© UNICEF/UNI156500/Noorani

It was shocking to see the terror attacks in Brussels last week.  Condolences to those who have lost someone they loved and I hope for a good recovery of those who were injured. I was relieved that none of our people in Belgium were injured in those terrible events.

There seem to be many people in our societies across the World who are resentful these days. Some people are feeding this resentment and calling out the hate in others. Why? This will not lead us anywhere good.

There is hope too

When you look further, you see that many people did many good things in response to the attacks.  The emergency services did an excellent job in taking care of the victims and restoring order.  People volunteered blood donations.

#ikwilhelpen

I was especially heartened by people volunteering to help others with transport, shelter, food or even a hug through #ikwilhelpen (#IWantToHelp). People volunteered practical help and this was good for the spirit too.  It’s the best answer to those calling out the worst in others.

 “Wouldn’t our societies be happier and healthier if we would more often do as those good people in Belgium did, and volunteer our help?”

#IWantToHelp

I also want to help contribute to making the World better than it is today.  I care a lot about education. UNICEF has launched an appeal to reach 43 million children in humanitarian emergencies worldwide.  The largest portion of the appeal – 25 per cent – is going towards educating children in emergencies.  I support this plan.

I understand from UNICEF that it could typically cost about € 150 to pay for a teacher to give lessons to children in their own language in an emergency zone for one month.  I’ve made a donation to UNICEF today in that amount. #BooksNotBombs.