Alex wrote:Given the choice between supporting an orphanage that teaches children "Christian values" and one that doesn't, I'd choose the latter. Just my personal decision, I hated every minute of religious "education" I got in my youth and I just can't stand God botherers.

Are you bothered by children being taught ‘Buddhist values’? Every Wat takes children in and gives religious education. The entire nation of Cambodia has religion as one of it’s pillars of society, it’s required study at school and both Buddhist and Hindu teachings adorn the walls of many murals. I can’t recall anyone on CEO applying the same vitriol reserved for Christianity.

Religion can be a good thing. It gives hope to those with no hope, strength to those who have none, and turns the cruel and wicked into kind and generous.

Just like everything else, it can be abused.

My opinions, of course.

newkidontheblock wrote: ↑Mon Aug 14, 2023 10:05 pm

Alex wrote:Given the choice between supporting an orphanage that teaches children "Christian values" and one that doesn't, I'd choose the latter. Just my personal decision, I hated every minute of religious "education" I got in my youth and I just can't stand God botherers.

Are you bothered by children being taught ‘Buddhist values’? Every Wat takes children in and gives religious education. The entire nation of Cambodia has religion as one of it’s pillars of society, it’s required study at school and both Buddhist and Hindu teachings adorn the walls of many murals. I can’t recall anyone on CEO applying the same vitriol reserved for Christianity.

Who knows what would have happened if it had been Buddhist monks who had bored and annoyed the shit out of me when I was young. However, it wasn't them, so no such vitriol towards them from me.

newkidontheblock wrote: ↑Mon Aug 14, 2023 10:05 pm Religion can be a good thing. It gives hope to those with no hope, strength to those who have none, and turns the cruel and wicked into kind and generous.

As far as I'm concerned, that's fairytale territory. Just my opinion of course, believe whatever works for you or helps you by all means.

Alex wrote: ↑Mon Aug 14, 2023 11:07 pm As far as I'm concerned, that's fairytale territory. Just my opinion of course, believe whatever works for you or helps you by all means.

Sure, but considering that most of the world's population are superstitious dumb-fuck hicks it's probably a good idea to give them some guidance.

Orphanage director raises $40K with 350km run
Kim Sarom | Publication date 27 August 2023 | 21:51 ICT
Phorn Phalla’s eight-day run from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh spanned an impressive 350km. His determination wasn’t just for the thrill of the challenge, but to raise funds for the children at Branch Centre, an orphanage that cares for kids rescued from broken homes.

By the end of his journey, he’d amassed more than $40,000, ensuring 157 children without parental care would receive food and education.

Starting on July 30 and crossing the finish line on August 6, Phalla’s journey took him through a tapestry of Cambodian landscapes.

“Truthfully, my run itself is not what stands out. My focus is wholly on the 157 children who desperately need daily sustenance and education,” Phalla conveyed.

As director of the Branch Centre, locate at Phum Lech Wat in Phnom Penh’s Kambol commune and district, Phalla’s dedication extends beyond just his title.

He shared with The Post that his mission as director is to raise funds for children at the centre, who are in alternative care under his supervision.

Phalla remembered his run from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh.

As he passed through different areas, he was touched to see people on the side of the road waiting to greet him.

Their unexpected enthusiasm for his humanitarian effort greatly encouraged him, fueling his determination to reach his goal.

During the run, Phalla and his team had the intention of sleeping outdoors. To freshen up, they relied on the generosity of local villagers, often asking them for water to bathe.

This act itself, symbolic of the larger communal spirit, played a part in the journey.

Though the substantial sum of $40,000 has been raised, Phalla emphasises it only covers around 70 per cent of the annual food expenses for the children.

The figure, while seems substantial, still falls short. Every day, the facility uses up 47kg of rice for meals and allocates nearly 1 million riel ($250) for rice, vegetables, fish and meat.

“For me, it wasn’t about the run’s personal achievement. It was about securing a future for the 157 children under my care. They require not just food but a community’s support,” Phalla explained.

Today, the centre shelters 157 children, among them 24 infants who are being breastfed.

These infants and toddlers, predominantly boys, range in age from just four months to two years. The facility boasts a team of 15 caregivers for the infants and has an overall staff of 32.

Notably, 32 of the older children are pursuing university education, with Phalla having found benevolent sponsors for each.
https://www.phnompenhpost.com/national/ ... -350km-run

^^ That's an impressive achievement.