Dear Lin,
I know that you saw something in us that first night we came into your bar. I’m sure we already seemed weird or different as we just sipped our pineapple juice and asked you random questions about your life. I will never forget the excitement in your voice as I asked you if we could pray for you before we left. After coming back every other night, it was great to see your smile and happiness in seeing that we truly wanted to be your friend.
You were always right though, when you said that it’s not fair that Rachel, Michaela and I get to live together and travel together, while you have to work in the bars all night. It’s not fair that you’re stuck. It wasn’t fair that you had no other choice but to go and work in the bars to support your son. It’s not fair that no one sees your tears that you cry. It’s not fair the way men treat you each night they buy you.
But even in this unfair world I can see hope rising. I'm putting my trust in God that He will capture your heart and completely set you free. You should not be bound by the thoughts and lies you have been told. I trust that He has a plan for your life. Even though I can’t be in Phuket to see how God works in your life I know that He will continue to change your heart. I know He will continue to put people in your life that will draw you towards Him and seeing who you truly are.
You are beautiful. You are loved and cherished. I know you don’t hear it a lot, or maybe you never have, but you are child of God. You are His masterpiece and you were created to do great things.
I will never forget the great lunch dates we had and how crazily we became instant friends. We had that moment that beyond all odds you find someone who is nothing like you- but somehow just fits perfectly in your life. As you talked of your son, your parents splitting up and leaving you alone, your desire to find a foreign man to care for you, I listened. We went bowling, had ice cream, got pedicures, you held my hand as that guy pierced my nose, jet-skied in the Indian Ocean.
Thank you for sharing your life with me. You will be in my thoughts and prayers. I hope one day you do get to come to America. Love you sister!
In Him,
Rebekah Schmitz
This is Lin and I. We were frequent champions of the pool games!
Check out my teammate Michaela's blog…I found that it resonates well with my feelings right now…
http://michaelafinn.myadventures.org/?filename=unfinished
Oh and by the way I'm in Kenya! I found out I will be doing ministry in Mpeketoni, Kenya and that's about all I know so far…more information to come. Please join me in praying for our hearts to be prepared to go and for the people we will meet. Love you all and thank you so much for your prayers, encouragement and support. 🙂
