Sandy on I am writing this in resonpse to a few individuals who made unacceptable accusations towards my daughter, Katie. At first, I felt that your negativity was not worth my time, but upon reflection, I realized that your ignorance must be addressed. First, let me begin by saying that I am very proud of my daughter for expressing her concerns within an adult forum and for having the courage to take a stand for something she feels strongly about.Sometimes, adults who present themselves as child advocates have a lot to say but do not take the time to listen to the voices of the children involved. This is evident in the comment suggesting that Katie did not write her own entry. Katie is a very articulate child, and I assure you that she was the author of her comment. Her message is clear for those who took the time to actually giver her words credibility. Simply, ‘why do adults have to make such a big, uncomfortable deal out of this situation, when many making statements don’t have all the facts?’ Most upsetting to Katie was the release of the school’s identity. This was unnecessary and can have a destructive effect on the school, the staff, and the children who are proud to represent it. Katie maturely understands that inappropriate words or actions by staff or students cannot be tolerated, and that a school should be a safe environment. The question is; could this situation have been dealt with more effectively in a confidential manner between all informed individuals? Unless we have all the facts pertaining to a situation, how can anyone express such harsh opinions?I know Katie to be an honest, caring, responsible young lady who is an asset to her community. I find it offensive that adults who speak on behalf of the welfare of children can so easily make judgmental comments about my daughter’s integrity and her ability to distinguish between right and wrong. After all, she is a child and should not be harassed for her opinions.Again, none of us are perfect, and we all make mistakes. Katie’s message speaks of compassion and forgiveness. These are aspects of humanity that many adults have forgotten or disregarded. Maybe we should take the time to listen to our youth, and thank those who actually value the opinion of an innocent child.

Hello Sean!I am SO excited for your experience, and SO grateful that you shared it with everyone. You are SO blessed, actually "doubly blessed" by the Dalai Lama himself!! Then you 'multiply that forward' to THE WORLD by sharing your life & blessed experiences .... What a legacy! How many people on this blessed planet will ever have THAT on their bucket list??? Another thing I love about this is that you asked the very question I would have asked His Holyness ~ What does he like best about being the Dalai Lama and what makes him happy? The fact that he mentioned animals, and birds who cannot fly speaks directly to my heart! And volumes to the world. My hope is that the world finally gets the greater message! It has given ME great validation, knowing that HE feels the same way I do,(since the age of 3)! More Love & Blessings upon you Sean ~ our very sweet, special, gentle, giant, mentor! car insurance online