My Sister’s  keeper

By Melanie Greene

It is often said that it takes a village to raise a child, and from my own experience, I can attest to the truth of this statement. Only a busy parent truly understands the value of having an aunt, uncle, grandmother, or grandfather step in when needed. It doesn’t have to be for a long period of time or for anything significant; even a safe, playful distraction for just ten minutes can make all the difference, allowing a parent to prepare a meal or manage bath time for their little one.

I am blessed to have a small village helping me raise my toddler, and that support does not go unnoticed. It is deeply appreciated and held with gratitude and love.

At the same time, I am painfully aware that not everyone’s circumstances are the same. Not every parent is fortunate enough to have a village to lean on.

This reminds me of a social media video that circulated some time ago, where a mother broke down in tears, exhausted and overwhelmed, because she had no support and no ‘village’ to turn to. She voiced her desperation and frustration through a social media post.

In response, many individuals reached out to her, offering support in whatever ways they could and forming an unexpected yet deeply welcomed “village” around a mother they knew only through that online moment.

I am also reminded of the innocent baby who tragically died from SIDS, allegedly triggered by the trauma of fireworks in the neighbourhood during Divali. In this case, the “village” was quite literal. The parents reportedly pleaded with their neighbours to reduce the noise for the sake of their child, but their requests fell on deaf ears. This village failed. I cannot help but wonder whether there is any regret or remorse, given the devastating outcome. That baby’s life was surely worth far more than the fleeting joy derived from fireworks.

Let us be more mindful of the role we play in each other’s lives. Compassion, consideration, and community are not optional—they are essential. A moment of patience, a willingness to listen, or a small act of kindness can ease a burden, protect a life, and restore hope to someone who is struggling. We may never fully understand the weight another parent is carrying, but we can choose to show up with empathy. In doing so, we honour the true meaning of a village and affirm that every child, every parent, and every life matters. In essence creating an inclusive village of being my ‘Sister’s keeper’.