Christmas 2020
Dear Family and Friends
What is the problem with our nation? What is the problem with our world? It just seems that things just seem to go from bad to worse. The year 2020 is a year that will not be forgotten. It seemed that it began just as any year. It was life as usual in the Tanaka home. Busy as ever. February 2020 Bethany was scheduled to go to Cambodia with me to serve. Back in December 2019, there was news of a new virus called Coronavirus and it was spreading from China. I had no idea of the impact it would have on our trip and no idea of its worldwide effect. January 21, 2020, the first confirmed case of COVID in the USA was right in our backyard, Kirkland, Washington. Would it spread? It started spreading and people began dying. We now had a disease spreading that people have no natural immunity to fight, therefore called Novel. It began spreading around the world but especially hitting the USA, Italy, and China. Would this affect our mission trip to Cambodia? Mike, our team leader, asked me as the medical director for my opinion and we still hadn't heard back from the Cambodia nationals with whom we would be working with. I knew the help that our team could provide: seeing up to 600 patients per day; caring for some of the poorest and neediest people in the country. Looking back, it doesn't seem like a difficult decision to cancel the trip. In medicine, in general, you want to "Do No Harm." We prayed and God provided the answer through the national leaders. To them, it was an easy answer: "Cancel the trip! You coming over here is too dangerous for our people!" Why did we struggle with this? I think it is because we think too highly of ourselves and have difficulty thinking of others. To put it bluntly: "pride." It was the first mission trip in our organization to be canceled, but not the last. Looking back, this was a wise decision. God had answered our prayers. This COVID pandemic has not taken God by surprise. You may ask, if God is all-powerful (which I believe He is) and could stop this pandemic (which I believe He can), then why doesn't He? This is an age old question: “How can a loving God allow such evil to occur?” You may have ask it yourself. The answer may surprise you. Please read on. You see the problem runs much deeper than a virus. If the world's biggest problem was a virus then it could come up with a vaccine or medicine to prevent it, treat it, or cure it. It runs deeper than the Black Lives Matter protests, the CHOP, injustices, politics,police brutality or prejudices. If you had to blame just one thing for all of the problems in the world and in your life and mine, what would it be? The answer is sin. What is "sin?" Sin is disobedience to God. Sin is actually the source of all the world's problems. Where did it come from and how do we get rid of it? Sin began with man and not God. It all started with the first two humans, Adam and Eve. Romans 5:12 "Therefore, just as sin came into the world through one man, and death through sin, and so death spread to all men because all sinned." We inherit many things and the worse thing that we inherit is the propensity to sin. It is so much a part of us, that we can not, not sin. How bad is sin? Just look around and see its effects: murder, rape, prejudice, stealing, hatred, infidelity, and death- just to name a few. What is the solution? If the solution resided in man, then I am certain that we would have figured out a solution. We can get a man to walk on the moon, build the fastest computers, study subatomic particles, why haven't we found a solution for sin and hatred? Could it be that the problem is not outside of us, but inside of each of us? We are the problem. Sin not only affects life here on the earth but the life we have after this life. Sin, the cause of all of the bad things going on around us, but worse of all sin also sends us to hell, away from the presence of God, in punishment for the sins we have committed. Why does sin need to be punished? Sin has to be punished because God is a just God. God can't be just and let sin go unpunished, or else He would not be just. Have you ever thought that a sinful man can't save sinful men? We need someone without sin and stronger than sin to strike a death blow to sin. God had to be made a man in order to save man. His name is Jesus. The Bible describes this amazing fact, "you shall call His name Jesus, for it is He who will save His people from their sins." (Matthew 1:21) Jesus is a historical figure. He was God and yet a man. He lived the perfect life, "tempted in all things as we and yet without sin." (Hebrews 4:15) Sins are like debt, but paid out in blood. Jesus took the punishment that was meant for us when He died on the cross. The Bible states, "having canceled out the certificate of debt consisting of decrees against us, which was hostile to us; and He has taken it out of the way, having nailed it to the cross." (Colossians 2: 14) You may ask, "how can I get my sins forgiven?" The Bible says, "that if you confess with our mouth Jesus as Lord (your master), and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead (your only means of salvation), you will be saved, for with the heart a person believes, resulting in righteousness, and with the mouth, he confesses, resulting in salvation." (Romans 10: 9-10) How much does it cost? Salvation is a gift of God. As a gift it can’t be bought or earn, but given. It will cost you nothing, but it cost Jesus His life. The innocent dying for the guilty. "But God demonstrated His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." (Romans 10:8) “Greater love has no one than this, that one lay down his life for his friends.” (John 15:13) In all other religions, men try to earn God's favor and earn their way to heaven, thinking that somehow the “good” will overcome the “bad”, but “good” never gets rid of “bad.” Just like pure water never makes contaminated water pure. If man could save himself, then Jesus died for no reason. Man could never save himself and never earn their way to heaven. Jesus is the only way. Look at Jesus' earthly life. He loved all people He touched those with leprosy, healed the blind, met with prostitutes, tax collectors, and sinners. With Jesus, it is not only Black Lives Matter but all people matter. With Jesus, there is no "social distancing." Jesus came from heaven to earth. Sin is part of being human. Sin naturally produces guilt and shame and that actually is a good thing. In medicine actually physical pain is good so that when we injure ourselves, we don’t keep on injuring ourselves. How does one get rid of sin and the guilt and shame it produces? Ignoring it or covering never is the solution. If you feel the slavery of sin in your life, the guilt sin produces and desire to be right with God. God has great news for you! Jesus invites you, "Come to Me all who are weary and heavy laden, and I will give you rest." (Matthew 11: 28) I hope you accept Jesus' gift of forgiveness and eternal life. I did in 1984 and I can honestly say that this will forever be my best decision as now for the first time I am right with God and will spend eternity with Him. Out of gratitude and not for my salvation, I turn from sins and strive to live a life pleasing to God. Trust me I still sin, just ask my wife and family, but the penalty of my sins have been paid for. At this time of year, the world celebrates Jesus' birth announced by angels, "Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of a great joy which shall be for all the people; for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord." Jesus being God yet being made like us to save us. "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life. (John 3:16) When it says “whoever” that includes you. Now that is something to celebrate!
