THE MIRACLE OF SOLIDARITY
August 31st International Day of Solidarity
We can define the word solidarity in many ways, or we can begin this article explaining its etymological root, nevertheless, there is a story that clearly teaches us the importance of lending a helping hand to a neighbor in need. The following story teaches us that solidarity operates within the human being as a value that can be put into practice by everyone.
The action of a dog called China leads to reflection. In the city of Plata, Buenos Aires, a dog found a newborn baby in a field. China sheltered the newborn abandoned by his 14-year-old mother.
The dog found the newborn naked, and without hurting the newborn, carried the baby a couple of meters away to where her puppies were huddled. Her maternal instincts sheltered the baby along with her puppies. This is how China saved the newborn from the rain and chilly temperatures in the area of Abasto.
This unique act of solidarity and unconditional love calls us to reflect upon an action worthy of being imitated by men, living, thinking and rational beings.
Are you a supportive person? This story invites us to mediate how much we have done in favor of our neighbor, how many times could you have helped someone, but did not do so? When was the last time you helped an elderly person or someone who needed help to cross the street? During winter, to how many homeless children did you give a blanket or warm clothes? When was the last time you gave up your seat on the bus to an elder? Have you ever visited a nursing home or donated clothing or food to an orphanage? There are many ways we can demonstrate our solidarity with friends, society and nations. The United Nations proclaimed August 31st the International Day of Solidarity with the objective to promote and strengthen the ideals of solidarity among countries and peoples.
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Solidarity was recognized in the United Nations Millennium Declaration (General Assembly resolution 55/2) as one of the fundamental values essential to international relations in the twenty-first century. “Solidarity is not only a requirement of moral nature, but a precondition of the efficiency of the policies of individual countries and peoples. It is one of the guarantees of peace in the world.” affirmed the UN.
May solidarity not simply be framed as an international date, a definition or a good intention; organize with co-workers, at school, college, with friends or relatives actions of solidarity and live with your heart the magic of helping others. With a simple action you can save a life.
By: Gabriela Lara
Photography: Anna Paula Marques, Ygor Lima
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