We Too Are Human Beings

In the bustling village of Puthupatti, young Bama, aged eight, walked home from school, her mind buzzing with all the fascinating sights. But one day, she saw something that puzzled her—a respected elder carrying a package by its string, without touching it. Bama's laughter turned to curiosity when her brother Annan explained that it was because of untouchability. Bama felt a burning sense of injustice and wondered why they were treated differently. She knew she had to find a way to change things.

Bama's first challenge came when she tried to speak up about what she saw. Her friends at school dismissed her concerns, saying it was just the way things were. Bama felt frustrated and alone. She knew that if she didn't speak up, nothing would change. - Why do they think they're better than us? Bama asked her friend, who shrugged and said, - My mother says we should just accept it.

Determined to understand more, Bama talked to her grandmother, hoping for answers. But her grandmother only warned her to stay quiet and not cause trouble. Bama felt a heavy weight on her shoulders. She longed for justice but didn't know where to start. - You must be careful, her grandmother cautioned, - People don't like when we question the way things are.

Bama decided to focus on her studies, hoping education could be the key to change. But the school was not free from prejudice, and even her classmates seemed to look down on her. She studied harder, but the pressure was immense. - Why do they treat us like this? Bama asked Annan, who replied, - Because they don't know any better. But you can show them through your success.

Just when Bama thought she'd never make a difference, she overheard a conversation between two teachers. They spoke about a student who had stood up against discrimination and changed minds. Bama felt a spark of hope ignite within her. Maybe she could be that student too. - If they could do it, why can't I? Bama whispered to herself, feeling a new sense of courage.

Filled with determination, Bama decided to organize a small gathering to talk about justice and equality. But fear crept in as she thought about what could go wrong. What if no one listened? Her heart raced as she prepared to speak, but she knew she couldn't give up now. - I have to try, she told herself, clutching her notes tightly.

At the gathering, Bama's voice shook as she began to speak, but her passion shone through. She spoke about fairness and how everyone deserved respect. Slowly, the crowd began to nod in agreement, and Bama felt a surge of confidence. - We too are human beings, she declared, and the words seemed to hang in the air, powerful and true.

After the gathering, Bama felt a mix of relief and fear. What if nothing changed? What if she had made things worse? The weight of doubt pressed heavily on her. - Maybe I should have stayed quiet, she thought, sitting alone under a tree, feeling the burden of her actions.

As Bama sat under the tree, Annan found her and sat down beside her. He spoke of the power of words and actions, and how even small efforts could make a difference. - You did something brave today, Annan said, - And that courage can inspire others. Bama realized that change started with her, and she felt a renewed sense of purpose.

Back at school, Bama noticed a change. Her classmates began to treat her with more respect, and even the teachers seemed to listen more. Bama knew this was just the beginning, but it was a start. Her heart swelled with pride as she remembered Annan's words. - We can make a difference, she thought, smiling to herself, knowing she had taken the first step towards justice.