Carrying Francis’ Light: Pope Leo XIV’s Shares a Lunch of Love

by Dennis Augustine

As a Catholic by birth — with a family name like Augustine, and with my late father Frank Augustine having served as a lay brother at the Maryknoll order in Ossining, New York — I’m especially moved by Pope Leo XIV of the Augustinian order.

After the Angelus (the simple Catholic prayer recited), Pope Leo XIV continued Pope Francis’ tradition of sharing lunch with 1,300 poor and vulnerable guests in the Paul VI Hall. Vincentian Family volunteers served vegetable lasagna, breaded cutlet with vegetables, and Neapolitan baba.

A powerful reminder that real faith is lived through service.

Photos: Vatican News Agency & EWTN Vatican

Reflections After Observing & Photographing the “No Kings” Rally in San Jose

by Dennis Augustine

Reflections After Observing & Photographing the “No Kings” Rally in San Jose

Bill and I biked 23-miles round trip to observe the “No Kings” rally at the McKinley monument at St. James Park in San Jose — not to participate, except for proudly holding up our miniature American flags.

As an Independent voter with conservative values here are "my personal reflections": While there was no physical violence, the atmosphere was tense and bitter. Speakers and banners shouted things like “F-Fascists — F-Trump,” “We love America, but we hate Trump,” and “I’m not a paid protestor — I’ll hate him for free.” And finally: "No Trump, No KKK, No Fascist USA."

Ironically, those shouting “No Kings” were exercising the very freedoms no monarch would ever allow. It reminded me that strong leadership and real results — peace through strength, secure borders, a strong economy, confronting antisemitism on campuses, bringing hostages home, peace between Jews and Arab nations, and standing up to crime and drug cartels — matter far more than slogans and rage.

We can debate and disagree, but let’s not forget: the only true “No Kings” rally in this country happened on July 4, 1776 — when freedom was first won through courage, unity, common sense, and our very survival. No matter where you stand on the issues enjoy the photos and video clip!

From the Basketball Sidelines to Heaven: Sister Jean’s Enduring Faith and Joy

by Dennis Augustine

“While we feel grief and a sense of loss, there is great joy in her legacy.”

— Loyola President Mark C. Reed

Being from Chicago, where I met Cecile while attending Podiatric Medical School and playing basketball, she had mentioned the passing of Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt, BVM — the beloved 106-year-old chaplain of Loyola University Chicago’s Ramblers, whose faith and optimism inspired a nation.

Born on August 21, 1919, Sister Jean joined the Sisters of Charity of the Blessed Virgin Mary in 1937. In 1994, she became the men’s basketball chaplain, a role she called “the most transformational and transcendent position of my life.”

Her days began with prayer, reflection, and the Rosary, strengthening the faith that guided her spirited pre-game blessings. For her 100th birthday, she received an Apostolic Blessing from Pope Francis, and at 105, a Presidential Proclamation from President Joe Biden, honoring her lifetime of service.

A beautiful life — and a legacy that will keep inspiring others to play with faith and heart.

The Miracle of Release — Freedom Restored, Families Reunited

by Dennis Augustine

Tears of joy flowed through Israel today and Cecile and I shed quite a few as the nightmare of being held captive came to an end. In one of the most emotional days in recent memory, all 20 surviving hostages held by Hamas were released under President Trump’s negotiated agreement.

As the freed men, women, and children embraced their loved ones — parents clutching sons, children running into the arms of mothers — tens of thousands gathered in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, waving flags, singing, and weeping with gratitude. Hostage Square is now Freedom Square.

The exchange, which also saw Israel begin releasing Palestinian prisoners, marked the official end of the two-year Gaza conflict — a delicate, hard-won peace forged through courage and conviction.

President Donald J. Trump arrived in Israel just as the hostages returned home. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and President Isaac Herzog greeted him at Ben Gurion Airport, thanking him for his relentless pursuit of peace and unwavering commitment to Israel’s security.

This wasn’t mere politics — it was humanity at its finest. A day when strength brought compassion, and leadership delivered hope. When the brave and the bold stand together, even the impossible begins to bend.

