Ky Kehl’s Asian Effort, Humanitarian Aid & Data Collection

As you’ll recall, I started my global journey 50 days ago with the purpose of researching ancient cultures for the common threads that helped them to be so successful in their time. I hypothesized, as some historians have suggested, that there are always some core community values that allowed them to peacefully function and then to thrive, as they perpetually promoted true character to reach everyone in their population.

During my initial travels within India, I also encountered some of the most impoverished communities on the planet. I have observed that there are still some common character values there that bring people together to survive in contentment under very difficult circumstances. Even in the most abject poverty, I have seen people pull together to compassionately support one another over generations, reflecting their commitment to their entire community. In the West, the Land of Plenty for most, we often lack many of the core values that seem to make their difficult situation not only bearable, but contented and whole. I have witnessed in them a strong sense of community, with respect, fairness, responsibility, trust, and deep caring for one another.

In bearing witness to their experience, and in recognition that winter is coming and these families in the destitute section of Varanasi have no shoes, no coats and no blankets, I am now contributing some of my scarce research expedition funds to procure much-needed shoes, coats and blankets to help get this community get through the winter months in health.

In recognition of these challenges, I am initiating a Go Fund Me effort to raise funds to both continue the research expedition as planned, and also to help purchase these Varanasi support items through vendors who have agreed to sell them at wholesale prices - as they believe helping others brings them good karma. I believe, paraphrasing a popular saying from our own culture, that we must be our brothers’ and sisters’ keepers.

Several of you have told me you would like to donate to these worthy causes, or that you know someone who would. Every donation would be deeply appreciated and used wisely. Importantly, be assured that less than 5 percent of funds raised will be used for any administration costs. 

Thank you for following my unfolding story, and for your support in identifying the ways we can expand our own awareness…and also provide help to those deeply in need.

-Ky