My Worries, by Jordan Bujawe
Lift the Lid is grateful for the continued support of Cherry Provost. Cherry’s Christmas donation will go to The School in a Cart in Cubao, the Philippines and will help with a number of immediate needs: school uniforms, repairs to the Cart, and improvements to The Shower in a Cart Program.
Jordan Bujawe shares his short essay “My Worries,” expressing his concerns for his family. Being one of nine siblings and living on the street since he can remember, his concerns are much too serious for a boy in the sixth grade.
Translated from Tagalog:
“I am sad because my father is always away. I feel sorry for our family. We do not have food to eat and we are always hungry. It is my mother who makes ways so we would have something to eat. Joshua, one of my (big) brothers ran away from home because we do not have food at home. He joined the rugby boys.”
Rugby boys are street urchins who sniff solvent to ease the pain of hunger. They usually are engaged in petty crimes in the street.
It is clear that he has matured quite a bit over the past year and that he’s feeling more of the stress of his circumstances.
Jordan, we know you’re worried for your brothers and sisters. The most important thing you can do for them and your parents is to get yourself to school every day and give your very best. Alfredo and Nonie at The School in a Cart are there for you, as well, so go to them if you need help with your studies.
We want to help you find your way to a better life, but it will only happen if you go to school.
Sara