Today is International
Grandmothers Day. While most of you will read this and reflect on your own, I
believe the purpose of today is to recognize and show our support and
recognition to the many grandmother’s placed in difficult situations. One of my
hero’s, Stephen Lewis, has played an integral role in make sure these
incredibly inspirational ladies are receiving the support and coverage they
deserve.
I remember seeing Mr. Lewis speak
at a function I was attending with my own grandmother. As a young student, I
was bubbling with excitement knowing that I would be sharing the same room with
a man whom I had never met, but had inspired me greatly. Little did I know,
this same night not only was I given the opportunity to meet and speak with Mr.
Lewis, but also have my entire life change. In his speech, he spoke about many
encounters with women raising not their own children, but their grandchildren.
He spoke of their commitment and strength to ensuring these new generations
would succeed, and they did so selflessly. For many, the reason for this
situation was that their children had not survived the very fight against
HIV/AIDS the Mr. Lewis has worked tirelessly to eradicate.
That day was 8 years ago, and
today I am a year away from completing a degree that will be the first big step
towards making a difference in these communities. I think it is unbelievably important
to take a moment and just think about the sacrifice these women are making.
Could you do it if you were put in this same situation? To learn more about the
work of Stephen Lewis, head to the Stephen Lewis Foundation website for information on how
to get involved in the conversation.
Not to take away from such an
importance of the Grandmother’s I have mentioned above, but today also happens
to be National Farmer’s Day. While I don’t plan on go into any great deal here,
I think it is important to note the work these men and women partake in
everyday just to allow you to put food on your table. I took a stab at farming
this past summer and learned how tough the job is. I’m not sure I would ever want
to take it on as an occupation, but I certainly found solitude in the work
involved. I look forward to have a small property of my own in years to come,
with enough space to start a small hobby farm.
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