Communiqué Comments

Since CAI launched its “blog,” the CAI Communiqué, the organization has received many words of encouragement, support and thanks. These comments on the individual posts are included below. If you would like a comment of your own posted, please send to media@ikat.org.

February 18, 2013 – Faces of Pakistan

Thank you, thank you Karen for these beautiful faces. God-Allah bless them all! – Bobbi

February 11, 2013 – Young Iowan gets it

This is so very beautiful, the poem and the child. Children do often get it I think, when we adults still posture and bicker instead of following our hearts and loving our fellow men and women, no matter where they are. Thank you Genny for sharing this poem and your wisdom at an early age. You are an inspiration now to many more. – Bobbi

February 6, 2013 – David Starnes joins CAI team as new executive director

Thank you for the information on Mr. Starnes. I wish him and the CAI team all the best. I appreciate being kept apprised of CAI’s good work. Your mission is the beginning point for some of the most important work being done here on and for our earth. – Mike

Congratulations on your new director. I am warmed by your continued progress and strength. Thank you. – Meri

Thank you for the info, and good luck to Mr. Starnes. Please send my greetings to Mr. Mortenson for being the inspiration along with the children of this area of the world. – Maria

Congratulations to CAI! The selection of David Starnes as the new Executive Director seems like a marriage made in heaven. – Therese

June 24, 2012 – CAI teacher, village mullah killed for supporting girls’ education

Very sad day for CAI and indeed for Girl’s Education in Afghanistan Pakistan and else where. inna lillah hay wa inna ilayhay rajyoon. Sad thing is that all these killers don’t know that killing any other person (Muslim or Non Muslim) is strictly forbidden in Islam. Also Islam makes it a FARD (compulsory) for every man woman and child to EDUCATE himself/herself. Sorry Greg….. Anyway like the famous Poet Allama IQbal said ” Don’t be afraid of thunder storm, it occurs to force you to fly higher” I am sure inshaAllah you will fly even higher and my prayers are with you you family, CAI and your mission. God bless. – Waseem

Such sorrow and deep sadness for a great loss to the community. The weighty burden of sadness is shared among all who invest and labor for a hopeful future for Afghan children and families. May their value of their lives and their community’s ongoing commitment, strengthen each one with unexplainable courage. – Debbie

Heavy hearts indeed, we are so saddened that hatred still fills so many people in a time when we should be coming together in peace and love to support and encourage one another. My prayers are with these families and with all of you there. I am very encouraged by their determination to continue in educating their girls and all their children. May they be 100-fold blessed in this. Thanks again and again CAI for your continued and unfaltering support and leadership in this important calling. Peace is a reality when people who have it in their hearts actually live it in the most difficult of circumstances. – Bobbi

June 11, 2012 – Fire destroys school in far northeast Afghanistan

So very sad; but somehow CAI will find a way to help the children get some or all their lessons. What a tremendously challenging area and CAI seems to be the only entity brave enough and caring enough to help these families. – Martha

May 24, 2012 – “Dr. Greg” back in Baltistan

Truth will ALWAYS be revealed… Patience is my motto. Congrats, Dr Greg. – Donna

Excellent report! Obviously Dr. Greg must know once again how deeply he is respected and truly beloved for all of his various efforts for nearly twenty years, This report says it all. – Martha

It’s quite astonishing that they have such beautiful school in that remote place, thanks to Mr. Mortenson, the donators, and CAI staffs. – Indah

April 30, 2012 – Lawsuit Dismissed, Mission Continues

I’d like you to know that I was so happy when I heard that the lawsuit against you had been dropped. I teach 8th grade English, and I have shared your story with my students now for the last three years. Your story is one of faith and is truly inspirational. In this crazy world where there is so much greed and hatred, I can’t believe that anyone could find fault with your mission. The work that you have done should be applauded by all! I hope that your work continues and that God blesses you and your family and the lives of those you help with health, happiness, and prosperity. You are an inspiration to all and have shown that one person can truly make a difference. Mr. Mortenson, there should be more people in the world like you! – Shannon

Assalam-0-Alaikum and Hi. It was one of the most exciting news in recent days to hear that by the grace of Allah case against CAI has been thrown out of court. Please accept congratulations and all my prayers are for you. May Allah keep you doing the wonderful work you are doing in Central Asia. – Waseem

