Of Romance and Ransom

Man, we are tired. Sore from crazy Cross-fit workouts for sure, but also tired emotionally. We continue to be active with out friends, attending parties, events, meeting new people. However, our time is dwindling here. Our dreams are oddly filled with scenes of people and places from back in the states.  It will be weird not seeing small cars everywhere, people speaking Portuguese or broken English or even the many languages spoken in this Global Village. It will be weird not being able to get Pastel da Natal or Bola de Berlim. We will miss the chorizo and piri piri sauce (at least Danny will). It will be odd seeing streets that are recognizable as streets and not what we thought where cobblestone sidewalks (although they are narrow enough). We will miss the salt water breeze and the rocky shores. Even the constant holy glow of futebol on TVs in cafes and homes.

Mostly, however, it is the people. Our friends have created a home for us. They have opened theirs'. They have opened their hearts to us as well. We will miss seeing their faces, working hard with them in workouts, learning their language and culture, eating meals and drinking cafes. This country has romanced our souls, inspired our minds and hearts in the greatest ways. God has blessed us with a wonderful opportunity to be here. How could we be so blessed?

It always surprises me to hear of people who do not know that Portugal is a country, or even that the Portuguese are cognizant that people are so many people are ignorant of this historical, important, and beautiful country. Many will never be wooed by the cobble stone streets and the charming architecture. They will never be soothed by the symphonic sounds of the Atlantic and Mediterranean waters, or intoxicated by the aromas of fresh thyme and fruit trees springing from the fertile soils. Ignorance of this majestic place is tragic.

If one loves seafood, they will love the Algarve. If it swims, they eat it, with wine, and olive oil. The fruit, vegetables, and nuts not only delight the tongue, but the smells captivate the nose too. The cuisine is one of the best ways to familiarize you with the culture. The artistry and care undertaken awakens the visitor to a magical land worthy of the best novels.

We have come here, learned much, and continue to do so. We have the hope of One who sacrificed much to show us love. We have done our best to share that love and hope with those who have shared their lives with us. We have learned much from them and we pray they have seen what we love, who we love, most.

“Remember that when you leave this earth, you can take with you nothing that have received--only what you have given.” 

― St. Francis of Assisi