My We Day Experience
- Robert Eastman | December 16, 2014
This fall, I was able to experience something that changed the way I looked at every single organzation that aimed to help people in other countries. It changed the way I thought about helping others out overall.
When I thought of a charity, or another "Help the children" group that took place overseas. I thought of rich people donating money for clean water or food. It crossed my mind once or twice that that's only the tip of the iceberg, but something that never crossed my mind is just how many people are willing to lend a hand. So I only knew the gist of what We Day was and why it happened. I saw videos of crowds of people, and famous performers and celebrities on stage before them. I saw smiling faces from both sides, people in the crowds, and people from a country overseas, kids and adults alike. I thought, "how corny is this?" I kind of assumed a lot of people thought the same thing. Maybe I was a little cycnical.
The We Day event I attended took place here in Saskatoon, at the Sasktel centre. I left in the morning with a classmate of mine. I'd heard of the people that were going to be speaking and peforming there. I hadn't really known of any of them, so I wasn't too excited. So I still had no idea what to expect save for a lot of people. It was my first We Day after all.
When we arrived, a wave of excited voices energy washed over me. That's the only way I can describe it. It was something else. When I walked into the cavernous main area of the Sasktel centre, I was thinking, this place could fill up with people, but can it really? I had to see it to believe it. And I did see it. Not a single seat looked like it was empty. I felt it. I felt the energy when every single person cheered, clapped, screamed and danced. Public speakers, music and videos were lending tribute to this cause. I was riveted by every speaker. I listened to the positive message in each song performed. I took pictures at every necessary moment, and had a great time throughout the whole thing.
When I left, I had a completely different view on what these people did and why. A couple of the things that really hit me were the facts that no one could buy a ticket to We Day. Schools and groups from all over had to do something to make a difference locally and globally to get invited. Such as raising money for a charity. And the sheer amount of people that took part in these activities. In a decent sized city like Saskatoon, I tried to imagine just how many people there would be in other places. I`m very glad I got to experience We Day this year and I want to give my thanks to everyone and anyone that made all of it possible, and also for rallying so much support and providing assistance and care to those who need it.
Check out our Photo Gallery of from We Day in Saskatoon