Agnes Gonxha Bojaxhiu, later known as Mother Teresa, was a woman who dedicated her life to caring for the poor and needy. She also provided love and support to the sick. Her empathy and devotion had a lasting impact on those around her. After establishing Missionaries of Charity, Mother Teresa inspired the creation of 15 similar organizations globally. The book “Mother Teresa, A Complete Authorized Biography” by Kathryn Spink documents these remarkable achievements.
Mother Teresa had a significant influence on the world we live in as she started assisting individuals with leprosy in the 1950s. The Missionaries of Charity, a charitable organization, was granted a 34-acre plot of land near Asansol by the Indian government. Mother Teresa took charge and established a leper colony named Shanti Nagar (Town of Peace). In recognition of her efforts to help the people of India, she was honored with the Padmashree (“Magnificent Lotus”) Award by the Indian government in September 1962.
Mother Teresa’s fearlessness stemmed from her unwavering faith in God, a support system that emboldened her. In 1985, she opened a home for AIDS sufferers in New York City alongside her sisters, which they named “Gift Of Love.” Her profound wisdom now adorns a poster within this sanctuary. Mother Teresa’s journey as an independent nun began in 1948 when Pope Pius XII granted her permission and Indian citizenship. After acquiring nursing knowledge, she established the “Missionaries of Charity,” a congregation of selfless nuns dedicated to aiding the sick and dying. These devoted women pledged their lives to serving the impoverished without any expectation of financial or material gain. Enclosed is an image of Mother Teresa’s heartfelt letter warmly welcoming a nun who sought to join this noble mission.
Reflecting on the start of her journey, Mother Teresa shares in her book, “Mother Teresa: In My Own Words,” that she was initially assigned to teach a small Geography class at St. Mary’s High School in Calcutta. However, as she walked through the streets of Calcutta, she couldn’t ignore the presence of countless beggars, lepers, and homeless people. Witnessing their wretched lives and seeing them survive on scraps while abandoned babies were left to die in trash bins deeply touched her heart.
Moved by compassion, Mother Teresa approached the archbishop and requested a change in her role so that she could dedicate herself to helping those in need. After receiving written approval from the archbishop, Mother Teresa embarked on her mission.
A film was produced depicting Mother Teresa’s life and her efforts alongside her fellow nuns. The film effectively portrays Mother Teresa’s deep compassion for the ill. The central focus of the movie is when Mother Teresa and her nuns establish a new facility for those who are sick and dying. During a conversation with the building owner, who highlights the impressive features of the property, both the nuns and Mother Teresa simultaneously express their indifference, stating, “We do not require such luxuries.” Despite residing in humble conditions, they are content. Unlike many of us, Mother Teresa does not rely on material possessions. A basic supply of running water and essential resources for aiding the sick are all she needs.
