Previous Challenge Entry (Level 4 – Masters)
Topic: India (02/12/09)
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TITLE: Cross Roads | Previous Challenge Entry
By LINDA GERMAIN
02/19/09 -
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“Hello,” he ventured in a quiet voice, “I believe we were once in the same class.
“Oh yes… I remember, Bible as Literature. That was so interesting. Are you an English major?”
He was serene and precise in his speech. The depth of his dark brown eyes made her want to continue any conversation with him. He seemed more than willing.
“My major is in international studies with a minor in world religions. What about you?”
Emily was happy to share her scholastic ambitions.
“I’m working towards a degree in theology with an emphasis in foreign missions.”
He closed his book and raised his brows.
“Really? How interesting. I would like to hear more about that. Could I tempt you with a cup of cafeteria coffee?”
He leaned across the table. I am from India. My name is Chetan Vivek. You may call me Chet.”
She extended her hand, “And mine is Emily. You may call me, well… I guess that would be just plain Emily.”
His voice was as smooth as silk. She wanted him to keep speaking. He did not disappoint her.
“I’m happy to meet you, Emily, but never would plain be a word to describe you.”
She hoped he did not see the embarrassment she was certain radiated from her simple features. With cups of steaming coffee in hand they wandered back towards the library, talking all the way. He wanted to know about her interest in theology.
“May I ask if you are a Christian?”
“I am, Chet. In fact, my father is Pastor of a local church. Have you studied much about Christianity?”
“I have read a lot, but all the approaches to your religion become somewhat blurry to my mind. Perhaps I could visit a service conducted by your father?”
With very little encouragement, Chet became a fixture in her family. He was always invited to dinner after church on Sundays. As Emily’s dad and her new Indian friend exchanged information and ideas on the porch after meals, she was astounded at Chet’s grasp of almost anything North American.
She loved the stunning word pictures he painted of his homeland with its beauty and traditions and its rather diffuse embracing of a multitude of gods and goddesses--the main religion of India being Hinduism. He tried to explain the rigid caste system in which he had been raised, and how India’s ancient history dates back to 1700 BC. It was almost too much to process, but his smooth delivery, honey-like voice, and devastating good looks kept her rapt attention.
Chet had questions about the Holy Bible her father had given him. He admitted he wrestled with the concept of One True God, even after hearing the message-filled sermons of Pastor Jones.
The more she came to consider this noble and handsome man as a real friend, in spite of their deep philosophical and religious differences, the more she prayed for his conversion.
Chet had never been anything but a perfect gentleman in her presence but she could see a longing in his eyes that matched hers. When he asked to speak to her in private, his tone sounded serious.
“My dear Emily, you and your family have become so special to me.”
There were tears in his eyes. He cleared his throat and continued.
Thank you all for being honest and open about this Jesus, and how you believe He died for our sins. You know, for a Hindu-raised man, that is a most difficult belief. I want you to know, I will continue to investigate this wondrous thing.
The last time sweet Emily saw handsome Chet he waved goodbye to her from the steps of Indian Airlines. She watched him disappear into the night sky and prayed that a tiny seed had been planted in his heart that would grow to embrace the ultimate Truth.
He wondered if she would forget him. He prayed she wouldn’t. She wondered if he would study his Bible. She prayed he would.
Both prayers were answered.
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A couple of notes on India. Names are tough to choose. Vivek is a first name, not last. Also, Indian Airlines is a domestic carrier. The international counterpart is Air India.
The last line is perfect for the story.