Meet Shanti

 by Allison Tueller

Shanti was among the first people I met after arriving in India for the first time. A little jet lagged, I was already overwhelmed by all of the new sights, smells, and sounds of India when I caught sight of her pushing herself through the colony. I’m still amazed at how beautiful and radiant she is. Through her bright smile, she has a peaceful stillness that makes me want to be close to her.

Although it is obvious that life has been difficult for her, Shanti’s strong spirit shines through in her smile. And while she is now cured from leprosy, the disease left her with significant disabilities. Yet it is also obvious that she is more than just a leprosy patient or an amputee. She is confident and self-sufficient, happily cooking and selling food in her community.

After receiving microgrants years ago, Shanti used the money to invest in her cooking business. As it grew and became profitable, she repaid the loans and reinvested in her business. Through this process, she has found dignity and hope for a better life.

She projects confidence, competence, and grace – I watched her expertly haggle the price of vegetables with a street merchant, all while stoking her cooking fire, carefully peeling garlic cloves (essentially one-handed), and making everyone laugh and smile.