Thomas Lubanga Update

There are several articles this month reporting on the trial of Congolese Warlord Thomas Lubanga:

The ICC - asset to international justice?

Court Told of Lubanga’s UPC Role

Age of Child Soldiers Scrutinised

This trial has brought to light again the continued debate over the extent of involvement the United States is willing to have in the ICC:

Obama War-Crime Verdict May Echo Bush Objection to Global Court

I apologize the following articles are more about Angelina Jolie than the trial but keep in mind the positives here:

1. Children are testifying against Mr. Lubanga. (There was concern earlier this year that the children were being threatened and were too frightened to testify, a natural reaction considering what they've been through)

2. The trial is moving forward.

3. It is receiving international attention.

I will continue to update you as I find out more information!

Angelina Jolie attends war crimes trial in The Hague

Angelina Jolie Attends Trial of Congo Warlord Charged With Using Child Soldiers

Proverbs 31:8-9

A Battle Changes Direction

We'll have to see what it means when Craigslist says "The "erotic services" section will end within seven days and be replaced by an "adult services" category where advertisements will be individually screened by Craigslist staff, Craigslist said in a statement on Wednesday."

Craigslist to drop "erotic services" ads

Whatever they mean by "individually screened" remains to be seen. And we're watching...we won't back down if this means nothing more than a title change in their advertising.


Proverbs 31:8-9

Love in Thailand

It's Sunday. It's a beautiful Sunday. I have the opportunity today to spend time with family. It's going to be a good day.

For so many men, women and children around the world, though, their options aren't anywhere near as vast as mine and that gnaws at me. Every time I am able to enjoy a gift from God, I think of those who do not have that choice and it bothers me to no end.

That's why I do this blog. That's why I donate my time and money. That's why I will continue working for as long as God will allow me, however He wants me to.

A friend of mine told me about this site today. NightLight is an organization that works directly with the women in the bars in Thailand's red light district. In addition to offering the love and hope of Jesus Christ, they offer these women an alternative to working the bars.

They make and sell jewelry.

I have yet to buy a piece to see its quality but the pictures are beautiful. There is one piece in particular that I want so I am going to order it. I'll let you know what I think once I receive it.

In the meantime, head on over and read through the site yourself.

Blessings!

Proverbs 31:8-9

Give It All Away In May

Good Friday, Everyone! First, I have to apologize - my blog has been very quiet for a while. I've been quite sick off and on for the last several months and I just went through another "down" time. I haven't felt like writing. Haven't felt like researching. Just haven't felt...beyond miserable. Hoping I have turned another corner and will be on a straightaway for a bit so I will write more consistently.

I received an email today from the International Justice Mission. I'm going to share the body of it with you here:

This month, drinking great coffee can literally change lives.

During the month of May, Storyville
Coffee is dedicating 100% of its revenue to IJM - up to $1,000,000 - to stop slavery, human trafficking and other forms
of violent oppression.

Simply go to www.STORYVILLE.com,
purchase coffee, receive fresh roasted coffee beans in the mail, brew and enjoy
- or consider a gift of gourmet coffee for Mother's Day or to celebrate
graduations this month.

Storyville is based on the idea that coffee is a ritual that gives us time
to think, create and dream. In dreaming, we remember those who
cannot. Your support can enable victims of modern-day slavery to
dream again and to build new lives.

Spread the word by forwarding this information to a friend.

Warm Regards,

Pamela Livingston
Vice President of Communications
International Justice Mission

If you drink coffee or know someone who does (that should cover everyone), head on over and take a look. 100% of their profits for one month! Let's help them make this the best month they've ever had!

Blessings,

Proverbs 31:8-9