Now my favorite: Up Close and Personal:
Jairus (14) is my only outdoor helper. He and I work on Saturday mornings, countering the effects of the second law of thermodynamics. For those who have long since forgotten this from physics class. The second law of thermodynamics states that things go from a higher energy state to a lower energy state. In other words, from order to disorder. The minute you get done raking leaves, more leaves fall down; the minute you are done mowing the lawn, the grass is growing to undo all of your work, So goes our work. At times, it seems so futile and pointless. What good is all of the work? There are benefits: muscles, endurance, perseverance, diligence, long-suffering, fellowship through suffering and don’t forget the rewards: corn dogs, burrito, chips, and wash it down with an Arizona.
This year we had about 12 inches of snow. Besides shoveling about 1400 feet of driveways, we get to enjoy the snow, while it lasts. I usually build a snowman and usually, Jairus builds his snow fort. This year he built an igloo. Not too big but with a roof. Unfortunately, all of our creations soon succumb to the rain and left only as a memory, image on our 23 Snaps family website. Such often is life. Every year I give $5 to the first trillium found and almost without exception Jairus cashes in. This year with the help of some friends, we found chanterelle mushrooms in the woods behind us. We have fun hunting for these tasty morsels. It is fun just to be out in the woods together and rewarded. Somewhat like an Easter egg hunt.
This year Jairus and I had high hopes of filling our freezer with salmon. So half a dozen times we went out to Point No Point. Each time there were about 30 -50 other fishermen, hoping for that infamous salmon. Out of all of those early mornings- leaving at about 5 am, we came back with nothing to put in our freezer except for a few flounders. To almost no consolation, almost no one else caught any salmon either. We had to pick one of the worst years. Next year, salmon you better be afraid of us, we’ll catch you! Jairus did catch one salmon this year. Both Jairus and I have summer birthdays so everyone bought us tickets for a salmon charter, out of Westport, which used to be known as the “Salmon Capital of the World.” After almost no sleep the night before. (Jairus can tell you why), we found our boat and got our poles set with again high hopes. I wondered if our cooler would be big enough. In the past times I have been out, everyone catches their limit. This time, Jairus caught one salmon and one rockfish. Only two other fish were keepers, and he got half of them. It was a nice adventure to share together. We want to go out again. Hopefully when the salmon are running. Jairus and I backpacked to Lena Lake. It was crowded despite the peak of COVID. I think everyone including us, needed to get away. We found a nice spot right on the shore. We hiked and caught fish, talked, swam on air mattresses, and dared each other to get into ice-cold pools, which we both did, got a quick picture and got out. Such amazing beauty of God’s creation, right in our backyard.
Jairus is truly a walking encyclopedia. The doctor who delivered me in my parent’s apartment and saved my life as I was born breech and not breathing. I called him up. Yes, he is still practicing medicine and still doing research, in his 80's. He is a gynecologist with an emphasis on cancer research. He mentioned that much of his research involved HeLa cells. The amazing fact is that HeLa cells reproduce but never grow old and change, as all other cells do. These HeLa cells date back to the 1960s. I had never even heard of these cells, but Jairus not only knew about them but the history behind them and the significance and importance they play in research.
His creativity has launched him into computer programming, by teaching himself.
For Noelle’s 18th birthday, He contacted a Christian music group, “For King and Country” and they actually sent a happy birthday video to Noelle. Creativity, if used properly, can produce many blessings to others. Keep it up!
Lily (16): Seems that every one of our children begins with taking music lessons. Lily began when she was seven years old. Just this year, she had decided that she would stop taking violin lessons and invest her time in other things. I am certain a lot of thought was involved in making this transition and I respect her decision. What other things have filled in this gap? She just started taking online classes at Boyce College (part of the Southern Baptist Seminary) as a dual-enrollment student (doing both high school and college at the same time). I can see Lily's love for God and His ways and I see this as a great opportunity for Lily to become more grounded in her faith and trust in God. She currently just finished two Old Testament classes and is going to be taking more classes in February. She is also taking an art class with an online school called Kepler. She's learning how to use various mediums in her artworks. She sits for hours working tirelessly and appears with a drawing that looks so real. Lily, keep up the good work. God has blessed you with so many gifts and a tender heart to share with others! Lily and I both love art and I enjoy finding a common interest or activity with each child to connect with them. We would often go to the park close to our house and paint together. I would usually do realistic acrylic paintings and Lily would often do abstract paintings. We enjoyed watching our creations take shape and spending time together. In November, Lily started working as an intern for Jon Trotter at his law firm. She is really enjoying the internship and is learning a lot through the experience. As of right now, she is not sure what her future career will be, but she is eager to try new things and be open to anything God sends her way.
Noelle (18) has a competitive side to her that is not very evident from the outside. I believe some of this is self-imposed, like reading over 100 books in a year. This other example may take some explaining. Not certain where it all began, but Noelle loves to listen to Andrea Bocelli, who is an Italian opera singer. We all get to listen to this also. I must admit he has a wonderful voice and he has a wonderful relationship with his son who is also an opera singer. Well, operas are sung in Italian. Now Noelle is learning Italian and has dreams of traveling to Italy. She is teaching herself with an online course called Duolingo. There are students from all around the world taking this class. Part of the incentive to learn and study is you are graded against all of the other students. Well, competitive Noelle was not content in being in the top 10 % of the class but wanted to be #1. She studied and studied and the #1 student realized the threat of being overtaken, so he/she studied and studied. Who knows this person may have lived and grown up in Italy. Ask Noelle if she ever succeeded in being #1. She has some interesting “chats” with classmates who are unaware of who they may be chatting with. Noelle graduated high school this year first in her class, Summa Cum Laude. Remember her most ferrous rival is herself. She started taking classes from Boyce College, pursuing an associate's degree in Biblical and Theological Studies. Noelle is working one day a week at Clear Brook nursing home as a food server/kitchen crew. She just got hired at Masterworks, where Kristi works. She says she is saving to buy a Mustang. She says she likes the way they look. Guys like them also for the way they sound and drive. Maybe this is not important to her and that could be a good thing. She still is working on getting her driver’s license. I am her primary instructor. She is improving every week, but still not there yet. Don’t worry, whatever Noelle does she does it to her best.
