Little Rock, Arkansas was a pleasant surprise, quiet and demure, yet friendly. Business took us here but in our spare time, my travel companion and I wanted to explore. The configuration had us confused for a bit, we were in the downtown area but we kept running into tourists like ourselves. Only when the trolley driver informed us that everyone escapes on weekends to the springs, did we understand where the citizens of Little Rock were.
So with that knowledge I relaxed on the wonderful trolley, such a delightful means of transportation. Riding from one end of the line to the other, switching to the Blue Line, we rode over the Arkansas River into Northern Little Rock. We made friends both with visitors and the trolley drivers and soon we became unofficial tour guides, sharing tidbits we gathered from our frequent rides. For a mere two dollars($2) we rode all day, hopping on and off to any place of interest. One such place was Heifer International, a non-profit organization that gives to families in need, teaching them how to grow income, improve their lives and pass on help to others.
Our excursion took us to many museums, the William J. Clinton Presidential Library and Little Rock Central High School where nine African American teenagers attempted to enter the all-white school. The Tours gave us many lesson about the history of this State
This was also an opportunity to meet my sponsored child lizbeth, who happens to live in Little Rock. Through Children International, a U.S based organization, children in need are given a chance to grow up healthy, educated and prepared to make a difference in their community and even the world at large. After a tour of the Children International headquarters, Lizbeth, her mother, aunt and an official from the organization joined me for a meal and then we were off shopping for a few items for Lizbeth. The conversation went well, she was up on things happening in the world.
So from the conference, to the tours and visit with that precious child, I have fulfilled my value of caring and compassion and know why I must continue to rise to the call of those in need as much as I can.
"Joy is prayer, joy is strength, joy is love
joy is a net of love by which you can catch souls.
She gives most who gives with joy."
Mother Teresa
Saturday, May 4, 2013
Saturday, February 16, 2013
EVERY LITTLE BIT COUNTS
"Would you like to go to Little Rock, Arkansas?" This was music to my ears and if it was the appropriate place and time, I would have done a gratitude dance. This is one of the places on my ever-growing list of places that I would like to visit. Of course not everyone knows about my list and my desire to visit each of the children I sponsor through Children International and ChidFundInternational, two USA based organizations. Anyone who desires, can sponsor children in need so that they can stay in school and one day become self-sufficient. Your monthly donation is used to provide a nutritious meal, sometimes the only one for the day; to purchase clothing and footwear, ensure that they can see a Doctor or Dentist to help keep them well and provide an afterschool setting, where they can do their homework and other extracurricular activities. This support has made a big difference in their lives, giving them an opportunity to become healthy, educated and ready to face the world.
This year, when this National Nutrition Conference convenes in Little Rock, Arkansas, we will discuss issues around food insecurity and keeping the nation healthy. Even in the wealthiest nation, there are households that struggle to provide for their kids basic needs. My plan is to visit all six(6) of the children I sponsor, who live in different countries. I have not set a timetable, I just plan on letting this happen and when the time is ripe, I would set out on these special journeys. I have visited two (2) young girls in Zambia and promised to be back when they have graduated from High School. I was fortunate enough last year to visit a young man in Ecuador, who I sponsored for many years. He had graduated from High School and is now employed and has set his eyes on furthering his studies. I am eyeing India and Honduras where two (2) other of my sponsored children dwell and I know for sure that one day I will get a chance to take these trips.
"Life's most persistent and urgent question is, what are you doing for others?" said Dr. Martin Luther King. My most humble response is "not enough, but I am trying."
So in my off time at the conference, the Children International organization is planning to give me a tour of their facility and a chance to meet my sponsored child, Lizbeth and her family. These trips are always filled with anticipation and wonder. "What will we talk about?" Yet, even the places where English is a foreign language, we have connected well, amazed that after years of letter writing, we are meeting face to face.
My purpose in this life is always to better myself and the world around us. My way to achieve this is through patience, to be as generous as life permits, not only giving money but also time to serve those in need, to be humble, to show compassion and do the simple things in life that bring joy and peace. I am planning to purchase my favorite Dr. Seuss book, "Oh, the places you'll go" to take along for this child to whom I always send words of encouragement when we write to each other. I encourage all my sponsored children to stay in school, study hard, because this is their ticket out of poverty.
"What makes the river so restful to people is
that it doesn't have any doubt - it is sure to
get where it is going, and it doesn't want
to go anywhere else."
Hal Boyle
I will certainly bring you up to speed after my return.
