Thai Journal ‘23 - #9

 

The day began with a send-off ceremony at the Elementary School, and the almost 5-hour drive to Bamboo School. The Elementary School’s gift to us (elephant pants) had not arrived this morning on time for the ceremony; but they arrived before we left after lunch. Thus, a double send-off! On the farm we did more fertilizing, and Keziah (who is staying at Bamboo School for a further 2 weeks) said her goodbyes to Prasarn and Nang. We loaded up 60 kilos of Jasmine rice (on behalf of my wife, Vie, who loves that rice) and fruits from the farm, for Bamboo School. It is very difficult to put into words the experience here at Bamboo School. Catherine Riley (Momo Cat), a 74-year old New Zealand lady who runs the care center by herself for over 20 years, is an amazing woman with amazing stories of miracles that God is doing here. The stories she tells of the “hell” that these kids have been through is mind-blowing! We stood there in awe and tears! Can you imagine 2 little kids given the beheaded head of their mother to play football by their drunken father? Scarred for life! And yet Momo Cat has taken in nearly 700 such kids over the years and turned their lives around. Many are doctors, nurses, engineers, etc., etc. One of our team members is sponsoring one to be a nurse – a freshman in university. So much more to tell…. Keep praying for us and them.