April 2021 Update

[I skipped March 2021 oops. This was sent on May 1st, which is why it says May in the first line] 

Hi Everyone!

Can you believe it's already May?? So much is happening so fast! If you only read this section, here's what I want you to know:

• 5/7 (today): my family is visiting Orlando
• 5/13: I return to California
• 5/22: I go on summer mission in LA

Please pray for discernment for my next steps! Keep reading for more details :) 

Stay in Touch, and See You Later

Leaving has always been my go-to defense mechanism. For as long as I remember, I habitually step away from difficult circumstances to avoid more conflict or hurt. I dislike hard feelings and situations, so I walk away from them. I’m conflict-averse, avoidantly attached, whatever you want to call it.

Now I’m leaving Cru, leaving Orlando. I’m not running away from conflict or escaping a bad situation; I am simply arriving at the end of my internship.

At first, I was in denial — afraid to tell my friends, community group, and worship leader. If I didn't tell anyone, I wouldn't actually be leaving, right? (Wrong) I was used to leaving things that were bad, so does leaving them mean they are bad? (No)

I learned that leaving doesn't always have to be a defense mechanism. Sometimes God calls us to leave good things, good people, and good places because of His loving plan. 

 The verse that comes to mind is one that spoke to me when I transitioned from high school to college: “The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” (Deuteronomy 31:8)

 Goodbyes are hard, and I’ve been doing a lot of that the past few weeks. But there is something sweet about meeting for the last time, reminiscing about the memories, and dreaming about future trips and visits. I've experienced a lot of closure and peace with the wonderful people I've connected with.

It's sad to leave the rhythms and routines I’ve established in Orlando and the people and places here. Thanks to technology (Zoom, FaceTime, phone calls), I can say, "Stay in touch, and see you later." Even though I don't know when I will visit Orlando, the people here are just a call away. 

The 2020-2021 Intern Cohort. What an unforgettable bunch!

Summer Assignment

I will be going on a summer mission with Cru from May 22 to June 24! Our vision is to reach Japanese students and serve the Japanese-American community in the Torrance area of Los Angeles. We will have nine students on this trip with us are excited to be doing a mix of in-person and virtual ministry. Please pray that people’s hearts will be open to having spiritual conversations, that there will be unity within the team, and that everything we do will glorify God and exemplify His love.

I am excited to share more in my update next month!

Next Steps

“Every season must end, so a new one can begin.”

As this season with Cru ends, a new one begins. So far, I have been accepted to a teaching program in Baltimore and am interviewing for an academic mentoring company in the Bay Area. I don't know what is next, but I am excited for the beginning of a new season. Please pray that I will have clarity and courage to take my next steps, wherever God leads me. 

Finally, thank you all for being a valuable part of this journey. The Lord has done so much, and I am beyond grateful for your prayers and support.

For those who support me financially, I will be sending a separate email on how to end your giving. 

Thank you for your prayer and support. It is such a blessing to journey through this season with you.

P.S. Here's a picture of my family walking around downtown Orlando's Lake Eola. So happy they're here :)