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Years ago a friend in China gave me a video titled Spirited Away. It was in Mandarin and Japanese, and because at the time, I was studying Mandarin, I was really excited to receive it from him. I watched the film several times. I couldn’t understand all the words because my Mandarin was only so so, but I was captivated by the animation, colors, sound effects and characters. The basic storyline of a little girl, Chihiro, left alone to survive in this world stuck with me. Years later, I found the story had also been translated into English so I…

Years go by, but old friends still hold a special place in our hearts. My best friend growing up had his surprise 50th birthday celebration (He is the guy on the right). His wife Veronica organized it for him and contacted me on Facebook to let me know about it. Great job Veronica! I'm so glad that Tracy and I got to play a part in Stephen's special day. As you will see from the video, we ate well. It was delicious. Stephen is a special guy. He has been serving in Eagles Wings ever since he graduated from music…

We all need people in our lives not just passers by. Hong Kong’s EDB (Education Department Bureau) recognizes the importance of connections and encouraging NET teachers to return home to their home countries to reconnect with family and friends. Under the classic NET scheme, NET teachers can return every to 2 years and the EDB will reimburse them for the cost of their plane tickets. This summer was the first time for my wife Tracy and I to return back to the states together since we left in 2016. Friends Admittedly, I was a bit nervous about whether or not…

I don’t think everyone would agree with that statement. It seems that many young people and even adults are overly occupied on their smartphones. The outdoors is fun is becoming more of a traditional way of thinking. After all who has time to go outside for fun anymore. We are busy texting, chatting, gaming and even actually going to other places virtually. Too often our bodies get neglected. We were designed to move, to feel and to physically experience the outdoors. A person who enjoys being outside is more likely to gain the benefits of being outside. Let's not be…

Char’s words, "She is the youngest 80 year old I know still stand out to me. She said this as we passed each other in the food line at my mom’s 80th birthday party. It was a special night. Lots of people shared memories about mom and I learned a few things about mom and dad’s early years. It’s important to honor older people who are worthy of being honored. When we do so we bless them and we receive a blessing ourselves. We become more aware of how our lives have been enriched by being connected to them. My…