Israel also received the bodies of 4 hostages from the Red Cross today. May their memories be a blessing.

History in the Making: The First Step Toward Lasting Peace in the Middle East

by Dennis Augustine

When history turns the page—peace begins.”

Congratulations to all who helped make this peace deal a reality, including the mediators from Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey, and on the U.S. side, Steve Witkoff who helped broker the deal. What we’re witnessing is truly historic — Israelis and Palestinians alike dancing in the streets, families of hostages weeping with relief, and voices from every side — even Israel’s opposition party leader Yair Lapid — joining in praise, by congratulating Trump, “Prime Minister Netanyahu, the commanders and soldiers of the IDF, and above all, the families of the hostages…"

After years of fighting and heartbreak, hostages are coming home, and both peoples can finally glimpse a dawn of freedom and peace. Even the press are calling this a breakthrough moment. Palestinian Vice-President Hussein Al-Sheikh of the Palestinian Authority and U.N. Secretary-General Guterres also welcomed the deal and are hopeful that it will lead to security, stability, and peace that will lead to a two-state solution.

To President Trump and all those who shaped this agreement — your persistence has brought light to one of the world’s darkest conflicts. Many, including legislators and families of the hostages, are saying this is Nobel Peace Prize–worthy leadership. May this ceasefire be more than a pause — may it be the first step toward lasting peace, dignity, and safety for all.

Remembering October 7 & Bearing Witness

by Dennis Augustine

Today we pause to remember the tragic events of October 7 — the lives lost, the hostages still held in captivity, and those whose fates remain unknown. Their suffering and courage must never be forgotten. Cecile and I recently watched "Bearing Witness to the Massacre" (A Prime Video), released on October 3. It should be seen by everyone who has the mental and emotional capacity to truly grasp the magnitude of what happened and the human toll it continues to take. Praying for peace, compassion, and a lasting ceasefire to bring an end to the pain on all sides.

Bearing Witness (A poetic offering)

A quiet dawn was shattered by cries, homes turned to ashes beneath the skies.

Families broken, hearts torn in two, where laughter once lived, sorrow now grew.

Names we know, and many we don’t, stories unfinished, voices that won’t

Return to the table, the garden, the song—a grief that is endless, a wound deep and long.

Hostages hidden in shadows of fear, each passing sunrise, another lost year.

Still we remember, still we pray, for mercy to guide the hearts gone astray.

If we bear witness, may it not be in vain, but light a path through the anguish and pain.

May peace find footing where hatred has crossed—and teach us to love, whatever the cost.

From Terror Tunnels to Time Magazine: Hostage – Eli Sharabi’s Story of Love, Loss & Survival

by Dennis Augustine

Eli Sharabi spent 491 days as a hostage of Hamas after being kidnapped from Kibbutz Be’eri, just miles from Gaza. When he was finally freed, he returned to an unthinkable reality: his beloved wife Lianne, and their daughters, Noiya (16) and Yahel (13), and family dog were murdered in the October 7 massacre, along with his brother Yossi and 101 residents of the kibbutz

Eli endured torture, starvation, and the endless terror tunnels that opened into mosques and hospitals. He witnessed firsthand how Hamas hides among civilians, glorifies death, and exploits tragedy in the name of Allah. And yet—he still smiles. He chooses life.

“Our kibbutz used to help Palestinian civilians—sending money, even taking them across the border to hospitals in Israel,” Eli recalls. “Reconciling those memories with the slaughter of my family is almost impossible. But I choose to carry both truths.”

Eli’s resilience and faith in life have now reached the world stage. He is featured on the cover of Time Magazine, and his memoir, Hostage, will be released in the United States on October 7.

His story is not only one of survival, but of love, memory, and the unbreakable human spirit.

Screenshot from CBS Sunday Morning interview with Eli Sharabi / TIME Magazine

"Even Hamas' Own Numbers Prove—This is no Genocide

by Dennis Augustine

Trusting Hamas’ war stats is like letting a fox guard the henhouse. Even their own Gaza Health Ministry numbers confirm Israel’s claim: That out of more than 60,000 alleged deaths in Gaza up to the end of July, 32,113 combat-aged men (or 29% of Gaza’s population) make up 53% of fatalities — and many of the “children” (12,875) were actually fighters as young as 15 and 12,067 were women 15-65.

