Anna's Update, a few days late.

The following was a post that Anna wrote for the blog a few days ago. But due to shady internet service, it was never posted.


Yesterday, we drove from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap. There was a lot of deliriously exhausted sentiment in the air, which resulted in approximately five hours of laughing and tired silence. Although it was a joy to spend time together, it was also impossible not to notice the poverty that surrounded us for the duration of the drive. At one point, we stopped at a fruit stand along the road to use the restroom, and were immediately bombarded by little kids, eager to sell us something to support their families. We also see countless beggars, many of whom are handicapped as a result of hidden land mines. Personally, it has been hard for me to look these people in the eyes. Back in Oregon, we think of our own lives as full of potential, and the types of things that we plan to achieve are unhampered by the goal of meeting basic needs. 

Everyone here has an equal right to lead a fulfilling life. This raises the question--what obligation do we have, having witnessed this poverty? To witness isn't enough. Christ gives us this sense of empathy so that, ultimately, we might be driven to acts of kindness. It must to amount to more than a mental snack or a power point presentation when we get back.

Today in Siemp Reap, we visited Angkor Wat. We had an extremely helpful guide, who was full of answers, and full of tolerance for our undoubtedly trying American-ness. The highlight for me was ascending the final set of stairs, to the highest point (the fourth tier) of temple. The view was amazing, especially as there was a fast-approaching thunderstorm in the distance. 

The significance of the temple as a place of Buddhist worship didn't escape anyone, although I'm sure we all had different reactions to it. For now, I will just say that it is fascinating to see how others worship. 

That's all for now. I hope all you parents are surviving :)