We have never wavered in our honor and support of you and your wonderful efforts and good deeds. And we knew the truth would come out of this. Congratulations for this positive outcome. We are sorry you were dragged through such an ordeal and were taken away from all the good that you do. Stay safe and know that you have many who care for you and your work. – Maka

Congratulations. As a Pakistani American, I am absolutely thrilled that Mr. Mortenson will continue his mission of bring childeren of that worn torn area to the modern world. May God bless you all. Waslam – Zaid

Congratulations, perhaps the lesson is to only ever tell it as it is / was. The work done stands alone. Thank you for what you do. – Tonique

Congratulations to the CAI and to Greg. We had not seen his “response” from last spring but were glad to catch up now. We have assumed from the beginning of this Sixty Minutes story and its follow on that it was based on misinformation and could not understand (and still don’t) why they would want to defile such a great cause. We always stand by CAI and Greg with our fairly large network and have continued to support CAI through this period and will do so again this year. – Chuck & Kadie

Congratulations on your victory! Your organization is a shining example of some people trying to make the world a better place, and how hard it can be to do this in today’s culture of arm chair critics.
Best of luck in the future. -Chris

Just wanted to say how glad I am to hear this. I personally felt that the whole thing was a political/publicity maneuver on the part of a certain author who shall remain nameless to get a piece of pie he imagined CAI was greedily grubbing up. Never believed a word of the accusations, and as a writer of creative nonfiction never particularly cared if the way the story was told was 100% accurate. In grad school we spent quite a bit of time discussing the nature of memory and it’s fallibility, and how that impacts our writing as memoir or creative nonfiction. This is part of the writer’s challenge. In short, Three Cups of Tea inspired me to change my life, for which I am grateful. And those of you directly involved with Greg and CAI know if what you do and how you do it is commendable and truly serving your mission. Looking forward to hearing more about the good you all are doing in the world. Thank you for doing it. – Christie

Thank you for sending Greg’s comments to 60min. We have never lost faith in what CAI does. As a military member for over 30yrs, I can tell you without hesitation that what you are doing is really the only answer to peace of any kind. It is extremely unfortunate that some in the news media don’t get it or don’t care. Give Greg our best and tell him to stay safe and well. – Bill

Congratulations!!! I am so glad the courts finally acted and validated what so many of us knew already! – Jane

Good news! Let the Mission continue! And give thanks for all the technical things that got straightened out in the meantime. Nothing was wasted. Blessings – Victoria

Excellent news! I have been so touched by Greg’s books and the work he and so many others do. It is so gratifying when the courts get it right and when real change and help can continue. – Marsha

Now Greg can move on with his life and do what he does best – plan for and guide the building of schools for girls and all the other important efforts that go with such projects! The Judge called it right. The four seeking all that cash were just plain greedy. I read every word of both books and enjoyed readying every word. 4 million book buyers (plus many, many others) are better people for having done so. And those training in the military to serve in both countries need to continue to hear and think about Greg’s passionate messages – Listen, Learn, and then Respond as best as we can! – Martha

April 18, 2012 – Lawsuit update

I read this morning of this frivolous suit, and feel so bad for Greg. Of course our memories are our own view of the truth, but I would NEVER want my money back on either the tea or stones books I own. They informed and inspired me, and I am grateful he wrote them. It does seem a first amendment freedom to me that he can write his truth as he remembers it without harassment. These people who want money are stealing from the girls’ schools, and I am angry at their attempt to discredit CAI and the wonderful, amazing work they do. If you let your supporters know how to contact the judge in this case I am sure many of us would write briefs as friends of the court on Greg’s behalf. God bless you all. – Nancy

Great Falls Tribune: ‘Three Cups of Tea’ hearing scheduled to begin today

My respect for CAI and Greg grows everyday because of your exceptional dedication and performance. You will prevail. We will always support you. – Bob

