Their words were several and their hearts were thankful, their eyes tearing. As each broken individual received a box of what they needed the most, we heard them say: “God bless you…”, “You bring hope…”. They had no homes, nowhere to stay, suffering more than anyone could imagine. They came from the alleys and streets; some came using vehicles while others took many steps. They all knew that what they hoped for would be there. It was no typical entity calling for them to come, but the Youth of the Order of Malta that wanted to lend a hand to those who they knew suffered from all that had happened: the blast, the economic crisis, and all that comes with it as well.
They told us they were helpless, but we told them not to worry. They needed a drink, we gave them a pack. They needed a bite, we gave them meals. They were too tired and weak to lift what had been given to them, we did it for them and took the items straight to their homes. We started with one and ended up giving hundreds. There is no other way to say it, but it is true; darker days have come but it is only during such times that we can prove to God what we are made of. We should stay faithful and be the hope to those in despair.
Special thanks to Boxes 4 Beirut and “Société des membres de la Légion d’honneur – Liban” for their generous donations.
Chris Ain Malak, Lebanese volunteer
