We all have something to offer, to lift someone else up 

To propel another on the path to their greatness, and not to impede or obstruct 

There’s power inherent in language and words; there’s power in our tongue 

We can choose to speak life into another, we can help to elevate the unsung

We take so much for granted, and often, we hunger for even more

When many lack just basic things, and, for even our waste, would die for

There’s nothing more empowering than helping someone to read and write

There’s nothing more rewarding than helping someone see the light

The light of language, of understanding and of advocacy for family and self 

The light of confidence, awareness, of being able to read books from a shelf

I often imagine navigating in a land where my ability to communicate is void 

I imagine feeling lonely, lost, frustrated, invisible and even quite annoyed

It helps me to stay humble, compassionate, and extend empathy to another

It helps me to stay grounded, to extend kindness to fellow sisters and brothers

In working with Literacy Volunteers 

The pleasure has been all mine

I’ve gotten back as much as I’ve given: Tutor and Student roles are intertwined.