Plenty to do When we young people heard that there was a colony of 1000 people in the desert, who were stricken with leprosy, we went to explore their situation. We saw that they were in need of everything, even medical care. We contacted Caritas, now we are a group of Christians and Muslims who go to visit there on our days off from work. Two medical students did some research on caring for lepers. Others got involved in other services, such as painting their dwellings. Another young person, a journalist, wrote articles in several magazines and newspapers in order to inform and sensitise as many people as possible about the problem. We came to realise that those patients were especially in need of someone who would listen to them: for them, this was even more important than medicines. This experience that there is always something that anyone can do, to give something that will be to the advantage of others. S. H. – Egypt The little cart A poor man had knocked on our door several times, asking for money. I thought it would be better to teach him how to fish, rather than give him a fish. So I started to build him a small cart to sell sweets and coffee. I made the window with a metal table we had in the house and, with the proceeds from the sale of paper, I bought the wheels. We ended up with a really nice cart. Then we went to Bogota, in the area that the poor fellow frequented, to deliver it to him. When he saw it he was amazed, so happy that he asked to take a picture with us. He got to work right away and now has a more dignified life. O. M. – Colombia I found a friend! I was driving to the doctor. It was raining and I was in a hurry. I had just passed a man who was walking with difficulty by the side of the road. Then I thought again and, put the car in reverse. I invited him to get in. He was also on his way to the doctor. . . my very doctor! When I told him that, he exclaimed: “Today I met an angel!” In fact, my name is Angelo and when I told him he had quite a good laugh. When we left the doctor’s I accompanied Antonio – that was his name – to do some shopping and then to his home where I met his wife, Antonietta. As they shared a bit about themselves, I was offered a liqueur and a biscuit made by his wife. Before saying goodbye, we exchanged telephone numbers and promised that we would meet again. Antonio: “Today I found a friend.” And Antoinetta immediately handed me a dozen fresh eggs, saying: “They’re still warm, just taken from our chickens.” It felt like time had stood still. Truly, there is more joy in giving than receiving! Angelo D. N. – Italy