Bless their souls – they’re on a mission to guide us
oldies (anyone older than six!) … to keep our planet clean …
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| c/o mobile phone photo in Metro newspaper Waimi, Yimi and Mbetmi |
Triplets: Waimi, Yimi and Mbetmi Fongue – who live in
Nottingham, (central) England – heard about saving the planet at school …
… came home bringing their lesson with them … asking
questions, and what can they do …
The demands of children … the whys, more whys, can we
do something … oh come on Mum, and Dad, we must do something …
Books were bought … action was taken – out into the
park … collecting litter every night after school for an hour …
 |
| Rubbish left behind ... |
… the school heard, the word got out … the town
Council gave them high-vis jackets with ‘clean champion’ on the back, and
special litter picker tools …
 |
| The kids with 'Clean Champions' on their high-vis jackets |
… they spoke to the Council on climate change … while
things at home have changed … Yimi … who thinks she’s a diva! … goes to put a
cardigan on – 'no Mum not the heating!' …
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| A clear, clean park ... what bliss! |
The boys … Waimi is the outgoing one, who loves
reading and writing: bet ... he keeps asking the questions … while his brother,
Mbetmi, who loves acting, is friendly … their sister Yima – loves her singing …
Good luck and congratulations Nottingham on helping
these litter pickers become special people in this world …
… more importantly it’s wonderful Waimi, Yimi and
Mbetmi’s parents are so supportive and encouraging with their off-spring’s wish
to learn and to help their neighbourhood and then their planet.
All the very best to them all … here are some links:
The Metro Newspaper’s article … where I spotted this
wonderful story for our #WATWB monthly post …
BBC – the video story is here … I’ve noticed itelsewhere on the net … probably accessible elsewhere if the Beeb one doesn’twork …
I can’t find their YouTube … but they’ve got their own
account to promote environmental awareness … somewhere out there!!
Hilary Melton-Butcher
Positive Letters Inspirational Stories
55 comments:
These little stories give one hope, Hilary, that our poor old world might be saved. The amount of destruction going on around us is so frightening, and there is very little help from our government - such as it is - to put an end to our headlong destruction. But reading this, and the initiative from other youngsters, cheers one up.
Kudos to these children and to their parents for supporting them. Let's hope that more children are drawn into this and start to make a difference too. Years ago a fellow I knew quit smoking because his kids bugged him about the unhealthiness of it, so it can work with environmental awareness as well. You do post some interesting stuff, Hilary!
Hari OM
What a joyous story to end the weekend - start the week! Thanks for letting us know about these three wee wonders!!! YAM xx
What a truly wonderful and uplifting post. Hooray for the children, their parents, and the encouragement the community has offered. Long may it last - and inspire others to join the fun.
How cute. Innocent kids who absorbed lessons and acted. Awesome. A great example for us all.
Cute story.
It does my heart good to read about these three little pickers - how sweet and caring! sandie
They are cuties! I have a litter picker too and it's surprisingly fun to use.
If only adults would listen to children who have been inspired by stories they have read and thoughtful teachers or documentaries that they have seen and decided to act upon. Heartwarming story and so interestingly outlined by you.
That really is wonderful.
I've never understood how adults can leave litter behind. I mean, I get it if an animal swipes it from the bin, or the wind blows it out. But how grown adults can just toss trash on the ground. What's wrong with people?
Thank goodness for children who are better than that.
Wow, only six and already doing great environmental stuff! I hope their school picks up and invites other students to get involved.
Shame on the adults. Well done, children.
I stopped using one-use plastic bags years ago and always take big hessian bags to the supermarket. But there are two things I will sadly admit to:
a] gladwrap i.e plastic put over the top of plates of cooked food and pulled tightly, to seal the air out and
b] products that are bought from the supermarket, already packed in plastic eg detergent.
I used to work in a school for children with special needs and they understood the need to pick up litter, so why is it so difficult for some of the oldies. Well done, Waimi, Yimi and Mbetmi, a brilliant effort!
Oh these amazing beautiful children are role models to the world Fantastic guys. We need more of them Great story
@ Carole Anne – it certainly inspired me … I saw their little faces and thought – great WATWB … so pleased you agree. Sadly it’s people who don’t think and leave their rubbish behind …
@ David – yes it must be wonderful to have three bright kids there to inspire all around them, as well as encourage each other. I’m sure they’ll continue on and become pillars of society – helping out where necessary.
