Initially, I wasn't really into this whole SOLS thing. I was just tagging along to support the husband's interest. But after meeting with the founders, I must say I totally respect them and what they are doing. It's a noble cause and not something anyone could or would want to do. These people packed up everything and left the life they knew to move to a country which was unstable, unsafe and underdeveloped to help the people have a chance at living a better life. I don't think I have the guts to do such a thing. Leaving all that was familiar to me to go help others. Sadly, I'm not that selfless.
But these people are and they are so humble about it. There isn't a tinge of pride in their voices as they talk about what they're doing and what they have done. Now that's humility. Mr. Mandejit, told us his story and how SOLS came about in a very matter-of-factly way as if it's what anyone would've done.
It isn't. It takes a special kind of someone to do what he did. I'm in awe.
To make things even better is that his sons are equally invested in SOLS too. Guess the apple doesn't fall far from the tree. Is compassion hereditary? I suppose it is.
Mr. Mandejit is also a great motivational speaker. He's been doing it all his life that even in normal conversation he manages to motivate you. It's his second nature.
His outlook on life is very insightful and makes a whole lot of sense. I didn't find myself bored at all when I was listening to him and our meeting was 3 and 1/2 hours long.
I am glad I decided to follow the husband out that morning and I hope I'll be able to do my bit to help SOLS in their mission. I was thinking to myself that I wouldn't mind attending their 2 yr program to train volunteers if I didn't have the bug to take care of. Alas, I cannot shirk my duties as a mother to help others. So, I'll try to help out other ways I can.
SOLS is planning on opening a center in Malacca to help the underprivileged youths of Malaysia shape a future for themselves. We visited the site where the new school will be.
We should be proud of the fact that a Malaysian based organization is helping kids around the globe to have a better future. There is hope yet for the human race, with people like them around.
If you're interested in helping out, do visit the link at the beginning of this post to check out their site. Since they're starting the new school soon, they are in need of supplies to get the school up and running. Any help would be appreciated. Incase you are wondering, SOLS is not a religious organization and does not preach any sort of religion in their schools.
To close, here's a photo of the husband, me, some friends and Mr. Mandejit and family in front of their residence.
4 comments:
i know that dude in the yellow shirt!
how did aznin know about them?
Indeed you know Beng Chung. I knew about them through Mable.
he's from your temple right?
obc has been / is active in many buddhist societies and activities as well as other charitable organisations so it is almost impossible not to know him. dude with an immensely big heart.
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