Frank Ko

This summer I went back to Taiwan for another mission trip at several churches in Kaohsiung. Even though each day was exhausting, seeing everyone work together to teach the kids made it worth the effort. I will never forget the memories I made over there. Three years ago, I never would have thought that I would come to love dancing (if it can even be considered that) in front of children and teaching them more about God. The friends I made in Taiwan helped change who I am. The first time I met them, they didn’t let my terrible Chinese stop them from getting close to me. They tolerated my timid nature and didn’t treat me like an outsider. In their eyes, I was one of them. They would approach me and make small talk until I was comfortable enough to interact with them as well as others. I still remember the reactions from several people when they found out they were older than me. When it came to dancing, I didn’t have to feel ashamed or embarrassed. Everyone didn’t mind being silly and they all showed enthusiasm while dancing with the kids. No matter how tired I felt, just seeing everyone having fun made me happy. At the end of each day, my friends still had the energy to take me out and explore. I now know how to get around the city and where the best places to eat are because of them. By the time I had to leave Taiwan, I had opened up to everyone. They made me feel loved and accepted there. Because of them, they made me cry for the first time in many years as I got on the plane. I cherish every memory I have with them and hope to see them all again soon.