So many things exist in life that influence the choices we make. Those choices are a reflection of attitude, circumstance, and behavior. They reflect wants and desires. We even choose out of necessity. These choices become our direction and their result, the very path we walk upon. What if we weren't given a choice? What if we didn't have the knowledge, the know how, to choose? How would our lives be affected? Where would we end up?
Friday, August 8th was a day there existed a choice. Grassroot Soccer sponsored a graduation for the children of the street. Though these children weren't able to participate in the GRS skillz program(a 10 session intervention with curriculum that teaches youth about topics such as HIV/AIDS prevention and awareness, stigmas, gender based violence, etc.), they were still able to participate in the graduation event. Cheerfully greeted by more than 100 youth, we sang songs in nyanja, kicked around a soccer ball and danced in the streets. We ate fresh fruits, roasted nuts, and were offered an array of colorful popsicles and other tasty treats. GRS events provide quite the unique experience and until you partake in one firsthand, you won't quite understand the depth of impact each has on a person and community. Soccer and music have a way of mobilizing crowds, and the graduation turned into a community wide event, with people curiously watching from the streets and stores that lined the compounds interior. What followed a very stimulating morning was an event that was, perhaps, life changing for many. Participants, who were able to provide proper consent, were tested for HIV. A conscience decision was made to know.
I was surprised to find that looking around, there existed only smiles, no fear. Why? Because making that choice and having that knowledge meant there existed a future, uniquely determined by will and built with a desire to know. You CAN determine your future, and these children were there, building their own path. I was humbled, to say the least The conclusion of the graduation was marked by a full 90 minute match. Participants, many barefoot, rambled around on a dirt and rock laden ground, kicking around a ball, as the sunlight trickled through the dusty air.
*Testing results are delivered to each family individually by a health care counselor and a GRS coach. If a participant tests positive, GRS helps facilitate physician follow ups and provides one on one counseling. It is possible to live a long and healthy life with HIV, with the proper treatment, and it is important to know that.