Got a light?

Ministry in a foreign country is an interesting mix of emotions.
As a human, I want to blend in and be liked and be cool.
Italians are the epitome of cool.
They are trendy, European people who wear sunglasses even in the dark.
I have met some students who are very nice and friendly.
But on the outside, they are super intimidating.
When I walk on campus, I immediately feel out of place.

I am blonde.
I am unnecessarily tall.
I don't speak Italian.
I don't smoke.

Now, those of you who know me well, remember the days I tried to change the first fact.
Brunette was not a good look for me.
We won't go back there.

I have tried countless times to shrink.
But alas, I have come to embrace all five feet, eleven inches of me.

I am working on the Italian thing.
I think I am getting somewhere.
I feel like a total idiot, but people tell me that's a good thing.

So onto the last item.
Now don't freak out.
I'm not going to start smoking.
Although the thought has crossed my mind.
Ministry would be so easy.
Smoke break=conversation.

Anybody remember that Friends episode?
Rachel did it.
She started smoking to be included.
Her smoking kick didn't last long though.
Plus, she coughed all the time.
Not cool.
I would doubly stand out if I coughed all the time.

So here's my solution.
I think I might carry a lighter with me.
Italians are always asking each other, and total strangers, for a light.
Granted, I don't want to encourage thier habit.
But believe me, there is no use in trying to discourage it.
Its a way of life here.

So I will be there for them in their time of need.
Tall, blonde, American lighter-girl.
That's how I'll be known.

I'm gonna start working on how I can transition from,
"Got a light?" to "Jesus is the light."

Culturally relevant ministry.
Brilliant.