As I sit here in the kitchen on my last night in Thailand, my heart is filled with mixed emotions. On one hand, I am excited to go to Cambodia, make new friends, and experience a new culture. But on the other hand, I am sad to leave this beautiful place. Getting the opportunity to work alongside Remember Nhu has been incredible. I have loved getting to assist them in the prevention of human trafficking and making a new life a possibility for more children. Even when working out in the hot sun shoveling pounds and pounds of dirt, I know that I am helping make a difference in these kids’ lives.
The staff here welcomed us with open arms and made us feel at home. They have gone above and beyond to make our stay in Thailand enjoyable. From comfortable beds to delicious food, we have had more than we desired. Our hosts took us to a culture dinner filled with delicious food served while we were sitting on the floor and traditional Thai dancing. They have organized day trips to a hill tribe, a Buddhist temple, and an elephant camp. Our time here has been so fun, and it was all thanks to them!
Finally, our time here would not have been near as special if the kids were not present. We were able to love on over 100 children of all ages at the homes here. Every evening we got to eat dinner at a different home and play with the children. I have had my hair braided numerous times by many tiny hands and have learned to count to 20 in Thai using Disney princess addition flash cards. I have kicked a soccer ball in the mud and played Uno a countless number of times. I have spent hours crossing a language barrier in order to teach music with and without a piano. We had a good-bye dinner at each house where each group sang to us, and then we set off paper lanterns. These sweet moments are not something my team and I will soon forget.
I cannot wait to see how many more children and families will have their lives impacted by this ministry. I can only hope that I will someday get to return and see the growth first hand.
