April 15 is a day I remember and not just because it is tax day in America. Twenty-four years ago on April 15 I boarded an airplane. The fact that I flew first class was the life changing part rather it was the destination. My first flight was a short one to Detroit that was not my final destination. I got my first taste of Asia as we boarded the next flight to Japan. There was no line it was just a bit of push and shove to get on. I made it to Japan. I remember enjoying the Northwest business lounge. It was an evening/night flight landing in Taipei. That was my destination. I arrived with two suitcases and a carryon and stayed for four months. In all that time I stayed for 10 months but it was just my first time to live there. I lived there off and on for over nine years.
I wrote a bit about that here so I will ponder today how that changed me. I wish I had more of my photos from those early days but they are in storage. Of course that was back in the days of film and so I didn't take near as many photos.
Taipei it was there that I began to understand missions in a new way. At first I thought it was just so that I could pray with understanding but it was also there through the years that God began to show me that I could be involved and part of what is happening in spreading the gospel.
It was in Taipei in 1998 that I met a new missionary that had just arrived. That not only changed my life but also my name.
It was in Taipei that Miss K was born and where her life saving surgeries took place.
It was in Taipei that I met so many other wonderful friends. My life is blessed in so many ways because of these relationships. I have memories of celebrating holidays--American and Chinese, birthdays -- both my 30th and 40th were celebrated there, and just fun outings -- the fabric market, Yang Ming Shan, company trips, dinner at Swenson's or Jakes and so many other memories.
As I look back, I am glad that I took that first trip. It was an adventure and the beginning of an adventure. I don't think I realised how much my life would change as a result of that one trip.
Have you even taken a trip that changed your life?
Beth
Beth, that is fascinating. I don't think I can claim a journey which has changed my life but I have enjoyed reading yours. Is there a part 2 post to your Asia journey?
ReplyDeleteI need to write Part 2. I started that but never went back to it. Maybe now would be a good time to do that.
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