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This came up in my phone memories fromfour years ago today when the Ukrainian refugees, escaping war to Italy, performed this beautiful piece for me and Project SAM as thanks and to let us know how much we’d impacted their lives through our mission there. Seeing this again touched me as deeply today as it did four years ago but I also suffer in disbelief knowing that war still rages and is a daily part of life for them - as this wonderful woman and almost all the others had to return to their country, ravaged by years of war and violence.Four years!!! It’s just unbelievable!The suffering of these people and so many others around the world all because of the quest for control and power of a few. The greed.The stink of pride.The ugliness of competitiveness.Sending love to the Ukrainian people and all people from Republic of Congo (which no one ever talks about) and beyond.So many around the world killed and suffering.Project SAM has and continues to bring awareness, enlightenment and hope as we can. We do not forget you. ❤️
Please also know that the impact of war - guns, bombs and all the pollutants it expels does a harm to our environment like nothing else.It destroys more than countries far away.It is a destroyer of life that is universal.Please learn more about its environmental impact or dm me and I’m happy to share.

We had to review this clip, our beginning, at a meeting last week.Outs stayed with me since for many reasons - the state of the world and of the US for one….but also how the team has grown and the level of our content has as well, along with them. We are full circle now as we film once again in the USA, hoping to help unify our own country now. #fullcircle #usa #america #unitedwestand #

I always love when one of Team SAM calls me up just to talk or because they want to spend time together - no mission, no volunteering, just fun, personal time. @andrewklott you made my day asking me for lunch - and @sophiemercaldo you made my weekend so beautiful spending each day together, with no agenda, just togetherness!I feel so blessed to have all of Team SAM in my life.I’m amazed by you all,your ability to love fully and expressively, to be open and joyful about learning, to share so generously and to be filled with such gratitude and purpose.South Carolina - we didn’t finish with you yet and we’ll soon be back with the whole crew, including Jane, very soon!You guys are the most awesome young adults that I know and I’m so very proud of you all (last pic from SC)! Now we’re each on our separate way to watch some football!!!

#superbowl #sunday #beautifulday #teamsam @iamdeborahmartin

I always love when one of Team SAM calls me up just to talk or because they want to spend time together - no mission, no volunteering, just fun, personal time. @andrewklott you made my day asking me for lunch - and @sophiemercaldo you made my weekend so beautiful spending each day together, with no agenda, just togetherness!I feel so blessed to have all of Team SAM in my life.I’m amazed by you all,your ability to love fully and expressively, to be open and joyful about learning, to share so generously and to be filled with such gratitude and purpose.South Carolina - we didn’t finish with you yet and we’ll soon be back with the whole crew, including Jane, very soon!You guys are the most awesome young adults that I know and I’m so very proud of you all (last pic from SC)! Now we’re each on our separate way to watch some football!!!

#superbowl #sunday #beautifulday #teamsam @iamdeborahmartin

I always love when one of Team SAM calls me up just to talk or because they want to spend time together - no mission, no volunteering, just fun, personal time. @andrewklott you made my day asking me for lunch - and @sophiemercaldo you made my weekend so beautiful spending each day together, with no agenda, just togetherness!I feel so blessed to have all of Team SAM in my life.I’m amazed by you all,your ability to love fully and expressively, to be open and joyful about learning, to share so generously and to be filled with such gratitude and purpose.South Carolina - we didn’t finish with you yet and we’ll soon be back with the whole crew, including Jane, very soon!You guys are the most awesome young adults that I know and I’m so very proud of you all (last pic from SC)! Now we’re each on our separate way to watch some football!!!

#superbowl #sunday #beautifulday #teamsam @iamdeborahmartin

This is Mexico!Beyond the beaches andpolitical talk - a beautiful Sunday afternoon lunch with my friend @robertosolis.a at home with his wonderful, elegant family! No kids on screens, no rush - just time together to connect and enjoy.Thankful to be able to share in these intimate traditions and the truth of culture and life, Mexico, in particular.Headed to Mexico City for Project SAM meetings as we prepare to film and share the real Mexico ahead of the World Cup!So excited that the opening games will be in vivacious Mexico City, but we will give you a taste of other cities and towns, like here, in the beautiful capital of Yucatán, Mérida.Mérida is a must see!Thank you, dear Roberto!We love it!!

#mexico #thereal #merida #yucatán #beauty #history #sophistication #elegance #culture #projectsam #truth #sharing #connection #worldcup #dayofthedead

This is Mexico!Beyond the beaches andpolitical talk - a beautiful Sunday afternoon lunch with my friend @robertosolis.a at home with his wonderful, elegant family! No kids on screens, no rush - just time together to connect and enjoy.Thankful to be able to share in these intimate traditions and the truth of culture and life, Mexico, in particular.Headed to Mexico City for Project SAM meetings as we prepare to film and share the real Mexico ahead of the World Cup!So excited that the opening games will be in vivacious Mexico City, but we will give you a taste of other cities and towns, like here, in the beautiful capital of Yucatán, Mérida.Mérida is a must see!Thank you, dear Roberto!We love it!!

