The plague of poverty By:

MariGOLD estOLanO aLaM

According to Marcus Aurelius, poverty is the mother of crime. A deficiency in finances can make one do terrible things for survival. These days, people are striving and trying to live a good life, however, there are those who are barely even surviving one day. Poverty can be a cause of the poor economy, poor life choices, or both- it may even be treacherous enough to come into one’s life instantly.

However, one can strive from the temptation of evil even when they are at a deficiency. God loves those who are in poverty, that is why it is included in the beatitudes that those who are deficient in material things shall be blessed with fulfillment once they reach the kingdom of God. Jesus was not born in a castle or a palace or even a house- he was born in a stable. Joseph and Mary are not wealthy like most people are once, but those who are like them that still trusted God are one of the most blessed with eternal wealth.

Poverty might make someone steal or do something bad- but being faithful to God, not giving up on hope, and continuing to have faith despite the circumstances might discourage them to do such deviousness.

For systems to change and truly move on ending poverty, we must view poverty through a human rights lens and work together to commit significantly more resources. We must reach the most vulnerable and marginalized in response, recovery, and resilience efforts. Access to social protection is a human right, and it is our moral imperative to ensure that no one is left behind.(