Math, physics, science... But first of all, *instruction*!

It's no less than a couple days ago, and I finished reading a book, titled \"Half the sky\", by Nicholas D. Kristof and Sheryl WuDunn.

It wasn't an easy reading.

It portrays a too large part of the real world, of girls and women who are abused, killed, made voiceless.

In the country where I live, Italy, we have some idea of what happens in too many places in the world, but no direct, local experience - and so often we lose ourselves in marginal non-prblems.

Yet the book by Nicholas and Sheryl reminded me, if necessary, how... injust the world may be. The stories I learned from made me cry, and feel a savage rage.

Also, supported my intuitive feeling that lack of instruction is strongly related to abuse.

Instructed people are aware of their rights and infinite worth, first of all. Because of this very simple fact, they are less vulnerable to offenders.

To just begin with.

An instructed girl will think. Will see further options. Will have instruments and knowledge to foster imagination, and envision new possibilities.

And later on, as a mother or community member, will pass over her knowledge and experience so that others will benefit.

So, we are right, in our passion. Our aim is not marginal, as it might seem to a bit distract person. Instruction is a fundamental right, but also a sort of shelter. An investment worth spending.

In beginning activity with the Math Support Gals, I greet the message by Nicholas and Sheryl as a welcome pearl, a validation.

An encouragement to add our voices and take a stand, the way we all can, in favor of women and children.

That's our group aim, after all.

A hug, in love and peace

Mauri