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2009 DDUMW PRESIDENT Meg Estrada November 15, 2008 Greetings, UMW Sisters! I am feeling a bit awed by the challenge that I have taken up. As I begin my year as Delta District President, I have to thank Carol Edwards, who has been most gracious in answering my many questions and sharing her expertise, and Doris Young, who has been communicating with me and will "tutor" me in learning the many computer skills I'll need. So, that having been said, I want you to know that I am honored and blessed to serve as president of the Delta District Team! I'm enjoying getting to know the other officers on the team. Our 2009 theme, "Who Is My Neighbor?" says much about us as women in mission. In Luke's Gospel, Jesus answers the question, "Who is my neighbor? "(Luke 10:30-37) by telling the story of the good Samaritan. We are to show mercy and compassion to those in need of help. We live in "God's neighborhood", the whole world. The song from Sesame Street, "Who Are the People In Your Neighborhood?" reminds us that our neighbor is next door, in the next town, the next state, or the next country. We need to be attentive to those around us, both near and far away, who need our kindness, compassion, or resources. Like the children's song, "The magic Penny", love is something, if you give it away, you'll end up having more. How can we be a good neighbor? By looking around to see: *The person in the store parking lot with the sign, "Hungry, Homeless, Need Help". *The person who comes to church and sits alone, way in the back. *People lined up at the Food Bank, waiting for their bag of groceries. *Homeless people who come to the dining hall day after day for their only meal. *People in other places in the world where peace is just a dream and poverty a reality. *Children with no shoes to wear, who have to miss school. *A person having a tough time, who may need a friend to talk to. As we discover ways to be a good neighbor, let us be thankful to our God for all that we have! Blessings and peace, Meg Estrada |