A Lesson in Humanity from Bhatpara Tea Garden

[Nityam Ghosh]

In the quiet surroundings of the Basa Line area in Bhatpara Tea Garden, a simple yet powerful story emerged during a recent SALT session with a 21-year-old youth named Feroz. His account of a helping hand offered on an ordinary day resonated with profound lessons in kindness, unity, and community spirit.

Feroz recalled an incident from a few months ago when he was returning home from Kalchini. Along the way, a Toto vehicle broke down. Curious, he approached the driver to ask what had happened and soon realized that the driver was an old friend. Without hesitation, Feroz reached out to a shop owned by an acquaintance to arrange the necessary parts and helped repair the vehicle. Moments later, both he and his friend continued their journey home together.

For Feroz, this was more than just mechanical assistance—it was a proud moment in his life. When asked if he would have helped a stranger in such a situation, his answer was without pause: “Yes, because it is our duty.”

Values Reflected in the StoryKindness and empathy: Feroz offered immediate help, regardless of whether the person was a friend or stranger, embodying humanity and compassion.Community spirit: He believes unity and cooperation are essential for a strong society.Sense of duty: Helping others is, in his words, a responsibility we all share.Understanding and sensitivity: He is quick to recognize problems and actively seeks solutions.

Life Lessons from Feroz’s ExperienceThis episode reminds us that helping others is not an optional act—it is a responsibility. Whether the person in need is familiar or unknown, our willingness to extend help strengthens the bonds between us. Living in unity, taking pride in personal strengths, and maintaining a positive mindset are keys to building both personal success and collective harmony.When asked about his community, Feroz emphasised the importance of living together in harmony. In his view, anyone can face challenges at any time, and addressing these issues collectively fosters good relationships and mutual understanding. Such thinking forms the foundation of a cooperative and resilient community, benefiting everyone involved.

After Experience ReflectionWhat went well:

For Feroz, the SALT conversation was a refreshing and positive experience. It was the first time someone in his village had asked about his experiences and views beyond casual small talk. This opportunity allowed him to express his thoughts openly. He also appreciated being made aware of his strengths and capabilities, which helped him recognise his inner power. This understanding boosted his confidence and left him feeling even more positive.

What could have been better:

While the one-on-one conversation was enriching, Feroz suggested that holding such discussions in a group would have allowed everyone’s ideas to surface. Group dialogues, he noted, bring diverse perspectives and shared experiences, creating richer and more impactful conversations. His suggestion underscores the value of collective engagement in strengthening communities.