Oprah in South Africa

I caught the screening of Oprah's show today. It was the issue on the work that she and some other people such as Brad Pitt and Alicia Keys, have done in South Africa.

The mention of South Africa probably brings the thoughts of Aids and poverty to mind. In my mind, I think of many little children who are malnourished, poor and abused.

With Oprah's influence and clout, she brought the donations of the Americans and people from other parts of the world into South Africa. Oprah bought uniforms for the children so that they could go to school. Oprah paid the salaries of the teachers for the next three years so that they could keep on teaching in schools made out from shipping containers. Oprah bought books for the children so that they each have a storybook of their own. Oprah brought them undergarments because they cannot even afford them. Even the clothes that they wear are handed down from whoever and mended multiple times. There was a boy who had a pair of pants to go to school. But he has to keep holding on to his pants because his belt is broken and his zip is spoilt. Oprah gave the money to the various homes and institutions that are helping children and adults for different reasons.

It is amazing when you see the looks on the children's faces. A simple book or bag makes them so happy because they do not have access to such priviledges. Seeing someone there to smile to them and give them a hug draws giggles and joy because they are excited to meet people and they are happy to know that someone cares.

When I think about it, I think most of us have access to so many necessities and luxuries that sometimes, we take things for granted.

I wanna teach children about this. I have no idea yet but I want to show them that they are very lucky to have whatever they need in Singapore. Lord, show me the way! Amen.