Thirty years ago, I arrived in Los Angeles on a crisp December evening, marking the beginning of an incredible journey in the United States. My cousins picked me up from the airport, excitedly taking me to Hollywood Boulevard to share the wonders of the city. Much later, I traveled by bus from Los Angeles to the Bay Area to visit another cousin.
At eighteen, I was filled with a whirlwind of emotions — excitement surged within me, tempered by apprehension and fear of the unknown. I was stepping into a new world, both thrilling and daunting. Despite their financial challenges, my family sent me a modest sum of $500, a precious gift of love and support that would prove invaluable. Their teachings about the power of prayer and the importance of seeking God’s favor daily became my anchor and source of courage during this new chapter. Their unwavering love and support, even from afar, not only reminded me of our strong bond but also enveloped me in a warm cocoon of strength and comfort.
During the last seven months of my Morning Coffee sessions with Morgan, I have shared stories of life in the Philippines, my undergraduate and graduate years here in the US, and early work experiences that instilled resilience and determination in me. Additionally, I’ve had the blessing to travel to 28 countries for missions, business, and personal trips. This has allowed me to encounter remarkable people God has placed on my path.
Reflecting on these moments, I recognize a profound truth: without the guiding hand of God’s favor, I would have struggled to survive, let alone thrive, amidst life’s challenges and opportunities. Each experience, both good and bad, has been a stepping stone in my transformation, shaping me into who I am today. It’s a testament to the transformative power of faith, inspiring hope and courage in the face of adversity.
As I look forward to the next 20 to 30 years, my heart is filled with a profound sense of encouragement, hope, and anticipation. I eagerly anticipate the future opportunities and challenges that will shape my journey. Most importantly, I pray that he grows my faith daily and continues to shower me with His abundant blessings so I may fulfill the rest of His divine plans and purposes in my life.
I am excited to envision all I can achieve for His Kingdom and how I may serve Him to bring Him glory in this next chapter of my life. As Paul wrote in Philippians 3:13-14, “Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.”
Each day holds the promise of new opportunities to make a difference for His kingdom, and I look forward to embracing the adventures, challenges, and growth that lie ahead on this blessed journey.
Then: December 1994
30 Years Later: December 2024