Help. It’s a simple four-lettered word, but it can stand for unlimited, extending, hopeful arms and hands full of love and good will.
We are all human. And indeed, a human cannot live alone, much less isolate him or herself with no opening to others around. And when someone is in dire need of help, it is upon every human to lift the rock of burden up and off this person’s shoulders. Pebble by pebble, no matter how slow, the rock will surely be lifted.
As a young Muslima living in America, I realize how blessed I am to be surrounded with opportunities to extend a helping hand. I am even more grateful to have been presented with this opportunity to fundraise for the building of water pumps to help those in need.
Water is a human necessity. One may live for a few months without food but only a few days without water, further stressing its value.
My experience in fundraising was eventful. With my classmates, I spoke to almost all the classes at my school, College Preparatory School of America (CPSA), to get things done. We emphasized the need for us Americans to limit our outrageous wastefulness and give back to those who are really in need.
Alhamdulillah, with our efforts, our words spread to generous donors even outside of the school. With their help, we raised more than $1,000. This not only made me feel good about helping others, but I also felt a spark in myself. Never before had I realized that I have the ability, even as a young high schooler, to impact my world. This realization has driven me to seek out opportunities to assist those who need it most, for it is not only the needy who need assistance, but also I. The giving in my heart grows, and the understanding of myself blossoms as I trudge on in living to help others.
-Saaniyah Sajed