It’s reflection time. Time to meditate on what I’ve seen, learned, and done… And as I do so, I’m struck with a conversation that took place months ago.
As far as I knew, there was only one other “farang” or “foreigner” that lived in my little neighborhood. I ran to him in a panic one afternoon because our street had flooded and I was in desperate need of a pizza delivery. I had no idea what address to give, so as he searched his man-bag for the information, he naturally asked why I was in Thailand. My explanation was concise and forward, after which he recalled a personal volunteer stint from his youth, saying, “As far as I’m concerned, that just confirmed the inexistence of God”. I was totally caught off guard, as my experiences had proved quite the opposite. So why, then, did I struggle to respond?
I’ve pondered that statement multiple times since first spoken. I think of it when I see children with cups, forced to beg on dangerous streets; it comes to mind when I realize I’m standing amongst people who may forever be separated from everyone they have ever known and loved; and the thought passes after I read the letters of innocent prisoners, forgotten and forsaken. The injustices of this world are endless, and from the patterns of humanity and forewarnings in scripture, they don’t seem to be lessening. But somehow, through the pain of unimaginable tragedy, I still stand witness to God’s grace on His creation. I refuse to place blame for suffering on a Father more loving than we’ll ever be capable of, and I’d like to think that what we’re told in 2 Corinthians, “just as you share in our sufferings, so also you share in our comfort,” emphasizes such reassurance. It’s hard to see God when life is overflowing with every need and want (times five), no?
With that in mind, I’ve got to tell you about my time in a western province of Thailand along the Burmese border.
Michael and Katy arrived in Bangkok from Australia a day or so after me. It only took a few conversations to fall in love with them both, but they shortly left the city for their placement work in the juuuungle. This last week, I was blessed to be welcomed into their home and hearts for an amazing, final, shebang. The two live in a gorgeously natural village where Michael functions as a physiotherapist, and Katy teaches at the local school. The work they’re doing is fantastic, and the relationships they’ve built made their dedication evident. I had a blast on the back of Michael’s motorbike, as a large portion of his work is spread across villages. His days involve the strengthening and rehabilitation of disabled individuals, and hands-on training for caretakers. The majority of residents were Karen refugees (watch this in HQ for great background info!), not Thai, and they are some of the most beautiful people I’ve ever seen. The projects and people I came across blew me away. Truly.
Michael and Katy, thank you for allowing me into your life here, and for being the wonderful friends you are.
Welcome to Sangklaburi.
Katy and Michael!
An amazing spot for a swim!
One of their favorite spots.
We visited this incredible compound where volunteers literally go into the jungle looking for people who have fled from Myanmar. CRAZY. Below is a refugee who had a stroke and suffers from mental and physical instability. It’s disabling enough to be a refugee… but to live as a handicap makes the challenges that much harder.
Twin brothers. Orphaned. One is disabled and the other, HIV-positive. Beautiful, beautiful boys. Thankfully, they are looked after by a compassionate caregiver that offers tremendous attention to their needs. Michael visits to stretch and work with the disabled brother, who is in need of another caretaker to accompany him to school. If they can’t find anyone, he won’t be able to attend this year. Please pray!
We stopped at a Safe House, where a couple has opened their home to SOOO many Karen refugees. The couple’s daughter was leaving to give birth, but she asked that they have a time of worship before she left. About 40 kids and adults piled into the room, and sang hair-raising melodies. The Karen are known for being musically gifted, and they just naturally fall into a harmony.
One of like, four pictures I’m actually in! I joined Katy and Michael for the first day of their Candlelight Camp. It was a blessing to be around a group like this.
Babe: His name is SOCCER!! For real.
This was such an amazing trip for me, and I have looooads of pictures, but so little time to edit! Will have to do more when I get home.
Today also happens to be Mother’s Day, so I’ll send a special shout-out to the hot mama that brought me life. Can’t wait to see you! XOXOXOXO!
Tags: AIDS relief., Bangkok, Gina Meola Photography, Missionary work, Missions, Siam-Care, Thailand
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