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Column > Dear Nancy Previous Letter | Letter 3 Of 9 | Next Letter Dear Nancy You must have a lot on your mind these days. I know it wasn't easy for you when you shared your missions vision with your parents. Your parents must have felt like a bomb dropped on them. They may hesitate to accept your vision for several reasons. First of all, they may feel you are throwing away a promising career, not only in your profession but also in the services you give to your church. They feel strongly that you are needed at home. Being naturally concerned, they worry you may lose a chance for marriage. They think you will be lonely on the field and that you will lack a secure environment. They may also feel a sense of loss. They will not be able to see you as often as they want, and when you have children, they will miss their grandchildren as well. It is expected that you will take care of them when they need assistance, but they are not sure if you can fly home for an emergency. Because they are your parents, you are a child to them no matter how old you are. They may think you are not mature enough to make this kind of decision. Asking for money and living on support may seem irresponsible to them. You have been their jewel and their friends who don't understand what you want to do might give them a hard time. I trust this will help you think about all the things on your parents' heart. With this in mind, keep communication open. It's important for you to understand how they feel and for you to share the struggles you went through to come to this point in your life. Express gratitude for their support and provision in the past. They sacrificed a lot for you. You are what you are because of their love and dedication. You may have to wait a while for your parents to accept your decision. Tell them the safest place in the world is in God's hands and give them enough time to think about these things. While you are waiting, develop the character and skills you will need overseas. Sometimes God prevents us from jumping into things when we are not ready. Above all, pray with your parents. God will reveal His will as you earnestly seek Him. I am willing to talk to your parents about the importance of Bible translation and about your desire to be involved. I really pray that you and your parents will rejoice in submission to Him. On my knees, Auntie Sunny |
