Shan and Tam... Sisters Breaking Barriers

  How many times have you wanted to just cover your head with your blanket and stay in bed, crying, sighing or sleeping while facing challenges in your life? I have to admit that I have experienced this numerous times. Different situations have caused me to want to roll into the fetal position and stay under the covers, praying that I can come out when the situation has passed. While there have been a few instances where I actually stayed in bed, I have otherwise pushed myself to take the covers off, throw my feet over the side of the bed, stand up and take a step. In every instance when I had to push through whatever it was that I was feeling, my motivation to overcome the feelings I had was my family, in particular my children. After all, they did not ask to be caught up in whatever crises I was experiencing, but they would inevitably suffer if I did not find a way to simply move. For me, catering to my children’s physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing has always been my primary m

  This week someone asked me the question: What does service ministry mean to me?  After careful thought and reflection, I believe service ministry is essentially being the hands and feet of Jesus. I have been given the privilege of not only demonstrating this within my church community but also with those with whom I interact daily within my role as a child protection worker. The profession of social work requires people with a level of passion, dedication, commitment, and the heart of being a servant.  Several weeks ago, after a twelve-hour workday, I sat in my car and cried. I was overwhelmed and exhausted but at the same time felt relieved as I had supported a mother and her children who were in an abusive situation. Similarly, I have had to be an advocate for estranged fathers and for those clients who have been marginalized and ostracized from society. Working within the shelter environment as well and serving breakfast to clients is a humbling and fulfilling experience. It may n