Recently, I was given a sweet encouragement and reminded about the still great experiment that is the United States of America. Of all places, this encouragement came in an Über ride to the airport. My driver, Tanveer, had immigrated to the Rocky Mountain west 3 years ago. He had become an American citizen just two weeks before I got into his car. He and his wife left their homeland because, as he said, "It is very difficult to be a Christian in Pakistan." He went on to tell me that, as a Christian, it is difficult to improve your financial circumstances, or sometimes to even feed and care for your children. But that is not the case in America. Tanveer told me of his wife's management position at a hotel, and his ability to own his own vehicle, secure a driving contract with two hotels, and to be an Über driver in his downtime. Their willingness to pursue opportunities has allowed them to own their home and provide well for their young son. Though it has taken them a year to save, they will spend next month visiting his family back in Pakistan. The best part of that trip? They will travel with American passports. "I am so proud to have an American passport. With that passport, I have freedom."
I wish you could have met Tanveer. He was absolutely beaming with joy and pride in his new country. He gave all glory and praise for his life to God. He reminded me that not only is this still a great nation, but it is great in spite of the individual leaders who are or will be at the helm. The ideals upon which our nation was founded are unique in such a fallen world. The truths which we hold to be self-evident, are only so in America. I needed that reminder, and thought you just might need it as well.
Let's pray for our country, and keep our hopes securely trusting in the God of the universe. And, let's engage the minds and transform the lives of our students, that they might serve as thoughtful and involved citizens and preserve the freedoms we have long enjoyed.
God bless you,
Jeanne Wilks
Secondary Principal