Special Celebration of the UN International Day of Charity [5 September 2023]

Remarks by Ambassador Ruchira Kamboj

Permanent Representative of India to the UN

-----

Ladies and gentlemen,

Today, I stand before you to celebrate the extraordinary life of a remarkable individual, Mother Teresa, a true citizen of India, whose dedication and selflessness have left an indelible mark on our world.

2. Mother Teresa, born Agnes Gonxha Bojaxhiu in Skopje, now North Macedonia, chose to become an Indian citizen, embracing a country rich in diversity and culture. Her decision to make India her home was not just symbolic; it was a testament to her unwavering commitment to serving humanity.

3. Throughout her life, Mother Teresa dedicated herself to a cause that transcended borders, languages, and religions. Her life's work was a testament to her belief that love and compassion have the power to bridge the gaps that often divide us. She saw the suffering of the poorest of the poor and, instead of turning away, she embraced them with open arms. Her legacy of kindness and compassion continues to inspire us all.

4. Today, as we gather here at the United Nations to celebrate her, it is fitting that this event coincides with the International Day of Charity. Mother Teresa embodied the very essence of charity. She believed that charity was not just an act but a way of life. She lived this philosophy every day, tirelessly working to alleviate the suffering of those in need.

5. In honoring Mother Teresa, we must remember that her life was not just about admiring her from afar; it was about learning from her example and following in her footsteps. We must imbibe the qualities of kindness, compassion, and charity that she so beautifully demonstrated.

6. As we reflect on her life and her legacy, let us take this moment to pledge that we will carry forward her torch of love and service. Let us strive to be citizens of the world, like she was, who saw no boundaries in their acts of kindness. Let us remember that each of us has the power to make a difference, no matter how small our actions may seem.

7. In conclusion, let us express our gratitude for the life of Mother Teresa and the incredible impact she had on our world. Let us commit to celebrating her not just today but every day, by living a life that reflects the values she held dear - kindness, compassion, and charity. Thank you for joining me in honoring this extraordinary woman, and may her legacy continue to inspire us all.

8. In the spirit of celebrating Mother Teresa, I leave you with a truly extraordinary quote from her: "Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love." Let us remember these words and carry them in our hearts as we strive to make the world a better place, one act of love and kindness at a time.

Congratulations Zariya Foundation!

Thank you!

-----