Cambodia Wrap-up

Wow, I can't believe it's almost been two weeks since I've came back from my travels in Cambodia and Hong Kong. Now that I've had an opportunity to slow down and recalibrate to the pace in Toronto, I want to wrap up some of my highlights and take-aways from this most amazing trip.

First off, I want to give a big shout out to Patrick, Carol, Malis, Nai, and Phearin from Empowering Cambodia. They took me in as family from touch down at the airport; they took me to lunch and dinner pretty much every night, provided me with the tools like a cell phone and office to work, as well as the freedom and support for me to site see as i gather photos for the organization. I would say it felt like my trip was orchestrated perfectly, all my doubts, my capabilities, and even my health were each taken care of that I may fully participate in the particular section of the journey. I look back now and it's pretty amazing how the little details were taken care of.. communication wise, I was able to get by with English. Transportation wise, i had mistakenly call someone who would turn out to be my driver for my time in Phnom Penh. Accommodation wise, my hotel took care of everything from breakfast, towels, to doing my laundry, as well booked me a hotel and found me a driver when i went to Siem Reap for a few days. Vocation wise, I thought I was there just to lend a hand in teaching some photography, but it turns out that there was a need for some photos since www.empoweringcambodia.com is revamping their website, and updated photos are needed of the staff, workers, and directors as well as pictures of all the projects. I felt like I had the dream job for 2 weeks, take pictures of things that are pretty, then talk about them as to what makes a good pictures. All in all, these feel allowed me to relax and feel as if I was right at home.

In fact there were so many "coincidences" that worked to my favour that I had no doubt what I was in Phnom Penh for. And when you stop questioning your value, you're able to truly enjoy the identity of who you are. In this case, a photographer and photography teacher for 10 days.

I learned that although my mind and my life up to this point could of been pointing one way, such as studying engineering, and planning to working in the sustainability field. But maybe, if I could let go of that "plan" of what I think I ought to become, I might find His path for me, and find it to be even more of a perfect fit and absolutely enjoyable. Especially at a time where it feels like the plan has been ripped away from me.

I am also reminded of the sovereignty of out God and he works for the good of his people. Each step I took on this journey, events orchestrated by Him have been exactly what I need and as well what others around me needed. I got to remember that this journey is more than just about me, while my own journey is my responsibility. Now I just need the same faith in treading the unknown as it refers to my professional and personal life.