It saddens me to see there are people with influence who would blindly attack those committed few who sincerely strive to make our world a better place. The greatest caution and respect should be used if questioning means which bring extraordinary ends – to me there can be nothing fundamentally wrong in a purely motivated, harmless process. For the others, good effort on clearing the slate. Openness is the best approach. I hope you can find a reasonable balance between openness and the well-being of your people, students, supporters and projects. Greg: Thank you for the inspiration (for those of us foolish enough to choose a road less traveled), and thank you for empowering good people. – René

April 11, 2012 – Sectarian violence in Gilgit-Baltistan

Thank you for the brilliant blog on the Siachen glacier disaster. I’m happy to see that Central Asia Institute is posting fresh and important stories from the front lines, with comments from local people, as the American newspapers and TV are bonkers, and publish rubbish to mis-inform the public. This is a tragedy that should have never happened. The Siachen war is nonsense. Let’s hope the Indian and Pakistani people get narked enough to realize how foolish their governments are to waste billions of rupees on bombs, instead of education. I visited Hunza and Baltistan ten years ago, and seen the good work of CAI, AKDN and Oxfam, who are my charities of choice in that neglected region. – Nikola

April 9, 2012 – Search for Siachen avalanche survivors continues into third day

Thank you for the brilliant blog on the Siachen glacier disaster. I’m happy to see that Central Asia Institute is posting fresh and important stories from the front lines, with comments from local people, as the American newspapers and TV are bonkers, and publish rubbish to mis-inform the public. This is a tragedy that should have never happened. The Siachen war is nonsense. Let’s hope the Indian and Pakistani people get narked enough to realize how foolish their governments are to waste billions of rupees on bombs, instead of education. I visited Hunza and Baltistan ten years ago, and seen the good work of CAI, AKDN and Oxfam, who are my charities of choice in that neglected region. – Nikola

April 5, 2012 – MT Attorney General: Central Asia Institute’s noble mission should continue

Congratulations to you and CAI on your exoneration by the Montana AG! I suspect that the AG report gives the Judge in the Helena lawsuit little choice but to dismiss the case. You probably don’t realize it yet, but it’s time we fist pump while reciting the immortal words of ML King: “Free at last. Free at last. Thank God almighty I’m free at last!” – Kim

Congratulations! I am so happy that CAI and Greg Mortensen have been vindicated! I taught Pennies for Peace this year, and felt I had to add a disclaimer about the investigation; but, it did not stop the kids from working on community service projects or from enjoying the book and it’s message that One person can make a difference in the world and in the lives of others. Keep up the Good Works! – Helen

This is a most heartening news. I don’t know how you could include any more information. It is extremely inclusive and makes CAI so visible, so credible, so completely forthright. How anyone could have doubted the efforts in the first place is quite suspect to hidden agendas, but CAI responded with honesty and continues stronger than ever. I hope the very positive outcomes of all investigations that sadly had to take place, will allow us all to continue to focus on the empowering operations going on in Pakistan and Afghanistan and in the hearts and souls of all of us who crave world peace. It is sad that so much time and money and effort had to be put in to clearing the name, but, as with many things, the result is that we are stronger. Thank you to all of you who knew how to persevere and get the job done under very trying circumstances. CAI is the epitome of my beliefs and I am so proud of what is being done. – Barbara

I was so relieved to hear the news this morning, clearing up CAI’s organization. I’ve been a supporter for years (although only intermittently with finances) and appreciate what you do and have done. Thank you so much. – Tom

Congratulations on the final resolution of the Montana Attorney General’s investigations. Greg Mortenson and CAI have always had the benefit of my doubt and my continued financial support. Obviously, the work of Greg Mortenson and CAI is vital in the lives of so many and must continue the basic fundamental mission of education. May the issue be laid to rest and may Greg Mortenson, CAI and supporters bounce back stronger, wiser and more determined than ever to continue the mission. Best wishes and regards to all of you and your loved ones. – Paul

These things happen and make us better. I will continue to support CAI’s mission. Keep up the good work! Happy Easter and shalom. – Judy

I don’t care what anyone says- for an American white man to go into a war ravaged area, where Americans are so distrusted, and create some of the most beautiful things like schools and job training areas, I’m sorry. No one can shake my faith in the CAI and Greg Mortenson. He’s a great guy, great heart. He has inspired me to believe that knowledge is power, and that we are all entitled to that. Keep your head and spirits up, sir! – Jo

I never doubted your sincerity or CAI’s effort to help woman and all people who have so little in this part of the world. I am sending my contribution/gift and will contribute a duplicate gift every month for 2012. I am sorry it is not much, but it is what I can afford at this time.

