MY MOMENTS IN THE LEARNING LAND

MY MOMENTS IN THE LEARNING LAND
by L. Jerome Immanuel

Dressed in an attire common to a troop 
Little legs landed among a large group
whole room filled with the rhythm of moanings
none would heed to teachers pleadings and warnings


Tears dry and cheers grow among peers
in the flood of childish pranks is washed all fears
repeating the teacher with a smile, becomes fun
bunking the homework and playing in the sun.


Cannes of teacher and mending of parents causes hurt 
lies are said for the bashes to avert
unable to bear the pressure and pain.
the little heart undergoes much strain.


From riddles to ratios, rhymes to reigns
loads of knowledge, our growing brain gains
sometimes utterly fail, sometimes cleverly pass
at times applauded on dias, at times out of the class.


We learn the world by turning the pages
from the sceptres, physcicians, scientists and sages
Here we learn to love and hate, to destroy and cteate
these moments in learning land wrote our fate.


Teachers make us feel loved and wanted
appreciate the good and negotiate the unwanted 
if they be a model and not a cruel critic
little love given will make learning quick


"Pink and fresh" with innocence in them
when moulded with care have joyous tale to tell 
bind in love not in chains of labour
let their sparkling eyes invent and crate future.

A RAY OF HOPE

A RAY OF HOPE
by L. Jerome Immanuel

They were problems which seemed to see my end
They were times when whole world seemed my enemy
In all these times within me was a glowing friend 
Which never burned out till I was set free


Tears made me weak and helpless
Comments made things worse
low always was my head in the mess
life I just felt was on me a curse


When I became an enemy of my self
this useless body I wanted to kill
all ears to my voice went deaf
by dying i thought could I pay life's bill


God I knew was at a distance
from my life full of sin and shame
it seemed so from my depressive lens
for return of me was God's aim


I used all my strength to crawl up
but all my trials ended in vain
climbed till the brim fell back in the clump
no medicine I found could soothe my pain


There shone a light by the end of the tunnel 
which filled the darkness with a ray of hope.
There within me was a man so subtle
like to a falling climber a saving rope


Out of the ditch am I standing on ground 
with the help of the world in my life that shone 
never will I leave the salvation found
showing others the love which on me was shown.

Annual Debate 2011

We had the annual Debate this morning and the theme of discussion was 'Lokpal bill is the solution to Corruption in India'. Somehow, as in the last four years, the team 'against the motion' won the debate with just 10 points more than their worthy opponents (the total being 277). The debate was moderated by Fr Joseph Anithottam the Parish Priest of Kondadaba. Srs Prasanna and Abilasha, our immediate neighbours, were among the judges for the debate. Fr C. Thomas, the present spiritual director and Fr Devadas, our former spiritual director too were present as judges for the occasion.

The eight speakers did their best in presenting their arguments which were well supported and interspersed by the informative videos and presentations prepared by Fr Wilson, the Principal. Thanks to his zealous efforts, the debate had a particular quality of its own. The floor discussion which followed the talks was vibrant with each group trying to get the better of the other. Of course, given the nature of the theme, Anna Hazare was the focus of the whole discussion. Finally not going by the numerical result of the debate, the fact that corruption needs to be uprooted was the unanimous voice.

The speakers for the motion highlighted the following issues: Lokpal being an effective and transparent tool in modern administration, an additional help for the wearied middle class man, the advantages of speedy justice and accountability that Lokpal promises and so on. Those arguing against the motion pushed forward their arguments to prove that through Lokpal bill, Anna Hazare and his team, are trying to form a parallel government or an unconstitutional body, that the hidden agenda behind this so-called 'second freedom struggle' is to topple the government, that what is needed is not a new body but a reformation within existing structures...
Thanks to Fr Wilson and the Rainbow group which organised and prepared for this annual feature of the Seminary.

Feast, prizes and graces!

On the solemn occasion of the feast of the Immaculate Conception, the prizes for the first semester 2011-2012 were distributed to the Brothers. Though the second semester commenced in the third week of October, the prizes were delayed for some reason or other. The prizes were handed over by Fr C. Thomas, the spiritual director, Fr K.T. Jose, the Rector and Br Sateesh, the regent. Practically each of the Brother received a prize or another, either as an individual or as a member of a growth groups. The prizes awarded were for the several activities and competitions organised during the first semester of the academic year: Marian month activities (games, skits, singing, essay writing, drawing and Marian nite), Sports day events (track and filed events and indoor games), vocabulary tests and the Biblical nite competitions.

