Letter to a New Friend

Dear Elizabeth

When my dad died of cancer, I was told it was a painless death- in the palliative care ward of a top-of-the- line treatment care facility.
I was 19.
Surrounded by my closest friends and family, I was left with his joyful wisdom in my heart and the world at my fingertips.
I had no responsibilities- I was born into money.

When your dad dies of cancer (in a matter of weeks), it will be a slow and excruciatingly painful death. Unlike my dad's case, there are drugs available to treat your dad's type of cancer, but, hey, you cant afford them.
You are 9.
You are aware that after your dad passes away, you will be left to care for your 4 younger siblings (and probably leave school). Your mum will be working full time but still wont make enough money to feed you and your brothers and sisters in the slums of Kibera. You were born 'poor'.

When I first met you, i thought you were just some adorable kid. Now I know that you are more of a person than I will ever be.
Please, dont go into commercial sex work, and try to forgive my pathetic existence.
In peace,

-Rebecca



This isnt a sob story- as i said before, Kibera is one of the most vibrant and joyous places in the world. Its important for us to realize that the same system that gives some of us such privilege and boundless opportunity also leaves some stranded.
dont worry though, the world is changing, I can feel it, and the best part is-we can all be a part of it.

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