Aaron (20) Despite both of our busy schedules, we seem to make time to spend together. He finds time for family gatherings also. That tells me that his heart is still home even though he has moved out. He has a nicer apartment and a much nicer roommate. Aaron graduated with an associate's degree from Olympic College and is currently attending UW online in the mechanical engineering college. He is better than I was in math. He is still tutoring math through Olympic College. He is still working at Starbucks. He sold his Subaru and bought a motorcycle in the spring and bought his third car. I think he found out that riding a motorcycle is fun in the summer but can be challenging and cold and wet in the winter. He is hoping the ski season will be better this year 2021. COVID closed the ski slopes 2020 and he might have just broken even with his season pass. I hope we can ski/snowboard again this year. I hope to get Jairus up there also. Some of our friends ski. That would be great for us all to go up together. Let it snow!
Kristi (22) initially wanted to pursue interior design. Not certain all that went into her switching to graphic design. She found an organization right here in Poulsbo that specializes in that. She has been working there now for two years. She is still taking classes in graphic design and always learning. She is a junior designer and taking on more and more responsibilities. Our church was planning on remodeling the downstairs to turn classrooms into a fellowship hall. It is never easy to imagine what it could look like and encourage giving to the project without bringing it to life. When I was growing up 3D miniature models were often used to allow others to imagine what the future project would look like. Kristi took it on herself to learn how to do a virtual tour. It turned out so well. Well, it was just what was needed to get everyone excited. Funds were raised, many man-hours of labor and now our church has a beautiful fellowship hall, nursery and toddlers area with monitors and sound and new rugs both upstairs and downstairs, all debt-free. The creative gift has also blessed our family. From family slide shows to Karaoke night where Jonathan and Emma in Texas and Jon and Amy in Bremerton could all join us. She has to do videos for her school and has the family join her in making scary videos and silly videos. Kristi had a garden this year and she had the only garden not overgrown with weeds and as a result, had the highest yield. Her cukes did the best and she made yummy pickles. She grew flying saucers called “Patty pans.” Kristi and I went to pick free blueberries in Tacoma. Our family loves blueberries and you can’t beat the price and we had a fun outing together. Since she has her car, she gets adventurous ideas. Bethany and she drove to Anacortes, WA and stayed at an Airbnb. They had a wonderful time together and looks like a picturesque area. She often takes the rest of the children to downtown Poulsbo for a walk and a visit to the bakery or ice cream shop. She loves to dream. I wonder what she will think of next.
Bethany (24) and I were all set to go to Cambodia in February/March 2020. Unfortunately, the COVID pandemic put an end to those hopes. It would be Bethany’s second trip to Cambodia. She has a heart for missions. She also has a gift for languages. The last count she is working on and learning 12 languages. Her other gift is music. Creativity and musicality can be seen in her violin and ukulele playing, but best demonstrated when she plays the piano. She gave our family such a blessing when she put music and lyrics together to tell of the majesty of God, her own life’s blessings and struggles. What a gift! I still remember some of the lyrics as it was truly moving! It seems that God has place love for India even from her youth. From the first time she cooked meals for the family, curry was her favorite spice. Missions have been on her heart from her youth. Following these two passions, Bethany received a certificate so that she is able to teach English overseas. A couple of years ago she had the privilege to teach English to Punjabi people in Canada. Her curry dishes have gotten tastier and she makes a delicious Indian flatbread called Naan. She still would like to go overseas on a mission trip. She knows people all over the world. Not only does she have a knack for languages but her memory of peoples’ names, faces and details about these people; I am certain will be used for God’s glory. Where she’ll end up, only God knows.
Stefanie was prepared for marriage, but I didn’t see any prospects on the horizon. Well, I wasn’t looking right in front of my eyes. On April 2, 2019, Elisha told me about his interest in courting Stefanie. Since it was my responsibility to evaluate his qualifications and see if Elisha and Stefanie would be compatible, I began corresponding with Elisha by giving him the first set of questions. Within 24-hours, I received his well thought out responses. We set up a time to talk through his answers and to get to know each other more. What a good time to invest in the future of a potential son-in-law! Initially, Elisha and Stefanie didn’t know each other well, but soon they were spending hours on the phone or in person. I have never spoken to Stefanie for hours, but Elisha did. Somehow, Elisha was able to tap into her heart. Their relationship was characterized as being very open and honest; this helped their relationship to deepen and strengthen. Stefanie also took the time to strengthen her relationships with her sisters and her Mom by renting a house on the water to get away for a couple days. On June 21, 2020, Elisha got down on one knee and proposed to Stefanie and gave her a hug after she said yes. Making wedding plans amid COVID-19 proved to be challenging as they were limited to having thirty people attending in person while having many more watching from their cars and listening over the FM broadcasting. Stefanie took it so well, and I couldn’t see the disappointments. God provided the perfect weather as the smoke from the California and Oregon fires rolled in a couple days later. What a special privilege I had to walk Stefanie down the aisle. She gave me cuff links to remind me of that moment. Elisha and Stefanie rent a nice house in Bremerton, and Stefanie has done what she is so good at—making it a home. Elisha is a music instructor teaching the violin, viola, cello, and bass. Elisha and Stefanie play music together, and I see their marriage like music—something to be enjoyed. What a blessing! “No greater joy than this—to hear your children walking in the truth.”
Jonathan and Emma just celebrated their 5th wedding anniversary. Often they come out this way and make a trip to Leavenworth, where they went for their honeymoon. Last year they went cross-country skiing, saw the Christmas lights, the infamous bear, and visited the Applets-Cotlets store. Jonathan just started a new job so most likely he won’t be able to take the time off. I hope to make a trip to visit them in their new place in Texas. He is definitely putting into practice some of the skills he learned in law school. He is in the courtroom, which because of COVID is live-streamed. We have the opportunity to watch him lawyering. Jonathan has a drone and takes some amazing pics and videos. If we can’t be together, at least we get to see some of the places they have been and see some of the food they have eaten.
