Bedouin, camels, and miles of sand…
Flying today across the desert was quite interesting. Interesting, because I’ve seen nothing like it before: with miles, upon miles, of sand, in every direction - as far as the eye can see. No trees, no bushes, no hills, no mountains or valleys, and a barely visible horizon (due to the suspended dust in the air). With no “terrain relief,” depth perception and movement perception are impaired. Sometimes it “appears” that you are barely moving. A quick glance inside the cockpit and you “verify” your altitude, airspeed and groundspeed. You mind reassures you, “yes, you are flying at 100 feet off the ground, at a 165 miles per hour.”
After awhile, I noticed a small population of people and animals - in the middle of NOWHERE. It was a tribe of Bedouin and their precious camels, hundreds of camels. The Bedouin are Arab desert dwellers. They have a nomadic lifestyle and roam specific areas, with their goats, sheep or camels, who graze on the sparse desert foliage. Those with camels, have the highest prestige. The Bedouin possess a devout belief in Islam, have lived this way for centuries, and are governed by a sheikh - with counsel of male elders.
The immersion training in the middle eastern culture, continues.
Tim
For the first time, I hit me that you are REALLY far away. I love your posts!
Tiffany
tiffany - August 13th, 2007 at 12:15 pmThanks for keeping us informed…I am glad to know you are safe.
xoxoxoxo
Suzy - August 13th, 2007 at 12:34 pmI can’t imagine seeing such vast expances of sand. You are seeing a part of the world that most of us never will. Be safe and take care of yourself.
Betsy Roeder - August 13th, 2007 at 2:45 pmLove,
Betsy
I remember the nomads, they are absolutely fascinating from a distance. Pretty smelly stuff when close, from what I am told. Also, because you are now in an Islamic society, you will be governed much more by the phases of the moon. I could teach you how to say some nasty stuff in Pharsi, but you are in Arabic land. Stay safe. Love 9
Aunt 9 - August 13th, 2007 at 5:09 pmBrother, thanks for the detailed accounts. We feel closer to you. Prayers for safety continue. May the Lord be your shield.
-Mark, Anne, and Claire
Mark - August 13th, 2007 at 8:55 pmThis post will surely turn out to be a great journal of you experiences so far away. We are living vicariously through you. Thank you for sharing with all of us.
Jean - August 13th, 2007 at 9:19 pmIt must be overpowering to see what you have already seen and never having expected to. Know that we are with you and yours 100%. We love you. Keep your nose down and the wind in your sails!!
Jean
Tim–
These posts are so amazing. Each night I (and so many others) count on seeing these messages so keep ‘em coming.
This is it–everything you’ve trained for. All the preparation. Now it’s just about getting the job done…and getting home. We’re praying every day for your physical and emotional well-being and your safe return.
Tiffany–thinking of you every day and missing you more than ever! Be strong.
Take care of yourself–
Ann Smith - August 13th, 2007 at 11:29 pmAnthony & Ann
“Finally, be strong in the Lord, and in the strenght of His might. Put on the full armor of God, that you may be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil.” Ephesians 6:10-11
We love you. Tim, Alfega, Samantha and Timmy
Alfega - August 14th, 2007 at 1:21 pmHey Tim,
Found this website today. Good to see your doing ok. I’ll keep you in my prayers for a safe return.
Take care,
David clements - August 15th, 2007 at 4:39 pmDave Clements
Tim,
Sandra Skokal - August 19th, 2007 at 6:53 pmThanks for keeping us informed on how it is going. I am a neighbor of one of your guys. His family is precious to me. I am praying without ceasing for you. Angels on overtime. We are so proud of you all.
God bless you,
Sandy