Seven unforgettable days that changed my life forever.
Aug 2023
(The following are extracts from the memories of last year's visit to India by one of our sponsor parents, Kate. There is a link to the complete article at the bottom. Our next visit will be in November 2023.)
Our welcome reception in Manvi by the students at Loyola College, the Xavier school children, the Jesuit Fathers, sisters and all the teachers was extraordinary. There was so much celebration, clapping and joy to see us, especially Dinah, whose charity has helped give them all an educational lifeline.
The sea of smiles never stopped the entire week - we were always welcome with open arms and huge hearts.
It was such a privilege for me to meet 11-year-old Pooja and her sisters in their family home. She was understandably very shy at first and spoke very little but never have the words “thank you, thank you” meant so much.
It was so inspiring to hear Nobleraj talk about his experience after he travelled hours across India to come and see Dinah and show his gratitude. His parents invited us all into their simple home. His mother cooked us an incredible lunch and the whole family gathered to thank us all for coming to India. As they kept shaking our hands and warmly embracing us, Nobleraj said:
“Please keep coming back.”
It was very hard to say goodbye to this extraordinary community, so rich in kindness, generosity and love.
We saw first-hand how, if Dalit children are given the chance to be educated, they can flourish and grow, both physically and mentally. Their laughter, beautiful smiles, spirit and determination, in spite of all the problems they face, will live long in my memory.
