My dear important turkeys!

I am writing to you (while at work, because i already feel like it is the holiday!) in honor of the wonderful holiday of Thanksgiving. Last night we had a monstrous party at the African Community Center (where I work) for all of those who are arriving in Denver from around the world as refugees. Since being a part of this community I have come to particularly appreciate how valuable it is to celebrate together what we are each grateful for. Each day I am reminded of the fact that somehow, someway, I live a life of utter luxury. At the moment, I attribute it only to Luck. But this does not diminish my gratefulness! For having the most loving, happy, healthy family; for the priviledge of having had a wonderful education that I can continue as I wish; for living in beautiful Colorado with an awsome roommate; for the opportunity to travel around the world; for having daily access to healthy delicious foods, and the list goes on. At the moment, one of the things for which I am most grateful is that I meet people every day coming from all parts of the globe who have faced enormous challenges and suffering and who are now courageously rebuilding their lives in Denver. The richness and perspective that this has brought to my life is immeasurable. It is amazing how much we learn about the world and ourselves when stepping out of our comfort zone, being the minority in a room, not understanding the common language being spoken. These moments are a reminder that not a second should be squandered of the richness, diversity and learning our world has to offer.


Here is the link to an article that was published on the front page of the Rocky Mountain News about the event (along with the photo above):
http://www.rockymountainnews.com/news/2008/nov/25/300-refugees-give-thanks-for-a-year-in-america/

Gobble Gobble!!