Earlier in the day, most of the Brothers undertook a pilgrimage to the Ross Hill, to obtain graces from Our Lady on this her feast day.

... say it with hay

This Advent season, the community has adopted a unique and practical way of reminding and preparing itself for the coming of the Lord. With the title, "Your good deed for the day; say it with hay," the idea is this: For every good deed you consciously and joyfully do, you drop in a straw (just one) at the altar, anytime. At the end of the Advent season, the straw thus collected (a representation of the good deeds done in the Lord's honour) will be used in the crib, in the exact spot where baby Jesus will be placed.
Just another way of reminding ourselves of the need to prepare - and that too worthily - for the Lord's b'day!

Annual Seminary Day 2011: Kondadaba

The Andhra Pradesh Bishop's Conference's Regional Seminary, St John's at Kondadaba (35 kms from the port city of Visakhapatnam) celebrated its 24th annual Seminary Day on November 22, 2011. The chief guest of the day was Most Rev. A. Innaiah (Bishop of Srikakulam). The highlights of the day were the Holy Mass in the morning, the 3-act English play on the Kingdom of God in the evening, the presence of many well wishers and friends of the Seminary and the planting of the commemorative Jubilee plant on the occasion of the commencement of the Jubilee year of the Seminary.

With due and intense preparations already in place, the community was peacefully ready to celebrate its annual seminary day right since the early morning. The animated morning prayers helped the community focus on its inner strengths rather than achievements. During the Holy Mass which commenced at 10.30 am, Bp Innaiah stressed on the need to interiorize the message of the Gospel rather than merely speak about it. The liturgical celebrations were greatly enriched by the singing, and all the hymns for the Mass were written and composed exclusively by the students.

The 3-act play titled 'Live and Build the Kingdom' was the central programme of the evening show. With great support from the staff, all the 82 students of the Seminary had a role to play in the hour-long drama, either by way of acting, singing or dancing. The play was intended to depict the universality of the Kingdom, the need for a personal choice to be part of this state of life and finally a commitment to share everything with others, especially the poor. This gospel-based English play was written and rehearsed under the direction of the Seminary staff itself.

In his short message for the day, Bp Innaiah warmly exhorted the Seminarians to interiorize the formation imparted to them during their initial formation. He spoke of the need to live and do all things in the presence of God rather than any human fear or compulsion. The 90 minute programme concluded with the fraternal meal for all. Most Rev. Kagithapu Mariadas, the archbishop of Visakhapatnam, was the president of the evening programme. The gracious presence of Rev. Karnam Joji Babu, the Vicar General of the archdiocese of Visakhapatnam and Fr Pudussery Sojan (Provincial Economer of the Salesian Province of Hyderabad) too was greatly appreciated. So was the presence of more than 200 Priests, religious and collaborations associated with the Seminary.

Though this year 2011 marks the 25 years of the Seminary's independent existence (earlier it was part of the theologate at Ramanthapur, Hyderabad), the first year of the Seminary 1987-1988 was in R.V. Nagar. It was in 1988 that the Seminary was shifted to its present location and since has been instrumental in rendering invaluable service to the Church in Andhra Pradesh by way of forming Priests for the Catholic Church. The Salesians of Don Bosco (SDBs) were entrusted with the management of the Seminary in 1990 for a period of three years and the contract since then has been renewed several times. The present agreement stands valid till 2018.

Annual Seminary Day 2011: Kondadaba

The Andhra Pradesh Bishop's Conference's Regional Seminary, St John's at Kondadaba (35 kms from the port city of Visakhapatnam) celebrated its 24th annual Seminary Day on November 22, 2011. The chief guest of the day was Most Rev. A. Innaiah (Bishop of Srikakulam). The highlights of the day were the Holy Mass in the morning, the 3-act English play on the Kingdom of God in the evening, the presence of many well wishers and friends of the Seminary and the planting of the commemorative Jubilee plant on the occasion of the commencement of the Jubilee year of the Seminary.

