May 14, 2024
On a bright Tuesday morning, excitement buzzed through the air as students of Stepping Stone International Academy (SIA) gathered for the much-anticipated 2024 School Retreat. Themed "Conquering Mountains," this year's retreat aimed to inspire and challenge the secondary students in navigating life's obstacles.
At exactly 8:00 AM, the day kicked off with an orientation session, followed by a prayer to set a positive tone for the journey ahead. Forty-five eager students, accompanied by faculty members, boarded two buses at 8:20 AM, their spirits high despite a slight delay. By 8:40 AM, the convoy departed for Siem Reap, embarking on the nearly seven-hour journey to their destination. Along the way, the buses made several stops for lunch and bathroom breaks, ensuring the comfort of all attendees.
The buses finally pulled up at the Green Amazon Residence hotel at 3:30 PM. After a well-deserved hour of rest, the students gathered in the lobby and headed to True Light Korean Church, the venue for the retreat's activities. The warm and welcoming atmosphere of the church set the stage for an enriching evening.
The evening began with a brief orientation followed by a delightful dinner of pizza boxes, enjoyed by all. The retreat's first session commenced with a heartwarming worship session led by the school's worship team, setting a reflective and inspiring tone for the evening.
Mr. Paul Lim, the school's Administrator, then kicked off the first lecture with an introductory lesson titled "Conquering Mountains: Navigating Life’s Challenges." Mr. Lim introduced the theme of the retreat, emphasizing the importance of overcoming obstacles—referred to as "mountains"—in life. His lesson encouraged students to "Hang in there!" and "Do not give up!" He underscored the significance of facing challenges head-on for personal growth and development.
The session concluded with a time of prayer and reflection, allowing students to contemplate the day's lessons and their personal journeys. As the evening drew to a close, everyone returned to the hotel, ready to recharge for the next day's adventures.
The first day of the retreat set a powerful tone for what promises to be a transformative experience for the students of Stepping Stone International Academy. With the theme "Conquering Mountains," they are poised to learn, grow, and conquer the challenges that lie ahead.
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