It is not always necessary to have plenty of wealth or abundant material goods to be rich; because being rich is not merely about money or material possession. Rather, as the saying goes, having a kind heart and loving soul is more precious than any worldly possession and it is what makes a person truly rich.
This is not said without a reason. The story, we have heard recently about a teenager testifies this reality and teaches us a lot. Tamrat Ketsela, 17 and an 11th grader, is a resident of Debark Town in the north Gondar Zone of the Amhara State. He was born and raised in this same town. Tamrat is the only child to his parents; and it is him who supports his parents financially. Engaging in polishing villagers’ shoes, he backs his parents from his daily earnings.
At the time the terrorist TPLF group invaded Debark and Damat woredas, in Amhara State, and the rebel group tried to escape out through Gondar, Tamrat was helping the Ethiopian National Defense Forces (ENDFs) in various ways. As the ENDF posted in its social media page, Tamrat, standing by the side of the Army, has supported the forces in the surrounding areas of Chena Woreda through carrying food and projectiles.
While he did this, he had observed the courage, commitment, determination and perseverance the army has in dismantling the insurgents of the terrorist TPLF faction. “I have personally witnessed the destruction of the enemy by climbing up the highest mountains that are tiring to see them; leave alone to climb,” he said. As he witnessed the unwavering and strenuous struggles of the army, he decided to support the heroic defense forces, who are sacrificing their lives to protect the territorial integrity and sovereignty of the country; and to let their fellow citizens live in peace and with dignity, in every possible way and with whatever he has. “I earn my daily bread as shoe shiner.
I support my family too from the income I gained polishing shoes. The best thing I can contribute to members of the defense forces is through my profession – shining their shoes. Thus, in our surrounding areas, preparing a notice that makes known our free service for members of our defense force, I have started offering free service for the army.
I am doing it happily and proudly. Not only that, but by reducing from my daily income, I also back the army on a monthly basis.” he said. As to him, every month he donates 15 percent of his daily income to the army; and vowed to continue his support.
While talking about this kindhearted teenager, Getachew Assefa, a resident of Debark Town, on his part said that the exemplary act of this young boy has created a great interest among the communities.
It has further initiated and energized them to backing the army in any way they could do.
The Ethiopian National Defense Force is always ready; and will not hesitate to pay the necessary sacrifice for the interest of the people and for the sake of the country. And we do not doubt that; we will be a champion as long as the people of Ethiopia stand by the side of us, the page further stated.
BY ELIZABETH MENGISTU
The Ethiopian Herald 18 February 2022