(Jon, Amy, Jet (2), Rezi (3 months) : This has been a busy year in the Trotter household. Jon is now a captain in the army. He is in private practice, working out of his home office. Amy I am certain is a great help in organizing his practice but is also just beginning homeschooling Jet. Jet went from not talking much to constantly talking. Trotters joined us camping last summer at our favorite place, Fort Canby. It’s got the ocean, lighthouses, sand for sand creations, waves, and campfires. Jet helped me start the campfires by collecting sticks. Whenever he sees me, he has his bundle of sticks and says, “Papa, campfire.” Well, we sometimes stop and make a campfire right on the sidewalk or in the parking lot. If you see a nice ring of sticks, you know Jet was there. He also loves books. I found a flannel book, that I use to read to my children as they were growing up. You don’t read, but you make up a story and move around the flannel animals. I called this “Little Specials” because there are “secret’’ pockets that have special surprises behind them. This is one of Jet’s favorites, and I enjoy seeing his excitement. Jet and I went fishing off a dock near their home. We didn’t catch any fish but caught 4 crabs and one a keeper. Jet copies whatever I am doing and repeats whatever I say. I hear him talking to the fish, “bite Jet’s line.” Unfortunately, somehow my fishing pole fell into the water. It was near the surface for a bit and I was thinking that I could just jump in and grab it, but I had Jet with me and he may just follow me into the water, so we watched it sink. It is probable 30-40 feet deep of the end of the dock. If you fish there off the bottom, you may just get an amazing catch. Jon, Jairus, and I had high hopes of filling up the freezer with salmon. We went out multiple times but caught no salmon- only a few flounders and many bullheads. It must have been a bad year, as we rarely saw any salmon caught. Amy and I made blackberry jam. It is more like blackberry syrup. It sure tastes good and all of the blackberries came from our yard.
Lori and I have been married for 32 years. For our anniversary we went to Vashon Island, a short ferryboat ride away. A couple of nights get-a-away to reflect on our past and plan for our future. With the children growing up and some moving out, we realize that we need to invest in our marriage. It is far from where I would have hoped. I have been too selfish, looking out for myself, and often demanding my way. Lori pointed out that, “It is Rich’s way or the wrong way.” Unfortunately, I see the truth in that. God is working in my life. Pastor John is helping me to be a better husband as we are meeting weekly and going through the book, “Complete Husband.” The premise is “relationships are based on revelation.” At the start of the book, a Bible verse is mentioned, “The heart of a man is like deep water, and the man of understanding draws it out.” (Proverbs 20:5) I have not been good at understanding Lori, but now more than ever committed to that end. Helping her achieve some of her goals and dreams. Lori has always wanted a dog and now we have, Bella, an “English Creme Golden.” Bella is a lot of work but a good addition to our family. Lori loves to quilt and sew and converting Stefanie’s room into her sewing, quilting, and study. Lori is pursuing a master’s degree in Biblical Counseling through Westminster Seminary. Tough classes but Lori is doing so well! She should graduate in Spring 2022. How she juggles school and studying and home life! She is amazing. Planning for those empty nest years. Both of us like fishing and biking. We used to do that a lot more together before we had children. For our anniversary, I got us folding fat tire electric bikes. Just need to make time. It is fun and can make it up any hill and even up to our driveway (21 percent grade). There are a lot of trails around here to explore. I am looking forward to discovering them together with my bride. God has richly blessed us and I am looking forward to the next 32 years together.
Rich (61): I have been a doctor since 1985 and I can say that I still love what I do. I see it as a ministry rather than a job. Caring for the whole person, physical, emotional, and spiritual aspect of everyone. Because of COVID, for a couple of months I could only see patients remotely, by phone or video. Sure this was the safest way, but I found out that I need that face to face interaction. That is true medicine. Now I have a mixture of office, phone, and video visits. COVID helped me get some home projects completed, the biggest was to concrete our 600-foot driveway. It is not the smoothest but at least no more ruts and mud. We had an unwelcomed visitor to our chicken coup. A large black bear must have smelled the chicken food and broke a 3x3 foot hole in the side. I repaired it and it made another hole until three sides of my chicken coup were broken down and patched. A friend of mine helped me. We’ll leave it at that. Changing subject, there was an important man in my life with whom I wanted to connect with, but I was uncertain if he was still alive. This man saved my life. His name is Dr. Roland Pattillo. He was my Dad’s friend and classmate in a medical internship in Milwaukee. My Mom was pregnant with me and my Dad and Dr. Patillo agreed that one would always be available should my Mom go into labor. Well, I decided to come quick and Dr. Patillo was called. I was born in my parent’s kitchen. I was born breech, a cord around my neck, and delivered not breathing. Dr. Patillo saved my life. I called Dr. Pattillo and he is not only alive but still practicing medicine. He does mainly research now. He was one of the main speakers commemorating Henrietta Lack’s birthday. It is her cell line that much of medical research depends on as it is a special cell line that never changes and never ages. COVID vaccine likely uses this same or similar cell line in its development. What an honor to speak to him and to thank him again personally. When I was working remotely I got to use another provider’s office. I saw this quote: 2 most important days- the day you were born and day you found out why.” Now that is profound! I help facilitate a Bible study with five other families. We went through the Gospel of John, Genesis and now going through Paul’s letter to the Romans. So good to fellowship, share a meal and study God’s Word together. For the past two years, I have volunteered for English Corner, an outreach to international students at Olympic College. Before COVID hit, we had a shared meal, presentation about something about USA or holiday, ice breaker and games or activities. COVID put an end to this and many students went back to their home countries. I became friends with Myung, an international student from South Korea. I asked if he would like to study the Bible together and he wanted to. We meet weekly and are going through the Gospel of John together. We are having such a good time together. Currently we are meeting through Messenger and one time we met outdoors on a picnic table.
Thank you for reading through this long Christmas letter. I hope you feel that you have gotten to know each of us a bit better. My favorite would be meeting with you face to face. I know this is often not possible and now especially with COVID. Let me know how I can pray for you. I will make time for you. If you have questions about Jesus, want to be saved or any questions you may have about Christianity, just let me know. I don’t know all of the answers, but it would be my honor to help you discover those answers to help you be in right relationship with God. Christmas time we reflect how Jesus humbly entering our world with the goal of eventually being our Savior. Now that is something to celebrate and not even COVID can take that away! Have a blessed Christmas!
