One School at a time..

"When it is dark enough, you can see the stars"

This is the opening quote of a book that I recently read - "Three Cups of Tea". It is a story of an American mountaineer who goes back to the high mountains of Pakistan with a different objective this time - to build a school. He goes on to build several of them.  It is inspiring to note how one man can make a significant contribution to education, no less female education in this rugged terrain, which is splendidly beautiful in some respects and harsh and brutal in others.

There is a strong semblance here to Thimmakka's story. Greg Mortenson's sole objective on his return from K2 was to keep up his promise to the village head in Baltistan. The village chief had saved his life on his trip back from K2.  Mortenson had promised to build a school for the children of the village. Given his meager income and having to deal with people of a nation very different from his own, building a school was not a simple task. In spite of the numerous obstacles, Mortenson remained determined in his objective and succeeded in building the school. This was just the beginning.  When Mortenson realized the benefit of his work, he focused even more of his effort and resources to spread the cause of education. He defied tribal warlords and butted opponents of female education. He faced kidnappings and life threats.  He faced the hurdles with skill and perseverance. As Tagore says, "Not hammer-strokes, but dance of the water,sings the pebbles into perfection. "

The challenges that have posed themselves to Greg Mortenson have truly tested his belief and commitment to his noble cause. They have also strengthened  him to remain steadfast in his path. Over the last decade, along with his team, he has built over fifty schools in the region. Many children especially young girls have benefited enormously from them. You can find more information here: https://www.ikat.org/

This is yet another story to inspire us to look beyond ourselves and see if can make a difference.