Some moments in life stay with us forever, not because they’re extraordinary, but because they remind us of the beauty in human connection. One such moment happened to me while visiting a community temple in October, 2024 at Tanbazar City Colony, Narayanganj.

As I walked in, Kedarnath Chakrabarty , the priest of the temple greeted me with a heartfelt smile and said, “Hey, you have come!” (“আরেএ, তুমি এসেছো”) “How are you?” It wasn’t our first meeting—Me & my team mate Jhumur Sarker had previously had a SALT conversation with him. My expectation went beyond that the way he greeted me when I met him. It felt like a warm embrace, a recognition of my presence that instantly made me feel valued.

I could recall the memory of the SALT conversation with him. Sitting down with him for a SALT conversation, I saw his openness and positive outlook shine. He spoke about his life, the temple’s role in the community, and the small ways he tries to uplift those around him. One of the most inspiring moments during our conversation was when the priest shared his proudest realization: being able to dedicate his life entirely to worship and serve God. For him, this role isn’t just a responsibility—it’s a source of immense joy and fulfillment to him. His current age is more than 70, still he doesn't feel tired to wake up regularly at 5 am, goes to temple, and fulfills his responsibilities until evening. That conversation wasn’t just about exchanging words—it was about appreciating the strengths within him and the community he serves.

This experience reminded me why SALT is so meaningful. It’s not about always fixing people’s problems. It’s about listening, appreciating, and learning together. The simple act of sharing a moment, of seeing someone for who they truly are, is powerful. It can build trust, fosters mutual respect, and creates an environment where both individuals and communities can thrive.

That day, I left the temple not just with notes from our conversation but with a deeper understanding of what connection truly means. It’s in the little things—a warm smile, a kind word, an open heart. These are the moments that fuel my passion for SALT and remind me of the incredible strength we all carry within us.

As I reflect on this experience, I feel immense gratitude. Grateful for the opportunity to connect, to learn, and to grow alongside the people I meet. And grateful for the reminder that even the smallest acts of kindness can leave a lasting impact.