Moon Bears and Haiti

I love it when boys get involved in their extended communities. Today, in the midst of dealing with several typical headmaster issues, two second grade boys appear unannounced at my office door. George N. then proceeds to present me with a beautifully penned letter addressed to the Government of China acknowledging their recent efforts to "protect" the moon bear.

Asiatic black bears, commonly called “moon bears,” suffer terribly on Chinese “bear farms” where crude catheters are implanted into the bear's gall bladder through a hole made in the abdominal wall. The bile, extracted or "farmed" from the bear's gall bladder is used in Traditional Medicine practices throughout China and other parts of Asia.

I can honestly say I know very little about the moon bear and its plight. But George and the second graders are very aware. They were looking for signatures to attach to their letter of petition. They feel that the Chinese Government is not doing enough and are respectfully requesting a more vigorous defense and protection of the bear. I signed. Their passionate case was irresistible. On another front, Student Council President Tommy R. reported to me today that the students have been successful in raising some $38,000 to aid the work of the Passionists of St. Paul of the Cross and Fr. Rick Frechette in Haiti. Incredible! And they are not done yet. This is completely a result of the work of the boys. I was totally surprised ... and proud!

Moon bears and Haiti, Saint David's boys pursuing their passions and their interests; making the world better.

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