#mexico #thereal #merida #yucatán #beauty #history #sophistication #elegance #culture #projectsam #truth #sharing #connection #worldcup #dayofthedead

This is Mexico!Beyond the beaches andpolitical talk - a beautiful Sunday afternoon lunch with my friend @robertosolis.a at home with his wonderful, elegant family! No kids on screens, no rush - just time together to connect and enjoy.Thankful to be able to share in these intimate traditions and the truth of culture and life, Mexico, in particular.Headed to Mexico City for Project SAM meetings as we prepare to film and share the real Mexico ahead of the World Cup!So excited that the opening games will be in vivacious Mexico City, but we will give you a taste of other cities and towns, like here, in the beautiful capital of Yucatán, Mérida.Mérida is a must see!Thank you, dear Roberto!We love it!!

#mexico #thereal #merida #yucatán #beauty #history #sophistication #elegance #culture #projectsam #truth #sharing #connection #worldcup #dayofthedead

This is Mexico!Beyond the beaches andpolitical talk - a beautiful Sunday afternoon lunch with my friend @robertosolis.a at home with his wonderful, elegant family! No kids on screens, no rush - just time together to connect and enjoy.Thankful to be able to share in these intimate traditions and the truth of culture and life, Mexico, in particular.Headed to Mexico City for Project SAM meetings as we prepare to film and share the real Mexico ahead of the World Cup!So excited that the opening games will be in vivacious Mexico City, but we will give you a taste of other cities and towns, like here, in the beautiful capital of Yucatán, Mérida.Mérida is a must see!Thank you, dear Roberto!We love it!!

#mexico #thereal #merida #yucatán #beauty #history #sophistication #elegance #culture #projectsam #truth #sharing #connection #worldcup #dayofthedead

This is Mexico!Beyond the beaches andpolitical talk - a beautiful Sunday afternoon lunch with my friend @robertosolis.a at home with his wonderful, elegant family! No kids on screens, no rush - just time together to connect and enjoy.Thankful to be able to share in these intimate traditions and the truth of culture and life, Mexico, in particular.Headed to Mexico City for Project SAM meetings as we prepare to film and share the real Mexico ahead of the World Cup!So excited that the opening games will be in vivacious Mexico City, but we will give you a taste of other cities and towns, like here, in the beautiful capital of Yucatán, Mérida.Mérida is a must see!Thank you, dear Roberto!We love it!!

#mexico #thereal #merida #yucatán #beauty #history #sophistication #elegance #culture #projectsam #truth #sharing #connection #worldcup #dayofthedead

This is Mexico!Beyond the beaches andpolitical talk - a beautiful Sunday afternoon lunch with my friend @robertosolis.a at home with his wonderful, elegant family! No kids on screens, no rush - just time together to connect and enjoy.Thankful to be able to share in these intimate traditions and the truth of culture and life, Mexico, in particular.Headed to Mexico City for Project SAM meetings as we prepare to film and share the real Mexico ahead of the World Cup!So excited that the opening games will be in vivacious Mexico City, but we will give you a taste of other cities and towns, like here, in the beautiful capital of Yucatán, Mérida.Mérida is a must see!Thank you, dear Roberto!We love it!!

#mexico #thereal #merida #yucatán #beauty #history #sophistication #elegance #culture #projectsam #truth #sharing #connection #worldcup #dayofthedead

This is Mexico!Beyond the beaches andpolitical talk - a beautiful Sunday afternoon lunch with my friend @robertosolis.a at home with his wonderful, elegant family! No kids on screens, no rush - just time together to connect and enjoy.Thankful to be able to share in these intimate traditions and the truth of culture and life, Mexico, in particular.Headed to Mexico City for Project SAM meetings as we prepare to film and share the real Mexico ahead of the World Cup!So excited that the opening games will be in vivacious Mexico City, but we will give you a taste of other cities and towns, like here, in the beautiful capital of Yucatán, Mérida.Mérida is a must see!Thank you, dear Roberto!We love it!!

#mexico #thereal #merida #yucatán #beauty #history #sophistication #elegance #culture #projectsam #truth #sharing #connection #worldcup #dayofthedead

This is Mexico!Beyond the beaches andpolitical talk - a beautiful Sunday afternoon lunch with my friend @robertosolis.a at home with his wonderful, elegant family! No kids on screens, no rush - just time together to connect and enjoy.Thankful to be able to share in these intimate traditions and the truth of culture and life, Mexico, in particular.Headed to Mexico City for Project SAM meetings as we prepare to film and share the real Mexico ahead of the World Cup!So excited that the opening games will be in vivacious Mexico City, but we will give you a taste of other cities and towns, like here, in the beautiful capital of Yucatán, Mérida.Mérida is a must see!Thank you, dear Roberto!We love it!!