From our family to yours,
Rich
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.teamtanaka.com
Dear Family and Friends
What is the problem with our nation? What is the problem with our world? It just seems that things just seem to go from bad to worse. The year 2020 is a year that will not be forgotten. It seemed that it began just as any year. It was life as usual in the Tanaka home. Busy as ever. February 2020 Bethany was scheduled to go to Cambodia with me to serve. Back in December 2019, there was news of a new virus called Coronavirus and it was spreading from China. I had no idea of the impact it would have on our trip and no idea of its worldwide effect. January 21, 2020, the first confirmed case of COVID in the USA was right in our backyard, Kirkland, Washington. Would it spread? It started spreading and people began dying. We now had a disease spreading that people have no natural immunity to fight, therefore called Novel. It began spreading around the world but especially hitting the USA, Italy, and China. Would this affect our mission trip to Cambodia? Mike, our team leader, asked me as the medical director for my opinion and we still hadn't heard back from the Cambodia nationals with whom we would be working with. I knew the help that our team could provide: seeing up to 600 patients per day; caring for some of the poorest and neediest people in the country. Looking back, it doesn't seem like a difficult decision to cancel the trip. In medicine, in general, you want to "Do No Harm." We prayed and God provided the answer through the national leaders. To them, it was an easy answer: "Cancel the trip! You coming over here is too dangerous for our people!" Why did we struggle with this? I think it is because we think too highly of ourselves and have difficulty thinking of others. To put it bluntly: "pride." It was the first mission trip in our organization to be canceled, but not the last. Looking back, this was a wise decision. God had answered our prayers. This COVID pandemic has not taken God by surprise. You may ask, if God is all-powerful (which I believe He is) and could stop this pandemic (which I believe He can), then why doesn't He? This is an age old question: “How can a loving God allow such evil to occur?” You may have ask it yourself. The answer may surprise you. Please read on. You see the problem runs much deeper than a virus. If the world's biggest problem was a virus then it could come up with a vaccine or medicine to prevent it, treat it, or cure it. It runs deeper than the Black Lives Matter protests, the CHOP, injustices, politics,police brutality or prejudices. If you had to blame just one thing for all of the problems in the world and in your life and mine, what would it be? The answer is sin. What is "sin?" Sin is disobedience to God. Sin is actually the source of all the world's problems. Where did it come from and how do we get rid of it? Sin began with man and not God. It all started with the first two humans, Adam and Eve. Romans 5:12 "Therefore, just as sin came into the world through one man, and death through sin, and so death spread to all men because all sinned." We inherit many things and the worse thing that we inherit is the propensity to sin. It is so much a part of us, that we can not, not sin. How bad is sin? Just look around and see its effects: murder, rape, prejudice, stealing, hatred, infidelity, and death- just to name a few. What is the solution? If the solution resided in man, then I am certain that we would have figured out a solution. We can get a man to walk on the moon, build the fastest computers, study subatomic particles, why haven't we found a solution for sin and hatred? Could it be that the problem is not outside of us, but inside of each of us? We are the problem. Sin not only affects life here on the earth but the life we have after this life. Sin, the cause of all of the bad things going on around us, but worse of all sin also sends us to hell, away from the presence of God, in punishment for the sins we have committed. Why does sin need to be punished? Sin has to be punished because God is a just God. God can't be just and let sin go unpunished, or else He would not be just. Have you ever thought that a sinful man can't save sinful men? We need someone without sin and stronger than sin to strike a death blow to sin. God had to be made a man in order to save man. His name is Jesus. The Bible describes this amazing fact, "you shall call His name Jesus, for it is He who will save His people from their sins." (Matthew 1:21) Jesus is a historical figure. He was God and yet a man. He lived the perfect life, "tempted in all things as we and yet without sin." (Hebrews 4:15) Sins are like debt, but paid out in blood. Jesus took the punishment that was meant for us when He died on the cross. The Bible states, "having canceled out the certificate of debt consisting of decrees against us, which was hostile to us; and He has taken it out of the way, having nailed it to the cross." (Colossians 2: 14) You may ask, "how can I get my sins forgiven?" The Bible says, "that if you confess with our mouth Jesus as Lord (your master), and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead (your only means of salvation), you will be saved, for with the heart a person believes, resulting in righteousness, and with the mouth, he confesses, resulting in salvation." (Romans 10: 9-10) How much does it cost? Salvation is a gift of God. As a gift it can’t be bought or earn, but given. It will cost you nothing, but it cost Jesus His life. The innocent dying for the guilty. "But God demonstrated His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." (Romans 10:8) “Greater love has no one than this, that one lay down his life for his friends.” (John 15:13) In all other religions, men try to earn God's favor and earn their way to heaven, thinking that somehow the “good” will overcome the “bad”, but “good” never gets rid of “bad.” Just like pure water never makes contaminated water pure. If man could save himself, then Jesus died for no reason. Man could never save himself and never earn their way to heaven. Jesus is the only way. Look at Jesus' earthly life. He loved all people He touched those with leprosy, healed the blind, met with prostitutes, tax collectors, and sinners. With Jesus, it is not only Black Lives Matter but all people matter. With Jesus, there is no "social distancing." Jesus came from heaven to earth. Sin is part of being human. Sin naturally produces guilt and shame and that actually is a good thing. In medicine actually physical pain is good so that when we injure ourselves, we don’t keep on injuring ourselves. How does one get rid of sin and the guilt and shame it produces? Ignoring it or covering never is the solution. If you feel the slavery of sin in your life, the guilt sin produces and desire to be right with God. God has great news for you! Jesus invites you, "Come to Me all who are weary and heavy laden, and I will give you rest." (Matthew 11: 28) I hope you accept Jesus' gift of forgiveness and eternal life. I did in 1984 and I can honestly say that this will forever be my best decision as now for the first time I am right with God and will spend eternity with Him. Out of gratitude and not for my salvation, I turn from sins and strive to live a life pleasing to God. Trust me I still sin, just ask my wife and family, but the penalty of my sins have been paid for. At this time of year, the world celebrates Jesus' birth announced by angels, "Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of a great joy which shall be for all the people; for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord." Jesus being God yet being made like us to save us. "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life. (John 3:16) When it says “whoever” that includes you. Now that is something to celebrate!