With due and intense preparations already in place, the community was peacefully ready to celebrate its annual seminary day right since the early morning. The animated morning prayers helped the community focus on its inner strengths rather than achievements. During the Holy Mass which commenced at 10.30 am, Bp Innaiah stressed on the need to interiorize the message of the Gospel rather than merely speak about it. The liturgical celebrations were greatly enriched by the singing, and all the hymns for the Mass were written and composed exclusively by the students.

The 3-act play titled 'Live and Build the Kingdom' was the central programme of the evening show. With great support from the staff, all the 82 students of the Seminary had a role to play in the hour-long drama, either by way of acting, singing or dancing. The play was intended to depict the universality of the Kingdom, the need for a personal choice to be part of this state of life and finally a commitment to share everything with others, especially the poor. This gospel-based English play was written and rehearsed under the direction of the Seminary staff itself.

In his short message for the day, Bp Innaiah warmly exhorted the Seminarians to interiorize the formation imparted to them during their initial formation. He spoke of the need to live and do all things in the presence of God rather than any human fear or compulsion. The 90 minute programme concluded with the fraternal meal for all. Most Rev. Kagithapu Mariadas, the archbishop of Visakhapatnam, was the president of the evening programme. The gracious presence of Rev. Karnam Joji Babu, the Vicar General of the archdiocese of Visakhapatnam and Fr Pudussery Sojan (Provincial Economer of the Salesian Province of Hyderabad) too was greatly appreciated. So was the presence of more than 200 Priests, religious and collaborations associated with the Seminary.

Though this year 2011 marks the 25 years of the Seminary's independent existence (earlier it was part of the theologate at Ramanthapur, Hyderabad), the first year of the Seminary 1987-1988 was in R.V. Nagar. It was in 1988 that the Seminary was shifted to its present location and since has been instrumental in rendering invaluable service to the Church in Andhra Pradesh by way of forming Priests for the Catholic Church. The Salesians of Don Bosco (SDBs) were entrusted with the management of the Seminary in 1990 for a period of three years and the contract since then has been renewed several times. The present agreement stands valid till 2018.

Birds which never flew

Among people, yet far from all
they are like us yet treated small;
Head and eye they have but always bent
have words to speak yet no hearer is meant.

Living in houses where roof touches ground
far off from where the mansions abound;
their dreams end as soon as they start
with no sign of rest for their wearied heart.

Dressed in rags and decorated in dirt
hugged by sickness and caressed by insult;
Their hands move from feet to feet
gaining little more than dirt and spit.

Mothers unable to feed their babes with dry breasts
while father in a bar or brothel rests;
eating leftovers from rich tables
to gather which dignity fumbles.

Let presidents and ministers change or die
but none listen to their cry;
millions of schemes made for their sake
yet in the kiln of poverty they still bake.

Just a penny or two we throw at them
old rags, spoilt food and useless filth we donate as gem;
not a smile shared or any love showed
yet we claim, we paid what we owed.

They are poor yet they are our neighbours
to be loved and respected for their labours;
so let us banish their fears and unwantedness
then can we find Kingdom of God in us.

If we are able to fly let's be thankful to God for it
try change the world by doing our bit;
let's care for these birds which have wings yet cannot fly
offer them our hand and with them fly high.

Br Emmanuel Jerome Lewis (Archdiocese of Hyderabad)

Annual Spiritual Retreat 2011

We, the Brothers of St John's Regional Seminary, Kondadaba were blessed with a great opportunity to make our annual Spiritual Retreat from 17 to the 22 of July 2011. The retreat was animated by Fr Sunil, a Vincentian Priest from Kurnool and his team of 7 members. Each of these members was from a different part of the state and added depth to the spiritual experience we enjoyed during the week. A couple of them, Yesubabu and Reddy, were members of Jesus Youth; Ms Balamma and two of her companions from the city Parish of Gnanapuram, assisted the others on the team with their constant prayer and adoration. Yesubabu was a musician and played the keyboard during the talks and the liturgical services. He was ably assisted by Shoba who led the choir. A CMC Sister, Smitha too offered her invaluable services for round the clock counselling. Preparation for this retreat began almost a month ago under the guidance of Fr Rector and was chiefly done by the Charismatic group.

