Celebration of Life for those I love
Many people know September has been a time where school and ministry has been flourishing, but it has also been a season of reflection and gratitude. In September, 3 close individuals to my heart, Auntie Linda, Gong Gong and PaPa departed from this earth. I thank God for placing these individuals in my life because they have poured abundant love into me and my family. God has been so gracious and compassionate to send these 3 beautiful people to speak life and hope over me and my family during ups and downs.
On the left is Auntie Linda who was not only a mentor, but also a dear auntie who was there for me through all the ups and downs of high school and continued to encourage me to pursue my dreams of organizing a TEDx conference, attending Stanford University and traveling the world to share the gospel.
In the middle is Gong Gong. He is my blood-related grandpa. While I saw Gong Gong only a handful of times growing up, this past summer, I was able to spend quality time with him. Every day, he was so full of joy whether he was making dumplings, caring for his garden or helping his neighbors. He loved life and He was grateful to God for all the days of life and good health.
On the right is Mr. Baugh, also known as PaPa, who faithfully loved and prayed for my family daily. PaPa and Poppy were there to take care of my siblings and I when my youngest sister was born in the hospital. I will forever be grateful to PaPa for never giving up on my family as we would have soft hearts to receive Jesus 7 years after meeting. PaPa was a spiritual grandfather to me and he showed the love of God by calling and singing happy birthday to me on the phone every year.
While each of these individuals’ departure from the earth was unexpected, I thank God that He gave me the opportunity to connect with each of them during this past summer. I did not know it was the last time I was going to see Auntie Linda and Gong Gong, but God knew and He was gracious to put them on my heart for my teacher's summer break. I also had the opportunity to pray with PaPa in June before my first mission trip to Kentucky as well as two weeks before he went home to Jesus. God is so faithful.
