As we travel in time from one year to the next, we often lament that things stay the same. It’s only when we find the courage to do something different that ordinary moments are filled with extraordinary manifestations.
On an ordinary day not too long ago, an extraordinary act of kindness created a ripple of change in the lives of little ones at the Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital (RCWMCH). When 9th grader, Adam Kleiman, donated a collection of toys, puzzles, boardgames, plushies, books, DVDs, a TV and a DVD player to the hospital, he set in motion a change in the ordinary days of little ones whose lives are so far from ordinary.
What started as a school project called Be The Change, Adam’s act of kindness will continue to have an impact in the lives of many who come through the doors of RCWMCH. In a very ordinary way, Adam has made an extraordinary change.
The lesson for grade nine students at Cape Town Torah High School was to “give back to the community and to make a change in people’s lives,” Adam explains. Inspired by his family’s history of charitable donations to the Hospital, Adam wasted no time starting a toy drive amongst friends and family. It made perfect sense to Adam, because “the kids in the hospital will be grateful”.
Thinking of others is a very ordinary thing for Adam, and he might not have realised the extraordinary reach of his gift.
“Through this project I have learnt that giving has a better feeling than receiving. This is my message I think people should learn.”
There is no better start in this world than a beginning in love. Adam’s gift is so very full of love.
“I would tell people who have the ability to give, to donate to the less fortunate and start giving things they do not use anymore”, he urges.
There are various ways you can contribute throughout the year, including new or gently worn clothing, non-perishable foods, snack packs and hygiene products.
Perhaps Adam’s gift will brighten your day, too. Hope and love have a way of doing that. Be the change.
Donate to the Children’s Hospital Trust today and do your bit to ensure that Every Little One Counts.