Each day the talk would begin at 9.30 am. Themes like freedom, capital sin, purpose of life, effects of praise and worship and intimacy with God. The session on inner healing was very inspirational and helped us tangibly experience the Divine presence amidst us. Every evening two hours were set aside for the Eucharistic adoration. The presence of youngsters in the team who boldly and joyfully shared their personal experiences with Christ, was a great inspiration to all. Fr Sunil, in his humble and gentle ways, helped us focus our thoughts and energies in encountering the Lord through the talks, prayers and especially the moments spent with the Eucharistic Lord.

The retreat concluded on October 22, Saturday morning with the Eucharistic celebration. The following day, the same team animated the 160 youth gathered from the various ministry places which Brothers frequent on weekends, for a day of retreat. The youngsters loved this spiritual experience and made explicit their request of having such prayer sessions more than once a year. Very many of the Brothers too participated in this one-day retreat along with youngsters from the various parishes and neighbourhood. The basic requirements for the retreat were seen to by the members of the Mother Teresa group.

Br A. Syam

YOU ARE THE CONQUEROR

Oh! dear! you who are filled with deep sorrow
unable to fight today and face tomorrow
come out of the darkness of impossibility
luminate your life with the life of your ability.

Troubles in life are never easy.
yet, accept them as you do to joy and glee.
Own your errors and all your mistakes,
add up some courage and the victory it bakes.

Gold shines to the proposition of heat
you too will shine through the troubles you meet
never measure the pain but matter the goal
leave no brick unmoved in playing your role.

Depression and sorrows binds up your wings
ceases the flight of your dreams and yearings
cleanse your tears and set right your countenance
work, so that the world vibrates with your resonance.

If you exaggerate your problems which were just menial
and underestimate your talents and underdo your potential
you will end up a loser in the battle of life
then close your life with poison or knife.

Tis not the way for thee to proceed.
but win over yourself and do succeed.
make up your mind and listen what your heart says.
one day, you will find yourself a conqueror.

Br. Jerome Emmanuel Lewis
Archdiocese of Hyderabad

An Orphan's Childhood

Sorrow burried deep in the heart
which can be seen clearly through the eyes.
Body designed with bruises on its every part
falling every moment they try to rise.

They stare at people with a glance of hope
but get pity or warnings, not compassion in return.
The good tidings of happy childhood they wanna gallop,
instead they achieve spits and scolds and shuns.

Seeing children going to school and study
they are filled with inferiority and self-pity.
Dreaming of being rich and famous in future
they spend their present in marshes muddy.

At the age of being fed
they go in search of food themselves.
By this unbearable hunger and temptations they are misled
into crimes like robbing, cheating and spoiling themselves.

Rejected by the womb which gave birth to them,
deserted by the hand which had to take care of them.
They open their eyes to the morn of this world
from a bin or a garbage or in a river being hurled.

Voices filled with pain and suffering
blamed and tortured by their surrounding.
Dressed with dirt and painted with fear
seems like everyone is their foe and they've no one dear.

cleansing their wounds with a solution of tears
finding not even a soul to console their fears.
If such a childhood to these orphans is given
how then can we expect them to become respectful citizen.

Just food or money or small favour done
nothing of this sort can soothe their pain.
A loving heart and a caring soul of one
if they gain it, the whole world they gain.

Br Jerome Emmanuel (Archdiocese of Hyderabad)

Parents' Day 2011

On September 2, 2011 the parents of the third year students along with a few of their relatives arrived at St John's Regional Seminary, Kondadaba for the Annual Parents' Day celebrations. This was the fourth year since its beginning in 2007. Nearly 87 parents and relatives were present for the next two days with the community. Planned and organised by the Second course Brothers with generous and active support from the first years, the event was truly a family moment. The animating presence of Bp Paul Maipan (of Khammam) too added grace to the occasion.

The celebrations commenced with a charismatic adoration service followed by a very informal and homely get together in the lawn. Using some innovative games and introductions, the second years helped the parents introduce their sons and their dreams to the community. The following day, there was a conference by the Bishop for the Brothers as well as their parents. He stressed the need to recognise the importance of the family support even though their sons are no longer in the families. It was followed by the Holy Eucharistic celebration presided over by the Bishop himself. "Children merely follow the footprints of the parents; so mind where and how you tread," were the challenging words of the Bishop to the parents. A colourful cultural programme followed; with a befitting meal thereafter.

