Adventurous Life

As you might have noticed, I have changed the name of my blog. For some time I have felt that this blog was egocentric and an attempt on my part to make myself important my reflecting through my life experiences. But my life isn't about me; it is all about the Triune God who chose me, saved me, and dwells within me. My focus is now to make Him greater with the result that I become less (John 3:30--a great verse). But do not be misled by the new title. This blog will not be a place where I discuss the theological issues of Christian perfectionism, but it will be where I chronicle my struggles with being a perfectionist. By openly confessing, I seek transparency, integrity, accountability and not boastings of my "greatness." But do not worry if you enjoyed my previous posts. I will still continue to be a catalogue of my adventures because every aspect of life is an adventure with the proper perspective.

I was sitting in the cafe waiting for the internet to connect (which it wasn't) when the anxious feelings started to creep in. I wanted to leave this place and go somewhere more comfortable. Then I think and realize that this is culture stress. I took a few deep breaths and it was better. Eating out or going for a drink (smoothie, juice, coffee, milkshake, etc) in another culture is an experience. Fast food places and cafes here are not like the ones in the US. Do I order first and then sit down or sit down first and then order? I wanted to get a piece of pizza for lunch at a place in the mall the other day, but I was unsure about how to answer these questions. Instead, I went to a place where I saw that I ordered first and then enjoyed a piece of pizza (crisis averted!). There are two options in this situation. First, to turn away and not even try or second, to make the best attempt possible and chance embarrassment and failure. Option 2 is the best, but I must admit I occasion...

Today, I realized I never will have perfect teeth. It all started a year ago with one cavity with several “suspicious spots” which turned into 7 cavities a week after that (with still many “suspicious spots”). I added mouth wash to my daily regimen of once per day brushing before bed. Six months later I was back at the dentist with a chipped tooth and my very own nightguard to wear for the rest of my life. Can you feel my joy? I began to brush and use mouth wash both mornings and evenings. Don’t worry, there is the occasional flossing tossed in there as well. My goal: to have The Perfect Dental Visit where they tell me, “Everything looks fabulous, your teeth are in great health, keep up the good work, see you in 6.” Today, I was hopeful. I had been keeping up a good dental regimen and even increased the frequency of flossing (admittedly it would decrease until the next visit loomed on the horizon). I was confident that today was the day of The Perfect Visit. My hopes were high, and...