Posted to Sister Zeph’s Journal
By Sister Zeph
On 02 April, 2014
As in many parts of the world, spring has arrived in Pakistan, bringing with it delightful weather. The trees are beginning to regain their vibrant green foliage, a sight that evokes the feeling of rejuvenation in old age or the recovery of health in the sick. The plants are adorned with beautiful flowers, displaying a kaleidoscope of colors in my surroundings. Girls are donning clothes in captivating shades, the colors of spring, inner happiness, beauty, and new hope.
Yesterday, during my journey home from the office in an open rickshaw, an unexpected rain shower graced us. For those of us who had been dreading the onset of summer, it felt like an unexpected gift from the spring season. I observed countless smiling faces, children joyfully playing on the streets, and women traveling about. Amidst this picturesque scene, I noticed Aniqa, a five-year-old girl playing near the main road, through which my rickshaw was passing. She was in the company of other children, all of them reveling in the beautiful weather. Aniqa happens to be one of my students and commutes approximately one kilometer each day to attend my academy.
When she caught sight of me, her face lit up with sheer delight. She began jumping, clapping, and laughing with infectious joy, proudly telling her friends, “Look, she is Sister Jef (Zeph), she loves me so much, she is my teacher.” The happiness radiating from her innocent face deeply touched my heart, and her image has stayed with me even as I sit in my office today. I couldn’t help but reflect on the profound impact of such recognition and love, particularly from an angel like Aniqa.
I have been unwell lately, with my doctor advising me to rest more due to a lack of sufficient sleep, which has resulted in severe shoulder pain. However, today, I feel better, thanks to the love and happiness I received from Aniqa. This is the reward for all my hard work, the gift born of my efforts in the pursuit of girls’ education and empowerment. It is a kind of love and recognition that cannot be acquired with money but is invaluable beyond measure.