This was quite the experience! As Dale and I arrived and started to enter through one door, the man being honored, along with several others, ran up to Dale and whisked him away, saying, "We think you'll be more comfortable over here." Yes, the men and women could see each other but were in completely separate parts of the activity center. A bevy of children milled around as well, plus babies filled (mostly) their mother's arms. We had avoided lunch at home, expecting that this, as a more "formal" celebration, would feature an array of different Pakistani and Middle Eastern fare. Imagine how surprised we were to find Domino's Pizza, Pepsi and donuts! Guess it's the best America has to offer.... (Just kidding!). Well, in spite of the food letdown, we had a marvelous time meeting new friends and entering their world. I looked over at one point and saw my husband totally delighting in relating with the men, and I could sense very strongly that we belonged there even though as Westerners we were the oddballs (or maybe honored guests, depending upon one's perspective). My partner for IWC, Sharon Treat, is the other Westerner in this picture. She, too, had a delightful time. So grateful for God allowing us to shine His light into places like this!

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