Keeping Ourselves Inspired

Dear Exchange Community,

Lately I’ve been finding myself in need of some new inspiration to keep me going when world circumstances feel too heavy. Today I listened to an engaging talk by South African poet, author, life-skills facilitator and television personality, Lebogang Mashile. Her story is posted on Bonnie’s Global Café, a project of the World Forum Foundation. The Café describes its purpose this way: “People who commit their lives to young children and their families have powerful stories to tell and we can find our own hope and inspiration as we listen.  Bonnie’s Global Café is the space where people gather to share their stories. Stop by for tea and find affirmation and companionship.”

Here’s the link to Lebogang’s story. I hope it inspires you as much as it did me: https://bonniesglobalcafe.worldforumfoundation.org/its-time-a-call-to-action-lebongang-mashile-south-africa/

Another moment of upliftment came when I pulled Really Seeing Children off my bookcase. Flipping through it randomly, I discovered this passage where author Deb Curtis quotes William Schafer: “Babies, by their very existence, call us back to something we all sense we have lost. They do not enchant us simply because they are ‘cute,’ but because they awaken in us a thirst that sleeps deep within some wellspring of yearning that we have neglected.” These words reminded me of the awesome responsibility and honor we have if we work with or for young children. Throughout Deb’s book, she offers example after example of the brilliant way children help us focus on the most meaningful parts of life; the magic of existence that is all too easy to forget. Children are often inspiration enough to keep us going, even in the toughest times.

Our message to you today is to remember how important, needed and appreciated your work is,
Nancy Rosenow, Exchange Publisher, on behalf of the entire Exchange Team

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