Sita was an elderly retired teacher. She had lost her husband a few months ago.
Her son, along with his family, lived in London.
After recouping and gathering courage, Sita thought of doing something different in life, being a teacher. She had a full-time helper, Rita, who did not have a family. Rita was around thirty-five but was a very kind and loving lady who took good care of Sita. They were good company for each other.
Rita was not educated as she had lost her parents at a very young age. Her aunt brought her up, but she had three kids and was not well-off. So Rita worked in a few houses to help her aunt. She even took care of her cousins.
Rita had loved a boy when she was around twenty, but it did not work out as he turned out to be a drunkard, and so she left him. Since then, she had been with Sita, whom she met in the park one day.
While both were discussing the women in the nearby basti and watching the home helpers in the society working hard for their families, a sudden thought came into Sita’s mind.
“Why not educate these women to at least read and write the basics?”
Initiative Steps
Sita asked Rita to talk to those women and bring them to meet her. She had a big flat where she could teach them freely.
Rita spoke to the women, and two of them were ready to meet Sita. Sita welcomed them gladly and explained the value of education. There is no age to learn anything in life. If they could read, write, and sign their names, it would be a great help to them.
Sita bought a hanging blackboard and chalk pieces.
Those two women adjusted their working hours and started coming to study. They, in turn, spread the word to more women.
Within a month, around twenty women came to learn. Some were quick to understand and learned faster. Seeing their satisfied faces made Sita very happy. Rita also studied along with them.
Sita helped them open bank accounts. The government provided them with a monthly amount, which was a great help. The women could now handle their bank work and keep track of their money.
As more women joined, Sita had to take two batches. She taught them to be empowered, stay strong, and face life boldly. Many women began handling their drunkard husbands themselves. Their children grew up well, and the women gained confidence.
This simple idea turned into creative thinking that empowered many needy women.
Sita connected with an NGO friend, and they arranged a bigger place near her house to accommodate more women. She could also appoint two more teachers.
What a wonderful way to spend her time purposefully and feel contented in life.
She thanked God and prayed for good health.
The women were happy. Some ladies from her society offered to teach them tailoring, handicrafts, and cooking different dishes. The women could choose any skill of interest and use it as a source of income.
It was a meaningful initiative with a purpose in life. Everyone appreciated Sita, and she felt happy to have started such noble work.
Image Courtesy: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File%3AWomen%27s_literacy_class_by_CHETNA%2C_India_2008.jpg
If this story touched your heart, do share your thoughts in the comments below — your words matter.
– Poornima Sivaraman
Poornima Sivaraman, a vibrant 75-year-young retired teacher, embodies a love for life and creativity. With a passion for connecting with people of all ages, she channels her energy into writing across various platforms, contributing to anthologies, and sharing her unique perspectives with readers.
Beyond her literary pursuits, Poornima enjoys singing and has recorded numerous songs on Star Maker, showcasing her melodious voice. A culinary enthusiast, she finds joy in cooking and believes in living a simple, meaningful life. Dedicated to helping others whenever possible, Poornima is a true advocate of kindness and positivity.
