Part-time Columnist

Dallas Morning News Column, December 25, 2004

Do you believe in angels?: They exist, and today we herald a few of Collin County's most generous souls
11:18 AM CST on Saturday, December 25, 2004

We asked our Voices of Collin County volunteers and the readers who sign up for our weekly Sounding Off mailing list to identify the angels among us. On Christmas Day, the height of the giving season, it seems right to shine the spotlight on those people who give of themselves year-round to make their community a better place. These are the people – excuse us, the "angels" – our readers chose to thank for their gift of community service.

Asha Ghate

Asha Ghate is the soul, spirit and the president of the Chinmaya Mission in Dallas. Her yeoman service both in terms of time and money has made a significant difference to the immigrant Indian community in the metroplex.

Religion is a great social adhesive and throughout American history has provided immigrants' comfort, solace and a home as they adjust to the new milieu. Mrs. Ghate recognized this and over a period of 15 years galvanized the community to contribute and participate in creating a mission to educate the immigrant adults and tutor their children in the books and teachings of the Hindu religion. The mission has grown to over 300 families who, together with their children, attend weekly services in a new building in North Dallas.

The teachings revolve around the concept of dharma – "duty to society" – and by giving children a strong moral foundation prepare students to become future leaders of this country. Mrs.Ghate is a living example of Gandhian values in action. Her selfless service, spirit of giving, warm demeanor and piety has been an inspiration to the community.

Mahesh Shetty, Richardson

posted by Mahesh Shetty @ 8:58 AM