Life in The Family International

I always thought you had to get rich first, then be one of those people who can afford to go around to hospital wards making wish lists for the sick kids and making them happen.

But I learned something else last week. while getting together with Jenny, another volunteer with The Family International, she told me that one of the kids at the cancer ward told her that his wish was to go back to his home province for Christmas. It meant either a long boat ride, or expensive air fare. His condition had kept him confined in the hospital, but six-year-old Nino just wanted the chance to visit his family for the week of Christmas.

It was one of those moments when I kind of shook my head in disbelief that it could happen….but in two days, I happened to be sitting in the office of another friend who ran a travel agency. Someone else had prompted me to just inquire into air rates, then maybe we could look around for a sponsor for that particular amount.

As busy as he was, my friend told me he’d take the initiative to call the airline himself, explain about the kid and the situation, and see how they could help. I crossed my fingers in hopes that we would strike gold here. And praying that the Lord would grant the little boy’s request.

The next day, his call came in, with the news that he’d gotten an okay from the airline! Just that morning, I’d been asking God if it was realistic, and I heard the old words, “All things are possible…if you believe!”

So…it took belief on my part. And I am sure the little boy believed with all his heart as well that there was no request too big for God to grant.

On Thursday, during the Christmas party, I found the little boy, and broke the news to him and his grandma who were attending. She nearly cried as I told her…and I’ll never forget those moments, when I felt like I’d been the one receiving a Christmas gift. It was an usual feeling, really, like I was sharing in their joy. We thanked the Lord together, for making it happen, and bringing along wonderful friends to help out.

…I get the feeling its gonna be a good Christmas this year.

Nyx is a vounteer Missionary Member of The Family International. Her missions have taken her through South East Asia, India, East Africa and South Africa. She currently runs charity projects for terminally-ill, indigent children in The Philippines and is also a child-education consultant, youth counsellor, freelance writer for TV, radio, magazines, a voice-talent, illustrator, artist, Events Host and Music Marketer. She is the eldest of 13 siblings, and a Taurean who enjoys spicy food, open-bar nights, long baths, photographing people, and throwing festive parties. Dislikes: Whiny women, bratty children, spoiled men. More about Nyx

This entry was posted on Tuesday, December 13th, 2005 at 3:12 pm and is filed under Family Life. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.