We asked ONE members for submissions to The Big Read book — a collection of stories from people around the world supporting education for everyone. Although only one member story will be published in the book, the runner-up submissions, including the one below from Melissa Marcou of Millerton, NY, were so good that we wanted to share them with you.

You can show your support for The Big Read and help ensure a pathway out of poverty for children around the world. Endorse the book by adding your signature here.

Thanks for reading!

-Emily Stivers

A Sweater Makes a Difference

By Melissa Marcou
Millerton, NY

I’m writing as a single mom in America — a waitress — to let you know that my two boys’ education, structure, and growth are very important to me. And to EVERY other mom in this world.

My son, Maximus Lennon, only 7, tells the story and life of John Lennon, whom he is named after, to help people understand that WE ARE ALL ONE. I wear the ONE T-shirt, and I’ve bought and handed out hundreds of ONE bracelets. We’ve sacrificed and saved to send anti-malaria bed nets to Africa, and I sponsor a child named Morris, who just turned 6, in Kenya.

According to our standards, I’m below the poverty level in the US. But I’m not, globally. These children like Morris have the world in their heads, hearts, and minds. They just need a little help to make it all happen. The most brilliant ideas don’t necessarily come from people with money, but people, even children, with IDEAS, HOPE, and LOVE for others and the planet. These children will strive for knowledge, and their strong hearts will work and work to make the world better. Please, we need to help all we can.

I remember when I was about 15, on a field trip to New York City, wearing an Irish sweater, very warm. We came back to Grand Central. It was December, snowing. A frail, older African American man was in a white T-shirt and pants, just lying on the steps. All the people walked past him. I stopped. I gave him my sweater. He needed it. I went home cold, and got beaten for “losing” my sweater.

I hope that man is still here, and warm. I hope that over 15 years later, he might think of the girl who stopped, and gave him protection, the best way she knew how. I hope that now, all these years later, that WE can make a difference. As tears fall, please help make a difference in the lives of us all. All over the planet, a “sweater” can make a difference. A smile, laugh, a touch, and a book of knowledge can help! With my heart on my sleeve, please help to teach, save, and spread love in this world.