Iris, Joyce, Albert, Arthur

　Thank you for your letters, which is better than
any presents you can give me. From your letters,
I can see that you have all grown up. Major family misfortune makes one grow up quickly.

　A Chinese proverb says, "Good shade is
provided by the big tree in the front yard." Your
Father was a strong man; the strong man is a very big tree. You were free to work, rest, and enjoy life under his protection. But suddenly, the big tree fell, you would be bemused, stunned and lost, you will feel missing something. Dad is not Dad if you don't miss him.

　Don't ever forget that there is an even bigger tree, that is God. He is everywhere: at the home in Taipei, at the office in Ho Chi Minh City. He is wherever you are. The more helpless you feel, the closer He is to you. God will give you wisdom, give you strength, and make you strong, give you the power to regain hope, and to go on. God will give you as much support as you request. As much as you depend on God, as much the support will be given.

　Please forgive me. I did not really know you personally before; I know you as the children of my friend - your Mother. Through the years I had fewer chances to talk with your Grandmother but more opportunity to talk with your mother, to share her happiness, her worry, and her sorrow. She used to share her thoughts with me. If you don't think I'm too old, please let me be your friend, and share your thoughts with me, too.

　I want you to know that you have an extraordinary Mother! I considered myself knowing her well, but only after this incident did I really get to know her, her ability to stay in control in the face of adversity and her stability. She could be an asset in your family; she is your family jewel.

　Many friends were amazed to see your Mother's dignified reaction; many wondered if she is keeping up a big front but having all her sorrow inside. However, I believe this is from her years of training, a part of her character. I hope this is a true demonstration of her belief in God.

　How to rely on the "big tree of God". Praying is the best way. You should confide all your difficulties in Him, ask for His guidance. Why did this incident happen in your family, I do not know. I only know that evil is part of human nature; however, this does not mean that we are entitled to such behavior; rather we need to keep the goodness in us all the time.

　Today is Sunday. Early in the morning, I'm having a lakeside breakfast at the Chinese University in Hong Kong. I had a simple worship and decide to write to you as my Sunday service.

　All of you are in my prayers, especially your Mother.

May God 's blessing be with you.

Grand Uncle
Nov.7, 2004