Dear Mai,
We live in a phenomenal time. It is heartbreaking, disappointing, uplifting, inspiring all at the same time. Especially with recent events happening in our country and around the world. The technology and tools we use are amazing when put to good use. I can remember a time when I said "who needs a camera on their phone?" And now look at us. But at the end of the day and in the midst of everything, I'm reminded of how "human" the world still is... especially in this technological age.
Who knows what type of media you'll be reading this on when you get older but over the past few weeks there has been a wonderful trend called the Ice Bucket Challenge for ALS. The gist of it is that you challenge folks to video themselves pouring a bucket of ice water on their head and/or donate to ALS research. The goal of it is to raise awareness of the ALS disease. Within 2 months of it beginning they raised more awareness and money then they probably thought was possible. In fact it is quite possible (and I hope) that this disease will be eliminated by the time you are old enough to read this. Also, their website is getting so much traffic right now that I can't get to it. That's awesome.
It is so popular on social media that all the "cool kids" are screaming "enough" already. At the end of the day, I'd rather see 100 thousand more of these videos than one more negative or politically biased meme or comment. It reminds me that there are ways of showing humanity, having fun, giving back and involving a great many people at the same time.
So without further ado, here is our accepted challenge. You weaseled out on me and didn't do it you little brat. That's okay, we contributed to the challenge and also made our donation. I want you to remember this time as a reminder that we are all human and that humans are generally good. There is always hope in humanity.
Love,
Daddy