I sometimes think we forget how blessed (I deplore when someone uses the word “lucky” to describe the gifts they receive) we are in this country.  Also, all too often we tend to read about the barbaric behavior occurring in other countries and write it off to that just being their way of life…as long as we are not affected, right? 

Malala Yousafzai is the Pakistani schoolchild who was shot in the head by extremists earlier in the month because of being an outspoken supporter for girls’ education in her country.  The Taliban has taken responsibility for the shootings of her and two other classmates.  Her assailants were apparently opposed to her stand because it promoted Western culture. 

Though it is hard to believe because she is so young, she has been on the radar of the Taliban since at least 2009.  In her aim to champion the cause of education in her country, she wrote anonymously for the BBC and her blog included, among other issues, how the Taliban burned girl’s schools.  For all her efforts, she was nominated for the International Children’s Peace Prize.  But her aspirations for herself and others does not end there-also made known were her desires to set up her own political party in addition to starting a school for deprived girls.  Where does a young child get such wisdom, maturity and concern for others?  Her parents named her after an Afghan heroine and she certainly has lived up to her namesake.

So, this young lady wanted others to be treated better and stood up for what she knew was right.  What does the Taliban have to fear from her and those she wants to empower…loss of control?  Additionally, they have vowed to kill her should she survive. The shootings are deplorable and I pray that the world will not soon forget her courage and bravery.

This article is written to give remembrance to her and ask that you hold her up in prayer.  It is reported that her chance of survival is 50/50....she is but fourteen years of age.

Katie Altobellis