*frustrated cry of dismay* EURGH! Day 2 after his now weekly bath and Squee already SMELLS! I HATE kitty canned food. They STINK. And I've already got a good mind to change his name to Shtinky, letter 'h' intentionally included. *broods*

Well, with regards to the 'indefinitely postponed' mission trip (thanks to Sars) that we'd been training for, God has provided!
Destination: Chiang Rai, Thailand.
Ministry: The children and youth of the Samaritan Hostel.
Date of Departure: 8th July 2003, Tuesday
After reading the handout about the place and its inhabitants, I felt that I really WANTED to go. For a variety of reasons - one is to meet these people, who come from a background and past so foreign to me. From what I gather, a good number lived a life that had little hope. Prostitution, poverty, abuse... These were some of the things they faced. And yet, through His providence, 250 of them now reside in the Samaritan Hostel, recieving education, shelter, the basic amenities... Together with learning about the gospel. I do wonder what good will come out of the team going over - I daren't think too much for fear of false ideas or any of the infinite emotions/thoughts that can tear one down so easily when expectations aren't met or things seem futile. One falters too easily when caught up with oneself. After months of uncertainty about whether the trip will ever materialise, the glowing embers of conviction and excitement are now fanned back to life. Yet... is it really such a big deal? Will there be life-changing encounters? Will lives be touched forever - in the span of 6 days? Even at this point of time I'm asking myself what's the real reason behind my wanting to go, or am I fit to go at all. From my previous experience in Myanmar, I ought to know a little of what to expect. Or maybe I don't. *wry smile* Well... Life is like a box of chocolates, isn't it...? All I can and ONLY expect is for God's will to be accomplished. And to keep asking for it.

But don't get me wrong. I AM excited. 2 weeks. To plan the programme, settle the logistics, liase with the Samaritan Hostel people, and raise funds for the trip. 2 weeks. Even before we leave this island, little miracles are going to happen.