There is a tendency to look outward for help, yet the opportunity for transformation lies within. Think of a great football team that requires great coordination among the eleven players to win the game. As much as there are extra players on the bench, they cannot help much unless they request for substitution. Hence, the need to learn the tactics of teamwork where every person counts. When Philip, one of the disciples of Christ, could not figure out where to get food for the five thousand people, Andrew saw an opportunity within the crowd. “One of his disciples, Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, said to him, ‘There is a boy here who has five barley loaves and two fish. But what are they among so many people?’” (John 6:8-9). When we read the whole story, we realize that the five loaves and two fish were used to feed the crowd.
In our communities and in particular our families, we need attentive leaders like Andrew to pinpoint opportunities for transformation. As a parent or caregiver, what kind of opportunities can you spot in your children? Andrew was not sure if what the little boy had would be enough for the crowd. Despite this doubt, his suggestion was utilized by Jesus to feed five thousand people. Nothing can be counted as small where inclusion matters. For instance, palliative care takes the involvement of the patient in their wellbeing very seriously. This requires the caregivers to be well-equipped on how to give the necessary support to their clients.
CALISCO values every parent and caregiver because their involvement in nurturing children can have to great impact in the community. As the Swahili saying goes, “mti ukunje ungali mdogo” which translates to “shape the tree while it is young.” It is not possible to have generalized nurturing of children; rather, there should be specialized childcare, like in palliative care. Thus, CALISCO remains committed to equipping more parents and caregivers who are in daily contact with children to give them the best care.