Dear Army of Good, see what we have done. Got this wonderful coming home present a few minutes ago from Ali, (Abdul Mohammed), this is the design of the new soccer uniform the RISSE soccer team has chosen, and we have funded.

The only thing that remains to be done are the numbers. These uniforms are so important to the RISSE team, composed of refugee children living in upstate New York, almost all from Asia and Africa and the Middle East.

These uniforms are all about identity, and also about supporting these brave and compassionate children, who have seen too much of the world sometimes, and are living in America in a difficult time for refugees and immigrants.

I believe this children have suffered enough. We have sent them on retreats, to amusement parks, supported their gifts and aspirations. In a few weeks, and especially in the Spring, they will take to the field against richer, more powerful teams, but with a new kind of pride. They have the uniforms they deserve and designed.

It was their idea, not mine, to call themselves the “Bedlam Farm Warriors,” and I am a bit embarrassed that they did that, but also proud. i never once imagined that name would ever adorn a sports uniform. I have never played a sport in my life, it is quite alien to me, but I am much inspired by their hard work and dedication, for them, it is about community as much as victory.

So there it is. They said they loved the spirit of the farm, and how could I be anything but proud of that. Risse is a wondrous group of dedicated people working so hard to support the vulnerable and needy among us.

The immigrant story is one of the great stories of America, and it breaks my heart to see it so politicized and tarnished. I will not sink into the pit of argument and politics, I hope to keep working to support these children and show them what America is really about – it is about you, the Army of Good. See what you have done.

As the descendant of immigrants, I know how much America has meant to so many people. I see this passion in the faces and hear it in the voices of these kids and their parents.

These kids have suffered plenty,and are in great need of us. Ali tells them all the time that what they see and hear on the news is not the real America. I think we are the real America. Because of  your generosity, they are beginning to believe it.

We could use some additional support for our refugee fund, we’ve spent it wisely and well. There is more to do. If you choose, you can sent a donation to my post office box, P.O. Box 205, Cambridge, N.Y., 12816, or to my Paypal account, [email protected]. Please mark the contributions for the refugee work.

I am hoping to organize a trip for the team to the Statue Of Liberty in New York City, a place they are eager to see.

You can also contribute directly to RISSE here.

Thanks so much, I am happy to share this with you so you can see what you have done.