Now my favorite: Up Close and Personal:
Jairus (14) is my only outdoor helper. He and I work on Saturday mornings, countering the effects of the second law of thermodynamics. For those who have long since forgotten this from physics class. The second law of thermodynamics states that things go from a higher energy state to a lower energy state. In other words, from order to disorder. The minute you get done raking leaves, more leaves fall down; the minute you are done mowing the lawn, the grass is growing to undo all of your work, So goes our work. At times, it seems so futile and pointless. What good is all of the work? There are benefits: muscles, endurance, perseverance, diligence, long-suffering, fellowship through suffering and don’t forget the rewards: corn dogs, burrito, chips, and wash it down with an Arizona.
This year we had about 12 inches of snow. Besides shoveling about 1400 feet of driveways, we get to enjoy the snow, while it lasts. I usually build a snowman and usually, Jairus builds his snow fort. This year he built an igloo. Not too big but with a roof. Unfortunately, all of our creations soon succumb to the rain and left only as a memory, image on our 23 Snaps family website. Such often is life. Every year I give $5 to the first trillium found and almost without exception Jairus cashes in. This year with the help of some friends, we found chanterelle mushrooms in the woods behind us. We have fun hunting for these tasty morsels. It is fun just to be out in the woods together and rewarded. Somewhat like an Easter egg hunt.
This year Jairus and I had high hopes of filling our freezer with salmon. So half a dozen times we went out to Point No Point. Each time there were about 30 -50 other fishermen, hoping for that infamous salmon. Out of all of those early mornings- leaving at about 5 am, we came back with nothing to put in our freezer except for a few flounders. To almost no consolation, almost no one else caught any salmon either. We had to pick one of the worst years. Next year, salmon you better be afraid of us, we’ll catch you! Jairus did catch one salmon this year. Both Jairus and I have summer birthdays so everyone bought us tickets for a salmon charter, out of Westport, which used to be known as the “Salmon Capital of the World.” After almost no sleep the night before. (Jairus can tell you why), we found our boat and got our poles set with again high hopes. I wondered if our cooler would be big enough. In the past times I have been out, everyone catches their limit. This time, Jairus caught one salmon and one rockfish. Only two other fish were keepers, and he got half of them. It was a nice adventure to share together. We want to go out again. Hopefully when the salmon are running. Jairus and I backpacked to Lena Lake. It was crowded despite the peak of COVID. I think everyone including us, needed to get away. We found a nice spot right on the shore. We hiked and caught fish, talked, swam on air mattresses, and dared each other to get into ice-cold pools, which we both did, got a quick picture and got out. Such amazing beauty of God’s creation, right in our backyard.
Jairus is truly a walking encyclopedia. The doctor who delivered me in my parent’s apartment and saved my life as I was born breech and not breathing. I called him up. Yes, he is still practicing medicine and still doing research, in his 80's. He is a gynecologist with an emphasis on cancer research. He mentioned that much of his research involved HeLa cells. The amazing fact is that HeLa cells reproduce but never grow old and change, as all other cells do. These HeLa cells date back to the 1960s. I had never even heard of these cells, but Jairus not only knew about them but the history behind them and the significance and importance they play in research.
His creativity has launched him into computer programming, by teaching himself.
For Noelle’s 18th birthday, He contacted a Christian music group, “For King and Country” and they actually sent a happy birthday video to Noelle. Creativity, if used properly, can produce many blessings to others. Keep it up!
Lily (16): Seems that every one of our children begins with taking music lessons. Lily began when she was seven years old. Just this year, she had decided that she would stop taking violin lessons and invest her time in other things. I am certain a lot of thought was involved in making this transition and I respect her decision. What other things have filled in this gap? She just started taking online classes at Boyce College (part of the Southern Baptist Seminary) as a dual-enrollment student (doing both high school and college at the same time). I can see Lily's love for God and His ways and I see this as a great opportunity for Lily to become more grounded in her faith and trust in God. She currently just finished two Old Testament classes and is going to be taking more classes in February. She is also taking an art class with an online school called Kepler. She's learning how to use various mediums in her artworks. She sits for hours working tirelessly and appears with a drawing that looks so real. Lily, keep up the good work. God has blessed you with so many gifts and a tender heart to share with others! Lily and I both love art and I enjoy finding a common interest or activity with each child to connect with them. We would often go to the park close to our house and paint together. I would usually do realistic acrylic paintings and Lily would often do abstract paintings. We enjoyed watching our creations take shape and spending time together. In November, Lily started working as an intern for Jon Trotter at his law firm. She is really enjoying the internship and is learning a lot through the experience. As of right now, she is not sure what her future career will be, but she is eager to try new things and be open to anything God sends her way.
Noelle (18) has a competitive side to her that is not very evident from the outside. I believe some of this is self-imposed, like reading over 100 books in a year. This other example may take some explaining. Not certain where it all began, but Noelle loves to listen to Andrea Bocelli, who is an Italian opera singer. We all get to listen to this also. I must admit he has a wonderful voice and he has a wonderful relationship with his son who is also an opera singer. Well, operas are sung in Italian. Now Noelle is learning Italian and has dreams of traveling to Italy. She is teaching herself with an online course called Duolingo. There are students from all around the world taking this class. Part of the incentive to learn and study is you are graded against all of the other students. Well, competitive Noelle was not content in being in the top 10 % of the class but wanted to be #1. She studied and studied and the #1 student realized the threat of being overtaken, so he/she studied and studied. Who knows this person may have lived and grown up in Italy. Ask Noelle if she ever succeeded in being #1. She has some interesting “chats” with classmates who are unaware of who they may be chatting with. Noelle graduated high school this year first in her class, Summa Cum Laude. Remember her most ferrous rival is herself. She started taking classes from Boyce College, pursuing an associate's degree in Biblical and Theological Studies. Noelle is working one day a week at Clear Brook nursing home as a food server/kitchen crew. She just got hired at Masterworks, where Kristi works. She says she is saving to buy a Mustang. She says she likes the way they look. Guys like them also for the way they sound and drive. Maybe this is not important to her and that could be a good thing. She still is working on getting her driver’s license. I am her primary instructor. She is improving every week, but still not there yet. Don’t worry, whatever Noelle does she does it to her best.
