Fatima's Story: University Exchange Student // Friend // Daughter // Woman that matters

Fatima’s Story

University Exchange Student // Friend // Daughter // Woman that matters

cour·age

/ˈkərij/

noun

strength in the face of difficulty; not the absence of fear, but the judgement that something is more important than fear. 

There are some moments in life that require us to be brave. Like really brave. I love the quote from the movie, “We Bought a Zoo” that says “sometimes all you need is twenty seconds of insane courage. Just literally twenty seconds of just embarrassing bravery. And I promise you, something great will come of it.”

How often do we run from experiences, opportunities, conversations, and situations because we don’t embrace courage? I know I do this, often. There are some people, though, that just inspire me so deeply by their courage and willingness to harness their courage in the moment and do scary things.

My friend, Fatima, is that way. She faces moments and challenges head on. She is curious and has a desire to learn and grow. She grew up in Morocco, and she has recently studied abroad and lived in France and now the U.S. She has always embodied this courage. She lightheartedly told me a story, once, about her childhood. Fatima said that she saw combat sports and wanted to learn how to do it. Everyone around her told her she was too young, and a girl no less. But she said “no way!” And she began to embrace the sport and became a fast learner! Even her instructor was shocked by her performance. Fatima has an infectious way about her that makes others want to be better. She is AWESOME with people. She has a deep desire to know others and relate to them. 

Now, with courage, she tries new things everyday at her American University. I am so inspired by her. 

Unfortunately, due to precautions regarding the coronavirus, her university has closed for the rest of the semester. Fatima is not able to fly home safely, and is currently at her dorm without her friends or classmates. For a people-person, like Fatima, this is a difficult season for her.

With her third birthday spent alone rapidly approaching, Fatima could definitely use our encouragement and reminders that she is not alone.

Would you commit to writing Fatima a letter? A few simple words can speak greater volumes than you could ever know! Remind her that she matters!