On March 14th, Just One held a feeding in the slum area of Chowka Ghat, serving a simple meal of vegetables and fried bread to 260 children. In India, space is scarce and precious so those of extremely low-income often live in the unlikeliest of places. Chowka Ghat is one of these places. The people are illegally occupying a space just next to the train tracks and in the rainy season the water fills their living area. Despite very loud trains and occasionally flooded homes, a community has grown here.
When I’m with the community, I don’t notice the trains or the small space. Instead I feel a peace and tranquillity of acceptance from the people.
When I’m with the community, I don’t notice the trains or the small space. Instead I feel a peace and tranquillity of acceptance from the people.
As we feed them their food, the process is effortless. The kids come and quietly eat their meals, the larger kids making sure their siblings eat. Areas are designated clearly for hand-wash, and everyone actually puts their trash away. When they are done, they go and play, climbing trees or combing each other’s hair. The way they conduct themselves is very natural and free, with a beauty that is not affected by their outer environment.
As I am sitting after the feeding, I realize that, despite all of the adverse conditions, this community is truly a community – supporting and caring for one another. To be able to join with them, to help them in their physical needs, is truly a gift, and in this way we are serving each other.
As I am sitting after the feeding, I realize that, despite all of the adverse conditions, this community is truly a community – supporting and caring for one another. To be able to join with them, to help them in their physical needs, is truly a gift, and in this way we are serving each other.
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