On February 21st, the Reverend Evangelist Billy Graham passed away, the world has lost a great light and life. My young formative years as a child was greatly influenced by the preaching of Billy Graham. I first came to hear him at 10 years old. That was on our little black and white television set, where my father and I sat watching a Crusade. I was spellbound by what I saw, and it was the first time I ever experienced such passion. As a child being raised in a home without traditional guidance, when Mr. Graham extended his arms to the crowds gathered, I immediately responded in heart and mind as one responding to God in an invitation. From that day forward I was ready for religious instruction and found my way to church where I would receive such. During the summer I went to a Vacation Bible School at the Evangelical Free Church in Laguna Beach and grew in Scripture and memorization, such as spiritual armor found in In Ephesians 6:11-18. Mr. Graham was the monumental influence in my life, which set me on course for the rest of my life. Ambitions of youth faded in pallor, as I grew and matured into a responsive Christian. Now as I write this, I am sitting in a Church where we are finishing our seminar with Thai pastors in Bangkok Thailand. I received the news that Billy Graham had died, he was 99 years old. Simultaneously happy that he was with the Lord and his wife Ruth and sad because his great life and light was gone now from a mankind.
In the Philippines
It was wonderful to be back among friends in the Philippines and indeed the warm reception at the airport was very welcoming. By nature I am a communicator, and a warm responder and both Jim and I were asked about what we did to improve our health, and there is so much interest that I kindly asked if a presentation about it would be welcomed. Yes indeed came very hearty reply. So while Jim and I both had our work cut out for us in the next few weeks, I began to put my information together for such a presentation. However going over any notes to put together an outline requires a steady Wi-Fi signal to view the necessary work. Without it makes it virtually an additional challenge. We shared with great enthusiasm together and presented a Wellness Seminar.
Thailand
Seminars with the Karen
During the Marriage and Family seminar with which there is much spirit, I shared a session on communication which I titled, "The Differences in the Male and Female Brain in Communication". The group roared with laughter and I knew instantly that I had hit a home run. I have memorized my notes, and could speak freely without having to refer to anything so I have certain freedom and ablity to speak with the necessary actions and expressions. It was my intention to give them skills to better understand each other especially in conflict, and using their time wisely in communication with each other. I realized this will be a very necessary session in every marriage and family seminar.
