-
April 12, 2025 – Journeying Together: A Reflection on Sharing, Emotion, and Healing from an Online Workshop with the Chinese Support Group at Pathways Clubhouse
Today, I had the privilege of serving as a guest speaker for the Chinese Support Group at Pathways Clubhouse in an online workshop. The group brings together individuals living with mental and emotional health challenges, along with their committed and compassionate family members. The theme of my presentation was “Coping with Negative Emotions and Thoughts.”… Continue reading
-
April 10, 2025 – Glimmers of Hope in the Heart of Richmond: Reflecting on a Powerful Gathering
Last night, something truly special unfolded within the 360 Community. Our gathering, themed “Rebuilding from the Streets: Dustin Pirillo’s Journey of Hope,” wasn’t just an event; it was a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit, the transformative power of personal stories, and the deep yearning for connection and hope within our community.… Continue reading
-
April 6, 2025 – More Than Just Sandwiches: A Day of Witnessing and Sharing (Lessons for All Communities)
Today was a day that left a deep imprint on my heart. I had the privilege of joining an effort to distribute food to the people living in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside (DTES), and the experience was both humbling and eye-opening. While my direct experience was in this specific neighbourhood, the lessons learned and the realities… Continue reading
-
March 24, 2025 – Building Bridges for Prevention and Community Support: Reflections on the RDLA Exhibition
This past Saturday, I had the opportunity to attend the Responsible Drug Learning Association (RDLA) exhibition at the Abenteen Center in Richmond. The event was dedicated to prevention and awareness, bringing together a diverse group of individuals committed to addressing the complexities of drug use and its impact on our communities. Walking through the exhibition,… Continue reading
-
March 21, 2025 – Empowered to Save a Life: My Naloxone 101 Training Experience
Today, I took a significant step by completing Opioid Poisoning Recognition and Response training, a Naloxone 101 course. It was a sobering but incredibly important experience. Learning about the signs of opioid poisoning and how to administer naloxone has equipped me with potentially life-saving knowledge. The statistics are alarming, and the reality of the opioid… Continue reading
-
March 13, 2025, – Beyond Housing: Leadership, Elections, and Richmond’s Uncertain Future
Last month, I wrote a letter to the Richmond News questioning whether the cancellation of the supportive housing project at Cambie and Sexsmith was truly a “victory for public opinion.” The letter sparked conversations among community members, and now, I feel compelled to offer a deeper reflection on what this decision means for our city… Continue reading
-
March 9, 2025 – A Heartfelt Friday at St. Alban’s Lunch Program
The Friday lunch program at St. Alban’s is a place where simple acts of kindness and faith can make a profound difference. This past Friday, I experienced that firsthand. I noticed a person, whom I’ll call L, looking a bit troubled. L approached me hesitantly and asked if I would be willing to pray with… Continue reading
-
March 6, 2025 – Beyond the Hymns: A Sunday Shift in Perspective
Sunday mornings are often a time for reflection, renewal, and connection. This past Sunday, however, something shifted in my understanding of what those moments truly mean. It wasn’t just another service; it was a powerful reminder that worship isn’t an end in itself, but a launchpad for action. The service, as always, was filled with… Continue reading
-
March 5, 2025 – The Enduring Heart of Chinatown: Reflections on Today’s Conversation with a Young Leader at Yarrow
The warmth of my coffee cup has long faded, yet the profound impact of my conversation with Beverly, a young leader from Yarrow Intergenerational Society for Justice remains vivid. This wasn’t merely a discussion; it was a powerful encounter with the heart of an organization deeply rooted in its community. What struck me most was… Continue reading
-
March 2, 2025,- “Welcome to Anglican Church”: Holding Space in the Midst of Contempt
Serving at St. Alban’s Friday Lunch program is always a humbling experience. It’s a chance to connect with our community, to offer a warm meal, and to share a moment of human connection. But sometimes, those moments are tinged with something other than warmth. Several days ago, a gentleman approached me with a familiar mix… Continue reading