MEET OUR KIDS.

By Bro. Paris Espana September 2005.

Speaking of achievement, well, I think Baan Phraporn is really proud of…or maybe I better say, we’re very glad to introduce one of our “achievers” in the field of education --- no other than, Kanyanat Sansutiwong. We call her Thom for short.

I got a chance to talk to her right after our Sunday Worship Service in Doisaket. I told her that I will feature her life testimony in our new website. She said, “Ajan, I am thrilled. Thank you so much.” I could sense the excitement in her as her eyes sparkled with joy when I told her about the idea. However, when I began asking her questions, she excused herself for not being a good talker and then gave me a lot of smiles during our conversation. She’s really a soft-spoke, sweet young lady that I know.

Thom, 22 year-old lass from the Lahu tribe, is presently taking up Accounting at Payap University in Chiangmai City (the first and only Christian university established in Thailand). Just to pass the entrance exam there is already quite a feat, considering that so many students dream of studying in the said university. Already in her 1st year college, Thom hopes to finish the whole 4 years and get a Bachelor’s Degree, then hopefully, have her own business someday…and help her family.

She’s originally from Baan Pakka, Lampang province. Her parents work in a coffee orchard and earns 15,000 baht a year (or 375 USD a year). Thom is the second of 3 children. Her older sister, Mae is now studying in a Bible School in Maesot, Tak province and her younger brother, Wichai is attending a local high school in Doisaket. Both of her siblings live under the care of Baan Phraporn Chiangmai.

“I thank the Lord for Baan Phraporn for all the help they’ve given me” Thom said with a cheerful smile on her face, her chinky eyes becoming more prominent. “I’ve been so privileged staying here for 7 years now along with my other two siblings, Mae and Wichai. And we’re all blessed. It is in Baan Phraporn that I learned to worship God, live with others and make friends with so many children,” she added.

Finally, I asked her what she thinks of her life in the future. She paused, thinking. And asked me what I mean. I explained it more. Then Thom said, “I don’t know yet. All I want right now is to be a good person and serve the Lord whenever an opportunity comes.” And she smiled at me again.