The parents were delighted to see their wards active and involved in the various events of the seminary and were truly taken up by the hospitality and care the community extended to them. The finale was the Sunday morning Mass presided over by Fr Rector during which he symbolically asked the Parents to bring forward their sons to the altar during the offertory. Fr Wilson in his homily stressed the binding force of Christian love in our faith and vocation. (to view the photos of the day, click here)

Parents' Day 2011

Here are the photos of the Parents' Day celebrations at St John's Kondadaba of this academic year.  In all there were 90 parents and relatives of the third year students participating in this unique feature of this Seminary.

Episcopal Visit

On September 1, 2011 the Seminary was blessed by the gracious presence of Bp Gallela Prasad, the Bishop of Kadapa, for the Episcopal visitation of the Seminary. He was delegated for this official visit by Bp M.D. Prakasam, the Episcopal delegate of the APBC for major seminaries. Bp Prasad arrived in the morning and soon met the staff of the Seminary. He appreciated the delicate task being rendered by the Salesians of Don Bosco, of the Province of Hyderabad in their animating role and an efficacious presence in formation of the clergy of the dioceses of Andhra Pradesh. He also assured the community of representing the needs and concerns of the Seminary at the APBC meeting.

He then presided over the Eucharistic celebration and during his homily stressed the need to model one's life according to that of Jesus Christ the Chief Shepherd. Immediately thereafter there was a short felicitation programme followed by lunch in his honour. He then addressed the students for a while in the hall. He also made time to wish the domestic staff and the Brothers from Kadapa and Kurnool. He was accompanied on his trip to the Seminary by his good friend, Fr Christopher from the diocese of Srikakulam.

It would be good to note here that Bp Prasad was the confessor and Spiritual Director of this seminary for four years, and it was from here that he was appointed Bishop of Kadapa.

Philosophical Symposium 2011

The annual Philosophical Symposium of the academic year was held on August 29, 2011 on the theme 'Creationism and Evolutionism'.  With two speakers from each of the three courses, presenting the varied opinions and proofs for either of the theories of the origin of life on this earth, the day was rife with intense input sessions and discussion. The whole process was intelligently moderated by Fr Anthony Pudussery, the Parish Priest of Gnanapuram and a visiting faculty at St John's, Kondadaba.

The speakers of the symposium with Fr Antony Pudussery and Fr Wilson Jose

From the first course, Brs M. Banu and V. Solomon prepared and presented the papers while from the second course, Brs T. Vijay and K. Velankanni presented the various views.  Brs K. Joy and G. Devaraj represented the third course.  Beginning with the various theories of life and its meaning, the papers presented led the students to a clear picture of the many nuances of the theories of creation and evolution. The final set of presentations were an attempt to synthesize these seemingly contradictory theories of origin.  The rich insights of Pierre Theilhard de Chardin were much used herein.

Besides the well researched and edited papers, thanks to the meticulous follow up of Fr Wilson, the presence of Fr Antony Pudussery made a rich impact on the students.  Through his sharp observations and additions he helped those present see things in a much better light. 

To make matters more clearer and interesting, Fr Wilson Jose, the Principal screened enriching videos which added meaning and depth to the presentations made by the 6 Brothers.  He was ably assisted in organising this half-day symposium by the members of the Rainbow group. 

Why Violence? (Whyiolence?)

A dawn to come a dusk to go

so is life with all highs and low.

Life is good when lived with love
and love is gone when violence enters in somehow.

Violence is a great miracle wrought by human race
of turning a heart of flesh into a stony ace.

The same blood running through his nerves
is shed by him from his brothers curves.

Running in madness around a mad leader
with a motto to achieve foolish goals by stamping fellow brother.

With rage in eyes, sticks in hand and wishing others with taboos
they leave their respect and dignity for a reason unknown or loose.

Having their children at home crying for food
parents crying slogans on roads, doing no one no good.

Love is life and its poisonous to hate
yet these violent agitators term violence as great.

