I remember that when I was little, I often wondered whether everyone would die, and whether I myself would die. When I got a little older, I came to my own conclusion: that people are born only to wait for death, so one might as well spend life in pleasure. When I came to America in my teens, because of my friends and my own playful nature, I began using drugs.

I came to America at the age of five. After living in Los Angeles for a year, I moved to Las Vegas. Because my father was often away on business, I spent most of my time with my mother and sisters. Because of this, from childhood I had the idea that I should learn to be independent and do my part well so my mother would not worry. Before entering college, I was a child my family could trust.

I was born in Taiwan on September 29, 1976. I was baptized as an infant, so I “seemed” to grow up in a “Christian” environment. My grandmother took me to church whenever she could, but as a young child I did not really understand the faith.

Looking back on the past year, Operation Dawn gave me a turning point and a unique experience. Although there were highs and lows, it was completely different from my past life. I can loudly declare that God opened my awareness, thoughts, mind, and spiritual life, giving me a new outlook on life, a vision aligned with His purpose in creation. I know the road ahead is still long, but now I face the future with understanding and confidence. I know the right direction, not only because I understand the purpose of my life, but also because I know that in God’s eyes I am unique and precious beyond measure.

I was born in Los Angeles, California, and had a very unhappy childhood because my parents often fought, and I frequently felt lonely. When I was nine, my parents divorced. Then I moved with my mother to Jakarta, Indonesia. I became a foreigner. My growing years were filled with insecurity, because the language, culture, and school all changed. In order to adapt, I gradually became compromising and eager to please others.

I was the only boy in my family, with two sisters much older than me, and from childhood I developed a self-indulgent and dependent personality. My father was strict and often disciplined me by scolding or hitting, so I rarely liked talking with him. Because my sisters were much older, there were many things I could not talk about with them. Friends suddenly became the most important people in my life, and I thought they understood me best. After eighth grade, I began to dislike going home and often stayed out late with classmates.