Posts

Journey Through Japan: Memories, Friendship, and Blessings (A poem for a friend)

Image
  Journey Through Japan: Memories, Friendship, and Blessings In Japan's amazing land, we had quite a blast, From Tokyo's bright lights to Kyoto's rich past. Nara's deer were friendly, in Hakone we soared high, With Mount Fuji's grandeur painting the sky. In Tokyo, we marveled at a tower so tall, Osaka's castle stood strong, like a sturdy wall. Kyoto's temples, castles, and shrines so neat, Every place we explored made our journey complete. Our day in Hakone, oh what a thrill, Mount Fuji's view gave us quite the chill. Throughout our adventure, just you, me, and Neko, Making memories together, come rain or echo. And on that special night in Kyoto town, With Luup's ride, we truly got around. From Kyoto station to our hotel's glowing light, Biking and scooting, it felt just right. As we head home to Taiwan, responsibilities anew, May happiness find you in all that you do. Dear Neko, our travel buddy, through thick and thin, Thanks for being with us,...

Discovering Japan: A Journey of History, Friendship, and Gratitude

Image
Discovering Japan: A Journey of History, Friendship, and Gratitude By Ruchel Gagarin Oasan  ( 歐善璐 ) Embracing the Beauty of Japan and Beyond After a whirlwind six-day adventure across Japan, I find myself overflowing with emotions and thoughts. While my wallet may be a bit lighter, my heart is undoubtedly fuller. Japan, a country rich in history and culture, unfolded before me in a spectacular way. I've always been somewhat indifferent to history, but this trip changed that. Exploring four vibrant cities, including my now favorite, Kyoto, I found myself awestruck by the wealth of historical sites. Museums, palaces, shrines, and castles whispered tales of a past that, despite its complexities and shadows – notably Japan's role in World War II – left me with a deep appreciation for the nation's journey. The Joy of Shared Experiences This journey wouldn't have been the same without my travel companion, Beth. Initially, I harbored fears that our partnership might not gel pe...

Gratitude's Melody

Image
I wrote this poem to thank God for everything, including providing people who helped me stand again and move on. I never told them what I have been going through, but I am truly grateful to God for having met them in 2023, a year filled with distress, stress, depression, and disappointments. In the quiet whispers of dawn, I find a song, A melody of gratitude, deep and strong. For life's precious breath, in me anew, I thank the Lord, for this morning's dew. In darker times, when hope seemed gone, Feeling worthless, yet the journey went on. Close to giving up, lost in life's sea, But God, in His mercy, did not give up on me. Amidst trials unseen, in shadows of the night, Came a care group, a beacon of light. Their kindness, a balm, though they knew not my fight, God's hands in theirs, guiding me right. And in the fellowship of young, vibrant souls, Where laughter and dreams freely unfold, I found a ministry, a purpose so bold, To serve and to cherish, in His love's ho...

A Journey of Faith and Promise

Image
  I wrote this poem to remind myself how God has been faithful to me. In Taiwan's embrace where lanterns gently glow, I pen my gratitude as the seasons ebb and flow. Through highs and lows, Your grace ever shows, A steadfast guide as my academic journey grows. No stable income, yet I stand secure, Your provision, my anchor, steadfast and pure. In the classroom's echo, Your guidance I find, Your unwavering love, a comfort to my mind. He is faithful even when my devotion is weak, A shepherd to guide, a refuge for the meek. Promises kept, through stumbles and falls, Your enduring grace, a symphony that enthralls. In Taiwan's journey, where East meets West, Cultures intertwine, Your goodness manifests. With a heart of gratitude, I humbly proclaim, Thank you, dear God, for each blessing's flame. By Ruchel Gagarin Oasan  ( 歐善璐 )

A Weekend of Fellowship and Triumph: BBQ and Badminton Adventures

Image
Last weekend was an exhilarating blend of camaraderie, sportsmanship, and unexpected victories, making it an unforgettable experience. The events of Saturday night and Sunday morning-afternoon were packed with excitement and joy, leaving a lasting mark in my heart. Saturday Night BBQ Extravaganza As the sun began to set on Saturday evening, I joined the enthusiastic young adults from our church for a delightful BBQ event at another Adventist church. The gathering was orchestrated by our dear friends, Pastor Shin and his wife, Xinyi. Anticipation filled the air as we prepared for the event, looking forward to meeting new people and relishing the delicious BBQ. Although I expected a good turnout, the number of attendees exceeded my expectations, amplifying my happiness. Despite the challenge of igniting the BBQ coals, which took us more than an hour, the moments spent with these wonderful people were simply priceless. Laughter, shared stories, and the joy of fellowship made the evening t...

Exploring Hanoi and Beyond: Discovering the Wonders of Vietnam

Image
I recently traveled to Hanoi, Vietnam. The short yet incredibly rewarding trip prompted me to share my experiences and the places I visited. I arranged my flight ticket through the TrekEarth Travel and Tours. Their exceptional accommodation and assistance made the process hassle-free. They helped me secure a comprehensive package, which covered essentials such as accommodations, round-trip private transfers, a Halong Bay excursion, meals, guided tours, and entrance fees. Upon arrival at the airport, I was warmly received by a representative who escorted me to the Lenid Tho Nhuom Hotel, where I spent the night.  On the first day, I explored the renowned old train street, making the most of the free time. The subsequent day commenced with the tour bus picking us up from the hotel and transporting us to the Tuan Chau International Port. From there, we embarked on the Le Journey Cruise for our Halong Bay adventure. Halong Bay is renowned for its captivating landscapes that evoke images...

Embracing the Journey: Overcoming Bitterness and Embracing God's Grace

Image
Introduction: Waking up with a clearer mind, I found myself reaching for my phone to seek a glimmer of inspiration for the day (check the verse of the day that Pastor posted). Little did I know that the verse I stumbled upon would carry a profound message that would resonate deeply within me. Acts 20:24 spoke directly to my heart, reminding me of the purpose and resilience that can guide us through even the darkest times. Acts 20:24  -  However, I consider my life worth nothing to me;  my only aim is to finish the race  and complete the task  the Lord Jesus has given me —the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace. The Struggle: Life has its way of pushing us to our limits, and I've often found myself grappling with overwhelming emotions and negativity. In moments of distress, my coping mechanism had been to escape – to leave behind the turmoil rather than confront it. But as the weight of various factors pressed down on me, I realized that this appr...