I am sure you all had a great new year’s eve.

I spent some time with Major Charity Adams – she was phenomenal.

She was the central character in the movie six triple eight (based on real life with 6888 being the name of the battalion).

It was the only predominantly Black US Women’s Army Corps unit sent overseas during World War 2.

Her white colleagues were always looking at ways to corner her. There was zero support from her seniors including the General.

The conditions were deplorable for the blacks (to the extent her team had to chip in personal money for the funeral of two black soldiers who died on duty).

You may never be able to appreciate what Charity Adams went through in her career.

Why do I say this?

This was a story of underprivileged people who had to work against all odds.

And, you are a privileged lot (your education coupled with an ability to communicate in English – you’re among the top 10% in India).

She persisted.

She kept on doing her work

She wanted to prove that given a fair chance they were as good as the whites.

The battalion got an assignment in Europe which was to be completed in 6 months – a task which an earlier white battalion was unable to complete and left midway.

It was a race against time. 

And, her team was able to complete the task in 90 days!

But, there was no recognition.

What do I want you to take away from this story?

Well, you need to find a purpose beyond recognition. 

Adams was a soldier and she had a point to prove to nobody else but herself.

She wanted to fulfil her duty to the best of her ability so that she could look into her own eyes with pride.

Period.

God has given you another year.

Give it your best shot, not to prove a point to others and be recognised.

आपका इस साल का एक ही लक्ष्य है –

अपनी आँखों में अपनी इज़्ज़त बढ़ानी है ..

All the best!

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