why this blog?

There are several reasons to write :

(1) It was suggested to me that a blog would be a great way to try to help those with no knowledge of conflict and terrorism in the Southern Philippines. People may recrive a first hand account and a bit of history of what is currently happening in this area of the world. As an American I am particularly intersted in the Western World learning more if possible. My friends and colleagues seem interested, especially since there have been no or very few Westerners (Civilians) in this area for yearss.

(2)There may eventually be interest by some news service (paper or Cable) in this communication from S.E. Asia. Terrorism,abuse, conflict and trauma are much more apparent here on the ground than can be understood from afar. The intimidation of local Christian and Muslim people who wish to live in peace is unfathomable. The numbers who have been kidnapped, raped or forced to pay large on-going sums to terrorists is remarkable. Almost every person has a story to tell of a bombing or a kidnapping. Some believe this is more criminal than terrorism but when towns are threatened that their filling stations are going to be bombed, when collages are bombed and children are kidnapped from their front lawns I strongly believe this is terror reigned on a whole population of civilians. How to end terrorism? This is far out of my area of expertise but I do have expertise in trauma and this group of women, men and children, who are not professional soldiers,are traumaized beyond belief. Help is needed to bring PEACE to an area of the world torn by conflict, rebellion and terrorism. Trauma is the name of its impact. (PTSD)

(3) There are tremendous needs for help in the form of school supplies, toys, food and support for tuition for kids to go to school.(Public school has a tuition cost).Some children are hungry. Some children are traumatized. Many adults and children need help. America is doing a fine job of helping with infrastructure projects which are badly needed. The US Military along with the Philippine Military are doing a fabulous job of helping build schools, roads etc. But the poor traumatized individuals, especially children need a great deal of help, encouragement and basic needs for an education. Perhaps some who read the blog will be willing to offer assistance to the Healing House's attempt to help the children and their parents. (for more info on how to help go to the beginning pages of this blog)