14 Sep 05 - American Heritage

This week CK and Estella started volunteering in a Christian organization, which was set-up by the Americans, to teach the non-Italians. Both of them will receive a meagre amount for their work. They have to bring back books to read and prepare for their lessons. “Our American Heritage” is one of the textbooks used to teach the children. It is an easy read and it covers the key persons that made a difference to America like Christopher Columbus, John Smith, Pocahontas, Miles Standish, Squanto, William Penn and Benjamin Franklin.

I extracted some wise sayings from Benjamin Franklin:

None preaches better than the ant, and she says nothing.

Half the truth is often a great lie.

A lie stands on one leg, truth on two.

Haste makes waste.

He that cannot obey cannot command.

If you have time, don’t wait for time.

Well done is twice done.

Sin is not hurtful because it is forbidden, but it is forbidden because it is hurtful.

How many observe Christ’s birthday; how few His precepts! O,’tis easier to keep holidays than commandments.

Who is strong? He that can conquer his bad habits.

The Declaration of Independence, which was written by Thomas Jefferson, was accepted on July 4, 1776. It is an important statement of American’s beliefs about government. It tells the world that the people of the United States believe that God has given each person the right to “Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness”.

I enjoy reading biographies of great men and women. It really encourages me and reminds me the important of having integrity and courage in our daily dealings. May God be our strength and courage always.

Heard many exciting stories from CK and Estella on their teaching experience in the school. :-)