Helpers and Heroes

"Natural disasters and acts of violence bring us out of our small selves and into the world, ready to lend a hand to those in need. This experience is often life-changing for those who are willing to step into the position of helper. We feel more connected to the people we are helping, as well as more connected to humanity in general." 

Solidarity and kindness have been shown all around the world in spite of the difficult and painful times. Being witnesses of this kind of gestures motivate us to make the world better by coming to the rescue of all those in need- at least, those we can. 

Covid 19 has changed our world and it has made us respond to this more immediately than to ongoing problems like homelssness, poverty or regugees. Unfortunately, there is always someone in need in spite of our efforts and we feel we cannot help them all - which, to be honest- often makes me feel a bit discouraged. 

Yet, from what I read in the article I am adapting in this post, I feel better thinking that there are lots of people out there, everyday heroes, who devote their lives to alleviate suffering and we need to draw our attention to them so as to inspire other people to do this kind of work. 

I believe we, as teachers, should start making these heroes visible to the children and teenagers we teach to motivate them to follow their steps and to become more involved into what is going on in their communities. Reading about their sports figures and favourite actors will be something they will voluntarily do but if we teachers do not show them the acts of these everyday -and sadly unknown heroes- our students will miss the chance to imitate them.

 Adapted from The Daily Om

 

Father Albino, from one of the most Corona-virus affected communities in Lima,Peru collecting donations some of our friends provided... in spite of having suffered from the infection himself and still not fully recovered.