News From Thailand
What (in Helen's World) Is Going On
One Month On The Ground
Advice #1: Make Your Home an Oasis
Praising God (and my supporters!) for the gift of a small, but beautiful one-bedroom studio condo that is just such a place for me. It came fully furnished at an amazingly affordable rate. And the view is hard to beat;)
Advice #2: Invest in Language Learning
Intensive Thai- Level 1 classes begin on November 14th. Thanks for praying for my brain capacity.
Advice #3: Celebrate the Small Victories
Last week our organization assisted in the search for a boy who had escaped from a shelter in Northern Thailand. Why would someone who has been "rescued" run away? There are many possibilities including fear (kids- and their family members- are threatened by traffickers), desire (for drugs or the "lack of structure" of life on the streets), or loyalty (sometimes the only emotional attachment these children have is with their traffickers).
The happy news is that this boy (who has developmental disabilities) was found and restored to the shelter. In the midst of celebration we are praying for trust-building, for long-term victory.
Death by Distraction
- Comparison. It's the reason I can never have, do, or be enough. Someone is always more. And I'm constantly striving to measure up.
- Noise. Without stillness and quiet, I cannot hear the still small voice within. God's whispers are drowned by the world's shouts.
- Action. This is the arrogant notion that I must be productive and reachable at all times. Or it will all collapse. Not a moment can be wasted in mere contemplation.
Here are the questions I'm asking myself:
- Why do I often compare myself to others? What am I trying to prove? To whom?
- Why does silence scare me? What emotions rise to the surface?
- Why does stillness feel uneasy? What am I avoiding with busyness?
My beloved speaks and says to me:
"Arise, my love, my beautiful one, and come away."
- Song of Solomon 2:10
Wishing you peace in your spirit as you celebrate Thanksgiving this month!
So grateful for your support, friendship, & prayers~
Much Love,
Helen
Contact Helen
Email: Helen@HUGproject.org
Website: http://theelephantchronicles.com
Location: Northern Thailand
Phone: +66-095-321-5655
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/helen.naples