23/04/2025
A Birthday to Remember
It was on my 16th birthday when I made a decision that changed my life. Instead of the usual celebrations, I chose to spend my special day at Jairosi Jiri, primary school that cares for children with physical disabilities. These are children often forgotten by society—but not by God. As I entered the center, I was filled with a deep sense of compassion. I saw smiles that radiated strength, eyes full of hope, and hearts eager to love and be loved. We sang, played games, shared food, and most of all—we shared joy. That joy became the greatest gift I could ever receive. Celebrating my sweet 16 birthday at Jairos Jiri School for the disabled was truly life-changing! Sharing cake and essential supplies with the students brought so much joy to their faces, and their smiles are still etched in my memory. What struck me most was their incredible resilience and positivity despite the challenges they face. It was humbling to see their strength and adaptability. I'm grateful for the opportunity to give back and be a part of their lives, even if only for a day. This birthday will forever be etched in my heart." “Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on Earth.” Corrie ten Boom
On this happiest of days, I felt the presence of Christ with us. As a Christian, I realized that this act of love and compassion was more than a celebration—it was a sermon without words. It reminds me of the words Jesus said “In as much as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto Me.” Matthew 25:40
This experience reminded me that our birthdays are not just about us—they are opportunities to reflect God’s love to others. I want to encourage my age mates and even parents to take moments like these to reach out to the neglected and disadvantaged. Disability does not mean Inability! The pen of inspiration encourages the notion that “True religion is manifested in the compassionate and loving nature we extend to others.” Ellen G. White, The Desire of Ages, p. 640. “The most compelling argument in favour of the gospel lies in the exemplary character of a loving and lovable Christian.” Ellen G. White, Ministry of Healing, p. 470
I am especially grateful to my parents for opening my eyes to this side of life. They’ve taught me that we are not here just to seek comfort, but to bring comfort to others. Their wisdom and guidance planted the seed of empathy in my heart. May God bless them with more wisdom, grace, and love as they continue to raise me to walk in Christ’s footsteps. “Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” Proverbs 22:6 and Ellen white with the pen of inspiration says, “Home should be made a school of instruction, rather than a place for selfish indulgence.” Child Guidance, p. 17
Let this story inspire us all to remember the forgotten, to love the unloved, and to celebrate life by lifting others. For in doing so, we become the hands and feet of Jesus in a broken world.
Rutendo Mugabe
