A willing nurse feels unwelcomed

A willing nurse feels unwelcomed

My dear brothers and sisters, I am a registered nurse with
many years of general nursing and intensive care experience who
was in the process of volunteering services for three to four
months in Aceh.

I felt compelled to help the people of my birth country, but I
am afraid that the decision by our military commanders and,
therefore, our government will not make my desire to serve our
countrymen and women realistic.

It is with great regret that I may cancel my trip back to
Indonesia. Since I am now a citizen of the United States, I do
not feel welcomed by our government. What a sad state of affairs
it has become where my people are afraid of outsiders willing to
help at a time of their greatest need.

The people of America have deployed soldiers, sailors and
airmen to assist in the rehabilitation of areas damaged in the
tsunami disaster. God willing, the people that are affected will
find peace and happiness soon. However, without rehabilitation
and medical assistance we should not expect miracles sooner than
from many years to come.

God willing, the government will overturn the decision made
regarding the relocation of foreign aid workers and welcome them
to rebuild roads, schools, places of worship and houses.

It is time to lay down arms and talk with those who mistrust
our government and help the Acehnese to understand that
independence without resources is very difficult indeed.

PIERRE DE CALONNE

Fort Wayne, USA