Thailand's Treasures, Their Children

We flew from Bangkok to Nepal today with memories of Thailand's greatest treasures, the children, fresh in our memories.  Children are the same the world over.  They give love so freely and for most a smile will draw that love to the surface.  And, more often than we care to remember, we see the hurt on their faces also.  In some cases, they are just not quite sure they can trust you.  Fortunately, most of the time, they are quite resilient.

A child's perception of his or her world may determine their dreams.  Frankly, I was surprised a few times in Hanka, Nang Rong and Ban Dan to hear the child I was interviewing say that he or she wanted to grow up and be a laborer...possibly the hardest kind of work in their villages.  Our hopes and dreams for them would be that they become the most educated, emotionally stable, devoted Christians, and responsible citizens as possible.  Besides their parents, the Children of Promise country coordinators and volunteers are those who influence our sponsored children the most.  You do your part in sponsoring a child.  The leaders, volunteers and parents do their part in rearing each child.  But it is God's touch that transforms their lives.

    

We drove many miles to visit children and their families in Thailand.  We were happy to talk with healthy, happy children.  We were concerned for several children who exhibited malnutrition, even with the help they have been receiving from us.  For those children, we will supplement their diets in order for them to grow healthy and strong.  One telling story of children in Thailand is told by their teeth.  Many, many children are smaller than average size children you would see in the U.S.  Their teeth are usually too crowded for their small mouths.  Alignment of their teeth is also a problem.  There is more to be done to give them a solid foundation for a healthy future. 



It is a profound privilege to work with you serving the children in Thailand and our 22 other countries.  Bless you for caring.  - Linda Mason



Our co-pilot, Jan, good work friend!



A moment to relax on the 5, 4, 3 and 2-hour drives
back to Bangkok.