saturday morning news

I am extremely inspired and somewhat comforted by several news articles that I read today.

One surrounded a teenage girl who is running a clandestine library from her locker because her school has banned books such as Animal Farm and The Catcher in the Rye. Her pureness of heart and reason for action was so inspiring to read. She plainly believes that everyone should have access to books and the ability to read. The simplicity in her belief is what makes it so strong and although she may be too young to understand, she is, now, an advocate for freedom and an enemy of censorship. I dig it. Read it HERE

I also read the story of Masika, a woman in the Congo who is running a shelter for women who have been raped and brutalized by local militiamen. It is clear to see that this woman has suffered from the worst violences a human can commit and yet, her hope in the work she is doing remains steadfast and strong. She is a beacon of hope for all women who suffer in the Congo. Regardless of her own pain, her own hardships, her own tears, she continues to believe in her calling to serve others. It is a reminder to me that I must use my privilege in order to benefit others as well. Who am I to sit here and do nothing when I have not suffered even a small fraction of what Masika has suffered and she is doing more to better the people and world around her?

Lastly, I read that Angelina Jolie was present at the Thomas Lubanga trial as a 'concerned citizen.' She spoke to many former child soldiers and expressed her disbelief at the fact that the world has not done more to aid children that have been kidnapped and forced to fight. I am comforted by her presence at this trial. It shows that there are celebrities using their status to learn more about the world in order to better it.

These stories continue to prove that there are superheroes out there. There are women of all different backgrounds, histories and ages working to positively change the world and I have no doubt in my mind that they will do just that.

My heart is absolutely uplifted and continues to fill with the hope that this world is being directed towards a more positive and loving direction.