#mexico #thereal #merida #yucatán #beauty #history #sophistication #elegance #culture #projectsam #truth #sharing #connection #worldcup #dayofthedead

This is Mexico!Beyond the beaches andpolitical talk - a beautiful Sunday afternoon lunch with my friend @robertosolis.a at home with his wonderful, elegant family! No kids on screens, no rush - just time together to connect and enjoy.Thankful to be able to share in these intimate traditions and the truth of culture and life, Mexico, in particular.Headed to Mexico City for Project SAM meetings as we prepare to film and share the real Mexico ahead of the World Cup!So excited that the opening games will be in vivacious Mexico City, but we will give you a taste of other cities and towns, like here, in the beautiful capital of Yucatán, Mérida.Mérida is a must see!Thank you, dear Roberto!We love it!!

#mexico #thereal #merida #yucatán #beauty #history #sophistication #elegance #culture #projectsam #truth #sharing #connection #worldcup #dayofthedead

This is Mexico!Beyond the beaches andpolitical talk - a beautiful Sunday afternoon lunch with my friend @robertosolis.a at home with his wonderful, elegant family! No kids on screens, no rush - just time together to connect and enjoy.Thankful to be able to share in these intimate traditions and the truth of culture and life, Mexico, in particular.Headed to Mexico City for Project SAM meetings as we prepare to film and share the real Mexico ahead of the World Cup!So excited that the opening games will be in vivacious Mexico City, but we will give you a taste of other cities and towns, like here, in the beautiful capital of Yucatán, Mérida.Mérida is a must see!Thank you, dear Roberto!We love it!!

#mexico #thereal #merida #yucatán #beauty #history #sophistication #elegance #culture #projectsam #truth #sharing #connection #worldcup #dayofthedead

This is Mexico!Beyond the beaches andpolitical talk - a beautiful Sunday afternoon lunch with my friend @robertosolis.a at home with his wonderful, elegant family! No kids on screens, no rush - just time together to connect and enjoy.Thankful to be able to share in these intimate traditions and the truth of culture and life, Mexico, in particular.Headed to Mexico City for Project SAM meetings as we prepare to film and share the real Mexico ahead of the World Cup!So excited that the opening games will be in vivacious Mexico City, but we will give you a taste of other cities and towns, like here, in the beautiful capital of Yucatán, Mérida.Mérida is a must see!Thank you, dear Roberto!We love it!!

#mexico #thereal #merida #yucatán #beauty #history #sophistication #elegance #culture #projectsam #truth #sharing #connection #worldcup #dayofthedead

This is Mexico!Beyond the beaches andpolitical talk - a beautiful Sunday afternoon lunch with my friend @robertosolis.a at home with his wonderful, elegant family! No kids on screens, no rush - just time together to connect and enjoy.Thankful to be able to share in these intimate traditions and the truth of culture and life, Mexico, in particular.Headed to Mexico City for Project SAM meetings as we prepare to film and share the real Mexico ahead of the World Cup!So excited that the opening games will be in vivacious Mexico City, but we will give you a taste of other cities and towns, like here, in the beautiful capital of Yucatán, Mérida.Mérida is a must see!Thank you, dear Roberto!We love it!!

#mexico #thereal #merida #yucatán #beauty #history #sophistication #elegance #culture #projectsam #truth #sharing #connection #worldcup #dayofthedead

This is Mexico!Beyond the beaches andpolitical talk - a beautiful Sunday afternoon lunch with my friend @robertosolis.a at home with his wonderful, elegant family! No kids on screens, no rush - just time together to connect and enjoy.Thankful to be able to share in these intimate traditions and the truth of culture and life, Mexico, in particular.Headed to Mexico City for Project SAM meetings as we prepare to film and share the real Mexico ahead of the World Cup!So excited that the opening games will be in vivacious Mexico City, but we will give you a taste of other cities and towns, like here, in the beautiful capital of Yucatán, Mérida.Mérida is a must see!Thank you, dear Roberto!We love it!!

#mexico #thereal #merida #yucatán #beauty #history #sophistication #elegance #culture #projectsam #truth #sharing #connection #worldcup #dayofthedead

This is Mexico!Beyond the beaches andpolitical talk - a beautiful Sunday afternoon lunch with my friend @robertosolis.a at home with his wonderful, elegant family! No kids on screens, no rush - just time together to connect and enjoy.Thankful to be able to share in these intimate traditions and the truth of culture and life, Mexico, in particular.Headed to Mexico City for Project SAM meetings as we prepare to film and share the real Mexico ahead of the World Cup!So excited that the opening games will be in vivacious Mexico City, but we will give you a taste of other cities and towns, like here, in the beautiful capital of Yucatán, Mérida.Mérida is a must see!Thank you, dear Roberto!We love it!!

