Thought For The Day – Monday 17th October 2022

Today is the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty.

Poverty means not having basic needs.  People who live in poverty experience some of the following:  a lack of food and nutritious food specifically; a lack of water, homelessness or unsafe housing;  unemployment, unjust or dangerous work conditions;  limited or no access to health care, sanitation, education and literacy;  unequal and limited access to justice, political power and technology.

Challenges such as prejudice and discrimination, exploitation, the global pandemic, war and invasion, the cost of living crisis  and climate change only exacerbate the already very severe challenges for many in the world today.

We must never stereotype anyone, including on the basis of background. People and communities who experience massive challenges are wonderfully good, united, resilient, supportive, caring, kind  and inspiring.

But support, encouragement, respect, opportunity, inclusion and equality is for all.

The theme of the 2022 day is “Dignity For All in Practice”. Dignity means having self and social respect, being respected, and being treated thoughtfully,  by others.

Our Bishop’s Stortford Food Bank Autumn appeal closes on Friday.  Please bring any item(s) to Room 8: https://www.bishopsstortfordindependent.co.uk/news/stortford-food-bank-appeals-for-support-as-it-faces-unpreced-9279249/.

Have a good, kind and thoughtful week final week before half term and keep helping one another.  Respect the dignity of others and yourself.

Help those in need.