We must take sides...

"...how naïve we were, that the world did know and remained silent. And that is why I swore never to be silent whenever wherever human beings endure suffering and humiliation. We must take sides. Neutrality helps the oppressor, never the victim. Silence encourages the tormentor, never the tormented. Sometimes we must interfere..." ~ Elie Wiesel

I came across this quote today, and couldn't help but think of the girls who are being violated right now, today. As I sit in my comfortable office doing my work. Feeling bad about my good fortune is of no help to anyone. But using those feelings to spur myself into action which generates funds to help those girls...that's something I can do. I can create something of value that people are willing to purchase, or give away my services as a yoga teacher. I'm working on a couple of fundraising projects...I'm going to sell body lotion, decorative matchstick holders, and tshirts. I'm also going to teach donation only classes. A good friend is going to help me create an event.  Is there something I can do for you that will generate funds for these girls?

To donate: select "Global Seva Challenge - India" and "Elyse Leeds Acanda"

Read Elie Wiesel's full Nobel acceptance speech Delivered delivered in Oslo on December 10, 1986. It is beautiful.

Off the Mat Seva Challenge 2012 India

I have committed to raise $20k to help save girls and women from sex trafficking. In conjunction with Off the Mat, Into the World, I will be working on this project all year, aiming to raise the funds by December 15. I am open to fundraising ideas large and small! If there is something I can do for you in exchange for a donation, please don't hesitate to mention it!

I know it seems like an impossible undertaking...to eradicate sex trafficking. The more I learn about the problem, the more overwhelming it seems. It really helps me to focus on this instruction from the Talmud. Each of us should do what we can. Even if it seems like a drop in the bucket.

whoever saves one life...saves the world entire.

If I focus on saving only one girl, I feel powerful.

Learn more about the Global Seva Challenge India
http://www.offthematintotheworld.org/india.html
  
This video will help you understand, as it did for me. She is a powerful advocate.
"Don't tell me a hundred ways how you can not respond to this problem. Can you apply your mind for that one way that you can respond to the problem?" 

I AM GOING TO RESPOND. Will you help me? 

Donate here. On this page, select "Global Seva Challenge - India" from the Off The Mat® Program pulldown, and then select "Elyse Leeds Acanda" on the second pulldown.

Corazon al Cielo!

Check out the first rough draft of my new logo, created by the fabulously talented Alizah Epstein of Epstein Creative! She will be tweaking it over the next few weeks, but I'm already in love! What do you think?