NEWSLETTER: SEPTEMBER, 2004

It might surprise you to find that those with whom we work, for the most part, are not a grateful people. They are hard tough survivors. They rarely thank anyone for anything. Indeed they have gratitude in their language but not often in their hearts. This attitude is foreign to man, it has to be taught and from the beginning we have taught the gratitude attitude.

For years on our big work days each week we have given away used bikes. One bike for a girl and one for a boy. Yesterday, eleven year old Jose got lucky; you could see his smile stretch from ear to ear. Armando said to me, "That's the first bike he has ever had. A very used and slightly abused bike met its new owner and was he happy but happy does not necessarily mean grateful. Jose looked at me smiling and Armando said to him, "Well, what do you say?" Jose looked puzzled for a moment and then said "Oh yeah. Thanks." We are very consistent in requiring a "thank you" from those who receive. Adult or child, a "thank you" is in order. I don't know how many times I have felt a little finger poke me in the back while I was at work only to turn around and find a happy kid holding a soccer ball or a little car. "Thank you, pastor von." Indeed I'm a very fortunate man. As director, I'm often the focal point for gratitude. I wish you were there. You're the one they should thank.

That's why this letter and note comes to you along with your receipt. I like to show our gratitude. While a letter like this may not be "necessary," it's the least we can do to inform you and to show you that we appreciate your help. We honestly appreciate you.

As I have mentioned so often, we do appreciate your prayers for our safety. Last Saturday night about ten, I was in Tijuana driving home from speaking to a group of orphanage kids. I was driving on a four lane highway that had no dividers. The curved highway spanned a long bridge. As I rounded the curve I saw bright lights coming directly toward me. I quickly swerved barely missing the oncoming car. He continued on and then back again over to his side of the highway. And he was going fast! I said to myself, "Thank you Lord; someone must be praying tonight!" It could have been over just like that!

Thank you for your gift, your prayers and your encouragement.