So maybe you’ve just stepped off the Boeing747, gotten past the never-ending queues of borderline security and the luggage carousel, hoping beyond all comprehension to catch even the slightest glimpse of a familiar-looking piece. Stepping out from behind the automatic glass doors, you’re hit by a strong gust of wintry air, the smell of clean, piny air filling your lungs. Good grief, even minus the snow, no one told you it was going to be this cold.
Welcome to Perth.
First time studying abroad? Longest period, or maybe even the singular (event, time), you’ve ever been away from family, friends, and home? In the very first of a series, fellow newbie Su-lyn Yeang shares a few pointers on what it takes to not just survive, but to flourish in the whole new experience of being an international student.
So perhaps it’s already been a few days, maybe even weeks since you first set foot in this new (and possibly alien) part of the world. Textbooks and stationery neatly stacked on a yet-to-be-familiarized-with desk, you wonder what’s left to settle before you get submerged, then paddle neck-high, in assignments and course work.
“But first be concerned about God's Kingdom and His righteousness, and all of these things will be provided for you as well.” –Matthew 6:33 (International Standard Version)
One of my favourite theories on morality is by the Greek philosopher Aristotle. He theorized that the main goal of all our actions should lead us to ‘eudaimonia’ - flourishing, excellence, happiness, success. Eudaimonia is being the best of you, all that you could possibly be. He believed that this state of excellence was only achievable if one habituated the practice of rationality and virtue. However logical that may sound, the main flaw in this theory is that there wasn’t (and isn’t) any way to know what actions are right or wrong. But I believe that he got the concept right, and that it can work for any believer who is willing to read, know, and live His Word and commandments, one who participates in the Body of Christ- His church.
“So in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.” – Romans 12:5 (NIV)
Now I know that this may sound preachy and you may think “she just wants us to go to church”, but think about it. You’re in a foreign, alien even, country with pretty much no links to anything or anyone here. Being a part of a congregation provides you with not just physical protection (not that ZPH has big, burly, bouncer-like guys, worry not!) with people who care for and take notice when you start to get the sniffles, your body still adjusting to the winter chill, but also a spiritual covering, with fellow cell members keeping you in prayer at all times.
Also consider the church as a place to meet new people, those who share the same faith as you. With them is a special bond and connection, unique to any other relationships- with these people you identify, worship, and sing praises to your God. But not just that, think of them also as comrades in arms, all of whom battle against the same menacing, vile, and terrifying perpetrator – stress and examinations!
Oh, but it doesn’t just stop there. Your Christian circle doesn’t just face the same hardships during the exam season, but the same temptations and trials along the way as well. So it’s also important to be able to have people who you are able to be accountable to, who can and will help you steer clear of stumbling blocks and aid you along the clear and straight path.
Last, but certainly not the least, it’s because He has commanded each of us to be a part of a congregation. And if you know our God, He takes notice of such obedience, and will cause those who do so to grow – not like a stunted plant struggling and desperately competing with others for sunlight and nutrients, but like a well-tended flower that blooms and flourishes.
So now that you’re here, miles and miles away from a place you call home, think of what you really want to achieve here, consider the things that are of utmost importance to you, and as you begin this new chapter of your life, go over the things that are closest to your heart.
Is your goal for your time here in Perth one of eudaimonia?
Written by blog writer,
Su-Lyn Yeang
Have a comment, question or suggestion? Email us at uwalive@gmail.com!
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