"Perhaps we cannot prevent this world from being a world in which children are tortured. But we can reduce the number of tortured children," said Albert Camus, French philosopher. It is Christmas week. The world is in turmoil. Children are the innocent victims of conflict, poverty, and disease.
Here is a wish list for the children:
1. A home with loving parents who will guide and care for them. That all parents will lead by example and teach kids spiritual and family values, and good manners. That all children will be safe from domestic violence and abuse.
2. Good health. That all children, especially in the remote rural areas, will have proper nourishment, medical and dental care to grow strong and healthy. That the essential vaccines to combat diseases will be available to all children.
3. A pollution-free environment with fresh air, clean and pure water. Open fields and parks with trees and flowers. That children may appreciate and respect nature and learn how to protect the seas, rivers, lakes, and forests.
4. Quality education. That the public school system will be upgraded with dedicated teachers, classrooms and books, mobile libraries and reading programs. That all kids will have the opportunity to study, the chance to excel and learn independence.
5. An accelerated science, math, and technology educational program to equip students with international standard skills to compete in the global markets.
6. A comprehensive sports program for national and international competitions. That all kids will learn the values of team work, friendly competition, and the art of winning and losing gracefully.
7. A gender-discrimination-free society that will encourage girls and boys to aspire to become leaders in their chosen professions. That they may have the resources and opportunities to fulfill all their goals.
8. A national arts and culture program and outreach projects to elevate the consciousness of children and their parents.
9. A stable economy. Jobs and livelihood projects, microfinance programs for parents so that their children can go to school.
10. A country with visionary national leaders, hardworking, honest officials with wisdom, integrity, and heart. Worthy role models for children to admire and emulate.
11. A safe, crime-free, drug-free, abuse-free environment. That all kids will be protected from the menace of incest, physical and emotional abuse, and the scourge of drugs.
12. Freedom of expression and communication. Children have the right to be heard, to have privacy, and to be themselves. They need respect to develop self-esteem and confidence.
13. Innocence. A happy childhood and the chance to enjoy being a child. A balanced life with time to play, study, and rest. Above all, time to grow up — at his/her own pace.
We pray for spiritual grace, love, forgiveness, and lasting world peace.
A Blessed Christmas to all!
By Marivic Rufino
