For someone without a faith background, this might seem like a self-explanation of a smooth journey through life. But for someone like me, who has believed in Jesus for over 40 years, this is undoubtedly a meticulously orchestrated plan by God. Reflecting on the past decade, I know it was God who laid out the entire plan, moving me from one situation to another, preparing me for the next challenge. Without God's guidance, I would have been cornered by my adversary and utterly defeated. But God is indeed the master of the entire game, and His works leave me in awe and gratitude.
Considering Resigning from a Stable Government Job
Born in Macau, I studied primarily in Chinese from a young age. When I moved to Canada for higher education, transitioning to English for all my courses was challenging. It took me nine years to complete high school. However, I thank God for giving me the wisdom to complete university and earn a Bachelor's degree in Engineering. Subsequently, I found an excellent position in the government’s Building Research Engineering department and won several awards over the years, making significant strides in my career. However, my supervisor never promoted me despite my outstanding work performance, leaving me frustrated and eager for a new opportunity. At home, my wife efficiently managed our household and raised our four children, allowing me to focus on my career without worries.
Despite my dissatisfaction with my supervisor’s lack of recognition, I considered resigning multiple times. However, quitting a stable government job felt too risky for my family of six. Eventually, for the sake of my family, I stayed. Unexpectedly, my brother invested in a gold mine in China and urgently needed help. I volunteered, using the opportunity to escape my current work environment and explore new prospects. After a year, I faced a decision: continue helping my brother or return to my government job. Ultimately, I chose to resign.
Starting a Florist and Badminton Business
Unfortunately, the gold mine business failed due to personnel issues, forcing me to return to Canada and search for new opportunities. However, God had already planted a seed in 2004 when I developed a fistula. To help with hygiene, I invented a cleansing lotion in 2007. While helping my brother (2008–2009), I focused on completing this new product and planned to apply for a patent. Thankfully, a lawyer suggested I apply for a patent grant from the Hong Kong Innovation and Technology Commission. Three months later, I received great news: a grant of 150,000 HKD, which I immediately used to apply for patents in three countries and register my brand. Eventually, my cleansing lotion business officially launched!
In 2011, I worked at the British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT). Although I enjoyed the job, my wife and youngest son were unwilling to leave Ottawa, so I gave up the position. In 2014, with God's guidance, we opened a florist, and my cleansing lotion became available on Amazon in Canada and the United States. Two years later, I added a badminton specialty store within the florist.
Badminton Coach: A Master with Outstanding Students
Why did I venture into badminton? Always a badminton enthusiast, I started coaching at a high school in 2016. To earn an official coaching qualification, I enrolled in a coaching course and completed it in 2018. The following year, I pursued further studies and am now a registered badminton coach in Ontario. Over the years, I have trained more than 100 students, ranging from 7 to 67 years old. One outstanding student won the Canadian Badminton Championship in mid-2024 and represented Canada in the Pan American Games in Brazil in November. As his coach, I felt deeply honored. I trained him 4 to 6 hours a week, and he praised me as an amazing coach: “You are such an amazing coach.” I know it's not my talent but God's special blessing.
Besides coaching badminton, the florist, badminton store, and cleansing lotion business kept me busy but happy because work felt like play. Over the past ten years, I have become the family cook, developing a passion for cooking and learning many delicious recipes for my family and church brothers and sisters. For a church picnic, I once provided over 600 pieces of fried chicken, satisfying everyone and feeling fulfilled.
A New Grace-Filled Path
Additionally, God blessed me with a love for music. From my first accordion from my parents to a harmonica from my brother, and later a piano, I enjoyed playing and singing self-taught. After believing in God, I joined the church choir, singing bass and eventually becoming the choir director. I am grateful for these opportunities and thoroughly enjoy serving in music ministry.Looking back, I am filled with gratitude! Initially, I left my government job of my own accord, not knowing what lay ahead. But God prepared an unexpected path filled with grace, turning my defeats into victories. Now, my steps are light, my heart is at peace, and I live each day with gratitude.
William Lei
