Community

Community

Before moving to Taiwan, that word did not hold much meaning for me.

Sure, I knew its meaning. I had the head knowledge, but not the heart knowledge.

But, for the last five years, I have come to see community in action. The real meaning. Not just a vague reference to a housing development or neighborhood, But, rather, the every day, thinking, breathing reality of community.

I guess when you work, live, play, and worship with all the same people, things happen.

That could be good or bad. But, in the case of Morrison, it is mostly good.

Yesterday, we celebrated community.

Unlike many American schools, we do not have a Parent Teacher Association/Organization (PTA or PTO). What we do have is an Parent Advisory Committee or PAC for short. This is comprised of parents with children in elementary all the way up to middle school.

Just as our student body is compromised of business, missionary, and staff families, so is PAC. Working together, they hosted a Family BBQ for all the elementary and middle school families!

Together, along with this awesome group of chefs, PAC fed over three hundred fifty hungry people!

Chicken wings, hot dogs, grilled ribs, Caesar salad, french fries.

Did I mention ice cream? 

Should I confess I had two servings?

While this selection of food may not seem extraordinary to some of you,  I might reiterate that we are in an Asian country! Western food, while available, is not an everyday occurrence, at least not in this quantity!

Even better than the food was the fellowship. 

Teachers, parents, students, administrators just having a good time.

Just being together.

Listening to some oldies, but goodies.

Conversing.

Like I said- community.

Tables, arranged on the covered play area, was the stage for many conversations. Not necessarily important conversations, but rather connecting conversations. The occupants at our table changed frequently, giving as an opportunity to catch up with six different families. Throughout the day, I was the receiver of multiple hugs and even a beautiful handmade pair of earrings from the jewelry making table.

The climbing wall also received a lot of activity! Believe it or not,  I have conquered the red wall. It's the easiest, so don't be too impressed. I didn't climb yesterday. Too many witnesses!

And while I was definitely intrigued with this updated version of four square, the line to get in was long and populated mostly by the youngsters. I also felt it discriminated against those of us on the shorter side of life!

Even the pool was opened for those desperate enough to brave the cool air. Heated with solar panels, the water was warm enough, but it was quite windy yesterday afternoon. Getting in would be easy, but the getting out....  brrrr!

As their children played, parents connected through conversations. Dads, who are frequently more isolated and less involved, made important connections with one another. Relationships were created and strengthened.

So once again, I come back to the idea of community. 

It is strong here at Morrison.

Strong among our families and strong among the staff.

It is a community I am proud to be part of.