Hope With Sudan

The following email is from a mother of one of the students at Berkeley International High School,  Judy Dickman:

Dear Jerry,

I was so touched that you wrote and thanked me for my role in bringing you, James and Peter to Berkeley High School.  Since your visit, I have been trying to think of a way to convey to you our deepest gratitude that you were able to come to speak with the students in the Berkeley International High School.

Listening to Peter and James, we were moved not only by their ability to survive and thrive despite the hardships that they have faced in their young lives, but also their willingness to share their stories with strangers.  That they took time out of their busy lives to come to Berkeley and share their histories and their future dreams with us was an act of generosity that has enriched all of us. That so many of our students were moved to tears in the short time that you were here speaks volumes about the power of your words, compassion and dedication.

I believe that your visit will have a wide-ranging impact on our students.   Many students have written about the how they were moved by the presentation and by Peter’s and James’ message about the importance of education.  In a single day you not only told the story of the cruelty and adversity that the Sudanese have suffered halfway around the world but you also opened their eyes to the power that they have as individuals and as a community to face down such injustice.  I don’t know in which gardens the seeds that you sowed at Berkeley High last Thursday will flower, but I know that the blossoms will be unique and powerful.

It was an honor meeting you.  Please keep in touch and let me know how we can support Hope with Sudan and the Sudanese refugee community in the future.

With great thanks and warmest regards to Peter and James,

Judy Dickman