Uncle and Auntie Ma (second and third from left) are cousins of my stepmother – and have been missionaries in Thailand for over 30 years. We did our best to be good, unobtrusive, Chinese kids throughout the visit – but our stay was not without our missteps. We took out the electricity in our building TWICE due to mistimed showers. Also, a wild dog (as ascertained by the staff) stole one of my boots during the night.
We stayed on the “compound” which serves as a K-8 school, an orphanage, a dormitory, and a church. It was quite a distance from the nearest city (30 km.) and rural enough that everyone owns trucks. The most remarkable part of the visit was how the orphans and “dorm” kids were so well behaved. They wake up each morning at 5:30am and have exercise and individual Bible study (even the 8 year olds) before breakfast at 7:00am. They wash all their own clothes and dishes and help one another with chores and homework. Sometimes it was hard to believe what we were seeing!
We were given many opportunities to share our life stories, teach English classes, and play games with the 300+ children that come each week. As they were primarily Thai speakers, we needed a translator to communicate with them, but between playing soccer, watching Disney movies, and singing worship songs, there were plenty of chances to connect.
Our visit revealed a whole different side of Thailand – where those without much educational opportunity, or without a family at all, could join a loving community that seeks mental, physical, and spiritual health for all its members. They’re currently desperate for teachers and administrators. Anyone interested?
Next up: Kuala Lumpur and Penang!
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