“Impossible says I’m possible.”
—quote on a school bulletin board
Hello Friends,
There is still so much to share from Gurap. I hope you enjoyed seeing more happy students, students pouring themselves into Edufest, the students’ joy in receiving a bookmark gift, the very first Gurap yearbook, and our dedicated young adults that have been growing up in Gurap. None of these moments just “happened.” They exist because of you—because of your steadfast commitment to these children and to the work of Tribe Rising India.
What the photos don’t show is one of the most meaningful moments of all. It happened as we sat in a circle with our fifteen soon-to-be 11th graders and asked them a simple question: Why is this school special to you?
Every student tried to answer in English. They wanted you to understand them. But as they began to speak, voices trembled. Words caught. Tears came. One by one, many had to switch to Bengali to fully express what was in their hearts. They spoke about watching the school grow from something very small into something very big and beautiful. They talked about arriving in Gurap as shy, uncertain children—and how this place has become a safe home. Over and over, in different words, they showed they understand that it is the gifts of ordinary people who care about them that made all of this possible. (Our Jesuit partners have instilled that truth deeply.) And over and over, they promised to work hard, to make that generosity count.
They spoke about lifting up the younger children behind them. And about becoming the kind of people who make a difference for others—just as you have done for them. One student, Sangita, is a gifted athlete, tough, a natural leader who doesn’t often show vulnerability. There wasn’t a dry eye in the room, but it was Sangita who completely broke down, searching for words powerful enough—in any language—to convey the depth of her gratitude and her determination to turn her good fortune around and help others.
What began a lighthearted sharing of memories became something sacred. A reminder of why this work matters so deeply.
These children are growing up with opportunities they were told would never belong to them—that they weren’t capable, that they shouldn’t dream so big—that it was impossible. Their parents have sacrificed and even endured criticism from neighbors in their small villages. The students have faced down homesickness, uncertainty, long hours of study, setbacks (the pandemic), and failure—and they have persevered.
Today, they are grateful, determined young adults. Serious about their studies. Hopeful about their futures. Committed to succeeding and to helping others do the same.
None of this would have happened without you.
Truly.
Thank you, aima sarhau,
Annette
Please join us at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church in Mill Valley (in O’Brien Hall) for a live recap of our recent trip to Gurap! We have hundreds of additional photos, videos, and firsthand stories to share.
For more information, contact Annette at [email protected].