The one thing you can’t take away from Hamas is along with their backers, they are propaganda wizards. Compare those statistics to real genocides in countries, where populations are wiped out, Gaza’s population has grown over the years, while Israel’s Jewish population is barely above what it was at the end of the Holocaust. And name another country in wartime that alerts residents to leave their homes in advance of further airstrikes and expected ground operations and sends nearly 2 million meals to its residents and still gets accused of genocide.

Every innocent baby or child killed in Gaza is a tragedy but the blame lies squarely with Hamas, who hides among civilians and starves its hostages. The truth is, Hamas brought this war upon themselves and the Gazan people. They could end the suffering today — by surrendering and giving up their arms.

Bottom line: If this is “genocide,” then words have lost all meaning.

Post Cards from the Edge—Heroines in their 80s in Israel Refuse to let the Kidnapped Hostages be Forgotten

Since the October 7th massacre, when Hamas terrorists kidnapped hundreds of Israelis, six extraordinary women—Louise, Shlomit, Nira, Rachel, Tirza, and Ruti, all over 80 years old—have gathered every single day at Anchor Junction near Netanya in Israel. They refuse to let the kidnapped be forgotten.

It began just days after the attack, when Louise picked up a megaphone and a sign and called out: “What if it were your son?” and “We have to get them out of there.” From that moment, the vigil never stopped. Through rain, heat, and wind, they organize shifts on WhatsApp, wave flags, and remind passing drivers of the urgency.

Rachel, recently returned from the U.S., now fights for Israel’s future. Ruti carries her flag like a torch. Shlomit, Tirza, and Nira stand each day knowing the families’ pain is far greater than their own discomfort. They call themselves friends. The community calls them heroes.

And through artist and activist, Shoshke Engelmayer’s Daily Postcards, their courage is drawn, remembered, and shared — the voice of the kidnapped carried forward by those who refuse silence.

In Memory of Six Souls Whose Lives were Stolen: Carrying Their Light Forward

On the evening of Monday, August 18, we arrived at the first yahrzeit—the sacred anniversary of loss—of six young hostages whose lives were stolen one year ago in the tunnels of Gaza. For 10 months they endured captivity, yet their spirits still speak to us.

by Dennis Augustine

In Jewish tradition, a yahrzeit is not only a marker of grief but a call to kindle light where darkness once was—to remember by doing, to mourn by loving more deeply.

We hold in our hearts the names of:

Eden Yerushalmi — A young woman whose radiant spirit and love of life touched all who knew her.

Hersh Goldberg-Polin — A gentle soul with courage and humor that inspired resilience even in the darkness.

Ori Danino — A devoted friend and protector, remembered for his warmth and loyalty.

Carmel Gat — A compassionate healer whose kindness and care extended to everyone around one around her.

Almog Sarusi — A man of strength and laughter, who brought joy and light to the community.

Alex Lubnov — A bright young life full of promise, remembered for his dreams and determination.

Their families’ pain is unending, yet their memories ask us for something living: to answer cruelty with kindness, despair with action.

As Hersh’s parents, Jon and Rachel Goldberg-Polin, have urged: let these next 24 hours be filled with one good deed—however small, however simple.

May their memories be not only a blessing, but a quiet revolution of compassion.

Two Fires, Two Coasts, One Unshaken Spirit: Stepping Up to Help the Jewish Community In Rutherford, NJ

by Dr Dennis Augustine

According to reports, an early-morning blaze has reduced the 100-year old synagogue of Congregation Beth El Chabad of the Meadowlands in Rutherford, NJ, to ashes—destroying its seven sacred Torah scrolls and leaving Rabbi Yitzchok Lerman, his wife, and six children without a home or possessions. Miraculously, they escaped unharmed.

