Straya

Australia

noun |ɒˈstreɪlɪə|  a place that occupies a special place in my heart ♥

In 1993, I was sponsored by a lady named Kathy through an organization called Compassion International. Kathy was in a mission conference then when she heard about Compassion. It seemed too small a thing to do at the time and Kathy simply obeyed what she thought was God’s way of moving her to action. Sixteen years later, Kathy met me in a conference in Hawaii for the first time and we both were overwhelmed to see how such a small investment can bring multiple folds of hope, life and blessing in an individual when it is given in the Name of Jesus Christ. We flew together to Sydney shortly after that meeting as I was also invited by Compassion Australia to share my story of hope to various groups of people in different cities and states. 

Fast forward to 2015. I got a surprise email from Compassion Australia inviting me to come and share my story to churches in Sydney. What better way to come see my sponsor again and this time, I won’t be coming alone. Super husband is coming with me. 

Upon arrival, Richard and I were greeted by none other than the Area Manager of Compassion Sydney. He gave us a quick tour of the city before heading to our host’s beautiful home.

We went from one church to another throughout that week. We also visited some schools and graced lunch and dinner meetings in between. We were surrounded by a team of cool, caring,  and Christ-loving people the whole time we were in Sydney. I hope we get to see them again in this lifetime.

Of course, one of the highlights of the trip was visiting Kathy in her hometown. We went to pick her up from her house and we spent the rest of the day at the zoo. Richard was super thrilled to see some kangaroos, wallabies and yes, some monkeys. For a moment, he was speaking to them in monkey language and I was lost in translation. Those who personally know my husband would understand his own brand of crazy. Haha.

Ten days went by so fast and it was time for us to head home. Australia is such a beautiful country and its people are just as lovely. Thank you heaps Straya! It was short but sweet.

Until next time. 

#btb #mrandminimalists #est2012thepabunags #basicmoments