Dear Friend of HOPE,

When faced with the enormity and the complexities of today's problems, most of us in Japan feel overwhelmed, small and powerless. But the fact is, you and I can make a difference.

 

A few years ago on an epic bike ride from Kagoshima to Sapporo promoting HOPE and sustainable development, I was struck by the beauty of one of Japan's most famous trees: the Granite Splitting Cherry Tree in Morioka. This magnificent tree not only grew from a small seed, but the seed itself had to break open a huge boulder for the buds to find sunlight and for the roots to find water. To me, the Granite Splitting Cherry Tree of Morioka is a dramatic example how small things against formidable odds can and do win. The tree, to me, is a symbol of hope!

 

Join us as we seek to bring hope to those who are extremely poor in the developing world, and to people of all ages in Japan who do not want to give in to despair but want to make a positive difference.

 

Your support as member will help us spread seeds of HOPE. Who knows what granite obstacles will be split wide open as we work towards a more caring and sustainable world.

 

Lowell Sheppard
Director Asia-Pacific