For my wife and me, it feels like déjà vu all over again. A few years ago here in San Jose, in the heart of Silicon Valley where Cecile and I live, Chabad Almaden was devastated by a similar fire. But thanks to the determination of our Brooklyn-born Rabbi friend—Mendel Weinfeld—then in his early 20s—who rallied the community, and with early donors like us, they rebuilt. In that case, heroic firefighters saved their Torah scrolls.

Though I’m not Jewish, my wife is—and I’ve grown deeply connected to her traditions and the communities that live them. Rutherford’s loss is personal—it’s close to Hoboken, NJ, where I grew up, and where my sister Josie, my brother Stephen, and their families live. I simply felt compelled to help and we donated to the Beth El Chabad Capitol Fund to help them rise above the ashes and Rebuild.

A Sacred Heart: Pope Leo XIV's Video Message Released from the Vatican of Love & Compassion to All Creeds

by Dennis Augustine

Yesterday morning, during a peaceful bike ride through Saratoga, California, I felt an unexpected pull to stop by Sacred Heart Church and School. The outdoor space was quietly alive with beauty, I noticed decorations going up—assuming they were primarily for graduation season, I took several photos to share with my sister Josie in New Jersey—a devout Catholic—and continued on my way.

It wasn’t until later, I realized the deeper meaning of my visit. Today is the first Friday of June—a day deeply rooted in the Catholic tradition that I was raised in, dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Christ. Unintentionally, I had stepped into a sacred moment.

To Catholics, the Sacred Heart is a symbol of divine love: a love wounded and unyielding; pierced, yet burning with mercy. But its message reaches far beyond Catholicism. It resonates with anyone who has ever loved, has ever experienced love, heartbreak, forgiveness, or hope again.

In a video released by the Vatican, Pope Leo XIV expressed the prayer intention for June, which is to foster compassion in the world. This aligns with the traditional Catholic devotion to the Sacred Heart, which emphasizes love, mercy, and empathy. This message serves as a reminder to all of us to reflect on the importance of compassion in our daily lives, regardless of our religious backgrounds or beliefs.

A heart that walks with the weary, welcomes the forgotten, and transforms suffering into compassion—a heart that is open to all seasons and all people. In these challenging times, it is a heart that is truly remarkable.

May this reminder, wherever we may be on our spiritual journey, inspire us to lead with love, to lift others up, and to let kindness be our daily devotion—a core value that I have encountered in various religious teachings and teachers I took the time to study and interact with over the years.

A Prayer for Peace & Freedom: Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi’s Historic Visit to Israel & Congrats to His Newlywed Daughter's Marriage to Jewish American Businessman Bradley Sherman

While strolling through Los Gatos Town Plaza with Cecile and our son Jason, we came across a peaceful gathering of Iranian-Americans. Holding American, Iranian, and Israeli flags, they voiced support for Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi and called for a Free Iran—firmly rejecting negotiations with the Islamic regime.

by Dennis Augustine

They spoke of 45 years of clerical oppression and how true reform is impossible under the grip of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. Their hopes are pinned on Pahlavi, who represents a secular, democratic vision for Iran.

In a historic gesture, Reza Pahlavi visited Israel in April 2023. He prayed at the Western Wall in Jerusalem and joined Holocaust Remembrance Day at Yad Vashem, standing in solidarity with Israeli leaders. At the Wall, he recited Psalms and wrote in the guestbook: “For peace, freedom, serenity, human dignity, and living together. I salute the people of Iran and Israel.”

He honored the ancient ties between Persians and Jews, invoking Cyrus the Great’s liberation of the Jewish people. He also visited the Baha’i World Centre and met with Israeli officials to discuss future cooperation.

Back in the U.S., there’s growing bipartisan support for the Maximum Pressure Act, aimed at holding the Iranian regime accountable through sanctions and oversight—sending a message that Americans stand with the Iranian people.

From the streets of Iran to the stones of Jerusalem and the halls of Congress, a global movement is rising—one rooted in dignity, justice, and hope. It surged anew after the tragic death of Mahsa Amini, who was arrested and beaten for allegedly wearing her hijab improperly.

