"For me, education was the door that opened to a new life... from the solitude of sadness to a new awareness that I was not alone in my need to strive for justice, beauty and truth in the world. CEDAR Foundation: International has fulfilled a lifelong aim of living a life of purpose."

 

- Lynda Bentall, President,
CEDAR Foundation: International

People say that we are different somehow and ask why we
do it. Why choose to spend time and money in far-flung corners
of the world working tirelessly to improve the lives of thousands
of children? How odd, they say, especially for Canadians.
And there are moments when it feels like we are supposed to
defend ourselves and explain our actions. But to those who
question, there is no satisfactory reply. So we do not attempt.

 

Clearly, if the question must be asked, then the answer will not be understood!

 

How could we explain the sheer joy in knowing that a child's destiny has been recovered, that a baby's health has been restored, that children living in the dangers of the street have found a caring home, that youthful dreams of a bright tomorrow can be realized, that the hope in a young face can now shine, that a life of violence can be tamed, that lives misdirected can be guided back to dignity, that the damage of human despair can be assuaged and that a dark future can be promised light?

 

And how can others ever understand the wonderful joy in working together with some of the planet's finest... those who have dedicated their lives to benefit the young in their midst on whatever continent they find themselves. These founders, leaders, professionals and dreamers all share our commitment and our heart for this work. Association with them has brought humility to ourselves and a drive to do better.

 

We join our outstanding colleagues in doing this work because it is a privilege to do so, and because all of our lives are blessed by it. And when our work is done, hopefully we can look back with renewed hope for a better tomorrow for many. And also, Kahlil Gibran reminds us:

 

"To be able to look back upon one's life in satisfaction, is to live twice!"

 

 

Bob and Lynda Bentall