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April 30, 2004
Putting the Spirit back in America
After the horrific events of September 11, 2001, there was a feeling of helplessness among many of us. We wanted to do something but we had no idea where to start. So, we gave blood and donated to the Red Cross. Young men like my son joined the Armed Forces. We watched the news, prayed for our troops, and knew that there must be something more that we could do.
Recently, Jim Hake from Spirit of America gave us that opportunity. He applied traditional American ingenuity and a strong work ethic to help our troops be successful in the very difficult process of winning peace in a region that knows only war and struggle.
We have received $1,532,931 in donations in the last two weeks. Contributions from 7,438 donors have been made to every request and every area of Spirit of America's operations. I can't describe the effects this generosity will have on the ground in Iraq and Afghanistan - both in helping the people of those countries and in supporting the hard work of those serving there.As encouraging as the last 14 days have been, I believe we are just at the beginning of seeing homefront support for America's efforts in Iraq. We're fortunate to receive emails, letters and handwritten notes from our donors that thank us for finally getting the opportunity to make a meaningful contribution. Since 9/11 many have felt helpless. That no longer need be the case.
To truly succeed in Iraq it will take more than military victory and winning the war. We must win the peace. And, that requires the support and genuine determination of the American people to help the people of Iraq. Our military cannot do it alone. I hear this every day from those who are serving in Iraq. They need our assistance and now is the critical time to lean forward and increase our efforts. Those of us at Spirit of America are deeply committed to this and I know many, many Americans are, too. Our job is to organize the desire to help and channel it where it is needed most on the front lines.
There are a number of worthy projects currently spearheaded by Spirit of America. And you can help. For example, a friend's Boy Scout troops will hold a fundraising car wash with all profits sent to support the School Partners program. I am working with local contractors to donate used tools to the Tools for Iraq program. When people ask how my son is doing, I mention SOA. Little things add up to big things. Handing backpacks filled with school supplies to children sitting in an empty classroom is, by itself, a small thing. But the cumulative effect is larger than the sum of the parts. Here is what one teacher had to say last year:
"We support the Americans because they brought us freedom. I will teach my girls that we got our freedom from the Coalition and then they will tell their families." Aiwaiu Sahaib, teacher at Al Gary School for Girls
One child at a time, one family at a time. Nation-building can happen on a very small scale and it starts with each of us.
Through the efforts of some amazing bloggers, this little corner of the internet raised approximately $50,000 to help support our Marines in Iraq and Afghanistan. When I told my son about it last night, he was amazed that so many people cared. Then, I told him about the $1.5 million raised through the WSJ pitch. There was an emotional edge to his voice as he said, "tell them thank you" .
I echo his words. To each of you who support our troops through words and deeds, thank you so very much.
Posted by Deb at April 30, 2004 12:21 PM
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Comments
Sounds perfect to me. I have read this post with a great pleasure. You should write much more often.
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Posted by: burgundy at April 9, 2008 04:00 AM