I’m at the Vancouver airport right now, about to board the plane back to China. Riley seems quite sad today because of my departure, but I feel remarkably calm. I think the Holy Spirit has prepared me for this moment. He’s helped me not dwell on it or make it feel overly significant. It’s just another event in life, and I don’t need to view it through a special lens. This perspective has brought me so much peace. From the outside, it might seem like indifference, but I know it’s something much deeper. By staying in this neutral, balanced state, I can let positive energy flow out of me.

We stopped by to say goodbye to Patricia. She seemed sad too, and much of our conversation revolved around her painful work experiences. I sensed that my leaving might have triggered a wave of sadness in her.

The movie I watched last night felt like an answer to something I’ve been wrestling with lately. Sometimes, I question whether I’m doing anything significant or meaningful in the world. But in contrast, I realized that the work I do every day is deeply important. For example, today, as others felt sadness, I didn’t let it take over me. If I had, it might have turned into a shared sadness without light. My important work is to be a source of light for others, whether through a meaningful conversation or a small act of kindness. Love and care are the most important things we can offer, and I can’t share them with a heavy heart.

Since I’d expressed an interest in The Screwtape Letters, Riley went to a Christian bookstore and got me a copy to take on my journey. I thought that was such a sweet and thoughtful gesture.

Shannon also shared something that resonated deeply with me recently: as disciples of Jesus, whenever we travel, we’re not just moving from one place to another for ourselves. We’re carrying a mission to bring His gospel and light to those we encounter. I can already feel this truth in my heart. This journey feels different. With every step I take, I want to pray for the land and its people. Everywhere I stay, I want to praise the Lord and dedicate the space to Him.