The inspirational journey of Santosh
– From being a rag picker to becoming a mechanic
My name is Santosh Lamani (677), a native from Karnataka. I was a rag picker, which gave me twenty to thirty rupees per day as I was homeless, staying in a small hut. I had a terrible life. I had no hope of living but only rag picking; I considered it would be throughout my life on the railway station and sometimes used to think, ‘What am I going to do in my life?’
One day, I came across Sir David, who started inquiring about my family and living. When I opened up to him, he asked me if I would like to come to a hostel to stay. For me, it was like an opportunity sent through heaven, and I agreed.
He took me to Stepping Stones, where I remember I was first given a bath, which gave me a feeling of comfort, concern, and care. I was then enrolled in a school, where my happiness had no limit, as that was my first time. I experienced a great change in my life as they gifted me with new clothes and toys and loved me as their own son. In those three years, I learned to read and write.
Soon, I was shifted to Victory House and later enrolled in Shanti Niketan, my second school, where I got into the habit of speaking English, which was a bit horrible in the beginning. My teachers and friends helped me to do so.
In school, I got an opportunity to play football, a game I was very much interested in. I approached Coach Valentino, asking if I could be a player in his team. I have a lasting image of him, as he taught me to play football. As the days passed, I improved my football skills. My coach was convinced, and I was selected to play for El Shaddai Sports Club, where I gave my best, winning second place in Goa.
As I grew up, I was shifted to Shekinah House, where I was selected as Captain in the year 2013. It was a great honor for me. Finally, I took my Tenth Grade exams, and to my and my friends’ surprise, I aced it.
After attending a career guidance meeting, I decided to join Hotel Management. I joined Hyatt Centric in the Electrician Department, which is helping me to build my career. I am still with El Shaddai, as they played a very big role and are also giving me good accommodation. It was a great time I had.
I am grateful to Sir David. I always feel that El Shaddai is my real home. Dada and Didi are my parents. I am glad that I learned to pray and worship, led by Dada. Dada and Didi are my role models. They have brought me up with great skills, and I really want to thank them.
Today, I believe whatever I am, it is all because of them. They have played an important role in my life, and they are very special to me. I can never forget their sacrifices paid for me. El Shaddai is a paradise to many children like me.
