Reflection

This year we have made a donation to the Save Darfur Coalition. If you are not familiar with the genocide that is taking place in Sudan, please find out more by going to www.savedarfur.org. Darfur has been called the worst humanitarian crisis of the 21st century. Not since the Rwandan genocide of 1994 has the world seen such a calculated campaign of displacement, starvation, rape and mass slaughter. The ongoing devastation has killed an estimated 400,000 and displaced over 2.5 million Sudanese since February 2003.

Darfur is the century’s first genocide. Look beyond the headlines, understand that a genocide is occurring right now, look for how we can support a solution – and ways in which we may be contributing to the problem. These people need our help. As humans, we owe them our support and prayers. As Americans we owe them our courage and experience. We must do something to help those who suffer, and this time we can.

We have also "adopted" a family through the Santa Cruz Adopt a Family Program this year and the gifts left today. Our family is a single mom, Aimee with a 2 1/2 year old daughter, Willow. Willow will be receiving lots of books, a Dora doll, stuffed kitty and a great big activity pad with crayons, paints and paper dolls. Mom will be receiving a Barnes and Noble GC and another GC for Safeway to get some holiday goodies. They are currently homeless so please send your prayers their way.

As another way to help others we have given to the American Lung Association this year. In memory of my sweet Bubbie, Pop Pop, Co, (Kevin's Dad) and my Aunt Kandi who all passed away too early of lung related illnesses. We miss them every day.

An early Happy Hanukkah and Merry Christmas to everyone. Please take some time to reflect on how blessed we all are. Let's not forget the real meaning of this time of year.

I was deeply saddened by the loss of a local San Francisco father this week, James Kim. While returning to the area with his family (wife Kati and daughters Penelope (4) and Sabine (7 months) they became lost in snowy forests of southern Oregon after taking a wrong turn. After several days, James left his family and headed out to look for help. Kati and his children were later rescued but he perished. This tragic story reminds us all how life can change in an instant. Hug your loved ones close as often as possible.

Give thanks for each other every day. Hugs to all.