Digging Your Way to China

Monday, January 14, 2013

Pictures on the wall

Over the past few weeks my fourth grade students have been studying family names. We've played some fun games, talked about some pictures and listened to some songs. This week they will listen to a song called "Pictures on the Wall", reviewing the English terms for family members.

2013 Ben with TB (25 years old)

This song reminded me of the pictures on my blog wall. Looking at pictures on Facebook, blogs, email attachments or even old fashion photos can easily lose the significance of "who" this person truly was/is and what they feel, unless you know them in person. Over the next few weeks and months, I will attempt to jump over that barrier and reintroduce you to some folks who desperately need your thoughts.

Profile:
Full Name: Fangxiaobin (English Name: Ben)
Age: 24 years old
Birthdate: March 3, 1988
Height: 6'2"
Education: first grade
Experience: in jail twice for stealing, lived on streets of Changchun for 9 years
Occupation: Security Guard
Family: Father (died of TB 1991), Mother, half brother, stepfather (who beat and starved him)
Hobbies: music, dancing, video games, watching TV
Health: poor


Ben helping our puppy2004

Helping me figure out my cell phone 2011

Todd and I try to travel up to Changchun at least twice a year (if not more) to continue to touch base with folks who have been part of our lives for years and years. Our whole family traveled to Changchun to bring in 2013 over Christmas break.

"Mama, I have TB!" That was the text message I received early December, so I wasn't surprised by the changes in Ben when we arrived in Changchun. As Ben came to greet us, I could see this normally bubbly, optimistic guy was very different. His father died of TB before he can even remember him, and he is terrified he will also die. All the things he really enjoyed, work, friends, and independence, had to be put on hold until he regains his health. What a wonderful opportunity for Todd and I to continue to speak "the truth" into his life.

Ben and our family 2003

Please bring Ben before the throne! Ask for healing for his body but more than that of his soul! Please ask that he continues to take his medicine, rest and stop smoking.