That’s great about your friend’s children getting him to give up smoking – I know my father gave up when I, the eldest, was 11 so we wouldn’t take it up … none of us did.
Thanks – I just enjoy writing up ‘unique’ things I’ve seen or read … makes my life interesting – as well as yours apparently!
@ Yam – yes it is joyous isn’t it … and a good start to the school holidays … three wee wonders they are …
@ EC – I’m sure these three will be having fun when school starts again … encouraging their friends to help with the litter picking … and in the meantime will continue to expand their knowledge …
@ Joanne – it’s wonderful isn’t it … the innocents who learnt and acted …
@ Liz – great story for you to mention in your school …
@ Sandie – it is a heart-warming story … I was delighted I picked up the free paper to check out … they certainly seem sweet and caring …
@ Karen – my litter picker was for my orthopaedic socks when I had my hip replaced! Actually as you say they’re useful tools to have around …
@ Kalpana – IF ONLY … such appropriate words for us all – we need to be more inspired and act … follow the example set by many children. We can learn so much …
@ J Lenni – I know the state we leave our pavements, roads, parks, countryside is really unnecessary – it is people … thoughtless, sadly. These triplets really stood out and have obviously impacted their home locality …
@ Sue – they got the idea from their school … so went off and did something, then got support from the council and let’s hope it lasts … an hour a night is good exercise, keeping their park cleaner, and teaching them about the birds, bees, trees and plants …
@ Hels – yes: shame on the adults, who leave that rubbish behind.
Using less plastic is something we can all achieve … yet as you mention stopping it altogether is not so easy. I use the same bag to shop with and carry at least one with me.
@ John – it’s interesting how Special Needs children appreciate their world … apparently more than those who should care, because they have the knowledge – sadly the awareness is often lacking …
@ Marja – aren’t they excellent role models. Cute too!
Thanks so much … thought you might like this change of direction from me … couldn’t resist posting about their awareness of nature and the need to not litter … cheers Hilary
What an inspiring story! And a good reminder that we can all make a difference if we pitch in. Cute kids!
We are never too old or too young to cultivate good habits. I am thankful that these three are setting an example for those in their city.
Aw. I want to hug them! Thank you for sharing their story and what they are doing with us.
How lovely! I ran a litter pick up program once for the City and was impressed with how many kids eagerly became involved.
What an inspiring story! In this case, three is definitely a beautiful number. Their parents must be busting their buttons over the wonderful children they're raising.
Have a super week!
@ Elizabeth - I just thought it was fabulous ... and exactly if we all do a little and more importantly clear up after ourselves and others, if necessary ... they look just delightful don't they ...
@ Cecelia - you're so right there, we can all remember those good habits. Aren't they wonderful - bet the Town Council has been bemused and delighted ...
@ Chrys - oh I so agree ... big hugs ... bet they keep the family on their toes. They are certainly setting an example for their school and friends ...
@ Jacqui - isn't it just lovely to see them: cheerful souls. You're good - but it's always fabulous how many come out and help with our projects ...
@ Susan - yes three is quite delightful here. I bet their parents are thrilled at the way their parenting skills are being shown - wonderful ...
Thanks to you all ... there's mention in the local news about litter on a beach in Kent - looks revolting ... people are just thoughtless ... these kids are just goal setters aren't they - thanks so much to you all ... cheers Hilary
Congratulations to these kids, if only the whole world thought along the same lines. It is so simple to take your litter home and put it in the right place. Thank goodness we have a great recycling depot here and in the country, we rarely see litter lying around. If the country can do it why not the towns?
Love this post. Well done, Diane
Delightful post Hilary and what an inspiring story. Those children will go far! :-) X
How inspirational and adorable! Both parents and school doing a creditable job!
Honestly, if the earth is to be saved it's kids who'll get it done, the political leaders seem oblivious generally.
Hi, Hilary - I absolutely LOVE this. We have lots to learn from these little ones!
Aww...these children are so fantastic and definitely role models.
Beautiful little children. May God bless them and that they be fruitful in their mission. <3
Starting them young on many subjects for the common good often seems to work best. It sticks better than for many slow to catch on adults.
What a wonderful story Hilary. Nice to know the message is getting through to some kids. Hope more will follow their lead. I get terribly depressed when I see the things we are doing to our planet. It is nice to read something good for a change. Thanks for sharing.
People need to follow the lead of children who see things so simply
@ Diane – being triplets, they must encourage each other along … let alone others. I know it’d be so much easier if we were all responsible human beings.
