Mind Over Matter (Matters)

This is my second trip to Laos (read about my first trip here), and in some ways it is much the same. For instance, I am familiar with the sights and sounds of Vientiane, and I already have relationships with Julia's roommates. I have been reminded of many customs and feel like it has been easy to fall back into them while here.

Unlike my last trip, food has been a major issue for me this time around. I was gluten intolerant on my last trip and got along almost without issue, though with much caution. (I only had one day when I felt sick. A miracle, perhaps?) As it stands now, I have a constant headache and my body feels overall depressed. I don't mean I'm unhappy, but it has been so challenging to stay on my A-game. My entire body feels low. I'm experiencing some jet-lag, I'm sure, but this is a different tired that I recognize.


The temptation to stay self-focused and complain about my food situation is great. In fact, I've succumbed many times already. I'm not starving. Don't get me wrong; the food is tasty. I want to eat it, but even the "gluten free" things are chock full of MSG and go straight to my head. (MSG is like table salt here.)

So how does one show appreciation and an "others-minded" way of living when not at his prime?

That is the question.
 
I'm not sure I have an answer, but I know I want to be a blessing and not a burden. I know Julia and her friends are trying so hard not to poison me! I know they must be tired from showing such great hospitality on top of fulfilling their everyday obligations.

It's easy to "pile," as we call it in my family. When one thing is awry, there can be a tendency to play the cynic and find all that is askew at the present. This cynic is claiming the promise of God's goodness and vowing to be thankful, even when achy and homesick.

I have been blessed. I want to be a blessing. I'm making dinner tonight.