Living the food to be cooked at home, they fight for food and ungained
rejecting the rights resting in their hands they fight for rights unnamed.

Protesting is good if and only for good cause
it should boast our lives but not be a pause.

So protest well but test none
from groups yet remain one.

Catch sticks but hurt none
raise voices but not the gun.

Solve the problems by agitating with hoarding
but don't create problems like firings and chasing.

The bleeding bodies, wounds and corpse lying on the ground
if its considered solution then repeat it with louder

Br Jerome Emmanuel (Archdiocese of Hyderabad)

What is corruption?

Both hands full
all the pockets stuffed
yet yearning for illegal earning
That is corruption.

Seeing all around the tears of poor
and carrying the capacity of comforting them
yet rejoicing in being the cause of their tears
That is corruption.

Food rotten in huge godowns,
when people die of hunger;
The one to mobilize food, contempt with his full plate,
That is corruption.

When sickness becomes a member of every poor family,
and the life giving doctors become life takers for money;
Letting the sickness decrease the poor numbers,
That is corruption.

Giving the best of education to our own,
and harassing the others' child with heavy labours;
in a way making a bud to dry before it blossoms;
That is corruption.

Watching our neighbours fight for religion,
Knowing all God's are one and fight is wrong;
Yet adding oil to the fire instead of ceasing it;
That is corruption.

Raising the hand over the head of own as a blessing,
and bringing the same hand under the table as curse for others;
In power to help selflessly yet taking bribes selfishly;
That is corruption.

Not only corruption is wealth or money
but it is in all good could be done yet refrained
ask your heart if it is corrupt and greedy
if yes, then kill it, become free.
Then be a Hazare and so 'no to corruption'.

Br Jerome Emmanuel Lewis (I year)

Youth Day at Kondadaba

The annual youth meet of the year 2011 held on August 21 at St John's Regional Seminary, Kondadaba was a fitting finale for the Year of the Youth (August 21, 2010 - August 22, 2011) declared by the United Nations last year. Neatly coinciding with the World Youth Day, the youth meet witnessed 275 young people from 29 neighbouring villages and Parishes spend a day in earnest, discussing and learning some serious issues of the Indian socio-political scenario. The day was animated by Fr Pallithanam Thomas sdb and two of his staff members, Mr John and Mr Kumar, in active collaboration with the Youth Alive group.

Much before the day dawned, the Youth Alive team members had planned, prepared and set everything in place to receive the youngsters at the Seminary. The programme was initiated through a Prayer dance and the lighting of the lamp. After a few words of welcome, Fr Pallithanam led the group into some serious reflection on issues that plague the Indian society. Steadily he guided the participants, the Brothers included, through the Indian Constitution and its various amendments, with the sole purpose of highlighting the fundamental rights of every citizen of the country.

After the break, the youngsters were divided into small groups (according to their respective villages) for a practical panchayat type discussion of their own village problems and possible solutions for the same. The presence of Brothers in each group served as catalysts. These issues and their possible solutions (as which could be initiated and carried out by the young people themselves) were collated and presented to the whole group after lunch. From there on, Fr Palli and his team, proposed and highlighted some means through which these problems could be tackled headlong. The best and the most effective means being the Right to Information (RTI).
The programme which had a lot of awakening words, challenging proposals, entertaining dances and a few recreating games ended with an elaborate note of challenge by Br Bolle Bhaskar. The simple lunch was facilitated by the Speed n' speed group with generous assistance from the youngsters themselves. Besides the presence of the community members, Frs Santhosh and Prashanth from Chodavaram Parish and Kailasapuram Parish respectively graced the occasion along with a large contingent from both the Parishes. Much credit goes to Br Behera Sateesh, the Regent for having coordinated the whole programme right since its conception along with the Youth Alive team members.

