Thoughts

Strength comes from pain.

And so courage comes from fear.

To my mum, who gave birth to me, loved me unconditionally.

I love you!

Putting life into perspective – Back in the 80’s, my mum made a BIG decision to leave Vietnam –a life threatening decision. Bracing the waves across China Sea with my dad while she was 7 months pregnant with my brother. They had a little belongings and food with them and sardined with a 100 fearful BUT hopeful people in a vessel.

To sail across the sea of not knowing where I’d like going through life of not knowing what you want. They were invaded by pirates and took everything they had but there was one who was wearing kindness and left my mum a piece of jewelry which is her wedding ring.

She gave birth to my brother on that boat on the way to Indonesia and luck had given us every opportunity to survive.

How did I not realise the depth of challenge and pain my mum had gone through. These are stories yet I am so blinded to see and understand.

Her courage, perseverance, and determination gives me reason and hope every day.

She knew this was the opportunity to live in a country of ‘freedom’ and for us to contribute back into society.

Out of my 200 Why’s, this is one of the reasons I serve.

Phuong Phan

Across the sea empowering beautiful people