-Dr. Buddhi Malla.
For the past two decades, I have been actively engaged in various social endeavors, aiming to create a meaningful difference in the lives of the underprivileged. These years have been filled with heartening experiences and an unyielding dedication to serving others. One particular instance during my tenure with the Lions Club stands out as a testament to the collective strength of compassion in action.
On a brisk winter morning, our Lions Club set out with an array of school supplies, eager to distribute them among local students. Upon arrival, we were greeted with warmth and gratitude from both students and teachers alike. Their faces illuminated with joy upon receiving the supplies, reminding us of the simplicity of bringing happiness into their lives.
Yet, amongst this joy, the harsh reality of their daily struggles surfaced. The students, covered in thin clothing, endured the bitter cold while we, in our warm attire, couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of empathy. It was a poignant moment, highlighting the stark inequality between our comfort and their hardships.
Inside the classrooms, the absence of proper seating was striking. Students had no choice but to sit on the cold, hard floor to study—a circumstance that left me pondering the resilience of these young minds in the face of such adversity.
Following the distribution, our club members gathered with a renewed determination to effect change. We resolved to sponsor the construction of 22 benches (One bench from each memebers) for the school—an endeavor aimed at enhancing the educational environment for these students. We firmly believed that education is a fundamental right, and providing basic infrastructure, such as benches, was essential to uphold this right.
Sponsoring the benches became a labor of love, involving coordination with local carpenters to ensure their durability and comfort. When the day arrived to unveil the benches, the smiles on the students’ faces were priceless—a testament to the positive impact of our collective efforts on their educational experience.
This event marked a turning point for our Lions Club, inspiring us to embark on a mission to support underprivileged students in our community. Over the years, we have undertaken various initiatives, including providing scholarships to deserving students, enabling them to pursue their education without financial constraints.
Witnessing the transformation that education brings has been immensely gratifying. These students have gone on to achieve remarkable success, underscoring the ripple effect of our social work.
I consider myself fortunate to have been involved in several impactful social endeavors. Among these, two notable activities stand out: the establishment of the mushroom project and the organization of a free eye camp.
The mushroom project became a signature initiative of our club, earning recognition throughout our district. We provided training to local individuals who were disadvantaged, empowering them to begin cultivating mushrooms. Additionally, we utilized the income generated from the project to establish a scholarship fund.
Another significant undertaking was the free eye camp. Over 500 villagers participated in this event, during which we facilitated eye operations for 29 individuals in need. Following the successful surgeries, both the patients and our members were moved to tears, though these tears were tears of joy. The blessings and gratitude expressed by the patients left us deeply touched and emotional.
Participating in these initiatives fills me with immense pride and reinforces the belief that life’s greatest fulfillment lies in helping others. The journey of social work has taught me that individual actions, no matter how small, can effect change. Our Lions Club’s progression from distributing stationery to offering scholarship programs is a testament to this truth.
In the mosaic of life, acts of kindness and compassion shine the brightest, reminding us of humanity’s inherent goodness. As I reflect on two decades of social work, I am grateful for the opportunities to make a positive impact and reaffirm my commitment to this noble endeavor.
Moving forward, I am dedicated to continuing this journey. While challenges may abound, I am prepared to take the next step with unwavering determination and compassion. Social work is not merely a responsibility; it is a privilege—one that I am proud to embrace. Together, through acts of kindness, we can create a better, more equitable world, one step at a time.
-Author Dr. Malla is a Banker