#WomanLifeFreedom #RezaPahlavi #IranIsraelPeace #MaximumPressureAct #DemocracyForIran #YomHaShoah #SecularIran #FreedomForIran

From Darkness to Light: Honoring our Friend Ruth Litwin’s "Holocaust Education Mission"

by Dennis Augustine

During Jewish American Heritage Month, we pause to recognize and honor the extraordinary life of our friend Ruth Litwin, whom Cecile and I shared a Shabbat dinner with recently with her wonderful husband Stan at their lovely home. Ruth is a woman of remarkable courage, compassion, and conviction.

Born to Holocaust survivors and raised in a displaced persons camp, Ruth experienced firsthand the enduring impact of history’s darkest chapters. Rather than let that history fade, she made it her life’s mission to ensure future generations would never forget.

After the war, Ruth's father contributed to rebuilding efforts by helping construct a hospital at the Bergen-Belsen Displaced Persons camp. In a 2019 letter to the editor, she shared that her parents immigrated to the U.S. with her when she was two years old, building a new life in America.

For decades, Ruth visited classrooms in California, sharing her story and teaching students the lessons of the Holocaust—lessons of justice, resilience, and the danger of indifference. Through her tireless efforts, she gave voice to the six million Jews who perished and empowered thousands of young people to speak out against hatred in all its forms.

In recognition of her efforts, Ruth was honored by the California State Assembly during Yom HaShoah (Holocaust Remembrance Day) in April 2025. Escorted by Assembly Member Gail Pellerin, she was acknowledged for her commitment to educating others about the Holocaust and the importance of remembrance.

This May, as we celebrate Jewish American Heritage Month, we remember Ruth not only as a survivor, but as a beacon of moral courage. Her story is part of the broader Jewish American journey—a journey marked by resilience, contribution, and the unyielding pursuit of truth.

“You cannot transmit memory unless you live it and share it. Ruth lived it, and she gave it away—so that others might carry it forward.” Let us continue to carry her light!

Hugs, Selfies, and Grandma’s Pastries: New Jersey Native Edan Alexander Released by Hamas Reunites with Family in Israel After 584 Days in Captivity

by Dennis Augustine

Israeli-American soldier Edan Alexander, freed after 584 days in Hamas captivity, reunited with his family Monday at an IDF base in southern Israel. The 21-year-old Golani Brigade soldier, originally from New Jersey—just 17 miles from where I grew up—embraced his parents and siblings at the Re’im base, where he was also met with homemade pastries from his grandmother.

Alexander was handed over to the Red Cross in Khan Younis and crossed back into Israel unshackled and dressed in civilian clothes, due to the diplomatic nature of his release, which was framed as a goodwill gesture by U.S. President Donald Trump. In a message from the helicopter en route to a Tel Aviv hospital for medical evaluation, Alexander expressed gratitude to Trump and his mother Yael, thanked US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and US Hostage Envoy, Adam Boehler who aided the president in negotiating her son’s release.

“You are strong, you are safe, you are home,” his mother, Yael, told him in an emotional call as he reentered Israel.

Postscript: During his time in captivity by Hamas, Edan experienced torture, starved to skin and bone, stripped of his dignity and trapped in suffocating underground tunnels. He was also denied sunlight, and clean water. 58 hostages are still unaccounted for and only 20 are deemed to be alive. BRING THEM HOME & END THIS WAR!

“Wings of Reflection: Seagulls Steals the Spot Light During the Conclave at the Sistine Chapel”

Dennis Augustine

As the world watches the sacred drama of the papal conclave unfold, two unlikely observers have taken center stage—perched high on the Sistine Chapel chimney: a pair of seagulls.

For those following online, their presence adds an unexpected mix of levity and quiet symbolism to the solemn occasion. While the cardinals cast their secret votes beneath Michelangelo’s frescoed ceiling, the birds sit above—calm, unhurried, as if awaiting the outcome with the rest of us.

In a way, they echo the spirit of Pope Francis, whose namesake, St. Francis of Assisi, was known for his bond with animals and nature. Perhaps these winged visitors are nature’s way of reminding us that even in moments of great ceremony, the simple things—like birds on a roof—can carry meaning.