#mexico #thereal #merida #yucatán #beauty #history #sophistication #elegance #culture #projectsam #truth #sharing #connection #worldcup #dayofthedead

This is Mexico!Beyond the beaches andpolitical talk - a beautiful Sunday afternoon lunch with my friend @robertosolis.a at home with his wonderful, elegant family! No kids on screens, no rush - just time together to connect and enjoy.Thankful to be able to share in these intimate traditions and the truth of culture and life, Mexico, in particular.Headed to Mexico City for Project SAM meetings as we prepare to film and share the real Mexico ahead of the World Cup!So excited that the opening games will be in vivacious Mexico City, but we will give you a taste of other cities and towns, like here, in the beautiful capital of Yucatán, Mérida.Mérida is a must see!Thank you, dear Roberto!We love it!!

#mexico #thereal #merida #yucatán #beauty #history #sophistication #elegance #culture #projectsam #truth #sharing #connection #worldcup #dayofthedead

This is Mexico!Beyond the beaches andpolitical talk - a beautiful Sunday afternoon lunch with my friend @robertosolis.a at home with his wonderful, elegant family! No kids on screens, no rush - just time together to connect and enjoy.Thankful to be able to share in these intimate traditions and the truth of culture and life, Mexico, in particular.Headed to Mexico City for Project SAM meetings as we prepare to film and share the real Mexico ahead of the World Cup!So excited that the opening games will be in vivacious Mexico City, but we will give you a taste of other cities and towns, like here, in the beautiful capital of Yucatán, Mérida.Mérida is a must see!Thank you, dear Roberto!We love it!!

#mexico #thereal #merida #yucatán #beauty #history #sophistication #elegance #culture #projectsam #truth #sharing #connection #worldcup #dayofthedead

Congratulations to Project SAM’s own, Sophie @sophiemercaldo as she embarks on her college journey at UCLA!Sophie will continue her philanthropy and will study political science/pre-law.Proud of you Sophie!! Go Bruins!!!

Football (soccer) unites and the people of South Africa showed us just how effortless it is.
We live in particular times.A world that largely lacks empathy, that values the superficial and competes for things that are unimportant and unnecessary.No joy or support for others - the youth call it “haters” and we recognize who they are…..but for us, LOVE abounds.We are love, we inspire love and we seek it.South Africa matched that energy, gloriously.Joyful people who were generous, kind, supportive and real.Thank you for embracing us so warmly and allowing us to not only share your history but to show your spirit and that the future is bright, that there is hope when there are people like you.You held back nothing - no truth, no appreciation, no fellowship, no love. Sure of self and who you are as a people enough to share it all, for which we are grateful. ❤️

#football #futbol #unity #understanding #sports #unite

We are heavily in the midst of editing and just have to give a shout out of thanks to Alison @alibaba611 for her amazing work during our earlier filming.Alison diligently documented with our camera crew, allowing us to edit more seamlessly and for our director, Deborah, to work remotely with editors. Forgoing personal pictures or interest, her complete focus was on supporting @iamdeborahmartin with Team SAM and capturing the moments, which she did impeccably. We thank you Alison.You’ve worn many hats and made priceless contribution.Your work continues to benefit this first season.So happy you’ll be able to join us again with our upcoming shoots. With gratitude!

Take a minute.Stop and give yourself 5 minutes and receive the hope of our youth.I know many of you are extremely concerned about what’s happening in the world right now.We all just want some relief from all the evil, pain and fear.Project SAM has been to several of the countries involved in conflict or have worked with refugees abroad who were fleeing these wars.Today, one of Project SAM’s own, 15 year old Milad, made a post about his parental land, Iran, that I commented on.This lead to a powerful and insightful exchange, simple and informal as it was, that I think we all can benefit from taking in.It is the perspective of a Texan teen, of Iranian-Muslim descent. It pains him what is happening because he knows “the people” (not the government) of all sides and that it is they who will suffer, which includes his own family. It is we who suffers war far more than those who make it.With Project SAM Milad has experience within these countries, so his insight is based on experience, not something he has read, thinks or was told. His concern is for the Iranian people as well as the Israeli people, politics aside.He understands it affects the world. Milad recalls the anguish of the Ukrainians we worked, understanding it is the same happening in the Middle East right now, to people on all sides. It touched me so, I just had to share - typos and all.I thought about Milad and my friend Sharon bonding so sweetly over their shared language, Farci, and their humanity.One Muslim, the other Jewish.One a mature woman, the other a teen, yet bonded.This is who we are and can be as humans. Milad’s empathy should be the norm and if you lack that, gosh I hope you read this over and over until you really feel his words.Thank you Milad for your heart and generosity in allowing me to share it. You’ve given us a look at everyday Iranians and the streets of Israel in just a few words and how the prospect of war burdens you. ❤️#peoplearepeople #peoplearenotgovernment

