Preconceived Ideas
Posted by George Huss
When the idea of doing this mission trip came to my attention, I thought it would be something worthwhile for Genny and me... other than the usual spring break fare. As for me, I have never been to New Orleans. In fact, I have never had any desire to go to New Orleans. The thoughts I have had about New Orleans were clearly in the camp of NEVER going to New Orleans during Mardi Gras. So, when I learned that we would be here in the middle of it all my first emotion was... fear.
I cannot explain it in any other way. It was just a non-specific fear. I did not want to go to Mardi Gras. It simply did not fit into my preconceived ideas ~ especially with eight females. (Was this my male ego believing I had the power and responsibility to protect the gentle gender?! Honestly?)
Allowing the God of my understanding to grant me serenity to know His will, I allowed myself the time to learn what I could about NOLA. The process began with reading Year Zero, which did little to calm my fears about New Orleans. On-line research, particularly from Tulane, helped me understand the geography and the geology of the area. I really wanted to impose my own judgments on the whole Katrina thing, but God grant me the serenity to put aside my judgements.
I prayed for God to let me know what He wished of me on this trip because, again, I did not want to go to Mardi Gras. Everytime I mentioned the trip to people I know, they relayed their own fears, especially with young women and especially with my own daughter. I was warned how dangerous NOLA is and especially during Mardi Gras. Aaarrgg...
Patience, stay in the moment. Listen carefully for God to reveal the plan, or not. Suspend your expectations and judgements. Honestly there were times when I wanted to gracefully decline, bow out, make an excuse and relieve myself of this self-imposed stress.
And now, in the process, all I can do is laugh at myself and my preconceived ideas.
I have come to believe that God is Love and It is All Good. Just because I do not know God’s plan does not make it bad!
I am so grateful to be here at this time and with these amazing women... every one.
God has blessed us throughout this trip. Everything has worked exactly the way God has intended. My preconceived ideas have been shattered. All I see in NOLA is the Holy Spirit at work in the people who have welcomed us like family. Old friends known to Blair and complete strangers, both citizens and civil servants. Everyone so friendly and grateful that we chose to be with them. The Holy Spirit has been alive in us as well in our faith that it IS all good. I so love the faith and energy of youth.
Yesterday, as mentioned, was our tour of the lower ninth. Pete, our guide, was very informative and honest. He helped me resolve my own conflicting ideas about NOLA from my own research and limited experience. This was his frequent answer to direct questions from most of us... “Yea, kinda.”
Yea, Kinda. I LOVED IT! Yea, kinda. Any Truth I believed I “know” about this city... correct? Yea, kinda.
So many wonderful experiences already. Today was a full work day. I approached it with a view that any work may be approached as a spiritual practice. (Please do not assume I enjoyed every moment. I did not.) I did feel moved to have one eye on my assigned task and to also be mindful of our Krew. I love this group. So kind and gentle and funny and witty. I am so blessed. I cannot wait to see what more will be revealed. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you all for sharing your family with me.
incredible reflection!
thank you, george!