Last week, Silver Lining, a partner organization in China, was highlighted in the weekly blog. Today we bring you excerpts from the story of Fa, one of Silver Linings artisans, featured in their 2012 annual report.
“Fa: I did not like to interact with other people before because of my disability. Even when I spoke to other people, I could not look at them in the eyes. After having vocational training with Silver Lining for more than two years, I can now talk to strangers without much trouble.
Many people in society still have prejudice against the disables. Often, it is very difficult for us to be employed. When the employers saw my disability, they think that I can only handle simple tasks. Silver Lining gave me a chance. They encouraged me to try different things and have given me a chance to make ornaments. I am able to develop my potentials at work. I have found my sense of belonging, and have developed patience, confidence and dignity. I have found my hope once again.
Recently, Silver Lining connected with an orphanage. We had a chance to hold some workshops teaching the young adults there how to make ornaments. There was a boy there who asked me, ‘Fa Fa, without your arm, how are you going to teach us how to make ornaments?’ I smiled and replied, ‘If you work hard to overcome your difficulties, even if you have no arm like me, you can still teach other people. I am willing to learn-that’s why I can do it! You can do it too!’ I know I have a disability and I cherish any chance I get to learn.
I hope more can join us at Silver Lining and that we can help those who are physically and mentally disabled. In the future, I hope Silver Lining can form a team who can reach out to those poor villages in the far and rural area, helping more who are poverty and encouraging each other. ”
Thank you for your impact in the lives of those like Fa at Silver Lining. We are grateful for your help.
Leave a Reply