Tuesday, July 26, 2011

A Wild, Horizontally Plain Summer

Greetings to all my family and friends around the world!

Wow! Can we control the flowing of the water or the speed of wind by ourselves? I cannot believe how fast the journey has been. It's another year already! First year of Nursing... whoosh! gone by! Do I want to repeat, No! Well, It would be really bad if I do ;-) I think I rather move on. I am still impatient to get done and be in Cambodia, however. But, I will wait obediently.

I am sorry to those who were wondering about my disappearance from blogging for two months. I am still alive, by the way. No Canadian bear dare to snatch me yet. For the first two months of summer break, there wasn't much going on in my life, so I decided not to post anything. For those months, I stayed at home in Abbotsford most of the time and helping out here and there. I also got a part time job at Trinity (TWU) and Mennonite Edu. Institute (MEI)—a total amount of two weeks of work. So yeah. Yet, I slowly tried to gather the documents for my passport extension. (And that is already done). So I can stay legal again ;)

Being a student in another country definitely is a challenge. Also, the system of finance and work are different. But, I'm glad to have my Canadian family to help me through the troubles and figuring out ways to deal with them.

Sometimes in June there was an engagement party for Sara Regehr (my Canadian sister) and Jason Ho. It was actually something because Jason's Dad had a whole pig barbeque. Such novelty it was. Many who came gathered around the table to watch as we sliced the meat! To me, it was quite interesting. I guess it's not Western style.

Although there weren't much happening, I am very grateful for God's grace. I definitely live by it, and I do mean it literally.

Now, the amazing July: Things are great. I was blessed with a full time job as a conference staff at TWU. Definitely, an answer to prayers. And, because of work hour’s flexibility, I got to stay on campus with another staff who is already working. Working here gives me a great pleasure just to see the different group coming to enjoy, to study, and to grow more through their various activities. It helps me to re-notice the beauty of the campus and the dormitory and places I now got so familiar with. Those groups helped me see once again the beauty and to appreciate the many things I have on this campus, because the sameness blinds/make me forget.

The tasks can also be related to some of nursing application as well. When coming into a shift, there are to do lists. I have to know what is the priority and trying to fit them in between demands. So far it's been good, and I do enjoy giving hospitality to conference groups. More so, I start being more independent because of my stay on campus. I actually can navigate to a nearby store in Langley, BC for grocery through the bus. Furthermore, my Canadian family also provided me a bike so I can manage my way and explore the areas. Life has been good, indeed.

Early July during the 50th Anniversary of Grandpa and Grandma Regehr, I got to go on a road trip to Calgary, Alberta.

Along the way, we did some sight-seeing. Again, the majesty of creation reveals God’s wonders and greatness. Such creation. The wonders of His mighty work. Such awesome views. The rocky mountains, the valley, the river, the plateau... such splendid engineering.

Then, there’s Lake Louise: you have to see it yourself. It’s that beautiful… picture cannot capture its true spectacle.

More so, there are the works of Canadians who first build this country by their bare hands. The railroads, especially the Spiral Tunnels, show the knowledge and man's ability to accomplish great things, even without much tools or technology.

As for the anniversary celebration, I really have a great time enjoying being part of my Canadian's family gathering. Affectionately, I got to see the wonderful love of Grandpa and Grandma Regehr. Their legacy bears much fruits and their obedience in the Lord is evident among their children.

I am blessed to see and be apart of the celebration/family, because there are so many broken families in Cambodia who needs such love under God's umbrella. What more can I say? The Lord bless those who are obedient. And, obedient isn't easy sometimes.

Summer break is still a month away. Next year will be interesting for me since I will be in a Student Leadership Position for International Student Program, plus the academic works… I am definitely relying on your prayers. And, yes, I almost forget. Another Cambodian is coming in late August, her name is Sopari. She is also from Logos International School. I am very excited to see her!! She will be a piece of home for me and a great encouragement and inspiration for my next year journey =)

Well, that’s all that I have. I know I always do this, but thank you so much for all you are to me. The prayers, the supports, the encouragement, and everything! You are a part of my journey, and with you I can go the distant and run the race.

May Lord graciously bless you and keep you; His face shines upon you, and give you peace.

He is our Lord and in His name we serve Him. Praise the Lord God Almighty Forever and Ever.

Amen.

Sureyah