This year, when this National Nutrition Conference convenes in Little Rock, Arkansas, we will discuss issues around food insecurity and keeping the nation healthy. Even in the wealthiest nation, there are households that struggle to provide for their kids basic needs. My plan is to visit all six(6) of the children I sponsor, who live in different countries. I have not set a timetable, I just plan on letting this happen and when the time is ripe, I would set out on these special journeys. I have visited two (2) young girls in Zambia and promised to be back when they have graduated from High School. I was fortunate enough last year to visit a young man in Ecuador, who I sponsored for many years. He had graduated from High School and is now employed and has set his eyes on furthering his studies. I am eyeing India and Honduras where two (2) other of my sponsored children dwell and I know for sure that one day I will get a chance to take these trips.
"Life's most persistent and urgent question is, what are you doing for others?" said Dr. Martin Luther King. My most humble response is "not enough, but I am trying."
So in my off time at the conference, the Children International organization is planning to give me a tour of their facility and a chance to meet my sponsored child, Lizbeth and her family. These trips are always filled with anticipation and wonder. "What will we talk about?" Yet, even the places where English is a foreign language, we have connected well, amazed that after years of letter writing, we are meeting face to face.
My purpose in this life is always to better myself and the world around us. My way to achieve this is through patience, to be as generous as life permits, not only giving money but also time to serve those in need, to be humble, to show compassion and do the simple things in life that bring joy and peace. I am planning to purchase my favorite Dr. Seuss book, "Oh, the places you'll go" to take along for this child to whom I always send words of encouragement when we write to each other. I encourage all my sponsored children to stay in school, study hard, because this is their ticket out of poverty.
"What makes the river so restful to people is
that it doesn't have any doubt - it is sure to
get where it is going, and it doesn't want
to go anywhere else."
Hal Boyle
I will certainly bring you up to speed after my return.
Sunday, December 9, 2012
START SOMETHING NEW ~~~~ GIVE EQUAL TIME TO WOES AND BLISS
Dear Kindred Spirit,
I try all year to pay attention to those I hold dear to me. And I hope I did just that! The end of the year is in sight and I am grabbing yet another chance during this season of merriment to stop and take the time to focus on our blessings, to make amends and truly show my appreciation for the people who have meant so much to me.
Thanks for your support, your friendship, your kind words. We have teased each other, have belly laughs, bounced back from adversaries and continued to embrace this ever changing life.
And my hope is that even when the thread(spirit) that keeps us tightly woven seem to be coming apart(life's upheaval), we will still find the time to pull out our sewing kit( to find strength, courage, faith,hope) and mend(stay intact) as best as we can.
My wish, my friends, is that each time we are tested, we will think of gratifying moments and rise above our woes. So let's make a pledge to ourselves that when we think of life's difficult journey, we will also think of our blessings, no matter how small. This balancing act you may discover will give you time to determine that life is not so bad after all. It will give you a sense of security that will help you face life's challenges. You will not tarry too long in the 'pity department' anymore; instead you will find yourself expressing gratitude and appreciation, over and over for life's experiences.
I am thankful for your presence, for life, family and good health. As you celebrate and connect with your love ones, keep the holidays fun, safe and nutritious; work to maintain your weight and leave some wiggle room to enjoy your favorite food.
Keep Adapting! Keep it all sewn up!
Wishing you a happy holiday and a prosperous New Year!
"The optimist sees the rose and not its thorns; the pessimist stares at the thorns, oblivious to the rose."
Kahlil Gibran
BE THE PERSON THAT SEES THE ROSE!
I try all year to pay attention to those I hold dear to me. And I hope I did just that! The end of the year is in sight and I am grabbing yet another chance during this season of merriment to stop and take the time to focus on our blessings, to make amends and truly show my appreciation for the people who have meant so much to me.
Thanks for your support, your friendship, your kind words. We have teased each other, have belly laughs, bounced back from adversaries and continued to embrace this ever changing life.
And my hope is that even when the thread(spirit) that keeps us tightly woven seem to be coming apart(life's upheaval), we will still find the time to pull out our sewing kit( to find strength, courage, faith,hope) and mend(stay intact) as best as we can.
My wish, my friends, is that each time we are tested, we will think of gratifying moments and rise above our woes. So let's make a pledge to ourselves that when we think of life's difficult journey, we will also think of our blessings, no matter how small. This balancing act you may discover will give you time to determine that life is not so bad after all. It will give you a sense of security that will help you face life's challenges. You will not tarry too long in the 'pity department' anymore; instead you will find yourself expressing gratitude and appreciation, over and over for life's experiences.
