Getting to know Belfast

We had a full day today!

We spent the morning touring some sites around Belfast - taking in more pieces of the culture that makes this city what it is, and learning the history both longer ago and from the more recent Troubles. We visited a section of the Peace wall and took note of the murals, the difference in perspective on each side of the wall, and the reality that though people can share a history - their perspectives can indeed vary widely. Similarly to this, we took a quick visit to the Ulster Museum, focusing on their exhibit on the Troubles, which aims to be as factual and unbiased as it can be - and were struck by the weight and length of the time. What stuck with us the most was the realization that such trauma is felt generations deep... 

This morning we were also able to visit St. George's Market, taking in local crafts and food, as well as a visit to the CS Lewis Square - it was a beautiful day to be outside! We wrapped up our morning with a drive up a hill overlooking the city to the Belfast Castle, some nice time to sit and reflect on the morning while taking in the view. After lunch we went on a bit of a shopping adventure... well, some shopped, others drank coffee, explored various landmarks in the city, or visited the docks and the Titanic Quarter. The evening was especially wonderful as we had a relaxed time being hosted by Mark at his home - we enjoyed first watching a local sitcom and having some laughs before retiring to the patio for an evening of singing, eating, and talking with one another. We have truly been blessed by hospitality! 

Tomorrow we begin our day by attending a local church service, and then will head down to Newcastle ahead of a week of camp! Excited to meet Tim Foley, who serves as the Regional Director for Europe for Mennonite Mission Network. Before signing off though, here is a reflection offered by Elizabeth Eby this evening: 

It's amazing how similar two people can be despite varying accents, polititics, and culture. Today was a very long day with varying activities each unintentionally deepening the relationships within our larger groups. That's really what today felt it was about. Riding in the bus and walking around the shops, we would talk about some of the differences we have between our two countries. For example, Nike and Addidas are huge here. And then of course we talked about all the cultural problems Belfast has faced in the past and still does to some degree to this day. The slang is different and some of the food has different names but eating together and talking together helps everyone understand each other and grow more accustomed. At Saint George's Market when I was walking around I found myself developing an Irish accent without meaning to. It was probably really bad  ut it really made me think. People are formed by their culture and their surroundings. How we adapt and empathize is the key to resolving conflict, You can't fix people or assimilate them, but you can form a deeper relationship while haveing fun all the while. - Elizabeth

Goodnight all.