Difference Redefined
Originally written by Akshay Panday
Difference, what does that word mean to you? A new hairstyle? A new cell phone? A new pair of jeans. Or something else that’s just as irrelevant? If that is NOT your definition of difference then please read on, because I have revised my definition of difference and its time you do the same.
Difference is when you see a group of young eight to ten year olds sitting in front of you with just one HOPE. Of learning that one simple language that differentiates them from the so called ‘privileged world’. That one language that has kept them away from all the opportunities they could have ever utilized and it is the language in which I am writing to you in. Now if this is how simple it is for us, it is equally difficult for them.
And so I went for my first class as a teacher and trust me guys, it’s just a different feeling altogether. They were as small as 7-8 years with that innocent expression and the HOPE of learning something from us. That is the time I realised what we meant for them. They had this expectation from us because English was not just a language for them; it was that bridge of knowledge which they wanted to construct.
It was really sad to see that the children in standards 8, 9 and 10 could not even spell four letter words or even read a sentence at one go and it is because of this reason why individuals who are educated in other languages are still considered illiterates, that is the power of English. I then realized the responsibility that I had upon us. However the enthusiasm and energy that they displayed to learn was much more than what I displayed as a kid for the same reason.
I felt extremely honored and lucky enough to be a part of this noble cause, because at this juncture this is what the society needs. It needs more and more educated youth and today I took the first step in achieving this goal and believe me guys. The feeling that you get once you step out of class with the children leaving the room with that same HOPE of learning more in the next class, cannot be put in words.
Now this is ‘difference’. As I earlier mentioned, this is why I have revised the definition of the word DIFFERENC E. Because for me it’s no longer just a word, it’s a feeling that can help me to change a person’s life.
This difference can be made by all of us. We just need to unite and imagine what a difference each and every educated youth like you and me can make in the lives of all these children who really need us. MAD – you are doing an amazing job, hope our vision of ‘bridging the inequality in society through education’ will come true one day. Proud to be a part of MAKE A DIFFERENCE. Proud to be MAD.
GO MAD 
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