Let's do our bit

 “History will judge us by the difference we make in everyday lives of children”

                                                                                                               Nelson Mandela  

I love telling stories and spending time with kids. Their energy is infectious, and they bring joy to the heart. In the words of Angela Schwint, “while we teach our children all about life, they teach us what life is all about”.

Last month, I jumped at the opportunity to meet and interact with Hamari Kaksha students. I offered to volunteer for story telling sessions with the kids and fortunately, was allowed time by Hamari Kaksha management.

On Day 1, after a long day at office, was quite tired and was wondering if I had the energy to tell stories to these small kids. However, the moment I entered the school and was greeted by these little angels of my class - all my fatigue vanished, and my heart started brimming with joy and enthusiasm. The joyful 7-8-year olds were so happy to hear that I have come to tell stories. Told them tales galore, talked with them, listened to their stories, rhymes and poems, and played some games. It was so heart-warming to meet these joyful souls, smiling and seeking. They all wanted to listen and learn. They come from economically weaker backgrounds and Hamari Kaksha holds evening classes for these kids to help them with their studies. The NGO is doing wonderful work and I am so glad that Parexel supports Hamari Kaksha with the initiative.

I took another session with the kids, the next day. In addition to a long story, which we all enacted together, we did an art activity and painted “lady bugs” on pebbles. The kids were overjoyed to participate in the enactment, each one wanted to have a part and they were all so excited to hold the paintbrush as we painted the lady bugs (I call StoryBeetles) together. It was really satisfying for me to work with these talented little champs, each one so unique and special.

These kids have limited means, but seeking and talent is the same, if given a proper education and opportunity, they can do wonders in their life. More than we can teach them, they can teach us the true meaning and joy of life. This encounter with the hamari kaksha kids has inspired me to volunteer more often and do activities with the NGO and do my bit.

 What about you?