I remember your recycling information – I was really impressed … and I’m not sure why ours is so poor – but that still doesn’t explain people’s actions by littering. Thanks …
@ Deborah – yes I was taken with these three and am happy when I think about them …
@ Nila – I know, I’d love to sit with them and talk as to how they see life … obviously bright kids – and as you say parents and kids doing a very creditable job. You’re right … leave it to the kids – trouble is they grow up to be adults, becoming less responsible and forget … but we need leaders to lead us …
@ Donna – aren’t they delightful and so full of life: with learning as their staple to growing up …
@ Kelly – I know ‘awww’ does describe them doesn’t it – role models for many of us …
@ Debby – I sincerely hope they have blessed lives as they take on board their lessons, or more probably improve on them …
@ Ray – yes … learning about all aspects of life and experience many things really helps us grow … we do tend to get into a rut as we age … the kids teach us much …
@ Jo – I’m not sure where the planet is heading … but we can only do our best for our own families, and locality – while being aware … I just love this story …
@ Jo-Anne – you’re right: it’s that simplistic approach … kids can definitely lead us …
Thanks everyone – they are setting examples for us all to think about and to follow – I’m sure they’ll be great leaders as they go through school and on into the adult world. Lots for us to emulate … cheers Hilary
That's a really inspiring story. So much litter, all over the place. I visit Glasgow quite frequently and it's shockingly bad. Good for these lovely kids trying to do something about it in Nottingham (a city I have fond memories of) and good for their parents and local authority supporting them - though a shame LAs don't do more to inspire rather than shelling out crazy high salaries to executives. Good for you, Hilary, for picking up this story (pun intended).
This is such a heart-warming feel-good story -- a perfect #WATWB share Hilary to make my day.
Totally charming and enchanting - the kids will show the way! They're very active here in SA too ... thanks Hilary. I didn't put up a post this time round, but am now commenting on all the others.
That's a lovely story which should make us all feel a little guilty!
At the start of The Queen's Golden Jubilee tour (the very first place she visited) was our local park - Valentines Park in The London Borough of Redbridge - one of London's finest suburban parks. I spent the day with one of those grabber tools picking up litter! I was almost next to Her Maj at one point!
CLICK HERE for Bazza’s almost abhorrent Blog ‘To Discover Ice’
Good on those boys. for doing the cleanups. When my girls were young, they used to do beach cleanups all the time near our house.
@ Mike - I know it's filthy around here too; actually had an interesting meet up yesterday on my walk back from the train - I'll post about it.
Pity about Glasgow ... I used to think central Johannesburg was awful ... but can quite believe - we're lucky we have street cleaners ... yet those executives - need to justify their existence. I'll see what London's like tomorrow ...
Glad you enjoyed my pick-up ... I'm good at those!!
@ Deborah - thanks ... glad you agree with me that it matches the #WATWB requirements ...
@ Susan - I know quite delightful ... if I was nearer - I'd go and meet them. Kids can be amazing can't they ... showing us the way.
@ Bazza - I know ... I do feel guilty when I walk past litter or step over a bottle dropped on the floor of a bus - I should stop and pick it up.
How fascinating to read about your involvement with The Queen and her Golden Jubilee ... pity you didn't lean on your pitchfork (aka litter picker) and have a chat! - while you cleaned up 'her park'.
@ Rhonda - yes the two boys and their sister are doing great works and setting examples for us. Kids are good at helping out ... and they do down here too ...
Thanks everyone - littering is offensive, yet sadly a bane in our lives ... I take my own home, or put it in a bin ... but am not good at collecting others' rubbish, which I should do - cheers Hilary
Littlie Litter Pickers are truly an inspiration,
it's our time to give a cleaner better planet for future generations to come.
Children are never too young for us to cultivate an attitude of caring in them. For them to be socially conscious like this is such a refreshing thing. Thanks for the spot of uplifting news! I'm hoping that someday soon I can rejoin the WATWB . . . it's such a positive environment.
How cute (and wise) are they!
This made me smile several times as I read it - the T shirts, the clean park, and the children themselves who give me so much hope. I'm glad they are being recognized. One hour every day after school is more than impressive. I believe these triplets are going to continue to set a good example for us all. Thank you for the hope and inspiration!
@ PraGun - aren't they great ... I just loved the story and as you mention we should all be doing more to leave this world cleaner for the generations ahead ...
