Old Friends

It is always good to hear from old friend, especially when those friend live 1/2 way round the world. We had a call on Saturday from our wonderful friend Yau-Tang who lives in Taiwan. He is currently visiting with his younger son Tony and his wife who live in the Bay Area. You see, Yau-Tang is seeing his newest granddaughter (this makes #4) for the first time. His wife Judy stayed home, but was here for the birth a few months ago. This trip is grandpa's turn.

We first met Yau-Tang when he attended OSU some 25 years ago. He was working on his second masters degree (evolved into a doctorate) in Oceans Engineering. You-Tang came to us through an organization called Crossroads International to practice his English. The rest is history. We became very close and have stayed that way despite the miles. He and Judy have been our house guests and we theirs, on many occasions and they never fail to call when in the states.

We were privileged to meet You-Tang's parents before they died and to attend both their son's weddings. It will be nice when You-Tang is actully able to retire (about 2 years) and can stay in the US for a more extended period of time. That will allow them a chance to come to Oregon again. We so look forward to that day.

We lost 2 old friends over seas this past year and a third is in a nursing facility. Still a fourth is becomming very frail. We need to hold each friend, both near and far away, close to our hearts, lift them up in prayer, and communicate our love as often as possible. We may not get many more opportunities to do so.