JOSHUA'S FIGHT FOR THE RIGHT TO BREATHE

 JOSHUA’S FIGHT FOR 

THE RIGHT TO BREATHE

 

In the heart of the metropolitan city, Joshua dwelled amidst a chaotic atmosphere and a haze of air, water, and noise pollution. The water flowing from this city's pipes was contaminated and not fit for consumption. The unceasing honking of cars and other vehicles contributed to the deafening noise pollution. Breathing was challenging, as the air was filled with pollutants that damaged the lungs. But Joshua did not sit back and let this deter him. As he saw the suffering around him, he took it upon himself to do something about it.

 

Every day, he silently witnessed the community's suffering, their wearied souls fatigued and reeling under the burden of shame and worry. Children fell sick, the elderly were in precarious condition, and the flora, fauna, and even the city's animals struggled to find some semblance of clean, clear air.

 

Joshua decided to go about it systematically. He decided to find out the source of the chaos in this city. At every step, he faced opposition and was made the convenient scapegoat when he tried to set things right in the city. He was blamed for anything going wrong in the town. But Joshua refused to back down. He decided to reclaim his power, unite the community behind a common cause and fight for the right to live in a clean environment and breathe freely.

 

He was met with some support from some quarters as they espoused their cause for a safer environment. He educated the people about the devasting effects of pollution. His efforts were met with slander, betrayal, opposition, ridicule and resistance. Many even went to the extent of humiliating him, but Joshua was undeterred. He quietly went about his crusade, though his work was never given its due recognition or earned praise and appreciation from any quarters. He knew the community's health, well-being, and safety were worth enduring, and it was paramount. Throughout his struggle, he was offered unconditional support from his well-wishers overseas even though his city was blind to his efforts.

 

Through sheer tenacity and an attitude of never saying die, he and his band of supporters fought it out. Slowly, there was some progress, and their untiring efforts began to bear fruit. The government woke up, and laws and enactments were passed to address this issue.

 

As the healing process set in the city, the people began to breathe easy again, with increased awareness and sustained efforts from all stakeholders. Joshua felt that all the risk he had undertaken was worth it. And though the battle against pollution had no easy solutions and would forever be ongoing, Joshua realised that more than fighting alone would be needed to give an overnight solution to all the problems plaguing this city. He knew what he had set in motion would inspire others to fight for a cleaner and brighter future. Joshua quietly walked away into the sunset and let others pose for the pictures, the prize, the perks, the promotions, the applause and the appreciation. He was glad he could play his part in getting the right to breathe in a cleaner environment.

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