A few weeks ago we were sitting in church when our pastor made the announcement, “Grace Chapel is hosting a summer art camp in July and we’ve been in contact with a group from China who will be attending. If you’re able, we need homes to host close to one hundred children.”
Paul and I looked at each other. Or, maybe I just looked at him? Yep, we signed up.
So, after background checks and all the other formalities, we got the green light for not just one, but THREE students to stay with us for a week.
How cool is that?
Do you know what makes this even more exciting? They’ve never heard the gospel. And, as far as we know, they’ve never been around Christians or Americans for that matter, either. When I began talking to our kids about what they should do when they stay or what we should make them to eat, it was clear my children need this experience – ALOT.
My daughter was worried about picking our guests up at the airport, “Mom, there’s going to be one hundred students getting off the plane. How are we going to know which ones to take home? They all look alike.”
Sweetheart, I’m pretty sure they feel the same way about you.
My youngest son chimed in, “Let’s take them to Panda Express and watch a Godzilla movie.”
Um, no.
So, we’re headed to the library to learn more about their culture before they’re immersed in ours. If you have any tips about the Asian culture I’d LOVE to hear them.
Asians are very respectful, very shy and will bring you a gift, which they will give you when they leave. They come from a hierarchical family system. With only one week in your home, you will likely not see this played out. But just in case, make sure they know from Paul that you can make decisions.
We had a Japanese boy live with us for his Junior year in high school while our son was a senior. Today he works for Ernst & Young as an accountant in New York with his wife and one year old daughter. It was a very wonderful experience for us as a family. Enjoy!