Take a minute.Stop and give yourself 5 minutes and receive the hope of our youth.I know many of you are extremely concerned about what’s happening in the world right now.We all just want some relief from all the evil, pain and fear.Project SAM has been to several of the countries involved in conflict or have worked with refugees abroad who were fleeing these wars.Today, one of Project SAM’s own, 15 year old Milad, made a post about his parental land, Iran, that I commented on.This lead to a powerful and insightful exchange, simple and informal as it was, that I think we all can benefit from taking in.It is the perspective of a Texan teen, of Iranian-Muslim descent. It pains him what is happening because he knows “the people” (not the government) of all sides and that it is they who will suffer, which includes his own family. It is we who suffers war far more than those who make it.With Project SAM Milad has experience within these countries, so his insight is based on experience, not something he has read, thinks or was told. His concern is for the Iranian people as well as the Israeli people, politics aside.He understands it affects the world. Milad recalls the anguish of the Ukrainians we worked, understanding it is the same happening in the Middle East right now, to people on all sides. It touched me so, I just had to share - typos and all.I thought about Milad and my friend Sharon bonding so sweetly over their shared language, Farci, and their humanity.One Muslim, the other Jewish.One a mature woman, the other a teen, yet bonded.This is who we are and can be as humans. Milad’s empathy should be the norm and if you lack that, gosh I hope you read this over and over until you really feel his words.Thank you Milad for your heart and generosity in allowing me to share it. You’ve given us a look at everyday Iranians and the streets of Israel in just a few words and how the prospect of war burdens you. ❤️#peoplearepeople #peoplearenotgovernment

Take a minute.Stop and give yourself 5 minutes and receive the hope of our youth.I know many of you are extremely concerned about what’s happening in the world right now.We all just want some relief from all the evil, pain and fear.Project SAM has been to several of the countries involved in conflict or have worked with refugees abroad who were fleeing these wars.Today, one of Project SAM’s own, 15 year old Milad, made a post about his parental land, Iran, that I commented on.This lead to a powerful and insightful exchange, simple and informal as it was, that I think we all can benefit from taking in.It is the perspective of a Texan teen, of Iranian-Muslim descent. It pains him what is happening because he knows “the people” (not the government) of all sides and that it is they who will suffer, which includes his own family. It is we who suffers war far more than those who make it.With Project SAM Milad has experience within these countries, so his insight is based on experience, not something he has read, thinks or was told. His concern is for the Iranian people as well as the Israeli people, politics aside.He understands it affects the world. Milad recalls the anguish of the Ukrainians we worked, understanding it is the same happening in the Middle East right now, to people on all sides. It touched me so, I just had to share - typos and all.I thought about Milad and my friend Sharon bonding so sweetly over their shared language, Farci, and their humanity.One Muslim, the other Jewish.One a mature woman, the other a teen, yet bonded.This is who we are and can be as humans. Milad’s empathy should be the norm and if you lack that, gosh I hope you read this over and over until you really feel his words.Thank you Milad for your heart and generosity in allowing me to share it. You’ve given us a look at everyday Iranians and the streets of Israel in just a few words and how the prospect of war burdens you. ❤️#peoplearepeople #peoplearenotgovernment

Take a minute.Stop and give yourself 5 minutes and receive the hope of our youth.I know many of you are extremely concerned about what’s happening in the world right now.We all just want some relief from all the evil, pain and fear.Project SAM has been to several of the countries involved in conflict or have worked with refugees abroad who were fleeing these wars.Today, one of Project SAM’s own, 15 year old Milad, made a post about his parental land, Iran, that I commented on.This lead to a powerful and insightful exchange, simple and informal as it was, that I think we all can benefit from taking in.It is the perspective of a Texan teen, of Iranian-Muslim descent. It pains him what is happening because he knows “the people” (not the government) of all sides and that it is they who will suffer, which includes his own family. It is we who suffers war far more than those who make it.With Project SAM Milad has experience within these countries, so his insight is based on experience, not something he has read, thinks or was told. His concern is for the Iranian people as well as the Israeli people, politics aside.He understands it affects the world. Milad recalls the anguish of the Ukrainians we worked, understanding it is the same happening in the Middle East right now, to people on all sides. It touched me so, I just had to share - typos and all.I thought about Milad and my friend Sharon bonding so sweetly over their shared language, Farci, and their humanity.One Muslim, the other Jewish.One a mature woman, the other a teen, yet bonded.This is who we are and can be as humans. Milad’s empathy should be the norm and if you lack that, gosh I hope you read this over and over until you really feel his words.Thank you Milad for your heart and generosity in allowing me to share it. You’ve given us a look at everyday Iranians and the streets of Israel in just a few words and how the prospect of war burdens you. ❤️#peoplearepeople #peoplearenotgovernment

