Onward Into 2009

What a challenging year we have experienced in 2008--our world has changed in these few months. Now we face 2009 with it's own challenges and hopes. I have found that even with the ebb and flow of the world economy there are things that do not change. They do not move aside when world markets crack under their own weight. Like the false assurance that may come while taking the first few steps on a frozen lake--soon it will begin to reveal it's strength. You either find the ice capable of holding your weight or you hear the sound of cracking under your feet. It is no fun navigating on cracking ice.

The unchanging things are serious and challenging. Hunger does not wait for the economy to stabilize. Disease is not on vacation when the markets take a nose dive. People living in poverty are the real victim to these changes--there are more added to their numbers. We serve the poorest-of-the-poor and find they know nothing about AIG and the DOW Jones. They are only looking for the next meal and a place to sleep. Their lives are simple--they live day-to-day.

We will not change our mission--we will continue to serve the poor. We will look for ways to assist them in their medical needs. We have children who were thrown away and would not have a future. We care for lepers who are the rejected outcasts of this region. We plan to build another home for their treatment this year.

We cannot and will not stop our care of the least and lowest. We look with hope and optimism to 2009. I know thousands will have their lives changed because when they seek help they will find a place of hope.