人在福中不知福 (being blessed and yet not realizing it)

Last Saturday happened to be my mom's lunar birthday, which coincide with my birthday (which is not my lunar date but the date on the common calendar we use). It is her 60th birthday and it's a big deal for Chinese (or people of any culture I suppose). A few months ago, we (the family) wanted to plan a surprise party for her, but as there are some complicated matters to consider, we told her of the celebration before hand. at the end, we decided not to have a huge celebration with some sort of formal meeting, but invited some of my parents' and our organization's friends for a Chinese dinner.

As we were thinking of the guest list, my dad asked if I have any friends that I want to invite. My reply was..."I don't have any friends here in LA..." but as we sat down at the dinner table on Saturday night (at the "kids" table ), my older sister, Katherine asked everybody to say something nice or some kind of blessings for my birthday. Being Chinese, it is usually hard to take in compliments from people, but I've learned to appreciate what people say and just be grateful. so I listened without the usual reply... "nah... that's not true... blah blah blah..."

Katherine started the whole thing by appreciating me being there for her when she needs it the most. Then the two ladies from our USA CMI office followed by saying how they appreciate having me around. and others also said nice and complimenting things, blessings.

I listened and realized that I've been wrong. In this past year, trying to adjust to the life here, I was expecting the exact same types of friends that I had in SG. Honestly in that sense, I don't have friends. BUT... I do have friends in LA. In the past year, I've shared life with these ladies in the office. They've listened and prayed with me. I've done the same for them. They are my friends here in LA (not to mention the ladies from my church who have been very caring and supportive to me as well).

Even as I am writing this in Atlanta (visiting for 2 weeks), I still have many dear friends here in this city... I am blessed.