LONAVLA, AUGUST 23, 2008: It was definitely a significant moment when the Scouts of Don Bosco High School paid a visit to Maria Ashiana De-Addiction and Therapeutic Centre,
Lonavla on August 20. They had a short informal orientation session organized by the Staff at Maria Ashiana, comprising Mr Francis, Mr Daniel, Ms Komal and Ms Kavita. The Scouts were visibly moved to learn about their underprivileged brothers and the many problems they have to rough out on the streets. They asked questions and clarified their doubts too. There was also time given for one-to-one interaction. Many of the Scouts had brought along with them some eatables and toiletries for the boys at Maria Ashiana. The interactive session concluded with a group photograph. Cl Rickson Fernandes, the Scoutmaster, who planned this exposure visit, says: “It is good that these boys who come from well-to-do families learn about the stark realities of society. If not now, then they will never realize that such boys also exist.” Some of the Scouts were shocked, while others were left speechless. Some of them said: “This is an eye-opener for me,” “These boys are my age, yet they have faced so many problems and difficulties, now I will go and thank my parents,” “Thanks for making me aware of the situation and experiences of these boys, now I will not tease them or shout at them when I come across them at Railway Stations or in trains.” While the weather gods continue to play hide ’n seek up above, the sun is surely smiling down on Maria Ashiana, with every passing day bringing cheer and happiness…!! Really God, Tussi Great Ho….!!
Chris Valentino sdb