I landed on Thursday in Manchester United Kingdom and then traveled to Leeds United Kingdom where I will be while in my year of service. My host family for the first week (since my permanent host is out of town) is Max and Sheana Dudley who are very involved with and attend St Andrews where I will be working over my next year. The Dudley family graciously opened their home to me, and have been able to lend a helping hand as I navigate my first week in the United Kingdom.
On Thursday (August 22nd) the Dudley’s showed me around the area of Leeds that they live in, as well as the closest shops and stores are while also assisting me in accomplishing some tasks such as picking up my biometrics residence permit (aka visa) and registering with the National Health System (NHS) (aka the doctor).
On Friday (August 23rd) I went up to the church where I will be working, and met some of the staff and children there. The United Kingdom is currently on “holiday” before school starts back up in a couple weeks and the church has a program called “Holiday Club” for children to attend during the day. I spent the day helping out Beverly ( who will be my boss) and learning more about the program before attending lunch with some of the other church members.
On Saturday (August 24th) The Dudleys and I ran a 5k run in the local park, which was filled with smiles and laughter, but it tuckered us out and we spent the rest of the day resting.
Coming to the United Kingdom, the people are some of the most caring people I have ever met. They go above and beyond to help someone out and make them feel at home in a place that they are unfamiliar with. I have had the opportunity to spend countless hours over the past few days just talking to people I have met and getting to know who they are. In orientation we talked about “listening to respond vs listening to understand” so during my conversations by listening to understand instead of listening to respond it has allowed me to develop deeper authentic relationships and friendships with the people I have met. Listening to understand, allows you to peel back the walls that we all put up and connect at the deepest level possible.
As I reflect on my first few days here in Leeds I would challenge all of you to listen to understand instead of listening to respond, you may be surprised what you’ll discover.
Photo Credit: Ryan
Photo Credit: St. Andrews
Photo Credit: St. Andrews
Photo Credit: Ryan
Photo Credit: Ryan
Photo Credit: Ryan
Looks like you have had wonderful food and awesome people to visit with.
Ryan, I enjoyed reading about your journey so far. You have a gift for writing. I love the challenge about listening. God bless
Ryan, many thanks for the update on your new journey! We are excited and blessed to be part of the team, cheering you on and keeping you in our prayers. Will share your up date with members of Faith.
God grant you wisdom as you continue to use His gifts to share the Gospel! Your enthusiasm alone will be a huge blessing!
May His Peace surround and fill you!