Written by: Barbara Burke
12/10/2009 9:42 PM 

All of the children have returned to their homes for their end of the year break. Hopefully all of our families can enjoy their time together, without overwhelming concern and anxiety regarding nourishment and health. It is hard for me to imagine what it is like being a parent with such vital concerns for my children.  And the reason for that is because I have had the simple good fortune of being born into a society and country with incredible natural resources and a democratic system of governance that tries to be fair and equitable....simple good fortune...which automatically provides advantages where food, clothing and shelter are concerned.

Today I had the chance to attend a luncheon where the guest speaker was Nicholas Kristof, op-ed columnist for The New York Times and pulitzer prize winning author. He addressed what he sees as the challenge of the 21st Century and one of the root causes of poverty and hopelessness in many parts of our world: gender inequality.  A significant manifestation of that inequality is seen in the unavailablity of a basic education to many girls and women the world over. He highlighted many countries where girls are not only 'second class citizens,' but where many are married off when they are perhaps 13 years old, some are abused and some even sold into slavery. His presentation, which was based on his own very substantial investigative reporting, was shocking and even discouraging. However, his call to action was uplifting and inspiring because he also shared stories of individuals who, often by simply receiving an education, overcame their dreadful circumstances and went on to lead productive, engaged lives.  He encouraged his audience to appreciate their own incredible good fortune and asked that we ask ourselves, given the many privileges that we enjoy [and often take for granted], "What is our responsibility to those people who weren't born into the stability and bountiful circumstances that we were?"  Naturally, I kept thinking of the people that I have met through Fr. Symon and the significant deprivation...food, shelter, and education...that can afflict many in Maasai land.  Then, as my thoughts proceeded, I was heartened at the recollection of the many Friends who have helped those struggling, by supporting the Jubilee School.  Mr. Kristof acknowledged that the problems he called our attention to were certainly overwhelming on a global scale, but were also problems that we, as individuals could still do something about...and that it was just a matter of deciding where to focus one's energy. Again, his words were a powerful validation of all that you, the wonderful benefactors of the Jubilee School and readers of this blog have already begun to address. Doesn't that make you feel good?  As Mr. Kristof pointed out, finding meaningful and positive ways to improve our world and pursue the greater good has enormous personal rewards and fulfillment for absolutely anyone who tries.  It was a wonderful address and he is an extraordinary champion of education for the impoverished, often female populations the world over.

Lastly, I just want to mention Fr. Symon's continued resourcefulness.  While the children are on break, Fr. Symon has rented the classrooms and dormitories at the Jubilee School for a two week teacher training seminar.  Given our wonderful facilities, the opportunity to generate income from the seminar was just right.  Gideon remains on the premises to be sure all's well...and, all is well!

Thanks for bearing with me on this 'less specific' post.

Salaams.

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