Jo's Journal 23 Nov 2012
Hello Dear Friends,The pendulum has swung slowly and the circle of life has moved a few notches since I last spoke to you. These past few months have been a time of much soul searching and deep introspection (not to mention pills, jabs and tests), but happily, there is now light at the end of the tunnel and from such an experience has come new thoughts and beginnings.
Although I have kept myself to myself, I have been well informed on what is happening with our girls and I am thrilled that we have had three graduate from university this year.
Christine Yang Mai has completed her MA and has taken up a teaching position at the Liangshan University. Jennifer Ban Zhi Min has Graduated as a Nuclear scientist and has taken up a position with the Muli Government of the Liangshan in their Environment Department. She will now spend two years as a low ranked official in a small country town, getting to know the communities in the remote mountain areas. Grace has graduated as a “Barefoot Doctor” and will now go into remote villages in the countryside to help the people there. we are very happy to know that they have all remained close to their roots and will be helping the poor people of the Liangshan.
Some exciting news! Christine Yang Mai has met a very nice young Yi man and recently became engaged. The wedding is to take place in Xichang in January and Louise will be there for the occasion. Apparently this young man is a businessman who is very kind to Christine’s family so I think that they should be well cared for in the future. Our first wedding!
Kristin Has returned to China after completing her English language course with the university of Adelaide. She did very well but to pass a level 6.5 IELTS test she would need to complete another full year there. Kristin decided that she would probably be happier in either Hong Kong or China and is looking at doing some distance learning courses in Counselling through one of the universities in HK. She still wishes to continue with her work with the Foundation but would also like to study, travel and learn more in the Future.
We are aware of the changes taking place in China and are keeping a close eye on the situation and how these changes might impact on our work. It is still our intention to support our girls through University and will concentrate on this task.
Personally, I still like the idea of conducting Life Skills workshops but realistically speaking I know that it would be unwise for me to spend too much time in Xichang, so must be content to leave things to Louise, Kristin and Doris.
Next week I shall return to Hong Kong for a little while to spend Christmas with Louise and Tim. It will be wonderful to return as it is one on my most favourite places to be.
I do hope that you all have a marvellous Christmas filled with Love, Laughter and Happiness. I will be thinking of you all and of your great kindness and generosity to our children.
Next year brings new beginnings and new adventures. Excellent!
Keep well and happy.
Love and big hug
Jo