by Sr. Harriet Mutonyi, MMM                                                    Uganda                          11.06.2025

When I was young, I vividly remember my grandmother sitting by the fireplace, lovingly sharing stories and riddles with her grandchildren most evenings.  One such evening, she narrated a poignant tale: “Once upon a time, the wind passed through a banana plantation carrying a melodious tune.  One banana stem had both dry and green leaves.  As the wind played its music, the dry banana leaves danced with joy. However, the green banana leaves grew angry and scorned the dry ones, calling them ‘old ugly fools’ and demanding that they stop making noise.  The dry leaves replied, ‘We were once young and vibrant like you.  Treat us with love and respect.’  Despite this plea, the green leaves treated the dry ones harshly, eventually ensuring their fall from the stem.”

The banana plantation
After finishing the story, my grandmother urged us never to treat anyone poorly, especially the elderly. Her words resonate with me to this day: “The elderly you see today, including myself, have worked tirelessly in their youth.  They were once young like you and deserve respect, love, and care.”

Regrettably, many of us behave like the green banana leaves, neglecting the elderly as if they no longer exist.  Even those with affluent children often suffer as if they had none.  We forget that without them, we would not be where we are today.  They are the giants whose shoulders we stand upon.  I recall a heartbreaking story of an elderly woman who fell ill and was abandoned at home in my village.  She endured immense suffering without care.  Yet, when she passed away, her children appeared, purchasing an expensive coffin and organizing a grand funeral.  This left the community questioning where they had been during her time of need.

One aspect of my vocation in the Medical Missionaries of Mary (MMM) that brings me immense joy is caring for humanity as a whole.  I firmly believe that MMM has heard this silent cry of the elderly and responded with compassion.  Although our foundress, Mother Mary Martin, began the Congregation with a focus on mothers and children, her mission extended to all in need.  This foundation has made it natural and fulfilling for me to serve in this ministry.