Thanks for keeping me on your email list. I am concerned about Greg, is he doing alright ? I hope he keeps the faith and keeps moving forward, we need him. I do not know why the accusations and negative publicity were made and quite frankly, I don’t care. We all make mistakes in life. It’s called being human and the trick is to ‘suck it up’ and move forward. Greg and CAI have done too many good things to give up and get depressed or give up. Whats done is done. There is a big world of needy people out there, and they need Dr. Greg and CAI. KEEP WORKING for those who have NO help or any hope of education and survival. – Tim

So sorry you’re all going through this. Your vision and all you’ve done for the girls in Pakistan continues to inspire me every day. Thank you for your bravery and intentions and all that you’ve accomplished. – Linda

After reading the AG’s report, I feel much better about the news report I heard on The News Hour (PBS) that Greg Mortenson must pay $1 million back to CAI for money he got from the sale of his books. I was initially very heartbroken to hear that, but now believe that with Greg’s new position he will be able to concentrate on what he is best at. Obviously, financial/legal matters are not his forte and he does not use best judgement in these areas. But, he has inspired many and created more good will than probably all our military has in Afghanistan and Pakistan. So, I look forward to more good work, more girls educated, and better relations between the US and the countries Greg serves because of his work. Thank you for sharing the AG’s report on your website!
- Meredith

This is encouraging news and we will keep CAI in our prayers on April 18 for dismissal of claims. Thank you for staying the course and for your good work. We have always believed in the good things CAI is doing for the children of Afghanistan and Pakistan. Wouldn’t it be nice for “60 minutes” to do a follow-up segment on the positives??? – Donna

March 26, 2012 – Avalanche in remote Wakhan kills extended family

The emergency relief provided by the Central Asia Institute during the heavy snow fall both side Pakistan Broghel and Afghanistan’s Badakhshan Province. I understand how difficult is to reach such remote area with such swear winter’s storms weather condition. The CAI regional and local staff took the responsibility just not only provide relief to the effected people but they saved many lives. My personal good feelings goes to CAI top management your consistently educational program and such emergency relief for both Northern Pakistan and Afghanistan, and the regional senior staff, Mr. Sarfarz Khan and other devoted workers, those who took part of this relief operation. – Hikayat

December 5, 2011 – Guest Blog with Randi Pritchard

Of course, you are all in my thoughts every day and have been since the moment I first read of the CAI mission and the exceptional dedication of Greg Mortenson. As I read the account of Ms Randi Pritchard and her sister the overwhelming message is how could ’60 Minutes’ intentionally attempt to do so much damage to an astonishing valuable endeavor in stark contrast to two women who pursued the truth about CAI and discovered its abundance. To whatever extent possible, you can be assured of my life-long support. – Bob

October 5, 2011 – CAI’s Annual Report (September 30, 2010 and 2009)

The CAI Annual Report is superb – every page, every word, etc. The report on the tangible benefits CAI has received from the books and related outreach – is outstanding. Great to see the growth in new donors!!! I am proud to be in the latest count! I hope you will be able to spread this report far and wide as it addresses every item raised by CBS & Jon – in a masterful fashion and makes it clear that CAI has been accomplishing its mission where few dare ever to go. Tom Brokaw and Greg’s other earliest supporters will beam when they read this cover to cover! WOW – I am really impressed by this gem of a report! – Martha

What a beautiful annual report. I was ten years on Wall Street and I’ve seen quite a few. I’ve never seen one finer. It had heart, integrity, a sense of meaningful purpose and intelligence. It opens vividly to the mind the gift CAI brings into the world. My sincerest appreciation for your effort. – Curtis

August 26, 2011 – Cherry-picked, manipulated, and misrepresented

Just a quick message to say how marvelous your master list and key are ~ just what everyone wants to know & in exactly the format I personally find most useful. More later, after I’ve digested the MAGNITUDE of your work over these many years. As my Dad would say, taking his cue from the American colonists, “Huzza !!!!” – Susan

