Over the last few days I've been pouring through dozens of letters written by orphans at the Palm Tree Center to their new friends in America, Canada and Germany. One girl drew a picture of her and her two sponsors on her letter with the caption: "We are good friends." Another child covered his letter with hearts and wrote: "I always think of you. Thank you for your kindness."
Even amid the bliss of new bike mania, most of the kids found the time to write letters to their donors the same day! Back now from Cambodia and utterly rejuvenated with images of indescribable joy and gratitude, Jared and I have the fun job of distributing the precious letters to the sponsors.
Many children drew pictures of their bikes on their letters and most of them said: "I love you." The outpouring of love is spectacular.
During the next few weeks the kids will receive their helmets and locks, a few of the older kids will begin bike repair apprenticeships and work will begin on a bike repair shop at the orphanage where the kids can learn the craft of bike mechanics and make a few dollars on the side.
The 88bikes project continues to roll and we are humbled by the continued donations. Thank you all.
It has been an absolute honor to be a part of your adventure. Thank YOU Jared and Dan!! I can't wait to get my letter and picture. I plan to correspond if my child wants to keep in touch!
Posted by: Lori Askelin | January 25, 2007 at 09:28 AM