Saturday, May 18, 2024
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Shillong Jottings

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The edges of a slab, reportedly constructed as part of Shillong smart city road project, are seen coming off, in the city on Saturday.The situation may be attributed to the substandard quality of raw materials been used for the slab. (Photo by Sanjib Bhattacharjee).

 

To give alms but differently…
You’re strolling in Khyndai Lad, and out of nowhere, destitute children, with their eyes reflecting both hope and despair, appear extending their hands, pleading for assistance.
This SJ team member engaged in a small interaction with them, but also with a question in mind, where are they from? Where are their parents?
Each had a unique narrative, yet all shared a common thread of adversity.
They stretched out their hands, pleading for money, their voices barely audible amidst the urban cacophony.
After being persistently asked money, this SJ team member decided to take a different approach.
Leading them to a nearby food stall, they were offered to buy a meal instead.
Initially hesitant, their faces lit up with gratitude as they eagerly accepted a few samosas for the lot.
Their laughter echoed through the air.
As they walked away, they said in chorus, “Thank you, bhaiya (brother)!”
In that fleeting moment, amidst the hustle and bustle of the city, kindness prevailed, bridging the gap between privilege and poverty!
But the question remains, where do these pint-sized paupers hail from and where are their folks?

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