Learning to be thankful

Every year, Christian Action encourages friends to visit Xining Children's Home, play with the children, and love them. These visits also offer their 'mamas' (their hardworking carers) some respite from the constant demands of caring for severely disabled children. The kind words, smiles, and sometimes hugs, say to a disabled child, "You're lovable!" or to a stressed out mama, "Thank you – you're doing a great job!" These are small gestures but they make a big difference in Xining. But the difference made in the lives of the visitors is also a big blessing. St. Andrew's Church Youth Group members were so touched by their summer visit that I decided to hand over my 'pen' so you could hear from some of them yourself.

Tender moments shared
during mealtimes

“Working and helping out at the orphanage made me realize how precious kids are. They might have disabilities but they are capable of showing me they are just like the other kids in society except they are more special and should be treated fairly.” Anna Chu

“Their cheerful faces made me reflect on my constant moaning about not having enough and put me to shame. Now, I realise the countless blessings that the Lord has given me.” Chess Lam

“Working with these children, experiencing their optimism and hope, showed me that God’s grace is enough and that we should do things without complaint.” Ingrid Lam

“Never have I been able to create so many bonds at once with others, and never have I learnt to put so much faith in the Lord.” Claire Leung

“Serving these children made me realise how pathetic I am in times of trials. These children and their caretakers are true fighters.” Alice Lam (Leader)

“Despite their disabilities, they are the cutest beings on Earth.” Karen Daley

“…combined with the fact that these kids are still alive and cared for, given their circumstances, revealed two things to me: God cares for everyone with undiminished love, and he gave me much more than I deserve.” Lance Yau

Every year thousands of children all over the world look forward to a summer of lazy days playing with friends, going to camp, or taking a family trip to a pleasant location. Their visit to Xining gave St. Andrew’s Church Youth Group the opportunity to reflect on their own lives, and be thankful for their privileges. To everyone who visited our children, I want to say thank you for giving the children and their mamas a fun summer, they all loved it!