Returning the Kindness

Twenty men gathered on a beach near Sai Kung in Hong Kong recently. They are engineers, artists, businessmen, drivers, fishermen, husbands, fathers, brothers and sons, all in the prime of life. They are also completely dependent on others for support. No matter how desperately they want to work, they would be breaking the law if they did so. The result would mean immediate imprisonment.

Terence was the person who brought these men together. Like the 19 others, he fled his country, leaving behind his family and his home, which he dearly loves. He would love to work or study, but since his arrival, he’s been waiting for the UNHCR to process his refugee claim.

Hong Kong has provided him with safety for the last five years and Terence would love to contribute to a better Hong Kong. That’s what gave him the idea of cleaning up some of Hong Kong’s beaches, and getting rid of the rubbish that accumulates from the densely populated city and busy sea port.

As Terence’s plans for a clean-up campaign were taking shape, Isis Lau and Joanna Ip, the President and Vice President of the National Honours Society at International Christian School, decided they wanted to serve Christian Action in some way.  These students are chosen for their leadership, academic strength, service and character. When Joanna and Isis heard about Terence’s idea, they decided to join his party along with fifteen of their classmates.  They knew it would be an opportunity to build bridges between asylum seekers and Hong Kong residents.

When asked about her thoughts on refugees and asylum seekers, Isis said: "I never realized there were so many people seeking asylum here, or that they were staying so long!" Joanna said "This is an issue that actually needs a lot more attention and awareness!"

I am so glad we introduced these two groups of people because students like Isis and Joanna will be the leaders of Hong Kong tomorrow. In twenty to thirty years, they may be making difficult decisions that affect the lives of people like Terence. As they consider all the facts, they will remember that refugees are people with a desire to not only live safe lives, but to return the kindness shown to them.

Photographs taken by Karin Jensen of Lightjar Photography