BEARING IT ALL: A STORY OF COMPASSION AND CHANGE

Today, I’ll begin with a question. How do you show compassion to others? Whether in your workplace or at home with your family, what does it look like for you?

Now more than ever, with the weight of high utility bills, rising taxes, and economic hardship pressing in, how do you remain open-hearted, and willing to lend a hand to those in need?

 

Let me tell you about someone I’ll call Tom, (for privacy’s sake). Tom's life is a true testimony to compassion, empathy, and generosity. He came from humble beginnings and worked his way up with unwavering determination. Together with his brother, they borrowed a small sum from their father to start a business in downtown Nairobi. The early days were tough, but they faced every challenge with grit and resilience.

 

Their parents stood by them, offering constant support and encouragement. With time and relentless hard work, their business began to flourish. Every bit of profit they earned was reinvested into the business, fueling steady growth and increasing demand. Eventually, they began looking for new land to expand. Although their original location was prime, their success sparked envy in their landlord, who began raising the rent each year.

 

They knew they had to move. Life in the city had become overwhelming, and it was no longer the right place for their growing dreams. So, with quiet resolve, they found a peaceful spot out of town and set up their factory. It wasn’t easy, but their determination never faltered. They pressed on, hiring more workers, expanding steadily, and watching their vision take shape.

 

And yet, through all the growth and success, they stayed the same. Humble. Grounded. They didn’t chase extravagance or allow wealth to change their hearts. Instead, they listened closely, to the people, and to the quiet needs of the community where they had built their factory. That’s when Tom saw it; children, bright and eager, unable to attend school simply because their families couldn’t afford it. It moved him deeply and he knew he had to do something.

 

With the help of the locals, he built a small structure, a beginning. Then, started knocking on doors, speaking to parents, and offering hope. With permission, he brought those children into a safe place to learn. Twice a week, they served lunch, simple meals, but full of care and dignity.

Word spread quickly. Parents came with hope in their eyes, holding the hands of their children. The little school that started with a few became a place filled with laughter, learning, and second chances.

 

As we speak now, through Tom’s unwavering generosity, the lives of countless children have been utterly transformed. What began as a dream has blossomed into a fully-fledged pre-primary school, nestled in its compound, staffed with professional teachers, equipped with classrooms, stationery, vibrant playing fields, and offering warm, nutritious lunches every weekday.

 

I have had the deep privilege of visiting this school. The moment you step through its gates, you’re greeted by the bright, eager eyes of little angels whose joy is palpable. When they sing and recite poems for visitors, their voices rise with pride and innocence, echoing with the hope of a brighter tomorrow. Their tiny desks, their feet tucked neatly beneath them, are more than furniture, they are sacred spaces where dreams are born and nurtured.

 

There is something profoundly moving in watching these children, who arrive each day with only their books and uniforms, without paying a single cent, flourish in an environment built entirely on love and selflessness. It is an act of compassion so rare, I still marvel at it. I have seen their faces, radiant with joy, laughter dancing in their eyes. I have seen them grow, not just in stature, but in wisdom and confidence, because two people chose to open their hearts and share what they had.

 

These children are an absolute joy to behold, a testament to the love and care they receive. Today, the school stands as the most coveted institution for PP1 to PP3 in the entire area, praised by parents and neighboring schools alike. But the kindness that defines this place extends far beyond the children. These brothers have stood by their employees through every season, lifting them, supporting them, and growing with them, especially during the darkest days of COVID-19. While many others were forced to let go of their staff, not a single employee was sent home from here.

 

Their story is a living testament to grace in action. A powerful reminder that when we choose to bear one another's burdens, we elevate humanity as a whole. Generosity and kindness flow freely from Tom, whose unwavering commitment to his team is evident in everything he does. He ensures timely remuneration, annual dividends, and, most importantly, the security of every employee’s job. Even when opportunities arise, he hires with an open heart. But his generosity doesn’t stop there. Tom has sponsored countless students’ higher education, helping with various needs, without asking for anything in return.

 

When you encounter him in his workplace, you might forget he is the boss. He shares meals with the children at the school, who lovingly call him "Babu" (Grandpa). In the factory, he can be found doing the simplest tasks, far beneath his title, showing that his humanity transcends his position. Currently, through his generosity, together with his group of friends he is equipping school libraries with books across various regions of the country. This responsibility could have fallen to the government, yet together they have stepped up to take it on, making a profound impact on countless lives.

 

From him, I’ve learned that kindness costs nothing. If you can change someone’s life, do it. Holding on to material possessions is fleeting, sharing with those in need is the true path. Positions and big titles do not matter when it comes to humanity. We are all human beings, each blessed by God with unique resources. Let us use those blessings to uplift others, teaching them how to fish, rather than simply handing them the fish, just as Tom has done and continues to do.

 

He is a living embodiment of compassion, unwavering leadership, love, and a shining light to all he meets. May God bless you abundantly, Tom, and continue to multiply the good you’ve done.

Amen.