driving to the Thai-Burma border

On the border of Burma, a country we've heard so much of and prayed so much for. Surreal.

At about 9pm, we were finally ready to squeeze into the back of the truck and head out. We covered up as much as possible, as we had to drive through at least three military or police checkpoints on our way out.  I covered my hair and as much of my face as I could, and we both kept our heads and our eyes down. The soldiers all carried machine guns, and menacing looks. There were several different colors of uniforms, and the students with us explained that the colors helped them know if the soldiers were straightforward or prone to corruption and hassling to get bribes. 

our wonderful place to sleep...complete with running water AND no squat toilet

our little truck all loaded with gear...yes, 14 people did also fit in there (somewhere)

It was different being in that situation with soldiers--in America we learn as children that law enforcement and military are there to help and protect us; just the opposite is true for the refugees and minorities in the camps. It was a long and tense ride for the first hour, until we'd made it through all of the search stops. It was heart wrenching to watch the faces of our refugee friends as we drove through; they were full of fear and shame.  Imagine living every day knowing that you are despised and unwanted by the people of the country in which you are trapped, unable to change your situation or their perspective. Incredibly defeating. 

standing on the border, looking across the river to Burma

Burma, right after we watched a soldier on patrol on the banks of the river

After about two hours of winding through dark roads up toward the mountains, our driver pulled over at the side of the road and announced that it was late and we would be sleeping 'near by the river' for the night. We knew we were right by the Thai-Burma border, and the idea of sleeping outside in the jungle wasn't my favorite…but we were at least prepared with sleeping mats and sleeping sacks. We followed the others down a little path, only to find that it lead to a little house with a porch, right on the banks of the Moi river. What a blessing!! A safe, clean place to sleep…and it had a Western style toilet AND a cold shower. I couldn't have been more excited--it was awesome! We were able to go to sleep clean and relatively cool. 

giant spiders were a small price to pay for being clean for the first time in days! :)

two of the seminary students who hadn't been this close to 'home' in years

In the morning when we woke, we walked outside to see the river and the Burma border just feet from where we stood. It was a surreal feeling, knowing that we were so close to the homeland of so many of our friends. We saw a soldier walking in the trees on the other side, so decided a quick swim across wasn't the best idea. :) It was neat so share the experience with the students; some hadn't been to Burma or 'home' for years. The looks of hope and longing on their faces we will remember always.

Dr. Simon's precious wife...so excited to be there.