Sydney! The city which stands on the world perception of Australia does not disappoint!
On our first day there, Alana and I visited the Sydney Aquarium where we were enthralled with the beauty which lies beneath the sea. An entire world we may never get eyes to see was made available to us through tubes which allowed us to walk through the water. Exploring the city allowed us to see Sydney as just that, a city. Beyond its harbor, Sydney holds much culture and diversity. Many people from Asian countries call Sydney home, as well as Indians. To give you a clear picture of the feel the city leaves on you, imagine Manhattan, NY: busy pedestrians, quick drivers, close knit buildings, and many tourists! But beyond all that, the Aussie's remain the same – friendly, cheering, and helpful.
Of course being in Sydney meant we had to visit Hillsong – the largest Christian church in Australia. We attended two services, and both were incredible. (Brother Erik, you would have loved the new rock songs they were worshipping with!) There was such high energy in the place, so much of God's presence, and a peaceful place of excitement for God. – if you ever get the opportunity to visit, do so – the place is anointed!
We also ventured into our adventurous side with a trip to the Blue Mountains (also described as Australia's Grand Canyon) This canyon is composed of sandstone rock, and covered in rainforest. We had the opportunity to hike through the ground rainforest, then spend a good 90 minutes hiking the rainforest along the cliffs. Passing waterfalls, looking out upon the vast land, seeing the greenery of the natural landscape – all just takes your breath away (that and all the uphill/stairs you have to climb!) Despite gloomy weather, we were blessed to have sunshine as we sat on a cliff overlooking it all while eating lunch. Such a delight!
Our last day in Sydney proved to be the best. We went to the Wildlife park where we got a photo shoot with Koalas, saw a Kangaroo boxing match, and saw most of Australia's rare and deadly animals. Such a treat! We then spent time at the harbor. Can I say that I could not get enough of this place! The bridge and the Opera House are more beautiful in real life that it seems surreal that they are tangibly before you. After taking a tour of the Opera House, Alana and I knew we had to see a show in there. That night, following our dinner cruise along the harbor, we saw a violin symphony perform in the Musical Theater of the Opera House. Talk about amazing! The building was absolutely fabulous in its design and beauty. High ceiling met at the top with the world's largest organ superseding the back wall – just classy and glamorous!
This entire Australia trip was more than I ever could have imagined. Coming here, I had no idea what to expect, but anything I thought about or contrived in my mind about Australia was overwritten by the truth of this amazing land. All that has been created on such a young land has preserved the natural beauty, yet allowed space for people from all over the world to meet and share in what was there before colonization began.
Thanks go out to my Grandpa – without his encouragement, excitement and bank account, none of this would have happened. Thank you to Aunt Kathy and Uncle Pat who were supportive, informative, and helpful throughout this entire excursion. Ann and Jarrod deserve a huge thanks for hosting us and taking care of us while in Australia. Thank you to Mom and Dad who are always encouraging and behind me 100%. And finally, thank you to all those who contributed through gifts which were much appreciated and helpful!
Thank you Thank you Thank you!
