You're Never Too Old to Give

09 April 2009

KARMAIYA, Nepal—At 76 years old, Chandra Kumari Raut passed on two goats to Meena Pradhan. Wrinkles formed in the corners of her eyes as she smiled with the pride and joy of being a donor.

Two years ago, Chandra Kumari Raut was on the receiving end of this process. She too received a gift of two goats from Heifer Nepal. Her journey from being a receiver to a donor came late in her life, but she feels it's worth it. Along with the goat, she also gave her blessing to recipient Meena Pradhan.

On April 9, 2009, participants from five self-help groups around Sarlahi District, like Chandra Kumari Raut, passed on the gift of 224 goats and five bucks to 112 other families. This expanding network brings new joy and hope to the area as it builds the confidence of individuals and strengthens communities.

For most of the poor in this world, stretching out their hand for help weighs heavily on their conscience. When these receivers are capable of giving to someone else, a feeling of dignity beyond explanation overcomes them. After all, the idea of changing someone’s life for the better with a selfless gift, even one as simple as an animal, is a revelation in itself. If every one of us in this world, old or young, gave what we could afford to someone less fortunate than us, the world would be a better place to live in.