I want to file a formal letter of complaint to the Producers of CBS’s 60 Minutes about repeating all the lies put forth in April. I hope “Irene” coverage reduces the audience. Jon has a huge conflict of interest in sitting on the Board of the American Himalayan Foundation. I am horrified that CBS is still at the grab for headlines. Thank you for all the proof you are providing in every format possible. The blog offers ample evidence to stop Jon Krakauer in his tracks. And do know know Greg is very much in my thoughts and prayers. – Martha

August 17, 2011 – Guest Blog by Jim Morrell

In July 2011, I was lucky enough to join Wild Frontiers (an adventure travel company) on a trek through the Wakhan Corridor. What inspired me to take such a trek? Your depiction of the area and your work there in the book “Three Cups of Tea”. Beyond that, the knowledge of the terrain as rugged and beautiful. Our journey began when we all met in Dushanbe, Tajikistan. We drove for 2 days and then crossed over to Afghanistan. I certainly had a bit of culture shock, due to the invisibility of women. Consequently, what a joy and hopeful feeling, to see all the female students enrolled in CAI Schools. We saw at least 11 schools and an arts center. Every school was active, each had both males and females and all had dedicated teachers and books. What a gift you have given to the people of Afghanistan. We were also fortunate enough to cross paths with your engineer (whose name I did not write down) going over the Daliz Pass. What a wonderful surprise to meet such a committed individual. I am and will continue to be your contributor. I was lucky enough to hear you speak in Denver and so enjoyed hearing from you about your efforts in Afghanistan. Please keep up the good work; the women need you. – Gail

I, along with my colleagues, had the honor of visiting the Wakhan Corridor last month. A highlight of the adventure was to actually see and visit several of CAI’s wonderful schools. I had seen pictures of the schools; however, to be inside and observe the quality of the workmanship and the strength of the school was a delightful and encouraging experience. What is more enjoyable is to see the students in the classes with their teachers learning a variety of subjects. In particular, seeing girls and boys in the same classroom and coming together as students who happen to be male and female. There before us was a vision of the future for Afghanistan. A small crack in the wall that has kept men and women so isolated is being expanded with every student who has the opportunity to attend and learn with others. I am a fan of CAI and particularly Greg who is a real inspiration for all of us who see a remarkable demonstration of the work he and the CAI organization has created. Congratulations on your accomplishments and please keep the energy alive despite what critics may say or do. – Stephen

August 8, 2011 – Flood, landslide hit Talis village

I have been a supporter of Greg M. since reading “Three Cups of Tea” a few years ago. When I read “Stones into Schools,” I was more affected by the work of the Institute. Greg and his Pakistani cohorts have done miraculous work. Focus and never taking “no” for an answer have given this part of the world schools, teachers, midwives, etc. It is remarkable. Thank you. That Greg M. could manifest the number of schools, the schools specifically for girls, is a remarkable and outstanding gift to the human condition. I thank Greg and his family for their sacrifice and dedication. Without it I would not have the opportunity and knowledge to write this email. … I also realized as I read, and from my own experiences, that the organization was too dependent on a single person for fund raising, school coordination and construction, speaking, etc. This organizational model is unsustainable for the institute and the person. I know I am saying nothing that you all who are involved with CAI don’t already know. It is also true that an organization such as CAI cannot come to life without the dedication of one or more individuals. … Karin, I am very happy to read your blog. I am even more pleased to have a forum to find out about the new ideas, plans, etc. of CAI. When the floods hit Pakistan, I was frustrated that I couldn’t find out specific and personal information about the people affected. I am hoping that your blog will give us timely information about the news of the area and discussions at CAI. I look forward to understanding more of how the daily lives of people are affected by the continuing war. … Karin, thank you once more for leaving your job at the Bozeman newspaper and choosing to work for CAI. – Anne

August 1, 2011 – CAI School on Roof of the World

Thank you for your recent e-mail and newsletter. It is encouraging to read words of trust and faith about CAI in general and Mr. G. Mortenson in particular. It is way beyond me how anyone in his right mind could even dare questioning such incredible accomplishments and purposes. Though I can understand the possibility of confusion and the occasional loss of total control in some areas so remote and difficult to access, we must value, as I do, the herculean efforts and sacrifices of so many folks in, perhaps, noblest of enterprises ever undertaken by anyone. Long live Mr. Mortenson and his great team. I’m with you. – Alvaro

Thanks so much for the blog. I loved reading it. I remember well the two books and, as a lover of maps, fell back into the Wakhan Valley while reading about it. I’m deeply grateful to Greg for all that he has done and to the CAI staff for all they do. With more people like this the world will be a better place for all. Please keep up the good work and I look forward to the next edition of the blog. – Judy

July 26, 2011 – Kindness is contagious: Lessons from our elders.

