by Elli Atchison, World Vision
It was recently announced that 17 year old and 2014 Nobel Prize laureate, Malala Yousafzai, will give $50,000 to help rebuild schools in Gaza. This generous donation is the entire award she received from the World’s Children’s Prize.
Malala is a remarkable young woman who is courageous enough to stand up for what she believes in. She proved this when she began speaking out against the Taliban’s efforts to take away the educational opportunities for girls in Pakistan. After giving speeches and posting blogs on all children’s rights to an education, Malala was targeted by the Taliban. One fateful afternoon on the way home from school, she was shot in the head.
The Taliban’s attempt to silence Malala failed miserably. Not only did she survive the attack, but her story of courage has since served as an inspiration to the world. We applaud Malala as she again steps forward to speak out for others in her generous donation.
On the situation in Gaza she said, ”The needs are overwhelming — more than half of Gaza’s population is under 18 years of age. They want and deserve quality education, hope, and real opportunities to build a future.” She went on to emphasize her important belief, “Because without education there will never be peace. Let us stand together for peace and education, because together we are more powerful.”
Malala is giving much more than money to the children of Gaza. Her gift will help to rebuild 83 of the 250 schools that were damaged in the most recent eruption of conflict with Israel. But, maybe more importantly, her words give these children hope. She reminds them that their dreams for a better future are important. And, she reminds the world that the children of Gaza are precious… worthy of so much more than the rubble that surrounds them today.
Dear Heavenly Father,
We thank You for using unlikely messengers to bring bright hope to a sad and dark world. Thank You for the ways Malala’s courage and generosity are giving hope to the people of Gaza. We bless You for her reminder to us that no one is too young to take a stand for justice and no problem is too big when it is brought to You in prayer. May we remember the children of Gaza, who are eager to return to school and work hard for a better future. We pray the world will share in rebuilding the pieces of their broken lives and communities. When we are faced with injustice may we, like Malala, also speak out with courage. When those around us are in despair may we give them hope through selfless acts of kindness. Use us to be a bright spot in a dark world, shining bright for Your glory.
Amen
Find out ways that you can engage in this article: Malala Donated Her Prize Money to Rebuild Schools in Gaza – Here are 4 Ways You Can Follow in Her Footsteps
http://www.bustle.com/articles/46601-malala-donated-her-prize-money-to-rebuild-schools-in-gaza-here-are-4-ways-you