July 18, 2012
One of the things with which I have been wrestling since I got to Manila is how simply they live here. And while I understand that much of the simple living is simply because they can’t afford to live any other way, I realize the freedom that comes with having less and see the way God uses such situations to be the ultimate provider.
The way they package most goods here in the Philippines is in little sachets (think small hot chocolate packets) that are meant for only a one- or two-time use. Whether it be laundry detergent, soap, shampoo, Tang, dishwashing soap, coffee, bug spray, or lotion, it’s available for purchase in these mini rip-open packets that are sold individually. Ate Malou goes to Puregold once a week to buy enough shampoo and coffee for the next six or seven days. We go to the market two or three times a week and buy only the food that we need for the next two days. Naturally, this prevents the idea of hoarding because they truly only buy what they need (or what they can afford) at the time. This idea of living day-to-day stands in such contrast to my life back at home, where Costco runs are (or were) my favorite days of the month. It is becoming more and more ridiculous to me that we sell everything in bulk in America. Yes, I recognize the convenience of not having to go to the market every few days and having shampoo and conditioner that will last a month, but what’s the point of purchasing a gallon of mayonnaise if you’re only going to ever use a third of it before it goes bad? The idea of living day-to-day intrigues me, and it has been very freeing purchasing exactly what we need and nothing more. I’m still wrestling with whether or not that is a viable or doable option back home in Texas.
Living simply also releases the hidden burden that comes with possessing material things. While having a fridge and pantry full of food or a closet full of clothes is very comforting, it takes up all the space that God would use to show His overwhelming provision. Because I am so stripped of my comforts that I’m used to having at home, God is able to exercise His love for me through showing me His willingness and desire to provide everything I need. I don’t sleep well here (I still haven’t gotten used to the roosters) and I’m used to taking melatonin back at home; not relying on medication here as opened up an avenue for God to give me the energy that I need for the day. I had done most of my laundry last week and didn’t have a clean pair of bottoms to wear, and, without even knowing my situation, Ate Malou gave me an old pair of shorts to wear. Where I lack, He provides. Whether it be umbrellas, an extra snack, or energy, God has provided for me more so than He ever has in the States. Maybe that’s an exaggeration (He’s done quite a lot for me back home), but not being surrounded by things that bring me such comfort has allowed me to see God’s presence and provision on a daily basis. In America, I’m so distracted by material possessions and the easy ability to get things that I want or need that I minimize God’s mighty power and desire to fulfill my needs. Living simply allows God to be Jehovah Jireh and has opened my eyes to His abounding love for His children. If He is providing for me, a wealthy white girl attempting to live cross-culturally in the slums of Manila, on a daily basis here, how much more so He provides for His children who live in this situation permanently!
Emily Neinast
