Author: ND Lama

March 01, 2024, Chiang Mai

My recent participation in the World Without Orphans (WWO) conference was akin to an enlightening church service—initially attended with reluctance but leaving with a profound sense of gratitude. This transformation in perception was catalyzed by the encouragement of my friend and mentor, Myron Youngman, who not only urged me to attend but also generously covered the conference fees and my journey from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. Reflecting on this experience, I recognize the invaluable opportunity it presented.

The mission of WWO, focusing on fostering environments where orphans can thrive within family units rather than in small homes or large institutional settings, deeply resonates with my beliefs. Having been introduced to the concepts of adoption and foster care through a couple from Saddleback Church years ago, I have since been a staunch advocate for these models of care. The philosophy that every child deserves the stability and warmth of a family environment aligns with my core values.

However, the practical application of these ideals at my school presents a complex challenge. Currently, we provide for approximately 80 orphans, constituting about a third of our student body, in a small home setting. This arrangement, while not ideal, is the best we can offer under our circumstances. During the conference, I engaged with a WWO activist from Germany, who shared his endeavors to raise awareness among German churches about the support of homes in three particular Asian countries. His insights highlighted a critical concern: the potential risks involved in abruptly transitioning away from small home and institutional care without a well-prepared alternative.

This conversation underscored the importance of a cautious, informed approach to change. The immediate cessation of support for children’s homes could have unintended negative consequences on the very children we strive to protect. It emphasizes the need for WWO to prioritize raising awareness and building the infrastructure for foster care and adoption, rather than outright campaigning against funding for children’s homes in these regions.

Implementing foster care and promoting adoption in societies with deeply ingrained caste systems and cultural norms is fraught with challenges. The insights shared by the German activist serve as a potent reminder of the complex landscape we navigate in our mission to improve orphan care. As we advocate for change, it is crucial to proceed with sensitivity and care, ensuring our efforts are truly in the best interests of the children.

Reflecting on the WWO conference, I am reminded of the significance of open-minded engagement and compassionate action. Like a church service that leaves one with a renewed sense of purpose, this experience has not only reinforced my commitment to the cause but also highlighted the complexities of transitioning to family-based care. It underscores the necessity for thoughtful, informed strategies that prioritize the well-being of orphans, aiming for a future where every child is embraced by the love and security of a family.

Born into a Buddhist priest family with Tibetan roots on both sides, my spiritual path took a significant turn in 1996 when I found salvation in Christ, taught to me by my high school teacher. Being the first Christian believer in my village, I found myself in an inadvertent leadership position from the start, nurturing my newfound faith in the face of opposition and physical threats. However, my dedication eventually led me to become a respected teacher, inspiring not only five of my siblings but also many of my students and friends to embrace Christ. As a result, my family, who once felt shamed, now takes pride in my spiritual journey.

My spiritual influence extends to my children as well. My 16-year-old daughter took her baptism at the age of 12, and my 14-year-old son is currently preparing for his own baptism. Both of my children spent their formative years growing up in Louisville, Kentucky, USA, before we moved back to Nepal in 2017, dedicating our lives to fulfilling the ScaryDream.

In 2000, along with some friends, I took the initiative to address the educational gaps in my community, particularly for children who were victims of the civil war. We established a children’s home, initially housing 24 children. Over time, the home expanded, enabling over 40 children to graduate. This humble endeavor has grown into an institution with its own land and buildings, continuing to serve the children of our community.

My influence extended beyond my village when I, along with five other young men, began a fellowship in our native Lhomi language. This small group eventually grew into a self-sustaining church within the Lhomi-speaking Buddhist community, which now has over 250 members. This endeavor has allowed me to establish additional churches and schools.

In spite of my accomplishments, I often refer to myself as a “turtle on a tree.” This analogy signifies that I didn’t reach where I am on my own; instead, I was placed there by the right people at the right time. Just as a turtle doesn’t naturally climb trees, my path was crafted through divine intervention and the support of those around me.

Our long-term vision involves strengthening the local church through theological education and reaching out to the next generation through Christian education. Our dream is to see the establishment of 1,500 schools, 400 churches, and a theological school, which we are praying for, working hard towards, and dreaming about.

Throughout my journey, I had to become acquainted with the teachings of Christianity, which was a completely novel experience for me, given my Buddhist background. A course called “Abundant Life” was a pivotal resource in enhancing my understanding of the Bible and helping me teach others. The course led to a rapid increase in the number of Christian students in my community.

Our commitment to the spiritual and educational growth of our community led to considerable expansion. We now have two schools and three affiliated schools, along with a TEE Bible college with 7,000 students. In addition, we are piloting new programs from Serampore University in India and exploring opportunities to establish connections with universities in China and the USA.

In my quest to serve my community better, I have pursued several educational degrees, including a Basic Diploma in Pastoral Theology, a Bachelor’s in Education, CompTIA A+ and Net+ certifications, an Undergraduate degree in Biblical Counseling, and a Master’s in Church Ministries. I am also currently pursuing a Doctorate in Education Ministry with a focus on leadership and Education.

However, I firmly believe that our work is too monumental to accomplish alone, and it’s too important not to invite others. I constantly welcome and value support from individuals and churches, acknowledging their critical contributions to the successful implementation of our mission. In my view, “my going and your giving are equal work,” underscoring my conviction that serving God and fulfilling His mission is a collective effort.

I dedicate my life and my family’s life to this dream, committed to nurturing the spiritual and educational growth of my community. My mission remains a beacon of hope, a testament to my faith and determination in the face of adversity, and an ongoing quest to serve a purpose greater than myself.

Embarking on this journey is daunting (Scary) for me, but I’m beginning to see more light at the end of the tunnel. All glory to God, for this is His mission. As I’ve stated before, ‘I am a turtle on a tree.’ I believe God will connect the right people and churches at the right time for His purpose. That person could be you. May God bless you.

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