Saigon, October 1, 2006

Dear benefactors at Help The Poor organization,

You, who at this moment, are extending your hearts and hands to your remote homeland, where your compatriots are struggling with the hardships of life. You do not know who I am, or where I come from. The only thing you know is that I am one of the unfortunate children of this motherland who needs your help.

. . .

My dear benefactors! There are times when I feel so tired and hopeless that I thought of quitting school and going to work for a small salary. I have to take care of all the expenses in this big city since my parents are poor and have to feed a large family. I wish I could feel at ease coming and leaving class and sit leisurely in the library to do my school papers like some other students of my age. I wish I could only work less hours and have more time for reading and studying. That tiny hope seams to be beyond my reach.

Luckily, your help has come. You could not imagine how gratefully I am to you. You are so grand! On the other side of the vast ocean, you still think of your homeland and help poor students like me. Thank you! Even if this is not the first time and the only time you receive an expression of thanks, I still want you know that I sincerely thank you. The donor may never care who the recipient is, but the recipient will always remain grateful . . .

Le Thi Dieu Hien