‘The Pencil of Change’

Over the past few years, our team at BioVision Charitable Trust, led by our awesome Professor turned President, has been on a mission: lending a hand to students who need it most. We’ve provided them with study materials like bags, notebooks, and all the tools they need, but you know what? A simple pencil symbolizes it all perfectly. It’s a writing tool that holds the power to work wonders, yet it’s affordable for everyone. Spending time with these young minds always brings back memories of their incredible innocence and boundless dreams.

Thinking back to when I was a kid, getting a half-used pencil was like hitting the jackpot! Back then, having even one pen was super important, and having a spare was like winning the lottery. I remember scavenging blank pages from old notebooks to make new ones because, purchasing new was out of reach, well, we had to get creative when it came to school supplies!

Looking back on those days, I’m proud of who I am now. Instead of dwelling on the tough times, I’m grateful for the strength those times gave me. Life in urban areas might offer a bit more comfort, but in remote areas, it’s like facing a trial by fire. Yet, witnessing the sheer determination of these young students, I have no doubt they’ll achieve remarkable feats and fill us all with pride.

They just need a little push in the right direction. It might not be just up to me or you to guide them, but if we all pitch in, we can make a real difference. Kind of like how sharing your food with someone else feels way better than just eating it all yourself.

Remembering the wise words of Mahatma Gandhi about non-violence and Netaji’s fiery call for freedom, it’s clear we’ve come a long way. But now, it’s time for a new kind of revolution—one where we all think about the well-being of not just people, but everything on this crazy planet.

So, let’s arm everyone with the simplest of tools—a pencil—and watch as greatness unfolds. Who knows? Maybe from that little graphite stick, we’ll see the rise of heroes and the start of something truly amazing.

Dr. Sanjay Swami

(The author is an Associate Professor at T.N. Medical College and B.Y.L. Nair Ch. Hospital in Mumbai. Serves as Secretary to BioVision Charitable Trust, he’s deeply involved in various initiatives beyond academia, showcasing his commitment to making a difference in society.)