The reality today is that families are spread out across the
world, thousands of miles apart, with each of us living separate lives. We get caught up in our own struggles and
routines and forget the bonds we share. However, as the holidays get near, we begin
to think of those close to us, through blood or love, and we feel an urge to
come together to remind us how important it is to have each other. This urge seems
to be something truly cross-cultural, as strong here as it is in Togo and other
far reaches of the world.
As families come together over the holidays, they put aside
their differences and work toward a common goal. Even if the goal is as simple
as putting together a warm meal and giving thanks for the opportunities and
events of our lives, the goal is reached by everyone contributing what they
can. In many ways, the unity I see in families during the holidays reminds me
of how our cooperatives and women’s groups work every day in Togo.
In fact, the women of Queen Alaffia are a great example. At
Queen Alaffia, the goal is twofold – give women an opportunity to support
themselves and their families with the skills and knowledge they have accrued
during their lives, and also, to create beautiful and creative products for
others to enjoy. Neither goal would be
attainable without the women working together.
Like a Thanksgiving dinner, a Queen Alaffia bag is made of several parts
contributed by many people. One woman
may sew the strips of fabric together. Another woman cuts the bag, and others
will sew, press, and finish the bag. Each piece is a combined effort with a
common goal.
If I look beyond Queen Alaffia to the greater Alaffia
family, I see the same pattern – with each of you bringing your “dish” to make
the Alaffia goal a reality. The Alaffia
family spans several continents, multiple cultures, beliefs, and ways of life.
However, we all have a critical piece to contribute, and, united with the goal
of empowering the less fortunate, we are truly making a difference. During this season of reflection, we thank
you for being part of our family and look forward to what we can accomplish
together in the coming year.
Wishing you a peaceful and cooperative holiday season,
Rose
