Message of Fr. Vazken Movsesian, parish priest of St. Andrew Armenian Church, Cupertino, from the Nakhagoch Newsletter. Electronic version archived on: SAIN-- St. Andrew Information Network -------------------------------------- c. 1992 Fr. Vazken Movsesian Address comments to: dervaz@sain.org -------------------------------------- November 1992 An Early Christmas Gift A few weeks ago, a young man came to see me at the church office. He was tall, blond haired and didn't resemble much of an Armenian. It was therefore surprising to hear him say that he was going to spend two-and-a-half years in Armenia! His name is Dan Hastings. He is a volunteer with the Peace Corps. The following Sunday he came to church, sat through the Divine Liturgy and met with many of our parishioners. We exchanged thoughts, advice and well wishes. Dan's compassion, along with his willingness to share with others is inspiring and should serve as an example to all of us Ñ change is possible when we're willing to commit ourselves. Below is an excerpt of a letter sent by Dan to our church. It is moving and I print it here with the hopes that it will put us in the "true Christmas spirit." We wish Dan the best during his travels and his work in Armenia. Please join me, remembering in prayer, him and all others who selflessly give of themselves for others. Ñ Fr. Vazken Dear Friends: I cannot leave my home and close circle of friends without somehow thanking all for the support you've graciously showed me throughout the Peace Corps process. As I roamed the empty hallways of my wonderful home last night, I began to reminisce about the happiness spent hereÉ Yes, some tears were shed, which didn't surprise me, for they were telling a sublime story. They reminded me that sometimes we take things for granted which come our way: good family, good schooling, fun trips, to name just a few. And this is natural in a world where there's so much occupying our attention all the time. But last night also was different, it was special; alone, all around me, I breathed all the good fortune I've been blessed with so far and I granted none of it to haphazard circumstances. No, I felt something inside me far greater than just "luck." People in my life, my parents, my siblings, close friends and even random acquaintances have Ñ maybe unwittingly to themÑ invested in me and my growth. They have taught me, they have shared with me, they have shown the great quality of compassion and companionship, and they have inspired me. In essence, everyone along the way holds a "share" in my being; I am a sum of all these precious ingredients, when it comes right down to it. "Why me?" I ask. Why not invest in some other person besides myself? We cannot know, I guess. But we can conjecture. I would like to think that it's because so many dog-gone people who really care about others surround me. And this caring comes from their roots, from others who cared for them. As such, I am an extension of a long human chain of those who have caredÑa chain so strong it links cannot be easily broken. As I leave here for Armenia to serve others, I think about that chain and my part in it. I know what power it holds, and I know what blessings it has spawned. In my heart, I know it will continue to grow through me and beyond me, helping others less fortunate, who in turn will aid others on down the line. So, to all of you, the links and co-constructors of this incredible chain, I recognize you and your unique contribution to my journeyÑ to the chain-strengthening saga ahead. I'll carry your memory and your formidable bonds with me as I go. To all those in the church, thanks for everything! I appreciate it! ÑDaniel Hastings -------------------------------------- c. 1992 Fr. Vazken Movsesian Address comments to: dervaz@sain.org --------------------------------------