Take a minute.Stop and give yourself 5 minutes and receive the hope of our youth.I know many of you are extremely concerned about what’s happening in the world right now.We all just want some relief from all the evil, pain and fear.Project SAM has been to several of the countries involved in conflict or have worked with refugees abroad who were fleeing these wars.Today, one of Project SAM’s own, 15 year old Milad, made a post about his parental land, Iran, that I commented on.This lead to a powerful and insightful exchange, simple and informal as it was, that I think we all can benefit from taking in.It is the perspective of a Texan teen, of Iranian-Muslim descent. It pains him what is happening because he knows “the people” (not the government) of all sides and that it is they who will suffer, which includes his own family. It is we who suffers war far more than those who make it.With Project SAM Milad has experience within these countries, so his insight is based on experience, not something he has read, thinks or was told. His concern is for the Iranian people as well as the Israeli people, politics aside.He understands it affects the world. Milad recalls the anguish of the Ukrainians we worked, understanding it is the same happening in the Middle East right now, to people on all sides. It touched me so, I just had to share - typos and all.I thought about Milad and my friend Sharon bonding so sweetly over their shared language, Farci, and their humanity.One Muslim, the other Jewish.One a mature woman, the other a teen, yet bonded.This is who we are and can be as humans. Milad’s empathy should be the norm and if you lack that, gosh I hope you read this over and over until you really feel his words.Thank you Milad for your heart and generosity in allowing me to share it. You’ve given us a look at everyday Iranians and the streets of Israel in just a few words and how the prospect of war burdens you. ❤️#peoplearepeople #peoplearenotgovernment

Take a minute.Stop and give yourself 5 minutes and receive the hope of our youth.I know many of you are extremely concerned about what’s happening in the world right now.We all just want some relief from all the evil, pain and fear.Project SAM has been to several of the countries involved in conflict or have worked with refugees abroad who were fleeing these wars.Today, one of Project SAM’s own, 15 year old Milad, made a post about his parental land, Iran, that I commented on.This lead to a powerful and insightful exchange, simple and informal as it was, that I think we all can benefit from taking in.It is the perspective of a Texan teen, of Iranian-Muslim descent. It pains him what is happening because he knows “the people” (not the government) of all sides and that it is they who will suffer, which includes his own family. It is we who suffers war far more than those who make it.With Project SAM Milad has experience within these countries, so his insight is based on experience, not something he has read, thinks or was told. His concern is for the Iranian people as well as the Israeli people, politics aside.He understands it affects the world. Milad recalls the anguish of the Ukrainians we worked, understanding it is the same happening in the Middle East right now, to people on all sides. It touched me so, I just had to share - typos and all.I thought about Milad and my friend Sharon bonding so sweetly over their shared language, Farci, and their humanity.One Muslim, the other Jewish.One a mature woman, the other a teen, yet bonded.This is who we are and can be as humans. Milad’s empathy should be the norm and if you lack that, gosh I hope you read this over and over until you really feel his words.Thank you Milad for your heart and generosity in allowing me to share it. You’ve given us a look at everyday Iranians and the streets of Israel in just a few words and how the prospect of war burdens you. ❤️#peoplearepeople #peoplearenotgovernment

Take a minute.Stop and give yourself 5 minutes and receive the hope of our youth.I know many of you are extremely concerned about what’s happening in the world right now.We all just want some relief from all the evil, pain and fear.Project SAM has been to several of the countries involved in conflict or have worked with refugees abroad who were fleeing these wars.Today, one of Project SAM’s own, 15 year old Milad, made a post about his parental land, Iran, that I commented on.This lead to a powerful and insightful exchange, simple and informal as it was, that I think we all can benefit from taking in.It is the perspective of a Texan teen, of Iranian-Muslim descent. It pains him what is happening because he knows “the people” (not the government) of all sides and that it is they who will suffer, which includes his own family. It is we who suffers war far more than those who make it.With Project SAM Milad has experience within these countries, so his insight is based on experience, not something he has read, thinks or was told. His concern is for the Iranian people as well as the Israeli people, politics aside.He understands it affects the world. Milad recalls the anguish of the Ukrainians we worked, understanding it is the same happening in the Middle East right now, to people on all sides. It touched me so, I just had to share - typos and all.I thought about Milad and my friend Sharon bonding so sweetly over their shared language, Farci, and their humanity.One Muslim, the other Jewish.One a mature woman, the other a teen, yet bonded.This is who we are and can be as humans. Milad’s empathy should be the norm and if you lack that, gosh I hope you read this over and over until you really feel his words.Thank you Milad for your heart and generosity in allowing me to share it. You’ve given us a look at everyday Iranians and the streets of Israel in just a few words and how the prospect of war burdens you. ❤️#peoplearepeople #peoplearenotgovernment

