In the May 28, 1998 edition of USA Today, Edward Moats wrote the following letter to the editor. Although it was written in 1998 and written in the US, it could very well be a letter written by any father in Bolivia today.

“Will somebody help me save my son?

My son is two years old and is a reflection of complete innocence. His vulnerability to this harsh, violent, ignorant and uncaring world just rips my heart apart. He knows nothing of the killing within the schools that are supposed to prepare children for the world. He knows nothing of the abuse that happens within the homes of children just his age. As he plays with his toys, he is oblivious to the tragedies that occur every day across the country. And as he clutches his blanket, sleeping soundly, dreaming of the mommy and daddy who love him, he has no idea of the complete social and moral decay of our country.

Does anyone care anymore? Will someone please, please help me save my son?”

It doesn’t matter if our children are born under the Cala Cala bridge or into a home in Las Lomas in the city of Cochabamba. It doesn’t matter if they are born 5,000 meters high in crisp, thin air of the majestic Andes Mountains or in the hot, humid jungle of the Yungas. It doesn’t matter if our child is born into a family with European ancestors or into a Chimani home. Every child born in Bolivia is entitled to share in the richness that symbolizes Bolivia. Every child born in Bolivia is made in the image of his or her Creator – God. Every child deserves success in a world that is failing because of selfish, egotistic adults like you and me. Who will step forward to save our children? Who will be the smile to a child without parents? Who will extend a hand to a child born with HIV? Who will wrap their arms around a child who has just failed a test at school? Who will spend the time to push a child on a swing or kick a futbol with a child who could play all day long? Will you help save a child today? It’s a selfless choice to give up something that you might enjoy for a moment to give a child assurance that can last a lifetime.

None of us are perfect as individuals – nor are our marriages perfect.  As we work together to maintain our love and a strong marriage, our homes will be a good environment for growing and happy children.