It’s been a little while since I’ve posted… but things sort of feel like they haven’t moved much since my last post.
As of now, my progress continues slowly, but surely. I’m continuing to read and research about China, regulations for starting a business, the people and culture as a whole and am making some progress on the business plan. It’s exciting to start to outline what we want this business to look like, still knowing that it will have to change and adjust to whatever environment we enter.
However, as the plan starts to further formulate, I realize the benefits of having a more team-oriented approach. I feel like I have laid some groundwork for the foundation of the business, but would like some others who are invested in this project (even if from a distance) to run thoughts and ideas by, to get encouragement and criticism from, and to keep me on-track. The business is feeling very theoretical, and I’m having a hard time thinking of steps to take that will make it more tangible, feel more like an actual business that is being developed.
It will be exciting to see how things start to play out as we get in the “decision-making” phase to make this plan a reality.
I just wanted to say how excited I am for you and this great opportunity that you have been presented with. I have enjoyed watching your passion and love for the Chinese people grow from our trip as sophomores, to your experience teaching there over the summer to this incredible leap of faith.
I admire the passion and trust in God you have had through this (long) process. I know I am not nearly as educated as you or the others who have posted here about China, but I believe an English school is a great idea. Every time I think about what you are doing, it reminds me of the ‘English Corner’ and how excited the students were to participate every week!
I was also challenged by your post a few weeks ago. The idea you presented that missions should create a lifestyle of following Christ rather than just focus on the salvation moment is … simple yet profound. Missions for the sake of leading people to Christ is useful, but it falls short if it does not continue to help people walk through their lifelong relationship with Christ.
When it feels like you have exhausted every lead and contact and avenue … turn to God. I like what Abraham Lincoln said, “I have been driven many times to my knees by the overwhelming conviction that I had nowhere else to go.”
I am so excited to see what God has in store for you and how he plans to use you!
I love you,
‘stine