I am thankful for your presence, for life, family and good health. As you celebrate and connect with your love ones, keep the holidays fun, safe and nutritious; work to maintain your weight and leave some wiggle room to enjoy your favorite food.
Keep Adapting! Keep it all sewn up!
Wishing you a happy holiday and a prosperous New Year!
"The optimist sees the rose and not its thorns; the pessimist stares at the thorns, oblivious to the rose."
Kahlil Gibran
BE THE PERSON THAT SEES THE ROSE!
Sunday, November 11, 2012
A Life Of Services
The wind is fierce, lightning flashes, the rain beats down from the skies and the earth reels. We were promised this 'show' all day and mother nature is putting on a performance indeed. Every now and then I pull aside the shades to get a first hand look at this tempestuous display. Sometimes I opened the door to take in more of this 'showtime.' Yet, I have no fear, the body is at rest, the mind is free and at ease. I am writing by a battery operated lantern, a sensible gift from my mother about two years ago for moments like these when there is no electricity. This was the perfect time for me to test out the trials and tribulations of youngsters and others all over the world who live in poverty and must complete their assignments, probably using a kerosene lamp or a candle.
Tonight I wrote all the children I proudly sponsor through CHILDFUND(www.childfund.org) and CHILDREN INTERNATIONAL(www.children.org); two USA based organizations that work for children in need, providing them with clothing, medicine, education and nutritious meals. I told them of my experience, functioning without electricity. It was a letter of deeper compassion but also filled with HOPE for a better life for each and everyone. Of course I did not need a fierce storm and angry wailing winds to tell me how difficult life is for these children.
This year's MAKE A DIFFERENCE DAY (10/27) was just as special as those gone by even without the frou- frou. At my Saturday session at the Adult Literacy Program run by the Queens Public Library, I decided to talk about the significance of this day and encouraged them to work for the good of others as their means allowed.
A few days ago I was invited to a church event where a group of people described their work as Medical Missionaries. They bring a lifestyle program to anyone who will listen and will stay with you until you achieve your goals. I was struck by their enthusiasm as they talked about their work and the benefits many have achieved not only abroad but right here in our backyards. They have dedicated themselves and found joy doing so.
For days my thoughts have turned to the gratitude I feel in helping others. For month after month, the news kept coming of loved ones stricken with illnesses. There is no doubt that a greeting, a cheerful note or a visit are uplifting and can help to bring new life to those struggling with life's challenges. I am inspired by the examples of faith and goodness of those around me. The generosity of those who understand the satisfaction of bringing happiness to others, allow CHOOSE TO CARE to send the gift of a brand new pair of shoes to school children in a desolate area of Freeport, Bahamas. We will certainly share our holiday gift giving plans with you.
"I am only one. but still I am one.
I cannot do everything,
But still I can do something."
Edward Everett Hale
Keep Adapting My Friends!
Tonight I wrote all the children I proudly sponsor through CHILDFUND(www.childfund.org) and CHILDREN INTERNATIONAL(www.children.org); two USA based organizations that work for children in need, providing them with clothing, medicine, education and nutritious meals. I told them of my experience, functioning without electricity. It was a letter of deeper compassion but also filled with HOPE for a better life for each and everyone. Of course I did not need a fierce storm and angry wailing winds to tell me how difficult life is for these children.
This year's MAKE A DIFFERENCE DAY (10/27) was just as special as those gone by even without the frou- frou. At my Saturday session at the Adult Literacy Program run by the Queens Public Library, I decided to talk about the significance of this day and encouraged them to work for the good of others as their means allowed.
A few days ago I was invited to a church event where a group of people described their work as Medical Missionaries. They bring a lifestyle program to anyone who will listen and will stay with you until you achieve your goals. I was struck by their enthusiasm as they talked about their work and the benefits many have achieved not only abroad but right here in our backyards. They have dedicated themselves and found joy doing so.
For days my thoughts have turned to the gratitude I feel in helping others. For month after month, the news kept coming of loved ones stricken with illnesses. There is no doubt that a greeting, a cheerful note or a visit are uplifting and can help to bring new life to those struggling with life's challenges. I am inspired by the examples of faith and goodness of those around me. The generosity of those who understand the satisfaction of bringing happiness to others, allow CHOOSE TO CARE to send the gift of a brand new pair of shoes to school children in a desolate area of Freeport, Bahamas. We will certainly share our holiday gift giving plans with you.