Aaron (20) Despite both of our busy schedules, we seem to make time to spend together. He finds time for family gatherings also. That tells me that his heart is still home even though he has moved out. He has a nicer apartment and a much nicer roommate. Aaron graduated with an associate's degree from Olympic College and is currently attending UW online in the mechanical engineering college. He is better than I was in math. He is still tutoring math through Olympic College. He is still working at Starbucks. He sold his Subaru and bought a motorcycle in the spring and bought his third car. I think he found out that riding a motorcycle is fun in the summer but can be challenging and cold and wet in the winter. He is hoping the ski season will be better this year 2021. COVID closed the ski slopes 2020 and he might have just broken even with his season pass. I hope we can ski/snowboard again this year. I hope to get Jairus up there also. Some of our friends ski. That would be great for us all to go up together. Let it snow!
Kristi (22) initially wanted to pursue interior design. Not certain all that went into her switching to graphic design. She found an organization right here in Poulsbo that specializes in that. She has been working there now for two years. She is still taking classes in graphic design and always learning. She is a junior designer and taking on more and more responsibilities. Our church was planning on remodeling the downstairs to turn classrooms into a fellowship hall. It is never easy to imagine what it could look like and encourage giving to the project without bringing it to life. When I was growing up 3D miniature models were often used to allow others to imagine what the future project would look like. Kristi took it on herself to learn how to do a virtual tour. It turned out so well. Well, it was just what was needed to get everyone excited. Funds were raised, many man-hours of labor and now our church has a beautiful fellowship hall, nursery and toddlers area with monitors and sound and new rugs both upstairs and downstairs, all debt-free. The creative gift has also blessed our family. From family slide shows to Karaoke night where Jonathan and Emma in Texas and Jon and Amy in Bremerton could all join us. She has to do videos for her school and has the family join her in making scary videos and silly videos. Kristi had a garden this year and she had the only garden not overgrown with weeds and as a result, had the highest yield. Her cukes did the best and she made yummy pickles. She grew flying saucers called “Patty pans.” Kristi and I went to pick free blueberries in Tacoma. Our family loves blueberries and you can’t beat the price and we had a fun outing together. Since she has her car, she gets adventurous ideas. Bethany and she drove to Anacortes, WA and stayed at an Airbnb. They had a wonderful time together and looks like a picturesque area. She often takes the rest of the children to downtown Poulsbo for a walk and a visit to the bakery or ice cream shop. She loves to dream. I wonder what she will think of next.
Bethany (24) and I were all set to go to Cambodia in February/March 2020. Unfortunately, the COVID pandemic put an end to those hopes. It would be Bethany’s second trip to Cambodia. She has a heart for missions. She also has a gift for languages. The last count she is working on and learning 12 languages. Her other gift is music. Creativity and musicality can be seen in her violin and ukulele playing, but best demonstrated when she plays the piano. She gave our family such a blessing when she put music and lyrics together to tell of the majesty of God, her own life’s blessings and struggles. What a gift! I still remember some of the lyrics as it was truly moving! It seems that God has place love for India even from her youth. From the first time she cooked meals for the family, curry was her favorite spice. Missions have been on her heart from her youth. Following these two passions, Bethany received a certificate so that she is able to teach English overseas. A couple of years ago she had the privilege to teach English to Punjabi people in Canada. Her curry dishes have gotten tastier and she makes a delicious Indian flatbread called Naan. She still would like to go overseas on a mission trip. She knows people all over the world. Not only does she have a knack for languages but her memory of peoples’ names, faces and details about these people; I am certain will be used for God’s glory. Where she’ll end up, only God knows.
Stefanie was prepared for marriage, but I didn’t see any prospects on the horizon. Well, I wasn’t looking right in front of my eyes. On April 2, 2019, Elisha told me about his interest in courting Stefanie. Since it was my responsibility to evaluate his qualifications and see if Elisha and Stefanie would be compatible, I began corresponding with Elisha by giving him the first set of questions. Within 24-hours, I received his well thought out responses. We set up a time to talk through his answers and to get to know each other more. What a good time to invest in the future of a potential son-in-law! Initially, Elisha and Stefanie didn’t know each other well, but soon they were spending hours on the phone or in person. I have never spoken to Stefanie for hours, but Elisha did. Somehow, Elisha was able to tap into her heart. Their relationship was characterized as being very open and honest; this helped their relationship to deepen and strengthen. Stefanie also took the time to strengthen her relationships with her sisters and her Mom by renting a house on the water to get away for a couple days. On June 21, 2020, Elisha got down on one knee and proposed to Stefanie and gave her a hug after she said yes. Making wedding plans amid COVID-19 proved to be challenging as they were limited to having thirty people attending in person while having many more watching from their cars and listening over the FM broadcasting. Stefanie took it so well, and I couldn’t see the disappointments. God provided the perfect weather as the smoke from the California and Oregon fires rolled in a couple days later. What a special privilege I had to walk Stefanie down the aisle. She gave me cuff links to remind me of that moment. Elisha and Stefanie rent a nice house in Bremerton, and Stefanie has done what she is so good at—making it a home. Elisha is a music instructor teaching the violin, viola, cello, and bass. Elisha and Stefanie play music together, and I see their marriage like music—something to be enjoyed. What a blessing! “No greater joy than this—to hear your children walking in the truth.”
Jonathan and Emma just celebrated their 5th wedding anniversary. Often they come out this way and make a trip to Leavenworth, where they went for their honeymoon. Last year they went cross-country skiing, saw the Christmas lights, the infamous bear, and visited the Applets-Cotlets store. Jonathan just started a new job so most likely he won’t be able to take the time off. I hope to make a trip to visit them in their new place in Texas. He is definitely putting into practice some of the skills he learned in law school. He is in the courtroom, which because of COVID is live-streamed. We have the opportunity to watch him lawyering. Jonathan has a drone and takes some amazing pics and videos. If we can’t be together, at least we get to see some of the places they have been and see some of the food they have eaten.
