Any novice square dance student just learning the “grab-your-partner and do-si-do” moves soon pays attention to distance and space. The night of Bear Trap’s special hoedown witnessed one couple stagger backward and break into laughter after conking heads at the “now bow to your partner” call.
Back in Tulsa our team and volunteers shifted gears as Spring Semester sat poised to launch. Brisk January days shocked the system of those new students coming in from the equatorial climates of their homelands. Some had been only barely prepped for this. The first order of business then meant shedding their ultralight sweaters in favor of garments fashioned for those Oklahoma winds sweeping down the plains.
Most students along the way discovered the need of having their own vehicle. Many had never driven. ISM volunteers and staff stayed busy, both pursuing cars suited to a student’s thin budget and the skills and courage called for in coaching the new owner to drive!
Travelers over the world know that streets and thoroughfares are places fraught with hazards. Especially so when adrenaline runs high.
Yingli was set to graduate. The commencement ceremony would soon be underway. Cap and gown in hand she rushed to cross the street – just yards away from the special venue. Yingli did not see the oncoming car until the last second. Miraculously she halted immediately just as the tire hit her foot. Sadly, the impact fractured a number of bones.
Our community friends were quick to locate her at the hospital. Comforted by their presence and prayers, she settled into the long season of recovery, some of this back in her homeland. Afterwards, upon returning to America to further her educational and professional journey, she yielded her life to Christ.
Yingdi’s smile shone with humble radiance as she set out on a new journey, along an avenue like no other.*
*John 14:6 – ©2024 Jerry Lout Writer/Speaker Jerry Lout grew up in Okmulgee County. Jerry’s “Living with a Limp” and “Giants in the Rough” are available through Amazon. Current projects include “Inside-Out” and “Thresholds” – a string of narratives highlighting surprises, sorrows and adventure in the post-Africa years. Jerry welcomes reader comments at jerrylout@gmail.com and 918-857-4373.