Take a minute.Stop and give yourself 5 minutes and receive the hope of our youth.I know many of you are extremely concerned about what’s happening in the world right now.We all just want some relief from all the evil, pain and fear.Project SAM has been to several of the countries involved in conflict or have worked with refugees abroad who were fleeing these wars.Today, one of Project SAM’s own, 15 year old Milad, made a post about his parental land, Iran, that I commented on.This lead to a powerful and insightful exchange, simple and informal as it was, that I think we all can benefit from taking in.It is the perspective of a Texan teen, of Iranian-Muslim descent. It pains him what is happening because he knows “the people” (not the government) of all sides and that it is they who will suffer, which includes his own family. It is we who suffers war far more than those who make it.With Project SAM Milad has experience within these countries, so his insight is based on experience, not something he has read, thinks or was told. His concern is for the Iranian people as well as the Israeli people, politics aside.He understands it affects the world. Milad recalls the anguish of the Ukrainians we worked, understanding it is the same happening in the Middle East right now, to people on all sides. It touched me so, I just had to share - typos and all.I thought about Milad and my friend Sharon bonding so sweetly over their shared language, Farci, and their humanity.One Muslim, the other Jewish.One a mature woman, the other a teen, yet bonded.This is who we are and can be as humans. Milad’s empathy should be the norm and if you lack that, gosh I hope you read this over and over until you really feel his words.Thank you Milad for your heart and generosity in allowing me to share it. You’ve given us a look at everyday Iranians and the streets of Israel in just a few words and how the prospect of war burdens you. ❤️#peoplearepeople #peoplearenotgovernment

Take a minute.Stop and give yourself 5 minutes and receive the hope of our youth.I know many of you are extremely concerned about what’s happening in the world right now.We all just want some relief from all the evil, pain and fear.Project SAM has been to several of the countries involved in conflict or have worked with refugees abroad who were fleeing these wars.Today, one of Project SAM’s own, 15 year old Milad, made a post about his parental land, Iran, that I commented on.This lead to a powerful and insightful exchange, simple and informal as it was, that I think we all can benefit from taking in.It is the perspective of a Texan teen, of Iranian-Muslim descent. It pains him what is happening because he knows “the people” (not the government) of all sides and that it is they who will suffer, which includes his own family. It is we who suffers war far more than those who make it.With Project SAM Milad has experience within these countries, so his insight is based on experience, not something he has read, thinks or was told. His concern is for the Iranian people as well as the Israeli people, politics aside.He understands it affects the world. Milad recalls the anguish of the Ukrainians we worked, understanding it is the same happening in the Middle East right now, to people on all sides. It touched me so, I just had to share - typos and all.I thought about Milad and my friend Sharon bonding so sweetly over their shared language, Farci, and their humanity.One Muslim, the other Jewish.One a mature woman, the other a teen, yet bonded.This is who we are and can be as humans. Milad’s empathy should be the norm and if you lack that, gosh I hope you read this over and over until you really feel his words.Thank you Milad for your heart and generosity in allowing me to share it. You’ve given us a look at everyday Iranians and the streets of Israel in just a few words and how the prospect of war burdens you. ❤️#peoplearepeople #peoplearenotgovernment

As global war escalates and serious domestic concerns in the United States consumes everyone’s thoughts, we consider all the suffering and fear in so many places in the world.It just doesn’t feel good (for me, without judgement of others) to share more about my life and the lovely, fun or triumph things I’m doing nor that of Project SAM. It is true that life does and must go on but at this moment I’ll wait to share and pray that everyone’s loved ones are safe and that all the death and destruction soon comes to an end.I will say that the work we do and that has been so beautifully acknowledged for Project SAM, proves every day increasingly necessary.It is counter to all that we are seeing that steals our peace.It is empowering to the young people who will be forced to maneuver the heavily flawed legacy we leave behind.The hope and inspiration they have from the truth and connection of our work helps give them a fighting chance and I’m so grateful to be apart of that. More to share later and I hope that later is soon.Let’s take a stand for peace, decency and connection.We need each other and certainly should care about what happens to other people because if not - today it’s them, tomorrow it is us.

