International conventions are called such because they are indeed international. At this convention there are 36 different countries represented. The program is being broadcast in four languages: German, Italian, Greek, and Turkish. What about all us English folk? Well you're in luck when the GB gives the talk, and when experiences are shared from around the world - these parts are given in English and then translated. I feel more sorry for the Japanese; all they get in their own language is the program.
Really though, even if you don't get anything out of the program because you don't speak the language, you get such a boost by just being there! The brothers and sisters are always so happy to see each other, and even if we have trouble communicating every word, we almost don't need to. Really, the most important kind of communication at these events is universial and understood by all - a smile and a warm embrace.
A trademark of these conventions is the traditional dress that delegates can choose to wear. Today we sat in an area where there were a lot of the Japanese delegates; they had kimonos and colorful robes/sweaters and a lot of umbrellas for when the sun came out. Not to mention the Japanese also get in my opinion the gold star in gifts to hand out - everything from bookmarks to bookcovers, scarves to oragami. I feel pretty lame with my card and candy.
Overall, today was an excellent "kick-off" to the next three days at the convention! Stay tuned for more convention posts in the following few days...
As a side note, I've noticed a few comments on the blog that I will address :-)
1.) Time is in 24 hour format because the rest of the world uses it (another example of American oddities), and the time difference is +01:00 GMT or 9 hours ahead of the time back in Portland.
2.) Got a few comments about the tie :-) haha ... I will have all you "stuffy" Americans know that Europeans dress well but dress appropriately. The group of Germans who welcomed us at the kingdom hall didn't have ties on, so I fit right in with the locals. Just had to throw that in :-)
OK, time for some pics...
During the session, actually. I didn't catch the attendance for the day but I figure it is at least 40,000
Grandpa trying to read the songbook held by Grandma.
What? Didn't ditch the fam after the end of the session?
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10 comments:
So I guess I'm not going to find out if the Melatonin worked for Brenda. I guess she can tell me when she gets back.
Hey! Who you callin' stuffy???
-Kasey
That sounds awesome! and thx for answering my q bout how many hours ahead you are there..i get the format, it just takes me awhile :) anyways glad you had a fun first day of the convention..sounds amazing. [by the way im writing this while in windsor, cali (near napa) its pretty awesome and i got to sip some pretty nice wines at the tastings we went to today. (keep that on the d.l. shhh...)]hehehehe :)
Before you can inspire with emotions, you must be swamped with it yourself. Before you can move their tears your own must flow. To convince them, you must yourself believe. Winston Churchill
sounds like a pretty awesome first day. at least you could understand part of the convention! Besides sometimes experiences are the best part, they become inspiration for us "outsiders". Well, enjoy the next few days of your convention. I expect as many good notes as can be possibly taken. Kyle--It's nice to know your making up for the teenage bum with parents in Paris photo with the smart "no tie" move... at least your getting something right!!
selina-i like the pic of ur grandpa trying to read the song book cool angle and glad to hear u hd a great first day that sounds like a lot of ppl, and i will remember the most welcoming thing is a smiel! :)
and a hug lol
THAT'S AWESOME!
I;m pretty jealous kyle, but at the same time I'm glad you're having a good time. :)
Traditional dress? Ok. So where are your cowboy boots and spurs? I'd love to see Derick in a ten gallon hat (sorry, spandex bike shorts don't count as 'traditional dress')...
Kudos to the person who made the comment about Dericks bike shorts. Your so right. sounds like you had fun. What a great experiance. Tell me all about it even more in august when you come.
tell aunt Brenda to say hi. i wish i could be with you to see our brothers ,sisters. Love your cousin taylor
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