chapter one

Jason was the first child of his parents. He was a dark complexion boy with a wide smile. Jason was slim and was considered tall for his age. He was ten years old and had just gotten admission into high school.

Jason was a hardworking boy. His parents did not have enough money so he did whatever he could to help. They lived in the poor part of town. Their conditions were unhygienic. People who lived in that part of town often complained about the foul smell of garbage and dirt. Jason had learned to live with the foul stench.

He had a younger sister whose name was Sarah. Sarah was just six years old, she was equally slim and dark complexioned. Jason loved his sister so much and he did all he could to protect her. He spoke up for her when she was attacked by bullies and helped her with her school work when she came home. Jason's parents were very proud of him and his sister.

Jason's father was a bus driver who wakes up early in the morning, drove to the park, driving passengers all day long. He returned in the evenings, tired and exhausted. Despite this, he still found time to talk to Jason and Sarah and ask them how their day went and how their studies were going.

His mother on the other hand often hawked wares for people to buy. When Jason came back from school, he would join his mother. Despite how poor they were their parents did their best to ensure they went to school.

"I did not get an education. I know the value of education. If I was educated, I would not be in this state. Even if I go to bed hungry, I will do my best to ensure you and your sister is educated" Jason's father would often say.

His words always brought tears to Jason's eyes. He saw how hard his father worked to educate him. He vowed to be successful and take care of his parents so they did not have to work so hard.

"I promise you, papa. I will do my best in school. I will make you proud. You won't regret sending me to school" Jason would assure his father.

At this point, Jason's father would smile and lightly pat his shoulder.

"I know my son. You are a good child. I can see that you are bright and also hardworking. I know you and your sister will make I and your mother proud" he would reply.

Jason's mother would choose this point to laugh and announce that dinner was ready. Even though they never had much to eat, they were content and their family ate whatever they had with love and happiness.