Dear Friends and Family,
It has been just four days since we arrived home from Thailand. Though we are all still thick in the haze of jet lag, the memories of our time and experiences in Bangkok are not far from the surface. Even as I write, it is hard to find the words to really express both the darkness and hope that we were witness to, and everything in between. What I do know for sure is that Jesus is in every corner of every bar of every red light district there. Be assured. And redemption truly is flowing, like a spring in the desert, in the lives of all of our friends at Home for New Beginnings. In the life of one, dancing even right now at Cowboy 2, with a cross hanging off her black boot. In the lives of many more who know Prajow (Jesus), know he loves them and is transforming their pain into dignity and freedom.
Thailand has left us with many lingering issues and thoughts, and it is important to continue the conversation as we process, dig deep and question. We must honestly look at the influence of classism, racism and sexism on the exploitation of the most vulnerable. And as the developed Western world continues to fuel the demand that perpetuates this modern day slavery, we must bear the burdens of Thailand and every other country like it. Thailand has also brought the world's women to us, and we cannot forget the increasing numbers of Eastern European and African women who are trafficked there every day. This journey has been that of a small group of Canadian women, a Home of Thai women, but it is also the journey of every African, South American, Indian and First Nations woman who has ever been exploited and oppressed.
Please continue to educate yourselves, pray, and act in your own communities. I am convinced that every act, no matter how small, changes the fabric of this world and moves us one step closer to peace, healing, dignity and freedom for all.
We cannot express to each and every one of you how grateful we are that you have chosen to take this journey with us. There was never a moment that we didn't feel and know that so many were right there with us, sending love, prayers, and hope, and carrying burdens that were too heavy for just the five of us. Thank you for opening your hearts and allowing Thailand to change you, just as it has changed us.
We are already looking ahead to Thailand 2012! Perhaps you will join us!
With much love and gratitude,
Sue, for Jen, Jacynta, Dina and Skye
Watch for our Thailand photos soon on our Flickr page
Your journey into Thailand and the intersections you have had with the journey of others has been so revealing and inspiring. I am reminded that healing and reconciliation is not a singular moment but a process.
Posted by: Eve | March 25, 2011 at 09:44 PM