Chapter 21 – Special Gifts
In the eyes of the world, I was born because my father wanted a girl. Although he did not get one, he loved me in his own way. But to God, I was never an accident. I was uniquely formed and known in my mother’s womb (Psalm 139).
I see some of my father in myself. I admit I have a fiery temper at times. I remember how easily he connected with people in the street. My brother Peter had the same gift. Both of them were naturals at engaging with others. I admired that greatly.
For many years, I said that if I ever had a child, I would want a little girl. As time passed, that dream faded into the background.
Then, just before I met Helen, while walking near Heysham, a small village close to Morecambe, the Lord spoke clearly to me: “You will have a daughter.”
When Helen came into my life, God did more than give me a wife. He gave me Sherry.
When I first entered her life, she was fifteen years old and navigating the challenges of teenage life. For both of us, it was difficult. Suddenly, a strange man had appeared in her world. Stepparents must understand how hard this adjustment can be for a child.
Just before I left for the Philippines in 2016, Sherry said very simply, “You are my father.” I know that those words came after much prayer and inner wrestling on her part. I will never forget that moment.
My daughter is a beautiful and strong young woman. She has faced many challenges in her life, and I say this as a tribute to her courage. Leaving home just before her 18th birthday to pursue a BA in Fine Arts in another country, making new friends, and overcoming countless obstacles—she has proven herself remarkable, talented, and resilient.
When she plays the piano, her fingers seem to dance across the keys. When she paints, her brush strokes are careful, deliberate, and graceful. I have often sat quietly, listening to her play, overwhelmed with gratitude. What an honour it is to be her father.
When Covid struck, she returned to China and endured three weeks of isolation in a hotel. Returning home was not easy, but she found work and even helped me with my students.
Like many young adults in China, Sherry found it difficult to meet the right life partner. That changed in August 2023 when Helen mentioned that a young man who had attended Sherry’s school was coming for lunch. He was two years younger and serving in the army.
He came once, then returned two days later. Soon, Sherry was receiving constant messages and phone calls, and we heard squeals of joy from her room at all hours.
He visited again at New Year 2024. There were several visits throughout the year, including trips to see Peter in Xiamen. During this time, we prayed much. Peter is a wonderful young man, and I am privileged to call him my son. We have become the best of friends.
In February 2025, Peter was discharged from the army, and we met him at the airport. From then on, he was with us almost every day. He is also an excellent cook!
In May, they became engaged. They organized everything themselves, showing maturity and independence that made us very proud.
Throughout the summer, parcels arrived, plans were made, and preparations continued. Through it all, my special daughter had found her sweetheart. Sherry, petite and graceful, and Peter, larger but gentle, make a beautiful couple.
Devotional Thought
Ephesians 3:20 (KJV)
“Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us.”
I see this verse fulfilled in my own life. God has given me more than I ever imagined possible.
What were the chances of me coming to China?
What were the chances of me meeting someone named Helen—my favourite name?
Prayer is not a lottery. We do not ask in vague hope. We ask with confidence, knowing our Father delights in giving good gifts that exceed our imagination.
God has given me more than my wildest dreams: my family, my life in China, and blessings too numerous to count.
A Chinese Wedding
Luke 14:8
“When thou art bidden of any man to a wedding, sit not down in the highest room…”
Much of the year was spent preparing for this day. Peter returned to Nanjing on March 1st, and we met him and his parents at the airport. KK, once again, wore a suit.
Sherry and Peter organized everything themselves—photographs, the venue, the arrangements. It was a tremendous blessing to watch them take responsibility.
Chinese weddings differ from Western ones. The day began very early. Peter’s family and friends arrived to take Sherry to his parents’ home for breakfast, following tradition.
For months, KK had been asking for a waistcoat to go with his suit. Helen went further and bought him a new suit complete with a bow tie. He looked very smart.
The wedding took place at Nanjing Guest House on Purple Mountain, an enormous venue capable of hosting multiple weddings at once.
Chinese traditions added joyful uniqueness to the day. Peter had to find Sherry’s hidden shoe, make a speech, and even dance with the best man before the assembled family. They presented special cups of tea to both sets of parents and received red envelopes in return.
Although tradition often has the groom escort the bride, I had the immense privilege of walking Sherry down the aisle. When the doors opened and I saw her for the first time, my heart skipped. It is a moment I will treasure forever.
The ceremony was beautiful. Our pastor spoke, vows were exchanged, and speeches were given. Helen spoke warmly, and Peter’s father delivered what was surely an excellent speech—though I understood none of it!
At one point, red envelopes filled with cash were thrown into the crowd. Peter’s father and I tried to assist, but we were quickly overwhelmed by enthusiastic guests!
By 10:30 pm, we were the last to leave—utterly exhausted but deeply happy.
Devotional Thought
This was a day I once thought would never come.
Sherry is my delight—the cherry on top of my cake. Having a wonderful wife like Helen would have been enough, but God added another precious blessing.
Though I am not her biological father, she calls me “father,” and it has been my joy to watch her grow from a shy teenager into a confident, gifted young woman.
After losing my Peter years ago, God has given me another Peter. He truly is a special man whom I love dearly.
James 1:17
“Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above…”
God delights in giving good gifts. I have lost count of how many I have received, but I remain thankful for each one—especially my family here in China, both close and extended.
Helen’s mother is kind to me, even though we cannot understand each other’s language. Her brother and his family often invite us to wonderful meals.
Every good gift comes from God.