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| This sign hangs in the window of our home here |
This week the father of one of our students tried to trade her for a bag of sugar and a cell phone- to a man who came looking for a wife. She is 19, the man is 46, he already has multiple wives.
She is scared and strong, persuaded and steadfast.
Seeking to protect herself, she is staying in another home for a few days. She shows up with one small bag containing a few items of clothing that make up all the possessions she owns. Security and comfort don't exist. Later that day we lay in the grass together. She cries softly about mistakes, about fear, about the devaluation that she feels.
I relate to some of these feelings, but I dont know how to relate to being traded for sugar.
It happens all the time. And it is what we are trying to fight against everyday. If you provide these young women
-who are no different than you and me-
with an education, you provide them with an opportunity for another way.
Girls.
Value them. Give them hope. Give them power. It is already within them. It only takes a little empowerment to help girls see it for themselves. Once they see it, the world becomes a more beautiful place.
I will say it again and again, if you empower a girl, you empower the world.
I am humbled, time and time again by the strength of these women.
4 comments:
I love that sign! Awesome.
I cannot even begin to fathom the fear and sadness she is facing to be devalued so.
thank you for telling this story Quinn. Let's hope that someday there are no stories like this to tell. You have really helped to turn the tide during your time there. The girls will remember the validation you've given them and move forward with it, I really believe that!
What a story, Quinn. I can imagine you have made all the difference to these girls, and that you will be deeply missed. Welcome home! Paige
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