Naris
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Grace of a Change of Hearts - 30/04/2007 21:09
(Written by: Naris Manikhao
Translated by: Moo-Ob)
I live a pretty comfortable life in Bangkok, Jo said, This was my first experience living in a rural village. However, as a representative of the younger generation, I felt that the camp presented me with the chance to prove my worth. I spent my days helping an elderly village lady whom I called grandmother dig up sweet potatoes and pick tomatoes from early morning until evening. On the eve of our return to Bangkok as I was helping the grandmother cook supper, I dropped a bowl of curry and it spilt all over the floor. Remembering that I had with me this really old shirt that I had long wanted to turn into a rag, I reached for it in my rucksack and casually ripped it apart. The grandmother looked shocked as if shes seen a ghost. At first I didnt understand why, and started cleaning up the mess on the floor. However, something nudged inside my heart and then my head. I shot a glance at grandmother. It was at that instant that the full realization of the terrible thing I did hit me. The blouse the grandmother had on was even more worn-out than the shirt-turned-rag in my hand. I felt a pang of guilt. I promised myself there and then that I would always be thankful for every little blessing in my life and that I would live simply and shrewdly, and that I would give more of myself to help others, especially those in need.
I asked the villagers to teach me how to weave the traditional cloth on a hand loom, Noi said, I would spend the entire day weaving and also learnt how to replenish the weft thread in the shuttle. The thread got tangled up several times, and we all helped untangle the knots. However, no matter how hard I tried, there was this one last knot that was impossible to untangle without using scissors. So, I thought it best to ask for a pair of scissors, which gave everyone around me the shock of their life. I was told that scissors were not allowed and that the knot had to be untangled at all cost. Normally, if someone couldnt manage it on her own the rest of the gang would pitch in to help until, one by one, all the knots are untied. They were right, of course, because the problem was eventually straightened out. This incident provided a lens through which I could reflect on my own life. I tend to run away from problems that need to be faced rather than avoided. So, I told myself that it was about time I tried a change in attitude towards life. It may be hard, it may take time, but I should never quit. Whenever I feel overwhelmed I can always reach out for a helping hand - I dont have to face it all alone.
I hope that these true stories will help you, my young readers, understand the giving of positive notes in life while offering a few glimpses of life among the villagers. Many student volunteers have told me that they have been richly rewarded by knowing and spending time with the villagers who have changed their lives forever. However, for a matter of two or three days to have a real meaning, we have to open our hearts and reach out to the villagers
we have to let them help broaden our horizons
we have to sincerely appreciate and value their wisdom
we have to dispel the notion that the villagers are poor, uneducated and uncivilized, and that we are much better than they are.
My deepest wish is that life will give you the chance to experience the best of people and let others bring out the best in you, including that you will share heartwarming or magical experiences with others. One thing we should realize is that no matter how insignificant we think what we are doing is, it has an impact on someones life, and that the task we all have, young and old alike, is to help each other make this world a better place.
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