The village thrives on kindness

I was a struggling single mother with several chronic illnesses. My children often had friends over and, even though I couldn’t afford it, I made extra food or gave out smaller portions when my kids’ friends’ parents ran late and there were extra children in my house at dinnertime.

Those days were so hard. I used to fall asleep in my clothes, just collapsed on the bed and fell asleep. I was poor, scared, exhausted, and chronically ill. But I wanted my door to always be open for my children’s friends. I hoped to give them a good childhood, regardless of my struggles. I fought hard to keep my house. I couldn’t afford it, but it was their home. I wanted them to learn that they’re an important part of society and their character matters. I am most proud of those days because I never thought I’d live through them.

The village thrives on kindness. It’s the only way.