Dont forget "Planet in Peril...Battle Lines" tonight on CNN

Today is International Human Rights Day!

Did you know that every year war, famine, political and civil unrest displaces millions of people around the world. Others flee their countries in order to escape the risk of death and torture at the hands of persecutors. According to the United Nations High Commission on Refugees (UNHCR) in 2007, there were an estimated 67 million refugees and internally displaced persons throughout the world. For many years, my career gave me an opportunity to work with recently arriving refugees. I came to realize that, like all of us, refugees are individuals, each with their unique strengths and unique challenges. More importantly, I am aware of the commonalities amongst these people. While they may arrive in our country from nations as disparate as Laos, Iran, Chile, Somalia, Bosnia, Iraq or Afghanistan almost all refugees are eager to take advantage of opportunities that allow them live in peace and work toward building better futures for their families. The generosity and graciousness of people who have experienced so much is constantly humbling. If you are interested in learning more about refugees (and/or possibly making a donation) please take a minute to visit my link to the United Nations High Commission for Refugees.

Born to be Lighthouses

I have always been drawn to lighthouses, I really don't know why. Sometimes I think it's because as I was growing up I sometimes felt as though I was adrift in the midst a raging storm. The lighthouse came to serve as a symbol that I have people in my life who are safe and strong...people who send light. I recently came a across a quote by Robert Cooper that gave new meaning to my fascination with lighthouses. Mr Cooper said, "It’s easy to act as if you are a weathervane, always changing your beliefs and words, trying to please everyone around you. But we were born to be lighthouses, not weathervanes. Imagine a vertical axis running through the center of your heart, from your deepest roots to your highest aspirations. That’s your lighthouse. It anchors you in the world and frees you from having to change directions every time the weather shifts.

Father's Teach Your Sons

Today is International Volunteer Day. Volunteers are the mainstay of many of our charitable organizations and can move mountains when needed...just ask President Elect Obama. Give the gift of time today, become a volunteer. Check out volunteer opportunities at http://www.usafreedomcorps.gov/

Did you know 26,500 children will die today?

• Almost 80 million children have died in the past 10 years
• Over 10 million children die every year
• Over 800,000 children die every month
• Over 185,500 children die every week
• Over 26,500 children die every day
• Over 18 children die every minute
• 1 child will die every 3 seconds

How many children lay dying as you read these statistics? Preventable disease, war, hunger, poverty and related conditions are silently killing the world’s children. Please remember these children as you prepare to celebrate this holiday season.

Mr Em and I decided several years ago that we would make donations to Room to Read, The UNHCR, UNICEF and the local food bank in the names of our nieces and nephews in lieu of Christmas presents. We simply send them a nice card with a note attached telling each child about the children or organization they will be helping this year. I promise you this has been infintely more rewarding than endless shopping for gifts for children who frankly have more than they could ever need or use. Regardless of whether you give monetarily or give the gift of time, we encourage you to make a donation to a charity of your choice. This is best prescription I know for beating the “Holiday Blues". Wishing you all peace and happiness this year. Bless the Children!