I think DNA is magnificently gorgeous.  Probably not in the same complex way that those who truly get DNA think it’s beautiful, but in a more simplistic manner.  I mean, Google-image-search (that’s an Erika verb by the way) the initials DNA.  The result is an array of fantastic images of little dots connected with strands and all sorts of different colors weaving in ribbons.  It’s elegant, sophisticated...genius.

Wikipedia defines DNA as “Deoxyribonucleic acid:  a molecule that carries most of the instructions used in the growth, development, functioning and reproduction of all know living organisms…”  And, the University of Cambridge has an awesome audio explanation by fancy sounding scientists who break it down into “regular person” (that would be me) terms.

In my humble opinion, the true luster of DNA is in how it manifests in life forms.  No two of us are alike.  I love how quirky we human beings are.  Some of us love being around people, while others crave quiet time by themselves.  Some people think mathematics is magical, while others consider it torture and mind boggling.  Some hear every note in a symphony of sounds, while others don’t hear music, but instead a story or image unfolds in their mind.  Some spend a lifetime oriented inward; others cannot get through a single day without feeling the emotions of those around them which then compels them to initiate solutions to dilemmas and challenges in the world.

We humans are BEAUTIFUL!  Especially here at Almond (not that I have any personal bias about this).  Typically I connect my messages to students.  Today, I’d like to expand that focus beyond the exquisite qualities of our little ones and lend it to the parents and guardians who guide them on a daily basis.

Under the leadership of Seema Chavan and Polly Liu, Almond has touched the world in amazing ways through it’s Community Service Committee.  Throughout the year here is what these extraordinary women have helped organized and the impact their work has had on others.

• Stop Hunger Now (15,000 meals by 80-100 people)
• Operation Gratitude (350 lbs of candy donations)
• Family Giving Tree (125 wishes granted with gift donations)
• Ecumenical Hunger Program (2 times) - Food Pantry 
• Working Farm - Cleanup of a Working Farm benefiting families in need
• Redwood Grove Cleanup - restoring habitat
• Support of Student Council Canned food drive and Toy/Clothing Drive

They did not do it alone!!!  They have had an army of angels working with them in their efforts.

In THIS video, you can get a glimpse of some of these divine creatures.  In THIS photo book, if you squint just right, the blue cap shaped halos on their heads actually glow.

This past Saturday, about 85 members from the Almond community descended on the multi in partnership with the Stop Hunger Now organization.  Our families raised $4,500 which was used to prepare 15,000 meals for those in need.  Adults and children worked side by side in assembling multiple ingredients, weighing items, sealing packages and ultimately boxing them up for shipment into The World.  Did you read that?  THE WORLD!  People talk about “changing the world.”  Well, these folks from OUR community actually did change the world in this precious moment in time.  Check out THIS link regarding the impact of this organization.  Near the end of the page, you will read Dominic Alexander explain, “I have a heart for service…”  I LOVE THAT!  I have a heart for…

Our Almond community has a heart for others, a heart for bettering this world, a heart for selflessness, a heart for growing our children in ways beyond academics, a heart for orienting outwards.

Thank you again Seema Chavan and Polly Liu for leading all of our hearts in serving others.