Monday, January 13, 2020

Tragedy

By now, most of you know about the unspeakable tragedy that has darkened our program.  These have been some of the saddest days of my life.  We lost our great friend, Dr. Wayne McDaniel (Ajarn Wayne).  Wayne has gone from paradise on earth (Phi Phi Island) to yet a greater paradise.  I will not go into the specifics of what happened, but I can assure you that the students were never in any danger of any kind.  Ajarn Wayne has been by my side teaching the fall semester class and bringing the students to Thailand for their in-country experience for 10 years, so he's mentored approximately 160 students.  They have all benefited tremendously from his wisdom, humor, and leadership.

But I know Wayne well enough to know that he wouldn't want us to dwell on our loss, but to press on and enjoy life as fully as he did... pursuing what we love.  And so, we continue our Thailand program.  Wayne, we all love you and will miss you.  Rest in peace, my friend.





21 comments:

  1. Thanks buddy! He will be greatly missed!!! Take care of yourself

    ReplyDelete
  2. There are no words. We are so, so sorry for your loss...for everyone's loss. I'm grateful for the impact he has had on Camryn and the memories and lessons she will take with her forever. Thank you for providing the support our kiddos need as you manage your own grief. I can't express enough how thankful I am for you and Shannon, and all the loving adults guiding the students through this time. Continuing on as Wayne would have wanted you all to is a beautiful tribute to him. Thank you also for posting and helping us parents feel connected to all of you so far away. Sending love to his family and friends and all of you. ❤️

    ReplyDelete
  3. Sending (((HUGS))) to everyone! ��

    ReplyDelete
  4. As Charlie's grandmother, I can't thank you enough for your thoughtful handling of this most unfortunate and sad event.

    ReplyDelete
  5. ❤Our Deepest Sympathies❤
    You are all in our thoughts at this time. As the days continue on this trip We know you have found love, comfort and support from each other. Always hold on to the warm and wonderful memories you have shared and made along the way. Carry them in your mind and heart always❤
    ❤With Love and Support
    Nick and Colleen

    ReplyDelete
  6. This is so heartbreaking. Sending so much love. Ajarn Bob, thank you for your strength and wisdom towards these students and their families right now. You’re bravery is inconceivable and I’m sure will forever be appreciated by this group of students and their families. Ajarn Bob, family and friends are here praying for you and are awaiting your return for proper mourning. Please remain safe.

    ReplyDelete
  7. I am sending each of you heartfelt prayers for safety, comfort, wisdom and strength. May you continue to see the beauty of Thailand. You all are an amazing group of young people. Hugs to each of you.

    ReplyDelete
  8. As said so many times before, thank you for your tremendous strength to forge ahead after this unthinkable tragedy. Keeping all of you and especially Ajarn Wayne’s family in my thoughts and prayers♥️

    ReplyDelete
  9. Our thoughts and prayers to Ajarn Wayne’s family, Ajarn Bob, and the students that had the great opportunity to get to meet and know Wayne this past semester. Claire said it best when she called to give us the tragic news: “I am so lucky that I had a chance to meet and know him”. Our hearts go out to all of you.

    ReplyDelete
  10. Our hearts have been heavy and we have sent many prayers your way. Thank you, Ajarn Bob, for your strength to carry on!

    ReplyDelete
  11. My prayers go out Ajarn Wayne’s family and all of you.

    ReplyDelete
  12. I’m so incredibly sad for everyone involved. Thank you for continuing on through your loss to lift up, support, and love on our kids. My prayers have gone out daily for Ajarn Wayne’s family, friends, and everyone on the trip. ❤️

    ReplyDelete
  13. Our thoughts and prayers are with Ajarn Wayne’s family, Ajarn Bob, and all the students who were blessed to know him.

    ReplyDelete
  14. My condolences...truly sorry about Ajarn Wayne. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family, Ajarn Bob and all the students. Thank you so much for continuing your journey and all your strength during this difficult time. Prayers again.

    ReplyDelete
  15. My condolences...truly sorry about Ajarn Wayne. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family, Ajarn Bob and all the students. Thank you so much for continuing your journey and all your strength during this difficult time. Prayers again.

    ReplyDelete
  16. Sorry for your loss to everyone, I heard a lot about Wayne from Julia. May he RIP

    ReplyDelete
  17. I found so many interesting stuff in your blog especially its discussion. From the tons of comments on your articles, I guess I am not the only one having all the enjoyment here! keep up the good work... Lisu Tribes

    ReplyDelete
  18. I learn some new stuff from it too, thanks for sharing your information. visa de turista canadá

    ReplyDelete
  19. Grand Prairie Casino & Hotel - MapYRO
    Casino 여주 출장마사지 & Hotel. 1 Grand Prairie Rd, Grand 경산 출장안마 Prairie, IA 80882, 군산 출장마사지 US casino hotel near downtown Grand Prairie, IA 경상북도 출장샵 86022. (815) 578-9646. View map. 인천광역 출장안마 See map.

    ReplyDelete