I think the one thing that so many people do not understand or have forgotten is that we are all refugees, it is a part of all of us, our country, our history, our sense of being Americans. We are, after all, a special people, generous and welcoming, and I dot believe that spirit or instinct will ever be quashed or destroyed.

The RISSE Amazon Wish List is sold out once more, for the fourth time in a week.

I’m writing to thank you, you have lifted the spirits of the children of RISSE, refugees and immigrants who are getting a lesson in what the heart and soul of America are truly about. There is no denying it, no disowning it.

You generous people are part of our national DNA, your spirit is strong. Our message is strong and positive, we don’t need to argue or fight about it. We just need to do it, it speaks for itself.

The other reason I’m writing is to tell you that the shocked staff of RISSE is already hard at work coming up with a new list of needs. This is a hard adjustment for the RISSE staff. they are used to crawling and scraping for every penny, and now huge boxes from Amazon are arriving every day.

They are transforming the after school program, the toys, learning tools and supplies are being devoured and used the minute they come in. I wanted to thank you. A new list will be up shortly.

You are a good force in the world, and your presence in changing lives and lifting them up.

Thanks, thanks, thanks.