I came to Viet Nam with many preconceptions formed years ago during a terrible war. Those preconceptions about the people and country have been completely shattered and abolished. With my feet on Viet Nam soil and seeing with my own eyes Viet Nam today, I have formed new views of Viet Nam. Commerce is active, people have energy, and positive activities of all types are appearing in all places. Of course there is a lot left to be done.

As the days have gone by I am building a strong belief that some of Viet Nam finest hours are ahead of it and the country is marching steadily toward them. It is an understatement to say that the last two weeks have been filed with surprises, adventures, intrigues, and joys. My emotions have been rocked and shook by a cascade of events.
From seeing patients at a frantic rate at the new school to cruising across the waters at Nha Trang, from falling sink to bonfire; I have had few two weeks period of time in my life that such rapidly changing events consistently astonished yet pleased me.

You met me as a stranger and took me into your Viet Nam family. Your kindness and grace are so powerful that you are now some of the best friends I have. I thank you.

Joe