At 23, I boarded a plane and headed to SE Asia to teach at an international school. It was my first real job. People close to me questioned this decision, but with the support of my parents, I was confident that this was what I was supposed to do....

Twenty-five years ago I stood at the altar and said “I do” to Ray. The call to mission was strong... a cord that had drawn us together. We couldn’t wait to head to the field and change the world for Christ.  

The long-lasting impact of natural disasters and pandemic viruses lingers for years. Lost homes, lost livelihoods, and lost dreams crash into daily life for victims and survivors, even when the sun and blue skies and physical health reappear. 

Before the reflected sun off the water completely blinded me, I fixed my eyes and sense of direction on three shore-side buildings. Little did I know just how crucial having a focal point would be. Swimming solo through the sea, with the rest of m...