Family and friends,
We are so thankful that you are thinking of us. It really means a lot. To know that there are people who love us, support us, and think of us on a regular basis is more than “greatly appreciated” it’s VITAL to the success of this team.
Last night before lights out (@10pm) we had a team debrief. We talked about the morning thought and considered how it would take shape in our lives for the next 2 weeks. We also talked about culture shock and what kinds of choices we need to make when we experience the inevitable dissonance we all are encountering. We also talked about our team covenant and committed once again to striving for excellence as we relate with one another and serve our host. The vibe was good and there was a real sense of “unity of vision” and a deep sense of “commitment to excellence” in the room.
Now, onto today. What a day!!! Today was another cultural exchange day where we got to see some amazing places in Beijing. We saw Tiananmen Square, the Temple of Heaven, and got to walk through Beijing’s most famous market (which even had a Starbucks….in which our tall-curly haired team leader got a hot coffee on a VERY VERY HOT and SWEATY afternoon which made everyone very confused...but anyway, I digress).
We had three great meals today, first at the hotel and then lunch and dinner at two different restaurants in Beijing. We have always had private rooms and VERY FULL meals. Tonight, we had dumplings galore, and for lunch….Peking duck!
The team seems to be doing well. We are tired, mostly because of our long days and still getting over jet-lag. But overall, people seem to be doing really well. We haven’t heard of anyone being up the whole night or not being able to sleep at least most of the way through the night (most of us are waking up still between 2-4am, and then going back to sleep). We are hoping this changes soon!
As I write this (8:45pm), we are traveling from Beijing to our host. We are looking forward to starting work tomorrow. Tonight, the plan is to get settled and have an early night lights-out in the hope that we can rest up before tomorrow’s first day.
People are mostly healthy (one sore throat and one leader who lost her voice) so please think about that, but we are all hydrated and happy….which given how much we have been able to pack in…..is great!
Thanks again for thinking of us….love you all.
Keep thinking about us regarding:
-jet-lag
-a sore throat and 1 lost voice
-starting work tomorrow with our host
love,
CST11
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