Never have I ever felt this Grateful

Jigisha Thusoo
Two years ago, I made a decision that I never thought would come full circle in such a meaningful way. I decided to fund someone’s education using the money I had saved. It wasn’t a grand plan-it was a quiet act of kindness, a simple gesture from one human to another.
My mother had introduced me to a girl named (Parveen) name changed from a government school in Bathindi. That year, she ( My Mom) was invited as the chief guest at the school’s annual function, and Parveen performed an act. My mother was deeply moved by her potential. I didn’t think too much of it at the time, but something about that encounter stayed with me.
Moved by her story, I offered to fund her education. I didn’t expect anything in return.Today, something happened that I’ll never forget. I received a call from an unknown number. I ignored it at first, but then a message popped up on WhatsApp:
“Good morning ma’am, this is Parveen.” In that instant, I felt a rush of emotion. I immediately asked my mom to call her back. And when she did, my heart wasn’t ready for what came next.
“Good morning ma’am, I’m Parveen… from XYZ Government School,” she said, her voice full of warmth and a quiet strength. “Ma’am, I want to ask you something-thodi help chahiye.”
My mother gently replied, “Haan beta, bolo.” Parveen took a breath and continued, “Ma’am, I’ve passed my 10th grade… Could you please support my 11th-grade fees as well?”
That moment cracked something open in me. Tears rolled down my cheeks. How rare is it to see such passion, such hunger to learn, from someone who has every reason to give up?
Then, almost apologetically, she added, “Ma’am, I’ll also need some second or third-hand books… but they’ll still cost a little money.”She was so humble. So sweet. So determined.
Her voice didn’t beg-it inspired.
May God bless her.
Her dedication? Unmatched. Her sincerity? Unshakable.
Today, I feel lucky-lucky to be in a position to help someone like her. And she’s lucky too, because when someone is meant to study, the universe truly aligns to help them.
This year, I’m in 10th grade myself. And yet, I’ve never felt this grateful-not just to my mother for raising me with compassion, but to fate itself.
There are so many students who take their education for granted-who forget the sacrifices their parents make just to keep them in school. And then there’s Parveen. Imagine how brave she had to be-first to convince her parents, then to gather the courage to call me.This wasn’t just a phone call It was a reminder. That when we give with an open heart, life always finds a way to return the light. She reminded me of something we often forget:
Education isn’t just about books. It’s about courage. About believing in yourself when no one else does. About showing up, even when life gives you a thousand reasons not to. Sometimes we think we need to be rich or powerful to make a difference. But all it really takes is kindness. A willingness to act when your heart nudges you. And let me tell you-this wasn’t a life-changing donation. It wasn’t a massive amount. But to her, it meant hope. To me, it became purpose.Today, when I sat with my own books and started revising for my boards, I realized something profound. I’ve been blessed with resources, family support, and a roof over my head-things Parveen probably had to fight for. Yet, she’s the one teaching me what it means to value education.
(The author is a Class 10 student studying at Jodhamal Public School, Jammu)

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