The worst day so far

Today felt like one of the days of the world's end for us. It was the worst day so far; and tomorrow will be even worse. Across Gaza, people are still enduring forced displacement as they flee mass killings, living through total destruction and endless massacres.

Yet in one of the camps in Al-Nuseirat, the sky didn't fall, the earth didn't collapse, and the sea didn't flood. The children still suffered, but no child died today.

After distributing what was left from the last fund to more than 25 displaced families, and after buying sandals for 50 children, we tried again.

This time, it was shoes. 135 pairs. Enough for every child of primary school age in the camp.

My friend Abood @aboudbaroud helped me buy them, and my younger brother Ahmad @ahmad.tah3 joined us with joy. Together, we were grateful and more than happy to do it.

I gave from my own family's money to make it possible, and my dear friend Elisa @kerdawrakka from Scotland was the last to join with a generous gift of €200.

I'm only doing what should have been done long ago. And I will keep doing it, because even in these ruins, it makes a difference. These small acts matter. They bring dignity, comfort, and a bit of hope to children who have already lost too much.

"While you prepare your breakfast, think of others

Don't forget the food of the pigeons.

While you fight your wars, think of others

Don't forget those who seek peace.

While you pay your water bill, think of others

Those who suck the clouds for nourishment.

While you return home, your home, think of others

Don't forget the people of the tents.

While you sleep counting the stars, think of others

There are those who have no place to sleep.

While you liberate yourself with metaphors, think of others

Those who lost their right to speak.

While you think of distant others, think of yourself

Say: "I wish I were a candle in the darkness."

Mahmood Darweish