"I am only one. but still I am one.
I cannot do everything,
But still I can do something."
Edward Everett Hale
Keep Adapting My Friends!
Tuesday, September 25, 2012
Choose to Care: STEPPING IT UP
Choose to Care: STEPPING IT UP: CHOOSE TO CARE that small organization with a mighty ambition celebrated it's 5th birthday. Building the project from it's humble beginning...
STEPPING IT UP
CHOOSE TO CARE that small organization with a mighty ambition celebrated it's 5th birthday. Building the project from it's humble beginning, introducing the mission to others, getting the goods to those in need takes a lot of planning and rolling up of our sleeves. But the hard work does not deter us, we have continued to step up our effort because we hear so many stories of children both locally and abroad who do not own a decent pair of shoes.
Knowing the danger of walking barefooted, especially on rough terrain and the embarrassment of not having a proper pair of shoes, which could prevent the child from wanting to attend school, we seek out organizations that work with the youth in need, in order to assist in providing a brand new pair of shoes.
Last year October, on the nationally celebrated MAKE A DIFFERENCE DAY which gives everyone a chance to do good in any community of choice, we created a health fair atmosphere and invited a Podiatrist to give the children advice on taking care of their feet. We included a workshop on proper nutrition, sending the message that it is important to strive for a healthy lifestyle and then we served up a healthy lunch and presented each attendee with a brand new pair of shoes.
We are thinking of creative ways to fund raise and sustain our project,then we can expand our mission. We will be sure to keep you informed of our progress every step of the way. When we receive photos of the children holding their shoes with a bright smile pasted on their faces, that's pure magic. You can rest assure that we are totally happy to be involved in something so meaningful to us.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY and we wish you many more years of goodwill.
Knowing the danger of walking barefooted, especially on rough terrain and the embarrassment of not having a proper pair of shoes, which could prevent the child from wanting to attend school, we seek out organizations that work with the youth in need, in order to assist in providing a brand new pair of shoes.
Last year October, on the nationally celebrated MAKE A DIFFERENCE DAY which gives everyone a chance to do good in any community of choice, we created a health fair atmosphere and invited a Podiatrist to give the children advice on taking care of their feet. We included a workshop on proper nutrition, sending the message that it is important to strive for a healthy lifestyle and then we served up a healthy lunch and presented each attendee with a brand new pair of shoes.
We are thinking of creative ways to fund raise and sustain our project,then we can expand our mission. We will be sure to keep you informed of our progress every step of the way. When we receive photos of the children holding their shoes with a bright smile pasted on their faces, that's pure magic. You can rest assure that we are totally happy to be involved in something so meaningful to us.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY and we wish you many more years of goodwill.
"How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world"Anne Frank
Saturday, September 1, 2012
SERVING UP LOVE
Macy's yearly SHOP FOR A CAUSE day came with a lot of excitement. The Macy's store where I shopped that day put on a spectacular show meant to entertain while you shopped for your favorite charity. The store associates were busy selling $5 tickets for the March of Dimes organization, a great organization that I have supported for over 30 years. But today I was touting CHOOSE TO CARE, the organization that makes every effort to supply the youth in need with a brand new pair of shoes.
I proudly showed my ticket to receive a 25% discount off my purchase as promised and a chance to win a $500 Macy's gift card. Thanks to those who participated and purchased a ticket, your continued support is greatly appreciated. Thank you Macy's for providing this wonderful opportunity for so many charities. This was indeed a tremendous fundraising effort for CHOOSE TO CARE, I consider myself a winner, every chance I get to give to someone in need.
Until Next Year!
One Love!
"Everybody can be great
Because anybody can serve.
You don't have to have a college degree to serve.
You don't have to make your subject and verb agree to serve.
You only need a heart full of grace.
A soul generated by love"
Martin Luther King JR
I proudly showed my ticket to receive a 25% discount off my purchase as promised and a chance to win a $500 Macy's gift card. Thanks to those who participated and purchased a ticket, your continued support is greatly appreciated. Thank you Macy's for providing this wonderful opportunity for so many charities. This was indeed a tremendous fundraising effort for CHOOSE TO CARE, I consider myself a winner, every chance I get to give to someone in need.
Until Next Year!
One Love!
"Everybody can be great
Because anybody can serve.
You don't have to have a college degree to serve.
You don't have to make your subject and verb agree to serve.
You only need a heart full of grace.
A soul generated by love"
Martin Luther King JR
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