Monday, October 18, 2010

Anonymity versus Community

I hope I spelled that correctly! There are many wonderful things about living in a small town. I have discussed those things in prior blog entries so I won't revisit them. I really do like small town living, truly. But one thing I struggle with is the occasional desire to just be anonymous. I am thankful that I have gotten to know so many wonderful new friends, but the downside of that is that I can't go anywhere without seeing someone I know. Actually, several people I know. The commissary and BX feel like social hour sometimes. I usually enjoy this, I am a very social person and love to chat. But then there are those times you just want to get in and out and don't feel like smiling and chatting and engaging.

Then I remember, God calls us to community. My former preacher, Max, once gave a sermon about this that stuck with me. When living in a big city-it is very easy to isolate ourselves. Neighbors don't talk, garage doors close so we don't even have to see anyone on our way in or out of the house. We do shopping and correspondence and all sorts of other things via computer just to make it easy and to avoid the hassle of dealing with people. At Incirlik, we are forced to constantly be in community. And although it is annoying at times, it is right where the Lord wants me. An important lesson that I will take with me from this place.

....and on a completely different subject-how 'bout them Tigers??

Auburn 65(?) Arkansas 43
War Eagle.

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