The Carwash Turned into my college Sponsor!

12 years ago, my 12th-grade results were out, I decided not to pursue further studies in spite of scored well. Despite the low fees at government colleges, my family was in a difficult financial situation, making it challenging for me to continue my education.

While I was working at my weekend car-washing job, the family whose cars I was washing asked me, "How did you do on your results?" I replied, "It went well." They were happy to hear that and then asked me, "What are you planning to do next?" I confidently said, "I'm thinking of finding a job. Could you help me?" The person was surprised and asked, "Why?" I explained that my family was financially strained, and they wouldn't be able to support further education.

He asked for my results sheet, and then asked me a few questions about it. To my surprise, he then said, "I will sponsor", I was speechless. He immediately called my father and assured him not to worry about education expenses. The person took a day off from work to take me to several offices of his friends and colleges to figure out to study next. He also guided me in detail.

Thanks to his support, I was able to complete my graduation. Every day, I see many young school dropouts working in hotels, garages, small shops, construction sites, or as cleaners. It's a privilege to get an education; not everyone can afford it.

However, I've come to understand that those with stellar degrees often had strong support and were financially stable, or were fortunate enough not to face social barriers and the emotional and practical obstacles associated with discrimination. This is especially true for those from marginalized backgrounds, who often bear a heavier burden. Yet, many individuals navigate through these challenges and exceed expectations.

This experience has changed my perspective. Instead of admiring only those who excel consistently, I now have great respect for those who, despite substantial challenges and struggles, manage to persevere. Those who face systemic disadvantages often emerge with a strong sense of empathy and a mentality of "This too shall pass."

I remember the words of Tim Cook, who, when speaking about his experience as a gay man, said, "Being gay has given me a deeper understanding of what it means to be in the minority and provided a window into the challenges that people in other minority groups deal with every day. It’s made me more empathetic, which has led to a richer life. It’s been tough and uncomfortable at times, but it has given me the confidence to be myself, to follow my own path, and to rise above adversity and bigotry. It’s also given me the skin of a rhinoceros, which comes in handy when you’re the CEO of Apple."

Everyone is excellent in their own way and An education which does not teach us to discriminate between good and bad, to assimilate the one and eschew the other, is a misnomer.