Hooray! I'm blind again

     This morning when I awoke there was something waiting for me at the door, MY BAG! It is amazing what simple things can cause you to feel great. For instance, a clean shirt, pair of pants, or the ability to remove your contacts and allow them to soak overnight. So being blind again, is a good feeling.
After another two days, so much has been learned, seen, and experienced, none of which has been bad. The view, people, and food continue to be outstanding.
     I went before the President in borrowed pants, I don't think he noticed. But he was very well spoken, informative, educated, and honest. Perhaps our politicians should take a lesson. As Meagan mentioned we learned religion is something that is not of concern in Icelandic politics. I find it interesting that though we claim our nation separates religion and politics, its one of the main issues in debates. However in Iceland, the church is a state church, and is never an issue. The warning from the president is a good one, and thanks Meagan for reminding me of it, God is not a football. Perhaps the politics need to keep the religion to those studying, practicing, and doing their best as humans to live it. Anyways, our visit was enjoyable, and informative, there were no metal detectors, secret service, or pat downs. We were treated more as equals in conversation rather than someone in an act or show.
     Last but not least, here is a little lesson from food. The new things I have tried, horse, spiced/ cured lamb, shark, cured salmon, Reindeer paté, Icelandic licorice, have all really been good. Coming into Iceland I had heard of the foods, and the mixed emotions that come with them, some positive, many more negative. However I pushed those things aside, and tried it for myself, and what do you know, it's good stuff. It is nowhere close to tacos and beans, but hey it is good, and I would, and hopefully will, eat these things again. The lesson? perhaps we all can learn from this experience, in personal life, and as a church. Everyone is a critic, and everyone has an opinion, but unless you try something for yourself, your never going to know, and in a way you remain ignorant to a subject. As a church, maybe its good to break away from the tacos and beans, and try horse, shark and reindeer, who knows we may find some new life and nourishment in the stuff. The same goes for our day to day life, try it, you may like it, if not, hey you still have your beans and tacos.
    P.S. hot tubs, steam rooms, and heated pools are great. Especially when its below freezing outside.

Creator of this amazing land. Thank you for new opportunities, new people, foods, and experiences. Grant us the courage to brave new things and experience your creation with open, willing hearts and minds. Amen