12/05/2016
A day out with differently-abled
How much difference a day makes! Dream a Difference organized a day trip for a group of 40 differently abled to let them discover for themselves. Read on…
Disability stymies the sufferer from experiencing even the simple pleasures of life – each day a daunting task, each breath a constant reminder of how much they miss out. Witnessing their plight does make us realize how lucky we are.
The renowned philosopher and Nobel Laureate, Mr. Albert Schweitzer has said: “At times our own light goes out and is rekindled by a spark from another person. Each of us has cause to think with deep gratitude of those who have lighted the flame within us.” It is only by spreading this spark of life that we can bring a positive impact to the lives of several.
With this intent, we at Dream a Difference set out to organize a day trip for a group of 40 differently abled from the slums of Seelampuri.
For the day trip, the group was taken to Akshardham Temple and Indraprastha Park. Akshardham Temple in Delhi is one of the largest temples in the World, a modern reminiscence of the Indian culture, spirituality and architecture. Indraprastha Park is quite near to Akshardham temple and is one of the landmark and popular places in Delhi with breathtaking and natural surroundings.
The day trip began with the group, comprising children and few adults, assembling at one place. Our volunteers then escorted them for the bus trip to Akshardham temple, our first destination. The group was assisted with our team and a guide. The group was awestruck as the guide introduced the ornate pageant of elephants (the Gajendra Peeth) and the intricate carvings on the 25 ft high wall of the main monument called the Mandovar. Then the group proceeded towards the ‘Hall of Values’ where they watched an hour long film on the life journey of Lord Swaminarayan. This visit ended with a boat ride with the group sailing through India’s 10,000 years of rich spiritual and cultural history.
Thereafter, the group headed towards Indraprastha Park, where the group was served with refreshments. The park was abuzz with several people. Milling around Vishwa Shanti Stupa, the volunteers from our team chatted with the group discussing favorite actors and cricketers. As the sunset subsided, it was inspiring and fulfilling to see the smiles on the faces of each of the group members.
Dream a Difference is hopeful that this trip gives each of them a long-lasting zeal to strive to explore newer places and adventures. May this be the Patronus Charm to the Dementors of sadness they might ever encounter and encourage them to dream a difference in their life and continue to discover the vibrancy of life.
