What are you thankful for? I'll start...
Of all the major American holidays, Thanksgiving is the one that has resisted most successfully crass commercialism. Setting aside the calendrically-adjacent Black Friday, the holiday itself really does seem to be about gathering with family and friends to reflect upon our blessings with gratitude.
So I’ve asked our national directors to join me in an online version of taking turns around the dinner table and “sharing one thing you’re thankful for.” I’ll start:
I’m thankful that I’ve been able to return to Asia after nearly three years away. Covid affected all of us deeply, and one the most distressing consequences of the pandemic for me was the time away from Asia’s Hope friends and family. I always enjoy my visits to Cambodia, Thailand and India, but this year was especially joyful.
Savorn Ou, Asia’s Hope Cambodia Director: “I’m thankful that Asia’s Hope Cambodia has been able to rescue 80 new children this year.
Tutu Bee, Asia’s Hope Thailand Director: “I’m so thankful that, after more than two years of Covid-related disruptions, all of our kids have been able to go back to school in-person.”
Sunil Tamang, Asia’s Hope India Co-Director: “I’m thankful that none of our kids or staff were infected during a severe dengue fever outbreak in our town this year.”
Amber Gurung, Asia’s Hope India Co-Director: “I’m thankful that we have been able to make progress in securing the future for not only the kids and staff of Asia’s Hope India, but for the organization itself.”
So as we gather with family and friends to reflect on the year’s blessings, please ask God to continue blessing all of us at Asia’s Hope. And know that I appreciate your prayers for and your generosity to our precious kids and hardworking staff.
On behalf of myself, my staff and my family, Happy Thanksgiving!