My earliest memories of you our dear father Hermann Gmeiner, is of days spent painstakingly practicing welcome songs for your visits. These days were filled with love and joy. Our efforts were well acknowledged because your stay with us meant days brightened with color for we got so many balloons and sweets. You were the only grown up we could cart around in the wheelbarrow and get away with it. Not once did you complain that the ride was bumpy, and I know it was. You just rode with us and as usual gave us your big smile.
To me, it was like you just came to see me, and I am sure we all felt the same way. Only you had that special way of making each one of us feel your visit was personal. We always knew the exact time your flight landed so our eyes were always on the clock. Those who couldn’t tell time asked their older brothers and sisters. All the air traffic at the appointed time was bringing you to us, it didn’t matter that the army airstrip was close to the village. Maybe those were the army planes. Who knows?
Today we join in prayer in your memory. We pray that when you look at us you smile because your work is a success and your dream has come to pass. We have a family that loves us, and we have many friends. Baba, you did a great job and God bless you forever.
To me, it was like you just came to see me, and I am sure we all felt the same way. Only you had that special way of making each one of us feel your visit was personal. We always knew the exact time your flight landed so our eyes were always on the clock. Those who couldn’t tell time asked their older brothers and sisters. All the air traffic at the appointed time was bringing you to us, it didn’t matter that the army airstrip was close to the village. Maybe those were the army planes. Who knows?
Today we join in prayer in your memory. We pray that when you look at us you smile because your work is a success and your dream has come to pass. We have a family that loves us, and we have many friends. Baba, you did a great job and God bless you forever.
Today's thought
On the anniversary of our founder's passing, I would wish to share this Irish poem with you all, and pray that we remember all the good intentions and dreams that Hermann Gmeiner had when he started the SOS Children's Villages.
WHEN I MUST LEAVE YOU
When I must leave you
for a little while
Please do not grieve
and shed wild tears
And hug your sorrow to you
through the years
But start out bravely
with a gallant smile;
And for my sake and
in my name live on
and do all things the same,
Feed not your loneliness
on empty days,
But fill each waking hour
in useful ways,
Reach out your hand
in comfort and in cheer
And I in turn will comfort you
and hold you near;
And never,
never be afraid to die.