VaticanWatch #Conclave2025 #PopeFra

Mandalay, the City of Gold that I love & Took Refuge in Sadly Crushed by a 7.7 Earthquake

by Dr. Dennis Augustine

Mandalay, once known as the City of Gold, shone with glittering pagodas and deep Buddhist traditions. Among its treasures was Kyaswa Monastery in Wachet, a sanctuary where I spent a month each year between 2005 and 2010 in silent Vipassana meditation and touring. Thanks to my teachers, Steve Smith and Michele Macdonald, the monastery opened its doors to Western retreatants, fostering a deep connection between foreign seekers and the local community.

Beyond meditation, we contributed to impoverished nunneries caring for orphaned children, offering donations to support their ascetic lives. A single dollar stretched far in Myanmar. We also helped fund school uniforms, bringing joy to children who could now attend class with dignity. Some friendships spanned continents—Maybelle and her daughter, Michelle, whom I’ve known since she was six, and her husband, JJ, thankfully found new opportunities in the U.S.

Thankfully—because on March 28, 2025, a devastating 7.7 earthquake struck central Myanmar, its epicenter near the Sagaing Hills, just miles from their childhood homes in Mandalay. The tremors reduced ancient structures to rubble, and the historic Ava Bridge collapsed into the Irrawaddy River. Wachet Jivitadana Hospital was severely damaged, and Thit Seint Nunnery, where nuns once chanted loving-kindness verses to us each evening, was irreparably destroyed. Roads buckled, buildings flattened—Mandalay was left in ruins.

The military junta, which seized power in 2021, declared a state of emergency, with Min Aung Hlaing making a rare appeal for international aid. Yet, as always, the resilience of the Burmese people shone through. Monks, laypeople, and entire communities came together to clear debris, tend to the wounded, and mourn the lost. But the weight of political instability makes the path to recovery even harder.

Buddhist teachings remind us of impermanence, and this tragedy has laid that truth bare. In the face of such sorrow, the bonds forged in years past must become a source of collective strength. Cecile and I will do our share by supporting the Metta-Dana Project to aid those in need. Note: Last two photos are basic food support for 150 people in front of our friend Maybelle's home in Mandalay.

Dearest Zaila: Honoring Love & Resilience on Your Bittersweet Birthday & the Passing on of Your Mom—Selina Marie Mcallister—to the Heavenly Realm One Year Ago Today

Today is also your special day, a celebration of “you" and the incredible lightness of being you bring to the world. I know it’s also a day that carries the weight of love and memories of your mom—my beloved niece and goddaughter—who cherished you so deeply.

As we honor both you and her today, I want you to know something important: her passing was not a punishment or a curse. We live in an imperfect world, one filled with challenges that none of us fully understand. Even though she went through some difficult times, your mom’s love for you was limitless, and her absence is a reflection of life’s unpredicability—not of anything you’ve done.

Your grandparents Joe and Josie too, are caught in between grief and love, and we all hold you and your mom close in our hearts. As always, they are there to walk with you through the difficult days and to celebrate the beauty of who you are becoming.

May your birthday remind you of the love that surrounds you, both here and in the loving whispers of your mom’s spirit—always with you. I hope you feel the joy and warmth you so deeply deserve today and always.

With all our love,

Uncle Dennis and Aunt Cecile

P.S. Zaila, the following timeless wisdom of Winnie-the-Pooh, the beloved creation of A.A, Milne, was posted on Facebook for you by your mom when you were younger:

"If ever there is a tomorrow when we’re not together

There is something you must always remember

You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem

And smarter than you think.

But the most important thing is even if we are apart

I’ll always be with you."

The "Selina Computer Classroom”—In Memory of my Late Niece—Joyfully Expands to Other Schools in Kenya

“Faith is the strength by which a shattered world shall emerge into the light”

—Joseph Campbell

by Dr. Dennis Augustine

After losing Selina who was only 40 years old when she passed away over 10 months ago, my brother-in-law Joe wanted to do something of consequence in loving memory of his daughter. He turned to his long time friend, Noel Olweny whom we met in 2006 at the Kenya Safari Club during our travels. In the years that followed Joe has become his mentor and assisted Noel to get his masters degree in Land Management at Egerton University in Nijoro, Kenya.

