Posted under 心情感言
Coming out to California really opens up my eyes in many ways…I know I have only been here for a few days. But I have seen and heard so many that I began to seriously think about this question, “How do I perceive myself, my life and my future?”
Nicki Gumbel once said, “it is very pathetic if your only goal in life is to be successful, to be some CEOs or to make lots and lots money.” (paraphrased) I have to admit, that is really easier said than done, especially if you live here in California, where there are so many opportunities to succeed.Being successful itself is not a sin, but it is when that is your only purpose in life, when you think it is more important to make money than to take care of people around you who need help.
Did I regret not applying for a job here? Yes, I did. But would my life really be better out here? I really don’t know. I know I probably wouldn’t have met those nice people in Alpha if I did; I wouldn’t be able to watch Lucas grow up; I wouldn’t have such compassion for those lost teenagers who are in my classes.
This reminds me of the book, “Chasing the Dragon.” Jackie Pullinger–the author–kept telling those gangster boys in Hong Kong that they cannot serve two “lords”– they have to make a decision, and whatever decision they make will require a sacrifice.
Did I know that being an inner high school teacher will require so much strength, prayers, and compassion (not to mention a very big chunk of my time and life)? No, I didn’t. Now, I am here in California, so very tempted to change my occupation and seek an easier (and financially richer) life.
I remember something I heard on KTIS, that says, “you learn compassion through hardship.” I think we all mature through hardship. This period will probably be the cornerstone in my life. I know if I can make it through, it will enrich my life in a way that I can never imagine.
I wait patiently for that day to come.