be attended to here. You should email me for that instead.
I'm excited!
YAY!
I'll be working with a company called Language Link (http://jobs.languagelink.ru/) as a Work-Study student. This means that I'll be spending half of my time teaching English, and the other half learning Russian. I'll live in a flat with one other person (whom I do not know), and get paid a stipend each month to cover living costs. There are many reasons why I chose to do a work-study program rather than just an interning or teaching program. I'm going to Russia with a goal, and I intend to see that goal through (God-willing). If I had chosen to intern or merely take a teaching position, the chances of my Russian improving would be slim. I decided to dive right into cold water because I'm ridiculous :)
Anyhow, I'm pretty excited :) Two years is a long time, but I feel confident that it will be entirely worth it--hard, but worth it. Russia is unlike any other place I've ever been, and I'm so excited to go back. I know there is all sorts of adventure awaiting me, and so much humor to be found. It's always difficult to say goodbye to those I love, but I know God will protect them at home. It'll be hard to attend church services in a language I don't understand, but as I was told last time I lived in Russia--When a church service is in another language, it's a better idea to listen with your heart rather than try to comprehend with the mind.--Kind of cheesy, but true.
Anyhow, in the future, feel free to read this blog. It will be a general posting for everyone, so any truly personal information will not be attended to here. You should email me for that instead.
I'm excited!
YAY!
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