Rice Grains

Today at the end of school, I rode the elevator down with a group of Thai people who decided to invite me to lunch with them. They turned out to be staff of the Church of Christ in Thailand, the organization who is in charge of my school.

I discovered that the CCT is an umbrella organization for several different denominations, including Presbyterian, Baptist, and Adventist. I don't remember the other denominations. The two older gentlemen had both heard of Mennonites before; I think that is a first since I have been in Thailand.

At any rate, we ate at a restaurant featuring many specialties from southern Thailand. I received an education on some of the herbs that are grown and eaten here. I was also told that over 50 varieties of bananas grow in Thailand. For dessert we had some finger bananas, long slender fruit that had a sweet, mild flavor. These bananas honestly looked a bit like fingers! We also had gingko fruit for dessert; I was told this is good for your eyes as well as your memory. I think I had better have a daily dose or two of gingko!

Below is a picture of the group. One of the gentleman happened to be the just retired general secretary of the CCT. The other gentleman is the current moderator. The lady to my right is 81 years old and teaches theology at their university part-time. She spent a portion of her life as a delegate to the World Council of Churches and, accordingly, has travelled quite widely. The younger girl is the daughter of the former general secretary. She speaks fluent English, and has just returned from college in Boston, Massachussetts. She is presently working for Thai TV acting in commercials and Thai soap operas!:)

Sheesh, I never know what I will get into next! I am grateful for opportunities like these.