Just read the great report from CAI and appreciated all of the information. I was bothered by the fact that you were forced to sever ties with the daily newspaper in Bozeman, but glad you made the decision you did. Maybe their hands are tied in a situation like that too. I don’t know. It’s difficult to sort out all the arguments pro and con inregard to Greg’s work and CAI operation. I hope my heart is telling methe truth. I love everything he is doing. I recently heard a fine presentation by his mother here in Willmar. Jerene is a dear person. Her presentation in Willmar was very, very helpful. I spent a good part of a year teaching “Three Cups of Tea” in our adult class, so after “60 Minutes,” we needed some positive input. I’ve given her support too, which she has appreciated. I keep Greg and the work in prayer daily. It sounds like his recovery will be a slow process. Given his work procedures, it’s not surprising that he’s had health problems. I am trusting and believing that things will work themselves out. I appreciate the great work you do! “Journey of Hope” is beautiful! Thanks! – Dennis

July 26, 2011 – CAI’s Bumper Sticker Available

Greetings. I would love one of your bumper stickers! My family is a big fan of your work and we look forward to getting more involved in the future. God Speed! – Kristin

Thank you for the in-depth information in the recent Alima news letter. I am also happy to see that a blog has been added to the CAI website. This will be especially helpful in keeping us supporters up to date with CAI’s mission and triumphs. I would love to proudly support CAI and their mission as I drive through the streets of Portland, OR. My gratitude for your passion and commitment. – Meghann

July 7, 2011 – Literacy and Liberty

Congratulation on your success at the NEA Conference and your new CAI Communique (Blog) on the website. I applaud CAI’s goal of “of eventually visiting every project in the next 12 months or so (except those in areas where foreigners cannot travel)” and “the survey is part of CAI’s ongoing monitoring of every single project on its master list.” … Good luck and definitely think you made the right call quiting your newspaper job! – Bart

June 28, 2011 – CAI Communiqué Introduction

If you ask the staff at CAI they may remember my several calls during these past months in which my primary concern was (and remains) the health of Greg Mortenson. During some of those brief calls I also expressed my sense of outrage at newstainers (a word I created and posted to Urban Dictionary) whom decided to try to boost their ratings by attacking Greg and CAI. What you are doing with the CAI Communique (Blog) is so very important. I think we all look forward to the day when those who undoubtedly did harm to CAI’s mission, to the well-being of Greg and, unforgivably, to the aspirations and needs of learners in Afghanistan and Pakistan, are exposed. Hopefully, they will then make an effort to support CAI’s mission as the least they can do to make amends. Please extend my warmest regards to Greg Mortenson, to all of your CAI colleagues and to all of those wonderful students whom I admire so much. Thank you. – B. Robert

Thank you for the work you are doing and for the choice you made in leaving the Bozeman Chronicle. I just finished reading the various contributions from those with personal experience working with Greg and CAI. They confirm my original reaction to all the controversy. It is very understandable that the organization needed more professional oversight and management. Greg made it pretty clear in “Three Cups of Tea” that administrative tasks were not his forte. It is the truth and vision of his work that inspires people. As more people with experience begin to speak it lessens the pressure on Greg to always be the spokesman for the organization. I certainly hope he has made some good money from the books because I am sure he cannot get any life insurance! And only through his simple, straight forward message could people understand his vision, efforts and accomplishments and want to be a part of them in some small way. I have no doubt that God, by whatever name you call Him, blesses this work. Keep it up! – Kathy

Love your new communique/blog. I have enjoyed Karin’s writing for many years in her “Journey of Hope” and am happy she has joined the CAI staff. The different proverbs are great too. Keep up the wonderful work your organization is doing and I support Greg’s work wholeheartedly. – Nancy

