Last week staff members took time to reflect on what each of us is grateful for.  We discussed an idea shared with us three years ago by Capt. Paul Chappell, an Iraq war veteran, West Point Academy graduate and author of several powerful books on peacebuilding written for high school students.

Paul uses the metaphor of a physical workout to describe values we can choose to strengthen in our life.  We can work out the muscles of gratitude, of speaking the truth, and of integrity.  This kind of work out is vital to keep us grounded in times when the troubles of the world, near and far, weigh us down.  We each need to learn what resources we require for the long haul of social change.  I know in my heart and have seen with my eyes that violence between human beings is not inevitable, and that even seemingly insoluble issues often have answers if only we persist in seeking them.  Not knowing and persisting anyway is part of the work of our human journey. 

Helping individuals and groups discover that fuel for themselves is a big part of why we exist.  It's been a rich year of working with thousands of youth and adults, mainly from the Rochester area but also beyond.  Whether you are receiving this as a long-time supporter or a new friend, we thank you for what you do to make our work possible in the world.