Hilde

I figured I'll tell about my stay in Wales a little at a time. My reason for going to Wales, was basically to experience the Nationchangers church in Merthyr, as part of the experience my college requires every year. I came there as a total stranger to everyone, didn't know anyone, except from knowing Joe through blogging. I stayed with Joe and Bethany most of the time, and Joe's parents, Dave and Marg, part of the time. I had a great time with them and they were so hospitable. I really felt like I could relax with all of them.
I met so many great people, and was blessed in every way. A few people shared words from the lord with me over my life, which was very encouraging. I've learned to think greater thoughts and expect more from God. I realized how Norwegians often are affected by the old pietism in the way we pray. Many christians seem to sort of glorify the simple living and poorness, maybe unconsciously. I agree that being poor may bring you closer to God and that a simple live may help to focus right, but it shouldn't be a goal in itself, the way I see it. God wants to bless us. I knew that before, I've always known it, but I've realized it in a new way after my visit to Wales. I've also learned to think greater thoughts in other aspects. -more visional thoughts. God wants to use me, and there's no reason that he should not use me in great ways if I'm willing. His visions are far greater than mine. Now I just pray that God will share his visions with me. I want to think like he thinks, feel like he feels, see what he sees…
I’ve for a long time wished to be a songwriter, but I haven’t had the inspiration. I’ve written a few songs that I think are really good, but I’ve written those when I was particularly inspired. Joe made me realize (something very obvious really…) that to become a songwriter I need to practice songwriting. Just like you need to practice any other thing you want to become good at, you must practice songwriting, and do it often. (Joe also thought me to be more excited about things, but I don’t think he knows that. I, as a typical Norwegian, I wouldn’t really say that I have written really good songs, but after seeing how excited Joe gets over a song that I normally would call very regular, I see the benefits of it.)