Trip to Atlanta, Georgia

We thank God for allowing us to visit Atlanta, GA last week. Although TJ had a treatment ten days ago, she really wanted to go and see our family and friends who have been tirelessly praying for her.

Our trip did not start well, unfortunately, as our Honda transmission broke down about 100 miles from the Kris’ (my sister) house. Fortunately, we’re able to transfer TJ and the children quickly to my sister's house, so that they could get much needed rest while I towed the vehicle to our friend-mechanic’s shop. We later discovered that there were innate transmission problems with our mini-van. As always, God was in control throughout this ordeal, taking care of ALL our needs.

We got to spend some quality time with my parents and my sisters – Wendy and Kris & James (my brother-in-law). My parents were eager to see TJ, wanting to better understand her health status and discussing about her medical care needs. My parents felt helpless, not being able to relief any of TJ’s pain; they, like the rest of us, want the pains to go away.... They encouraged us to never give up but fight it every step of the way.

It has been a while since I spent time with my dad. We had poignant discussions, mostly focusing on TJ’s health and her treatment needs. The discussions led us to overcome our Korean father-son traditions and kept our focus on the important matters such as, TJ's health, the children and family needs. I am so thankful that my dad (& mom) loves TJ as if she is one of their own. I often suggested that my parents love TJ more than me; I now believe that to be true. As we talked through the wee hours, we asked our Lord to be merciful and to deliver her from this disease. Our hearts were heavy, but my dad encouraged me to stay strong and positive for both TJ and the kids. In return, I asked him to continually pray for TJ, as we are bound to face a difficult and challenging road ahead of us.

As always, my sister/brother-in-law and their children (Andrew & Rachel) were gracious in welcoming us with lots of hugs and kisses. They wanted TJ to relax and enjoy during our stay at their house. TJ rested most of the day, while Matthew and Hannah spent all of their waking moments with Andrew and Rachel, like two peas in a pod! In spite of her physical weakness, TJ was in good spirit and had strengths to enjoy certain activities with me, including a July 4th gathering with my sister’s friends. We appreciate their unconditional love and support....

Both Matthew and Hannah couldn’t wait for the camp at Lake Lanier with Wendy; this has become an annual event for them. For the past month, the kids were talking about sleeping in the tent, eating s’mores, playing with the fire work, etc. During the camp, TJ stayed at my parents’ house while the kids, Wendy, and I spent a few cold nights at Lake Lanier. In spite of her difficulties, TJ visited the camp site to enjoy the scenery and to watch the kids playing in the lake. Matthew and Hannah had a delightful time with Wendy as she had everything ready for them. I barely survived and finally accepted the fact that I'm NOT the "Nature's" best friend!

This blog wouldn’t be complete without thanking our brothers and sisters in Christ at Open Door Community Church (ODCC). As always, TJ enjoys, savors, and cherishes moments spent with the ladies at ODCC; ODCC is our former church in GA. It was great seeing them, and as always, they welcomed us (especially TJ) with open arms. The sisters love TJ with so much passion that I feel it just standing next to TJ (like a 2nd-hand smoker). TJ often says whenever the sisters look at her, she sees their love “oozing” out of them. I fully concur! These sisters are amazing! They truly care and pray unceasingly for one of theirs. During the lunch I can't remember the last time TJ laughed so much that the tears of joy were evident in her eyes. It was a change of venue that I so long wished for: Thank you ladies!!! Reverend and Mrs. Sweet made our visit even more “Sweeter” because they consider TJ to be one of their own daughters. We are so grateful to have the Sweet’s as our fellow brother/sister in Christ, but more importantly, as our spiritual advisors. I often call Reverend Sweet my “Spiritual Dad!”

Although the trip was a bit tiring for TJ, we were so thankful that our Lord was lifted and His name was glorified. TJ had such a wonderful time that she is counting days to visit GA again. Please pray that that time will come soon. Thank you for being who you are…, a servant to our all good and all powerful Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

God Bless You All.
Kwang