Page 13 - ECLAT 2023-2024

Once upon a time, there was a girl born into a native and impoverished family. Despite

her humble beginnings, she harbored ambitious dreams that seemed unattainable. The

family's financial struggles were so dire that even selling balloons couldn't provide enough

to survive. Undeterred, she toiled every day, selling multiple balloons along the roadside.

Although people witnessed her efforts, they chose to ignore or misinterpret her situation.

She faced constant hardships in her quest for sustenance. Despite her circumstances,

she had an insatiable love for learning and sought education through unconventional

means. Unable to afford formal schooling, she found solace in an uncle who treated her like

his own child. This uncle, unable to provide monetary support, allowed her to work part-

time and care for his store in exchange for access to books.

One day, she ventured into society to collect scraps. While others laughed at her, she

held her head high, refusing to be shamed. With collected scraps in hand, she encountered

children playing. In a heartwarming gesture, she shared chocolates with them. However,

nearby onlookers, blinded by societal biases, accused her of malicious intent and

mistreating the children due to her impoverished status.

In the midst of the chaos, an elderly man approached, seeking clarification. The girl

explained that her actions stemmed from a genuine love for children and a belief in the

power of education to uplift lives. She highlighted the societal decay, emphasizing that

education should encompass moral values and empathy, not just degrees.

Frustrated by the constant judgment and prejudice, she decided to challenge the

status quo. Moving from home to home, she faced discrimination everywhere. Despite the

adversity, she remained dedicated to her family and continued her self-directed education.

In a society that claimed equality, the reality was starkly different. Rural areas

struggled to access education compared to their urban counterparts. People failed to

recognize the importance of skills, enthusiasm, and mutual respect beyond formal degrees.

The girl realized that societal acceptance needed a fundamental shift.

Her story serves as a powerful reminder that true education extends beyond books

and degrees; it lies in fostering values, empathy, and a genuine understanding of others. The

journey towards a more inclusive and accepting society begins with acknowledging the

worth of every individual, regardless of their background.

May her resilience inspire us all to strive for positive change in our society. Happy

learning, and all the best in your endeavors!

Written by:

Wathore Sumit

CSE (SY)