litt-world day 3

so where to begin? i'm too exhausted to say much really, and so full of stories i'm afraid to start for they'll come bursting out all over the place.

feels later than 10PM, but the day begins early (i keep waking at 4AM). my pacific time family and friends might be awakening right now at 6AM. good morning to you as we're in the same day for some hours.

what is happening in the world. i could tell you a hundred stories just from this gathering at littworld. 31 countries are represented -- some have thriving lives and christian publishing houses. others endure incredible persecution, they will return not to the image of america and freedom, they leave this safe conference center for a home surrounded in violence, unrest, persecution, insecurities. and don't you know it, they're the ones with the most peace in their eyes. i'll write about some of the individuals in the days ahead.

philip yancey spoke something great last night, but okay sorry now, my brain is in lockdown. i didn't think i'd actually meet him. there are about 140 of us here, but he always had people around. then after our group photo, i turned around and there he was. amazing to talk to someone who wrote something that might have saved your faith. how do you even say that after smiling for a camera shot? more on his great talk from last night when the brain comes back.

we're going to a beach resort tomorrow, hanging out and spending time together (after teaching 2 workshops and holding 2 consultation times, and the above hint, i think some resorting will be mighty fine). but can't tell you how i marvel constantly at the mix of us. new friends in nepal, kenya, albania, cameroon, among many others. constant surrealism. how quickly we love one another. earlier i returned to my room for a 5 minute break, fell on my bed, and thought, "what a great gift that john maust gave me by inviting me here. not just inspiring, even life-changing doesn't feel enough." already things are happening beyond. an idea -- my writers group connecting with one in kenya, maybe the one in ghana, maybe more and more, a network or something. such little things, a tiny seed here, it will grow.

also, i must mention, the filipino people are such wonderful, intelligent people, i've so enjoyed getting to know many. my small view on the taxi ride in was not the better part of the country, it'll be good to see more in the coming days. also never had such kindness among a staff either. they greet, "hello, ms. cindy." "good morning, ms. cindy." i was called a "delegate" when arriving -- made me laugh.

some months ago, i expressed my somewhat bitter struggle with christian "products" in the states after cba. these few days have restored something, a greater vision perhaps. a hope when i didn't know such hope was lacking. a strength though i did know of my weakness.

be of good cheer out there. the world is filled with dots of light, they are sometimes competely surrounded by darkness, and yet they shine and shine on. may we also.
love to you who i know and do not know. and to you. and especially to you.