Every day is a new day…

I’m so grateful that everyday is a new day and holds the promise of a brighter future and the opportunity to learn and grow.  Today we got to visit each of the four village schools ( Jibhi, Kandi, Mihar and Thanah ) to present our cultural exchange of songs and dances.  The teens performances were very touching and seemed to really connect with the children in the schools.  It has been an amazing adventure to be here in India again.  I am so grateful for all of the love and support our team has received from everyone back home ( especially my family – yes, you know I consider all of you my family and you know who you are 🙂  and for all of the hard work,effort and sacrifices from our team this whole year and especially while we are here in India.  At times I feel like the program could run on autopilot and I can, and should, just sit back and watch with amazement.  I have come to believe that everything happens for a purpose, especially here in India. 🙂
The quote I shared with the kids yesterday at the gratitude meeting is one of my favorite ancient proverbs – I saw it written on the wall of a school the first year I came to India and it has stuck with my since.  It goes like this “If wealth is lost, nothing is lost.  If health is lost, something is lost.  If character is lost, all is lost.”

It has been an amazing journey to watch the true character of each individual on our expedition shine.  They have embraced the YMAD core values and are well prepared to continue making a BIG difference in the world for the rest of their lives!!  I will always cherish the time I have spent with them on this adventure.

Much love,

Chad

 

8 Responses to “Every day is a new day…”

1. Karrie Cook, on April 21st, 2014 at 12:16 am Said:

   Chad, thank you for all you are doing for Andrea. She sounds happier than she’s been in a long time thanks to you and your wife. We are grateful.You two are amazing people,! Rich and Karrie Cook

2. Neisha Sykes, on April 21st, 2014 at 2:40 pm Said:

   Thanks to you and the whole team for making this a wonderful experience for Blake! Ric & Neisha Sykes

3. Heather Nash, on April 21st, 2014 at 4:11 pm Said:

   I love this blog and all it offers to us back home. Thank you, thank you, thank you!It will never be enough to express how proud we are that Jordan is a part of this experience, especially with amazing leaders like you.
   Kelly & Heather Nash

4. Susan Paulsen, on April 21st, 2014 at 4:19 pm Said:

   Thanks so much for all you are doing and keeping our kids safe. Chandler sounded great when we talked to him yesterday. Enjoy the rest of the journey.

5. Kelly Welch, on April 21st, 2014 at 6:34 pm Said:

   Chad……thanks for once again watching over another great YMAD group! Ellie Fuller is my niece in this current expedition and you were with my son, Ryan in West Bengal in 2011! Your example and leadership are so appreciated! Ryan sends his best from his LDS mission in the jungles of Bolivia!
   Kelly Welch

6. Stacy Ashby, on April 21st, 2014 at 10:13 pm Said:

   Thanks to you and your lovely wife. Also much love to Lisa Palmer–because of you Lisa, both my teens have had wonderful international service experiences through this amazing group. We love it and are so grateful to you all for your time and service to our kids!

7. JoDee, on April 22nd, 2014 at 4:37 am Said:

   Yep, you are a rockstar and my hero! Thanks for your huge heart and love for the teens and the children of India!

8. Paulsen, on April 22nd, 2014 at 7:21 pm Said:

   Thanks so much for all you are doing and for keeping our kids safe and happy. Enjoy the rest of your journey.