As we head into the holiday
season it is often a time for celebration and reflection. We were thinking about
two words that represent how we are feeling at this time of year and the words
that come to mind are Compassion and Gratitude.
Working here in Cambodia and
being able to provide basic needs and opportunities for children, youth and
families has been made possible through your spirit of generosity and
compassion. We are always deeply moved by the support K.I.D.S. receives from so
many.
We were recently e-mailed a copy
of a letter to Santa from Sumalee, the daughter of one of K.I.D.S board members.
As you will read she has already developed a compassionate spirit at the young
age of five.
At almost the same time we were
handed a letter from Pai Sue, a young boy of 12. K.I.D.S has been supporting his
education for several years. He lives at home with his family, in a small
thatched hut with very few possessions. Pai Sue goes to both Khmer and English
school. In the afternoon between classes he toils in the brick factory to help
his family. He gave us a small package with four lotus flowers in it. His
beautiful analogy of how everyone's support is changing his life is below, he
wanted us to pass on his gratitude. We transcribed the letter as we could not
get a good photo of it as his writing is very small.
Thank you for your support to me. I don't have nothing for you
but I have
studied hard. This monthly exam is class five. When
you don't
support me I was like a lotus and don't come out of
the water.
When you support me I can now read, write and spell.
I am like
lotus coming out of the water and see the sun, forever
today. I am
like lotus come out of the water and will become a real
lotus. I can
hope to find a good job in my future.
Best
wishes,
Pai
Seu
Pai Seu's Gift - Four steps of growth of the lotus flower, from bud to mature pod
At this time in the world, when often there is so much sad and unsettling news, it is good to hear how the children are still hopeful. Thanks for supporting them
Wishing you and yours a meaningful and peacefull holiday season.
Adrianne and Rick