Fast forward to the present moment, the Selina Computer Classroom became immensely popular at the Masogo school. Noel, who sits on the County Assembly Service Board Member at the Assembly of Kisumu, has become an integral part of the expansion that has the approval and blessings of his Mama, the matriarch of the family.

At the end of September, Noel visited the Onong'no Comprehensive School for the second time, which was the first part of the expansion. He told Joe, “All is happiness here. We were received with a warm welcome from students and staff, and Mama planted a tree in honor of Selina’s spiritual presence in the school and also planted one in honor of you and your granddaughter, Zaila.”

Noel added: “We also checked out the Selina Computer Classroom we had equipped in memory of our friend Selina Mcallister (USA). This has been a fulfillment beyond measure. I was glad to find out that the school is really maximizing the use of the 22 donated laptop computers.”

Noel plans to replicate the success they have had to other joyful projects like the Hongo Radhiang School and the Karombe School which is merely one cluster of schools in Kadibo Subcounty. The goal is to extend it to other clusters of schools in the heart of Kisumu County in the near future.

While Laptops provide access to technology in underfunded schools allowing students to bridge the digital divide, learn computer skills, and access online educational resources, donated soccer gear, jerseys, and running shoes that has been distributed fosters community engagement, teamwork, and physical activity which are crucial for children’s overall well-being.

Nelson Mandela once said "Children are our greatest treasure. They are our future". How wonderful & consequential to see Noel and his team continue the life-changing work. Blessings to all involved in this endeavor and I am honored to have been a contributor.

Happy Heavenly Birthday to My Late Niece and Goddaughter Selina Mcallister

by Dennis Augustine

“Death ends a life, not a relationship.”

—Jack Lemmon

My beloved and beautiful late niece and goddaughter, Selina Marie McAllister (nickname Lina Marie), was born on September 23, 1983 and left us for the heavenly realm of December 28, 2023 at the age of 40. Her middle or baptismal name Marie was given to her by my sister Josie in honor of our mother, Marie Augustine.

We all remember her with silent tears. I firmly believe that she would have wanted us to smile and go on with our lives. Though that is a difficult task, especially for my beloved sister Josie, my brother-in-law Joe, their 13-year old granddaughter Zaila or “Z, and nephews Jake and Joey. On many levels, they are still mourning her loss since Selina left this earthly realm nine months ago. I ask friends and family far and near to send a little love, grace, and prayers their way.

In Mythology, Selina means Greek goddess of the moon, as well as the Roman goddess Luna. As the moon goddess is believed to have driven

the moon chariot across the heavens. The name Selina also translates to ‘heaven.’ Selina loved her grandpa Frank and Grandma Marie (my late parents), so much so, she would always humbly thanked me when I included her in any posts relating to them.

Grandpa Frank loved to rhyme and sing a few verses from songs he remembered from his younger days which Selina found endearing.

She would have loved to hear him sing: "You are my Sunshine’s" original lyrics claimed to have been written by Oliver Hood. It was recorded in 1939 and though it has several meanings, makes for a beautiful lullaby. Selina, whose smile lit up the room like the sun, always had a special place in her grandpa Frank's heart. When I was young, I used to hear dad sing this catchy tune, and chances are Selina had heard it too. Sunshine as a metaphor means you are the light of my life, dear to me, important, and special. The feeling between therm was mutual. Here’s an excerpt from some of the lyrics:

“You are my sunshine

My only sunshine

You make me happy

When skies are gray

You’ll never know, dear

How much I love you

Please don’t take

My sunshine away

Happy Birthday dearest Selina. You are always loved, never forgotten, and forever missed.

Postscript: Dear sis, thanks for placing the beautiful blue hydrangeas you picked out at the florest on our behalf and placed them at Selina's headstone at Holy Cross Cemetery in North Arlington, NJ.