Sunday, August 26, 2012

I Want to See


God knows what I need to hear.  Usually, He isn’t very subtle – but, that is just because I can be a bit dense.  Often, he shows me something and I do not get the importance.  So, he shows me again.  And, finally, He drives me to the Word to say, “This is what I have been showing you!”

Over the last few weeks, we have been seeing many patients with cataracts.  Some of the cataracts are quite severe.  We let the patients know that the Ship of Life will assist them with the expense of traveling to the hospital.  The hospitals have been providing the surgery at no cost to the patient (thanks to the Fred Hollows Foundation and the Ministry of Health).  What a great deal!  All they have to invest is time, and they will regain their vision.  The years of not seeing clearly will be over.
Many of the villagers gladly accept the offer.  In fact, not long ago, we sent groups of 16 and 18 people for surgery.  Today, nearly 30 people have had surgery and are seeing clearly.

Wednesday, August 22, 2012

It Started in January


It was the beginning of January. We met her in Koh Chen.  She lived in the nearby village of Prek Kdam.  I met her cousin, first.  He was a very nice young man who was interested in improving his English.  He and many friends came to the ship, each night.  They just wanted to talk – or, rather, they wanted to hear me talk.

One day, while we were out walking Reggie, we saw her cousin.  We were standing across the road from his house.  His family was working.  They do beautiful carving in brass.  She walked up with a huge smile on her face.  She wanted to meet the “barangs” from the big ship.  She was introduced to us.  I had already met her younger sister. They showed us the beautiful handicrafts they make.