The Beginning

How do I know you?

I would love to have a map on this blog, tracing the paths each of you took to get here; a family tree speaking to our relatedness. Because my underlying assumption is that we are related. We might have lived in the same neighborhood. Maybe we share a common friend or interest. You could have read about this blog in an ad or newsletter.

How do these things make us related? To be related to someone, you need to know something about them. Here’s what I know: if you are reading this blog, you are someone who:

• has an interest in learning about conditions outside our local communities
• has an underlying belief that we have the ability to make a difference in the world
• has a curiosity to see what is possible when a community takes on a project

Why participate in a community project?

This project is an opportunity to experience hope and to open up our thought process to see what is really possible in our community and world. As we do this, we will experience a freedom to make a difference that is not bound or limited by economic or political climates or the size of a problem. This project is an opportunity to be powerful as a group and connected to both local communities as well as those across the world. As we work to restore peace for others, we will acknowledge and celebrate the peace we experience in our lives.

Why support Landmine Relief in Cambodia?

The war in Cambodia ended in 1994, and it’s people were finally able to return to their homes. However, the impact of war is still being felt on a daily basis in this country. During the war, millions of landmines were planted across the country (many by the US) and their locations remain largely unknown. Thus much of Cambodia’s population lives and works under the violent threat of these unexploded devices. It is estimated that it could take over 50 years to clear all the landmines in Cambodia, suggesting that without continued support, Cambodia’s people will not experience true freedom from war anytime soon if at all. In light of this, I have decided it's really important to raise financial support for landmine relief efforts so that the people of Cambodia will experience a peaceful future.

Which communities are already involved?

Check back soon for information about the projects starting around Seattle (and the nation):

• East Lake Union Community Event (early February 2009)
• Mercer Island Auction for Landmine Relief in Cambodia (March 2009)
• Ultimate Frisbee Teams in support of Cambodian Landmine Relief (ongoing)