At the Royal Grammar School in Enniskillen

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Schoolgirl Sophie Sherlock digs deep into her resources: her money

Friday afternoon in Northern Ireland: at noon I will start my talk in a senior school in Enniskillen.  Teacher Karen Strong has invited me to join her course “medical ethics”.  The sixth formers and their teacher listen for almost an hour, not saying a word. “I have never heard a talk like that before,” stammered Mrs Strong being at a loss for words.

Heading into the weekend the pupils say thank you and wish me all the best.  Suddenly a young girl introduces herself to me, “I am Sophie Sherlock” and hands me an envelope, speaking the following well-considered words: “I would like to contribute financially to Diospi Suyana.” The sum of money enclosed is conscientiously written on the envelope.  An incredible sum and a real sacrifice from this Northern Irish girl.  I am totally stunned.  Whenever I speak in public I never ask for donations.

“May I take a photo of us two?” Sophie nods and laughs.  Within a split second the photo has been taken: “This evening you will find this photo on our website!” I tell her in parting.

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Visiting the royal school. Enniskillen is 200km northwest of Dublin.
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