Pope Leo’s entire Sunday mass yesterday was about the power and importance of connection and how it is often achieved through sport.This brief snippet is just a part of the in-depth understanding he gave to the power of sport to connect and do good and how we must bring understanding amongst people with it - the very work of Project SAM.We were so encouraged and will share more about the impact we are making and the people who are helping make it happen.
#thevaticanjubileeofsport #themomentumofhope

As global war escalates and serious domestic concerns in the United States consumes everyone’s thoughts, we consider all the suffering and fear in so many places in the world.It just doesn’t feel good (for me, without judgement of others) to share more about my life and the lovely, fun or triumph things I’m doing nor that of Project SAM. It is true that life does and must go on but at this moment I’ll wait to share and pray that everyone’s loved ones are safe and that all the death and destruction soon comes to an end.I will say that the work we do and that has been so beautifully acknowledged for Project SAM, proves every day increasingly necessary.It is counter to all that we are seeing that steals our peace.It is empowering to the young people who will be forced to maneuver the heavily flawed legacy we leave behind.The hope and inspiration they have from the truth and connection of our work helps give them a fighting chance and I’m so grateful to be apart of that. More to share later and I hope that later is soon.Let’s take a stand for peace, decency and connection.We need each other and certainly should care about what happens to other people because if not - today it’s them, tomorrow it is us.

Pope Leo’s entire Sunday mass yesterday was about the power and importance of connection and how it is often achieved through sport.This brief snippet is just a part of the in-depth understanding he gave to the power of sport to connect and do good and how we must bring understanding amongst people with it - the very work of Project SAM.We were so encouraged and will share more about the impact we are making and the people who are helping make it happen.
#thevaticanjubileeofsport #themomentumofhope

Real Time: Walking to meet the Pope.Project SAM strong.

This mission is short, so having no time to lose those of us who are here already did some cultural exploration today in Rome.To say it was hot is an understatement, but incredible nonetheless.Tomorrow we begin with the Vatican and an audience with the Pope….this is what service, dedication, sacrifice and good will yields, Project SAM.You’ve earned this and we’re happy to the acknowledgment.

This mission is short, so having no time to lose those of us who are here already did some cultural exploration today in Rome.To say it was hot is an understatement, but incredible nonetheless.Tomorrow we begin with the Vatican and an audience with the Pope….this is what service, dedication, sacrifice and good will yields, Project SAM.You’ve earned this and we’re happy to the acknowledgment.

This mission is short, so having no time to lose those of us who are here already did some cultural exploration today in Rome.To say it was hot is an understatement, but incredible nonetheless.Tomorrow we begin with the Vatican and an audience with the Pope….this is what service, dedication, sacrifice and good will yields, Project SAM.You’ve earned this and we’re happy to the acknowledgment.

This mission is short, so having no time to lose those of us who are here already did some cultural exploration today in Rome.To say it was hot is an understatement, but incredible nonetheless.Tomorrow we begin with the Vatican and an audience with the Pope….this is what service, dedication, sacrifice and good will yields, Project SAM.You’ve earned this and we’re happy to the acknowledgment.

This mission is short, so having no time to lose those of us who are here already did some cultural exploration today in Rome.To say it was hot is an understatement, but incredible nonetheless.Tomorrow we begin with the Vatican and an audience with the Pope….this is what service, dedication, sacrifice and good will yields, Project SAM.You’ve earned this and we’re happy to the acknowledgment.

This mission is short, so having no time to lose those of us who are here already did some cultural exploration today in Rome.To say it was hot is an understatement, but incredible nonetheless.Tomorrow we begin with the Vatican and an audience with the Pope….this is what service, dedication, sacrifice and good will yields, Project SAM.You’ve earned this and we’re happy to the acknowledgment.

This mission is short, so having no time to lose those of us who are here already did some cultural exploration today in Rome.To say it was hot is an understatement, but incredible nonetheless.Tomorrow we begin with the Vatican and an audience with the Pope….this is what service, dedication, sacrifice and good will yields, Project SAM.You’ve earned this and we’re happy to the acknowledgment.

This mission is short, so having no time to lose those of us who are here already did some cultural exploration today in Rome.To say it was hot is an understatement, but incredible nonetheless.Tomorrow we begin with the Vatican and an audience with the Pope….this is what service, dedication, sacrifice and good will yields, Project SAM.You’ve earned this and we’re happy to the acknowledgment.

This mission is short, so having no time to lose those of us who are here already did some cultural exploration today in Rome.To say it was hot is an understatement, but incredible nonetheless.Tomorrow we begin with the Vatican and an audience with the Pope….this is what service, dedication, sacrifice and good will yields, Project SAM.You’ve earned this and we’re happy to the acknowledgment.

One by one they arrive….Project SAM in Rome on our Good Will mission!! Looking forward to the Vatican tomorrow.