One of the college boys, Saatman, comes from Chitwan in southern Nepal. His family is Dalit, or Untouchable. He has been with Shanti since he was a small boy, sent up from home to replace his sister at Pegasus school when she tragically died from a mysterious illness. Her name was Shanti and I named our organization in her memory.

Always one of our best students, he’s mentored younger boys and those with problems academic or behavioral. He has both sweetness and determination plus an exceptional work ethic. He comes to my guesthouse to drop off letters for his sponsors. He’s fascinated to know that one of his sponsors is a special forces medic in the army. He expresses his admiration for the tough physical training, discipline and service of the military. He is impressed by Adrian’s experiences serving civilians in Iraq and Afghanistan; his strength and his kindness. As our conversation progresses, I ask him how he spends his free time. Studying! Sometimes till 2 a.m. But what else, I ask. Sometimes he watches YouTube videos, particularly videos of Barack Obama! His face shines. He tells me that he has huge respect for Obama. “He is so humble. And I love to listen to his words. I want to learn to speak in such a way. So sincere and caring. And I want to help others like he gave gifts to children in hospital at Christmas. Did you see that, Didi??!” Saatman has read both of Barack’s books and is on a waiting list to borrow Michelle Obama’s book from the college library. We talk at length about her life and her perspective ( I read her book). A woman’s point of view. The challenge of maintaining her own professional life ( hard won) and personal fulfillment and not be entirely subsumed by her husband’s political career. An important lesson for Nepali men to learn in a culture that has traditionally favored men far above women. Saatman however, groks this easily, an intent look on his luminous face. His mind is so awake and curious. His sweetness is there for all to see. It makes my heart so proud.