Letter to the Women of the Democratic Republic of Congo

Dear sisters,
Not too long ago, I joined this amazing initiative called World Pulse. At that time, I had no idea that I would come into contact with so many strong and fearless women. As a translator, I was prepared to lend a helping hand in any way possible, but I never imagined how much this experience would open my eyes to the realities of the world. But the best part, by far, has been learning from women like you.

Sometimes I feel as if I lived in a bubble. In my comfortable life, I often forget that for many around the world, life is a fight to survive. It’s easy to get caught up in the little things, and to forget that life has so much good to offer, if we just open our eyes. This is why I want to thank you, women of the Democratic Republic of Congo, for reminding me that life is beautiful, despite the struggles that we may have to face.

I know I will never be as strong, as brave and as hopeful as you all, but after having read your stories and helped share them with the world, I have a new understanding of life. I may never experience first-hand the hardships that you suffer, but believe me that I will do everything in my power to help you put an end to it. I thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for being the most incredible role models for me.

I hope to help you as much as you have helped me.

All my love,
Pilar