The Courage of Children: Boston and Beyond XXXI

Bashar Ali
Abdullah Al-Makramani, Abdel Abu-Osba’a, Teachers
Salman Al-Farsi, Sana’a, Yemen
I hesitated about writing a story about courage, but after I saw my friends
writing their stories, heard them talking about it, and read many stories in
the Max Courage book, I liked the idea and I knew that my story would be
different. I would love to share it with you.
My story began when I was in the sixth grade. The war in Yemen had begun,
and the economic situation was not good. My family had financial difficulties.
I decided to start a small business to help improve the income of the family
and help my father. I decided to do that without leaving my school.
“I feel proud that I
am helping myself
and my family.”
I started to sell ice cream that I made at home. I was selling in areas nearby.
Some people didn’t like the ice cream I sold. They preferred the quality that
is sold in big markets because it’s sweeter. The ice cream I made was less sweet
but cheaper. Soon after that, I expanded by selling bottled water as well. My
project was doing well. I was able to help my father pay for the rent. Things
were improving. I was feeling happy and proud. I continued to go to school.
After a while my family moved to another neighborhood. I felt sad and
thought that I would not be able to continue my project. I lost my clients in
the neighborhood we moved from. I tried to sell ice cream and water in the
new neighborhood, but it did not work well. The income was little. I started
selling boiled eggs with spices. It went well. My income increased, especially
during Ramadan when I also sold toys. I continued going to school. I was
happy because I was doing well in school and my projects were successful, so
I could help my family.
One day, my grandfather decided to build a house for us on a small piece
of land he bought. I made a small contribution to building the house from
the money I saved. I feel proud that I did that. I feel proud that I am helping
myself and my family. I did not fear starting a new project, and I was not
afraid of failing.
The Courage of Children: Boston and Beyond
Volume XXXI
98 99