Friday, March 24, 2006

THE TRUE VALUE OF LIFE: CULTIVATING HOPE IN AN ATMOSPHERE OF DESPAIR

By: Nasir
The true value in life is cultivating hope in an atmosphere of despair. You look to me with a glimmer of hope, and I in turn up hold a facade, as deep inside I know…I know that you lost your father to AIDS…I know that your mother is stigmatized in the community and unable to secure employment…I know that you missed breakfast and only had bread for lunch…I know your older sister is engaged in prostitution to secure food, clothing, shelter, and a means to escape reality…I know you cannot afford the cost of school fees, a uniform, and school supplies…I know when you play with other kids their parents drill them to stay away from you…I know your sister crossed the Red Sea to be a servant…I know you had a funeral for your mother as she lost her fight with AIDS…

The true value in life is cultivating hope in an atmosphere of despair.

Yet it’s the tedious process of cultivation that creates despair.

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

i enjoyed your presentation at columbia university this week. your dedication to this cause is clear and your passion is inspiring. thank you for sharing your stories with us.