We need hope. The battle against despair, pain, and repression seems so overwhelmingly hopeless. We need lots of hope. The world is still a horrific place for far too many. Resilient, irrepressible and spirited inspiration is needed.

I was surprised when a young girl could so convincingly represent that for the world. Petite, 15-year-old Malala was shot in the face at point- blank range simply for wanting school rights for all. She didn’t die. Instead Malala said, “Weakness, fear and hopelessness died. Strength, power and courage were born.” Two years later, Malala won the Nobel Peace Prize for her determination to stand up for children’s rights to an education.

I must admit, I have protected myself. I had opted out of reading news reports of child brides, female oppression, rape and terror, simply because it’s too painful. I take responsibility for myself and my own happiness. It appears selfish. What about women’s solidarity, humanity and compassion? What about the desire to make a difference?

The complete article can be found in Issue #276 of the Tokyo Journal. Click here to order from Amazon.