This class have a very conversational tone to it. We discuss various headline events of the day, and we also follow along with a monthly news magazine that is similar to the old Weekly Readers magazines my school subscribed to back in the day. I used to love Weekly Reader days, because it meant we didn't have 'real' school for that hour or so.
Anyway, today's focus was on a couple of the articles for this month. One was entitled, "Iran: What Happened to the Persian Empire?". The focus was on the history of Persia from Bible times, and how it was on the cutting edge of science and inquiry and culture for much of world history, until the religious clerics took over the rule of the government in 1979 (remember the Iran hostage crisis? That was these folks). Former rights that Iranians enjoyed as free citizens have all but vanished. However, over 2/3 of the population of Iran is under 30, and they are very disillusioned with their government and its control. Social media only fuels their desire for change, despite the intense persecution they face if they are too vocal. They also are seeking authentic religion, and are very open to the gospel.
We also talked about the Taureg nomads from Niger. Niger (in Africa) is in the middle of a devastating drought, and members of this tribe are being forced to sell or barter their animals for food, and they are still starving. This is a culture where a man's worth is measured by the number of animals he owns. When a man is forced to part with his last animal to survive, where does his sense of identity come from, especially if he does not know God? The discussion came around full circle as we talked about where people from all times and places have placed their security--money, crops, fame, comfort, freedom from illness, stuff, people, love/lust. It all means nothing apart from God. Now, of course, these kids have heard this for years, but I sure do like being part of their reminders of why they should never take their freedoms, or their responsibilities, for granted.
To kind of tie it all together, we had two very different culinary experiences. First, they had the chance to try some rugulach, a pastry famous in the Middle East (Islam and Jewish cultures alike) for its symbolic decadence. It is normally served as part of special feasts or holidays. Then, they tasted millet, a staple grain in Niger/Africa. It has been all the nomads have been able to find to eat for years now, and currently 'costs' two goats for about 400 pounds of millet, which is all the family eats for every meal. Have you ever had millet? It is not the tastiest of grains, even with salt and garlic and butter added (which they did not have today). I hope they came away with a better understanding of and appreciation for what their parents may be serving (or NOT serving) for supper tonight or breakfast tomorrow.
 |
| Rugulach from Corner Bakery |
 |
| Millet from my kitchen, the anti-Corner Bakery |
I sure do love hanging out with these kids. Feel free to join us if you ever get the chance--third Tuesdays from 3:00 - 4:00. Just follow the funky food smells.
Posted by: Charla M.
No comments:
Post a Comment