(Jon, Amy, Jet (2), Rezi (3 months) : This has been a busy year in the Trotter household. Jon is now a captain in the army. He is in private practice, working out of his home office. Amy I am certain is a great help in organizing his practice but is also just beginning homeschooling Jet. Jet went from not talking much to constantly talking. Trotters joined us camping last summer at our favorite place, Fort Canby. It’s got the ocean, lighthouses, sand for sand creations, waves, and campfires. Jet helped me start the campfires by collecting sticks. Whenever he sees me, he has his bundle of sticks and says, “Papa, campfire.” Well, we sometimes stop and make a campfire right on the sidewalk or in the parking lot. If you see a nice ring of sticks, you know Jet was there. He also loves books. I found a flannel book, that I use to read to my children as they were growing up. You don’t read, but you make up a story and move around the flannel animals. I called this “Little Specials” because there are “secret’’ pockets that have special surprises behind them. This is one of Jet’s favorites, and I enjoy seeing his excitement. Jet and I went fishing off a dock near their home. We didn’t catch any fish but caught 4 crabs and one a keeper. Jet copies whatever I am doing and repeats whatever I say. I hear him talking to the fish, “bite Jet’s line.” Unfortunately, somehow my fishing pole fell into the water. It was near the surface for a bit and I was thinking that I could just jump in and grab it, but I had Jet with me and he may just follow me into the water, so we watched it sink. It is probable 30-40 feet deep of the end of the dock. If you fish there off the bottom, you may just get an amazing catch. Jon, Jairus, and I had high hopes of filling up the freezer with salmon. We went out multiple times but caught no salmon- only a few flounders and many bullheads. It must have been a bad year, as we rarely saw any salmon caught. Amy and I made blackberry jam. It is more like blackberry syrup. It sure tastes good and all of the blackberries came from our yard.
Lori and I have been married for 32 years. For our anniversary we went to Vashon Island, a short ferryboat ride away. A couple of nights get-a-away to reflect on our past and plan for our future. With the children growing up and some moving out, we realize that we need to invest in our marriage. It is far from where I would have hoped. I have been too selfish, looking out for myself, and often demanding my way. Lori pointed out that, “It is Rich’s way or the wrong way.” Unfortunately, I see the truth in that. God is working in my life. Pastor John is helping me to be a better husband as we are meeting weekly and going through the book, “Complete Husband.” The premise is “relationships are based on revelation.” At the start of the book, a Bible verse is mentioned, “The heart of a man is like deep water, and the man of understanding draws it out.” (Proverbs 20:5) I have not been good at understanding Lori, but now more than ever committed to that end. Helping her achieve some of her goals and dreams. Lori has always wanted a dog and now we have, Bella, an “English Creme Golden.” Bella is a lot of work but a good addition to our family. Lori loves to quilt and sew and converting Stefanie’s room into her sewing, quilting, and study. Lori is pursuing a master’s degree in Biblical Counseling through Westminster Seminary. Tough classes but Lori is doing so well! She should graduate in Spring 2022. How she juggles school and studying and home life! She is amazing. Planning for those empty nest years. Both of us like fishing and biking. We used to do that a lot more together before we had children. For our anniversary, I got us folding fat tire electric bikes. Just need to make time. It is fun and can make it up any hill and even up to our driveway (21 percent grade). There are a lot of trails around here to explore. I am looking forward to discovering them together with my bride. God has richly blessed us and I am looking forward to the next 32 years together.
Rich (61): I have been a doctor since 1985 and I can say that I still love what I do. I see it as a ministry rather than a job. Caring for the whole person, physical, emotional, and spiritual aspect of everyone. Because of COVID, for a couple of months I could only see patients remotely, by phone or video. Sure this was the safest way, but I found out that I need that face to face interaction. That is true medicine. Now I have a mixture of office, phone, and video visits. COVID helped me get some home projects completed, the biggest was to concrete our 600-foot driveway. It is not the smoothest but at least no more ruts and mud. We had an unwelcomed visitor to our chicken coup. A large black bear must have smelled the chicken food and broke a 3x3 foot hole in the side. I repaired it and it made another hole until three sides of my chicken coup were broken down and patched. A friend of mine helped me. We’ll leave it at that. Changing subject, there was an important man in my life with whom I wanted to connect with, but I was uncertain if he was still alive. This man saved my life. His name is Dr. Roland Pattillo. He was my Dad’s friend and classmate in a medical internship in Milwaukee. My Mom was pregnant with me and my Dad and Dr. Patillo agreed that one would always be available should my Mom go into labor. Well, I decided to come quick and Dr. Patillo was called. I was born in my parent’s kitchen. I was born breech, a cord around my neck, and delivered not breathing. Dr. Patillo saved my life. I called Dr. Pattillo and he is not only alive but still practicing medicine. He does mainly research now. He was one of the main speakers commemorating Henrietta Lack’s birthday. It is her cell line that much of medical research depends on as it is a special cell line that never changes and never ages. COVID vaccine likely uses this same or similar cell line in its development. What an honor to speak to him and to thank him again personally. When I was working remotely I got to use another provider’s office. I saw this quote: 2 most important days- the day you were born and day you found out why.” Now that is profound! I help facilitate a Bible study with five other families. We went through the Gospel of John, Genesis and now going through Paul’s letter to the Romans. So good to fellowship, share a meal and study God’s Word together. For the past two years, I have volunteered for English Corner, an outreach to international students at Olympic College. Before COVID hit, we had a shared meal, presentation about something about USA or holiday, ice breaker and games or activities. COVID put an end to this and many students went back to their home countries. I became friends with Myung, an international student from South Korea. I asked if he would like to study the Bible together and he wanted to. We meet weekly and are going through the Gospel of John together. We are having such a good time together. Currently we are meeting through Messenger and one time we met outdoors on a picnic table.
Thank you for reading through this long Christmas letter. I hope you feel that you have gotten to know each of us a bit better. My favorite would be meeting with you face to face. I know this is often not possible and now especially with COVID. Let me know how I can pray for you. I will make time for you. If you have questions about Jesus, want to be saved or any questions you may have about Christianity, just let me know. I don’t know all of the answers, but it would be my honor to help you discover those answers to help you be in right relationship with God. Christmas time we reflect how Jesus humbly entering our world with the goal of eventually being our Savior. Now that is something to celebrate and not even COVID can take that away! Have a blessed Christmas!
From our family to yours,
Rich
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.teamtanaka.com