Congratulations to Karin Ronnow for becoming an employee of CAI. I always learn so much from the quarterly publications and wish you all continuing success. I was sorry to learn that Greg Mortenson’s heart condition was worse than originally thought, but I’m glad that he is following his doctor’s advice and staying away from the stress for awhile. CAI is doing such a fabulous job. I was in the Peace Corps years ago and have an inkling of how tough it is to connect with and work for people in another culture. I think you have all, stateside and in Pakistan/Afghanistan, done a miraculous job in the past ten to fifteen years. My gut reaction when reading Mr. Krakauer’s negative assessment was that here was a jealous man! As for “60 Minutes,” they should be ashamed of themselves. It is really unfortunate that a few people have been so quick to judge, people who I suspect have had no experience in dealing with poverty and a dearth of education, and those who think the media walks on water. As for CAI, keep up the good work. – Gail

I’ve read a bunch of stuff in the media recently, and I just wanted to send some encouragement your way. Don’t listen to all chatter from people who don’t really know you and get paid to create controversy and drama in the media. I mean, if you’ve changed 10,000 peoples lives or just 1 life for the better, then it’s all worth it! People follow passion, they look for it there whole life and everyone has seen Mr. Mortenson’s for the kids in Afghanistan/Pakistan. I hope I have the courage to follow mine as boldly as you have. Thanks for doing what you do, and please keep it up! – Ryan

Clearly CAI has greatly benefited from the Bozeman newspaper’s stupidity and the timing couldn’t be better. The blog is terrific, and I shall recommend it to anyone curious about CAI or recent attacks. Is there a more current update on Greg’s recuperation? It’s hard not to think that Allah has had a hand in all of this: presenting CAI with an opportunity to sit back and decide how this now well-known organization should “mature” for the good of all involved, and time during which Greg simply can not run himself ragged, and now has the opportunity to decide, with his family, on how his role should evolve. He is a dear man, with a great heart. He is my personal hero, and I look forward to what the future brings, once he is truly healed — physically and psychologically — from all that has passed. If only I lived nearer, I would volunteer to do absolutely anything to help, from traveling to Pakistan or Afghanistan, to licking envelopes at the office. For now, I can only contribute my prayers. Thank you for helping in such a great way. – Cheryl

Congratulations on the new blog ~ an excellent idea and a very good start. Thank you, first and foremost, for the update on Mr. Mortenson. Very much appreciated. And all warm wishes back at him! (Gently, of course . The other section of this first posting is an excellent way to help folks of all stripes understand the huge effort the Institute is making to report the facts of your work, which in turn will help keep us patient while we all wait to read that report. I’ve been thinking a lot about how best to educate the public generally and donors specifically in the minutiae of CAI’s results. One facet of such a report that I look forward to is what we might call “The Table” ~ that is, a table listing every school with which CAI has ever had any ties whatsoever, with a column for each type of relationship. Once you’ve published The Table or its functional equivalent covering Year One to the Present (along with text sharing anecdotes and describing processes), you’ll never have to do it again. Instead, you can issue a smaller version every one or two years. Thanks again! – Susan

Karin Ronnow, you write beautifully. As a reasonably eloquent individual and aspiring writer, I credit myself with the ability to recognize good writing. I find your articles to be elegant and readable. I have enjoyed “Journey of Hope” and look forward to following this communiqué. Good on you for leaving the Chronicle. Their ultimatum made it clear they were just fair-weather friends. I’ve read Krakauer’s book, and both of Mortenson’s, and all the CAI publications and I will of course continue to support and advocate the work of the CAI. What Mortenson does is wonderful, and it speaks to the heart. -Rowan

Congratulations on a wonderfully put-together intro to CAI’s blog. And, though not an employee, as you are, welcome aboard: having read both of Greg’s books, I feel a part of CAI. I also heard Greg speak at the University of DE to a freshman class and other UD faculty and staff. (The freshmen were asked to read “Three Cups of Tea” during the summer before entering UD.). Prayers of healing both to Greg & to CAI over the recent storm from the press go out to all of you. – Peg

As we develop this feature, please send any comments or questions to media@ikat.org.