@ Lynda - children always seem to set examples for us and yes if we set the example ... they'll absorb that attitude of caring into their lives ahead. You've caught their spirit - that they are socially responsible so young, is so very refreshing.
It'd be great if you could rejoin WATWB - it's so uplifting reading everyone's positive stories from around the world ...
@ Anabel - they look delightful don't they - let alone wise to the needs of things needing to be corrected for their world to be in good stead ...
@ JoAnne - thanks ... it made me smile as I read and then wrote the story up. It's so good to know the school and Council are behind them ... as well as encouraging others in their community to join in with the clean up. I'm sure they'll be names to watch out for as they grow older ...
Thanks so much everyone - delighted you enjoyed the post and reading up about these little wonders ... amazing kids, with such supportive parents - cheers to you all - Hilary
What a wonderful example they are setting. In the last few days, there have been many pictures in the papers of litter-strewn beaches following the heat surge. We could learn a lot from those kids.
This made me smile several times as I read it - the T shirts, the clean park, and the children themselves who give me so much hope. I'm glad they are being recognized. One hour every day after school is more than impressive. I believe these triplets are going to continue to set a good example for us all. Thank you for the hope and inspiration!
It's stories like this that continue to give me hope for our future. I love all the support these children are getting from their parents and the community...and from you by spreading their story here. It made my heart smile!
Elsie
They are just 6 and are working towards making our planet a better place. This is so inspiring! Love that their efforts are recognized too. More power to this three munchkins. Thanks for sharing this heartwarming story, Hilary!
Sounds like we'll be leaving the planet in good hands.
Cheers,
And the little children shall lead them. So true. Children are leading the way in this. Getting adults to listen is the difficult part.
Great inspiration, Hilary! Thank you!
@ Keith - aren't they just setting examples for us all. I know the beaches have been left foul ... just sheer lack of adult responsibility and lack of thought ... we could and should learn from these three ...
@ JoAnne - it certainly made me smile and note how they've been acknowledged for their forethought in clearing up their local park. I know - one hour a night is impressive isn't it ... and I would totally agree with you - they are setting an example for us all. Delighted to see you here ...
@ Elsie - as many have said and now you - our future lies with them and the way these kids set examples for their peers too. So glad your heart is smiling ...while the support from their parents and the community is very inspiring ...
@ Shilpa - I know: just six ... and with their eyes on the future of our world. Love the phrase 'more power to these three munchkins' - thanks ... so pleased you enjoyed the story ...
@ Sandra - yes a clean world should be our goal ...
@ Denise - how right you are ... children lead, but adults - are another story ... some continue on - but many are lethargic and can't be bothered to be responsible. ...
Thanks so much for your comments - it is such an uplifting story ... cheers Hilary
Dear Hilary, thank you so much for your constant support. You write such interesting posts about so many subjects, together with an appreciation of art, you have so many interests. I wondered if you also write fiction, as well as this beautifully crafted non-fiction? 🌹
This is a lovely story. These children are literally angels in disguise.
What a wonderful story. I am so glad to hear that the kids were inspired to make our planet cleaner after what they learned in school. How wonderful that they are so passionate about picking up litter and being kind to the earth. This made me smile and made me happy to know that they are helping to spread the word. :)
~Jess
@ Carole-Anne - it's a pleasure to come over ... as you've lots going on. Thanks, I try and write things that interest me and that are different to those usually written about: I educate myself as I go along. I've never written fiction - and it certainly doesn't come to light ... I've done the odd thing for the WEP posts - but I suspect they're similar to my normal posts ... thanks for the thumbs up though ...
@ Shubrha - aren't they just amazing ... I loved learning about them ... good to see you here ...
@ Jess - I know it totally raised a smile with me and an immediate mental transfer that their story is a great #WATWB post. Also it's made us all sit up and think about our planet ... and I sincerely hope they'll go on to more leadership roles as they grow up ...
Thanks so much to the three of you - cheers Hilary
I lived in Nottingham many moons ago and always have fond memories of the city and its residents.
So cool to hear these triplets (with the help of their parents) are running the ball and getting the word out there.. I mean if three 6-year-olds can pick up a little litter, shouldn't the rest of us do at least the same:)
Thanks Mark - how interesting to find you lived in Nottingham for a while - I've been there and it's a fascinating city.
Aren't the triplets just wonderful and exactly - if they can clean up for an hour a day ... we should all be doing it ...
I really should get my own act into gear and do something each day - cheers Hilary
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