The first month of the year is already behind us…February is here and despite being the shortest month it brings lots of opportunities to make new friends and find new endeavors to get ourselves immersed in. It is after all, the month that drives away the cheerlessness of winter and fosters love in everyone’s heart! So, to begin with we wish all our members a very Happy Valentine’s Day! This month is special and so we decided to make our issue unique too! Our Cover Page features the compelling all-woman percussion ensemble—The Batala Drummers! This amazing group has brought the spirit of tempo and rhythm to many a WBFN event. They are featured first in this month’s Focus on Issues, an exceptional potpourri of articles on interesting and exciting activities that some of our members pursue. Many of our members like you and me have moved to many different places and have often found themselves unable to pursue their career or hobby in a new place. But, we bring you stories of a bunch of highly motivated members who have moved beyond barriers and obstacles that drag down a person in a new milieu! Do read the encouraging article on how some of our members have survived transition obstacles to pursue their passion or get involved in activities that have brought them happiness. Our series on Volunteering and what it means to you…continues. This issue we bring you a feature from Henry Kerali on his interesting volunteering experience at the Book Project. Be sure to read all these articles in our newsletter but also please pay us a visit at the WBFN office. Remember that WBFN fosters an atmosphere of love and hope that enhances friendship as well as camaraderie among all who volunteer here. Everyday there is a lonely someone who walks through these doors and walks out with a smile having made a friend! It is the place to share joys and concerns. Make sure you become a part of this inspiring family network.

Vidya Rangan