How Do You Measure Friendship? by Roseline Chepkoech
How do you measure friendship? Without sounding selfish and contrived, I think we largely value our friendships by what we get out of them. Emotional support. Mental and cultural stimulation. Work and social connections. Companionship. Laughs . . .
But here’s another way of measuring friendship: by what we give. And this just might be our spiritual gain. Giving to others boosts confidence and instills a sense of purpose. So, in essence, even when we give, we get.
Roseline from Mogonjet Secondary School in Kericho, Kenya comes from a family of 15 children, and even though she scored high on the National Primary Exam for entrance into high school, her parents could not afford the fees. She stayed home, not giving up hope that one day she’d continue her education.
Not long after the start of school, a friend’s parents offered to cover her school fees, as well as for her younger siblings. Their show of commitment to the community and love to Roseline and her family is a perfect way to measure friendship, and I’m confident their lives will be blessed for it.
Here is Roseline’s essay, published for Tim and Johanna’s contribution to Lift the Lid’s library fund for Mogonjet Second School.
Roseline,
I imagine you feel motivated to work hard, knowing your friend and her family care about you and have faith in your ability to learn. I’m sure your own family, as well, your parents and siblings, are cheering for you.
Remember, no one is perfect all the time and some subjects will naturally be easier for you than others. It’s that way for everyone! The important part is that you give your best and feel proud of yourself, and that you use your education to give meaning to your life and the lives of others.
I’m so happy to have this change to read and share your essay. Your life’s journey is inspiring, so please keep writing and let us know where your dreams take you!
Sara
Roseline, I am so glad you have friends who were able to provide for your education. Your essay is lovely and I know you will go far with your education and use it to build a solid foundation for your life.
Approve.
Sara Goff
http://www.saragoff.com
Author of I ALWAYS CRY at WEDDINGS (WhiteFire Publishing) – Amazon: http://tinyurl.com/cry-at-weddings
Lift the Lid, Inc.
http://www.lift-the-lid.org
Encouraging Writing and Self-expression in Schools Throughout the Developing World