I’m not like the other kids who go to school. I wanted to get admitted but they ask for a lot of money. Both of my sisters go to school and I am happy for them. My mom tries hard to make them well-educated. I’m the only person who earns for my family. My father is old and cannot work to earn money anymore.
I work on my uncle's boat. Everyday I go with all the fishermen to see how they work. When they catch a lot of fish, they let me take some of the tiny ones. I collect and sell the tiny fish. Sometimes I spend the whole night on this boat. This boat means a lot to me. I always think about being a fisherman when I grow up. Then I'll make a lot of money and build my own boat.
It’s Ramadan, so we are fasting. My friend Zuhaz (10) is making our food for Iftar. This is the name for breaking the fast. He also works with me on the same boat. We often go together to collect fish. Life is good here with my friend. - Ridwan(12)