Photos: Br T. Kamalesh
Text: Br Jerome Emmanuel

Coursewise GK Quiz Competition

The maiden General Knowledge Quiz competition of the academic year 2011-2012 was held as per the three different courses on August 19, 2011. The preparations for this were done since the beginning of the academic year and the sources for the questions shortlisted. Relevant information pertaining to the fields of discussion and covered areas was displayed or made available for the courses to go through and gain information. The course leaders along with the rest had allocated the various resource material among themselves so as to ensure overall increase of knowledge.
Fr Wilson Jose, the Principal was the backbone of the whole process right till the end. He was ably supported by the Rainbow group, especially Brs Suresh and Roopesh. The quiz proper was for nearly 90 minutes and consisted of 19 rounds of varied sorts: video clips, song interludes, direct questions, written tests and still photos. With spirits soaring as the time and moment drew near, the final years took the lead early on and easily won the competition. The first years were the runners up. The next quiz competition as per growth groups is scheduled for the next semester.

To dream and dare

Kadiyala Kamala (in the pic, with her younger brother) could very well have been just another name in the list of residents of Seethampet village in the Kothavalasa Mandal of Vizianagaram District (Andhra Pradesh). That it still is. However Kamala is a well known name in the whole town of Kothavalasa. A little further into the city of Visakhapatnam, especially amidst the medical fraternity of the government facilities, the same Kamala is fast gaining popularity. Besides being the youngest government employee, Kamala is today looked up to by many a youngster, even her own seniors from school, college and nursing school. But this was not the case earlier.

Born the eldest in the family is not always a blessing, so did Kamala realise early in life. With a mother who did everything in her might to keep the family together, and a father who barely was there at home sober and attentive, it was up to Kamala to find her way to fulfill her passion of doing her studies so as to become a doctor. With no financial means of procuring the required study material, she would borrow them from her companions late in the night after they had finished their study, sit up the whole night and return the books early next morning, so that her companions could study again. The lit stove at home was not an everyday reality. Much less, the lunch box. It was her sheer determination to study that saw her secure 82% in her tenth standard board exam from the local Catholic missionary school, St Mary's. Having secured one of the highest ranks not only in her school but also in the vicinity of Kothavalasa mandal, some intermediate colleges offered her a free seat. She chose the one closest to her house, so as to be of help at home too.

It was during this time, as she contemplated, what next, that she began to speak to Fr K.T. Jose, the Rector of St John's Regional Seminary, whom she knew since her school days and who had often helped her with some books, uniform and class fees – thanks to the generous educational support of Fr Luigi Zuffetti, through Don Bosco Missioni, Italy. Thanks to his guidance she saw a beacon of light for the fulfilment of her dream of wearing the white coat one day.

Fr K.T. Jose explained to her the different options she could choose from and then recommended her to the St Ann's Nursing School at Malkapuram, an institute run by the St Ann's Sisters of Luzern (India), on the outskirts of the city of Vizag. That, according to Kamala, proved to be the turning point of her life. Today she cannot stop thanking and singing the praises of the Sisters who according to her, turned her life into a miracle. “They really taught me how to be the best of who I could be. It was from them that I learnt how to live, share, pray and love. I can never ever forget what they did for me,” shares Kamala. Everytime she utters 'St Anns' she almost jumps up in the air for joy! She is specially all praise for Srs Mercy Tom and Regi. She has imbibed the 'St Anns' spirit so much that listening to her speak English, none would doubt that she is from a purely rural Telugu background. All along Fr K.T. Jose was her constant guide and help.

Much before she completed her five year stint at the nursing school and notched the second best mark (84.3%), she was offered a top job at the Rajiv Gandhi Medical Institute, Visakhapatnam. Of the 20,000 job applicants for a mere 270 government posts, Kamala holds the record for being the youngest to be selected to date. Today, the 21 year old Kamala, with just a year of working experience at the institute, has been handpicked to undergo a specialised training in Visakhapatnam itself.

Though financially secure, she has not forgotten her early days. It is her mother that she loves dearly. Her example of hard work and love for the family are something Kamala cherishes most. Her father too is a changed man now. When asked as to what is the cause of this dramatic development in her life as well as that of her family, Kamala is quick to respond: “Jesus Christ and His gracious blessings!” Her initial dream of becoming a doctor has now a definite shape: she has set her mind on becoming the medical superintendent of the hospital. “Thus I can not only help people with their sickness but also get others to assist those in need and effect major health policies for the greater benefit of the poor,” is what Kamala is sure about. And her primary goal? To be the start of a series of success stories... to get others to dream dreams and have the will power to make those dreams come true.