FCBA Day 15- Shreveport Day of Rest

While out on the town celebrating ChaCha Ala Mode’s birthday the Adventurers relaxed at a local pub. While some had drinks (mine was cranberry) it was remarked by Brother Alex what I observed about our accommodations; this place we are staying, though modest, is so comfortable! Everything is so thoughtfully provided down to the smallest details. Though 20 people share the two sinks in the room, on the little shelf overhead we found Q-Tips! I’ve never been so excited about toiletries. I shaved with real shave cream this morning, too! We live very simply these days so the value of what we normally take for granted is greatly enhanced.

We all have cell phones, most have computers and other electrical devices, and the bunk house we are sleeping in is somewhat limited in power. With the refrigerator, microwave, laundry the building is at maximum wattage, so we keep our electronics connected in the nearby parish hall. These things previously had immense importance prior, but as we go down the road shifting gears, my values are shifting. I left my computer and phone there as we made our city excursion. Before this would have caused separation anxiety, but now I am quite comfortable, even liberated, without. Upon our return we found the hall locked, and miraculously I was able to sleep quite peacefully.

My cycle computer is acting up and this too has caused me some angst, for I find myself riding most of the miles solo, without another rider in sight. The concise route instructions demand attention to tenths of miles so to stay on course, and though the lead riders make chalk marks at the turns, they aren’t always clear for the car traffic wears them away, or I simply fail to see them in my distraction. I rely on my odometer and magnetic compass to keep my bearings, with my cell phone as a backup with maps if needed. On the way into Shreveport yesterday I purchased a new computer for $70 and today consider that a luxury I might have better done without. I manage at sea with minimal electronics and there are no roads or signs out there, so what is my need in civilization? Well, there isn’t much of one, but I’m not going to back-track to return it so will install it, though will rely on my wits more.

We had a choice of churches today; this Catholic one where we are staying, or get into the van and see where it took me. Wanting to see more of Shreveport I chose the latter. At the Baptist church we attended Sunday-school class where we were able to share our adventure and inspiration, and then had a choice between traditional or contemporary worship. Again, I chose the latter for something different. This was another rather wealthy congregation and along this trip we’ve seen both modest and rich. I’ve found my prejudice growing toward the rich, but today my eyes were opened. I learned some time ago if I find a person, place, or thing objectionable the problem isn’t with them, but within me. It is not my place to judge, and in taking that attitude I saw the good and found inspiration. I still prefer the modest church, but others find what they need where it is available.

This evening we meet at a coffee shop with the locals and further share the mission of the Fuller Center for Housing. You can learn more at: FCBA-Check out the Blog! Let me assure you it is well worth your time, for after immersion in this philosophy of “Live Simply so others can Simply Live” I will never take a Q-Tip for granted. Excuse me as I go delight in ear canal hygiene.

Elvis palming the Sun!