endeavors and courage it takes to master a culture so different from our own. She has her own apartment, job, and goes to school full-time as an American student studying Chinese. However, she has another purpose in spending her 20's in Asia. She's building relationships and friendships with so many who are curious about Christianity but have no way to learn. To respect Chinese culture and those she's become close to, she never initiates a conversation but is open to anyone who comes to her with questions. 
I admire her selflessness- wanting to give others the opportunity to learn about things that we have free access to in the States. It's not a focus of 'converting' anyone to a particular lifestyle, but rather being a friend who can answer questions, share stories, and offer support to those in need. I admire her passion and pursuit in something so important to her.
I absolutely love the emails she sends about her life half way around the world from me. She's, as I call her, my 'real life chinese friend'. As American as she may be, she's now Chinese to me. She observes Chinese holidays, practices, and culture. It takes her 4 trips to the grocery and markets to prepare a single meal. She takes multiple buses to work and school, and all too often uses less than standard bathrooms. She's tried to tell me she's spoiled over there, but I assure you, she's being all too modest. She sleeps with hot water bottles at the foot of her bed in winter because China controls the heat and eats things I don't even want to look at!
I was ecstatic to pick her up last night for a LONG awaited catch up!! She's in the states for one month before heading back for another year in Asia. I could have hugged her forever! It's so funny to me because her English is completely different than it was at our 'farewell dinner' two years ago. I love it! I also got to listen to her speak in a Chinese conversation, and actually laughed out loud at the sound of it. She left for China as a 5'6", blonde, Florida girl and has returned to me as a brunette, fluent speaking Asian! (Blonde hair made her a target in China as a 'foreigner', the dark hair helps her blend a little better in large crowds).
I dropped her off last night, already anxious for the next time we'll see each other. She's such a good friend to me, even living apart since high school graduation. Before leaving last night and wishing her all things well, she reminded me that her time in the US is very sweet to her, but she will be so ready to return Home at the end of the month-- to her home, bed, and even small kitchen. She's asking when I'll be over to visit her... probably when they put in a Kroger. ;)
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