Narendran, slowly taking in his surroundings, rubs his weary eyes for a moment before sharing his story. He is admirably calm and collected on the outside, though looking into his eyes, one can see they are filled with sad memories.
Several years after Narendran was born, his father was diagnosed with a kidney problem and has had to be hospitalized often. Narendran cried while he spoke of his father. His deepest and most hopeful wish is for his father to become well again. Both Narendran and his mother take turns taking his father to the hospital twice a week. Every Saturday, Narendran brings his father to the hospital for treatment to take care of him until it is time to go home.
Narendran has two little sisters who look up to him. His mother works for a back-bending 12 hours a day. Since his mother is exhausted every day after work, Narendran takes on the entire household chores. Every morning, Narendran prepares breakfast for the family and helps his sisters get ready for for their school. He waits to get ready for school until after his sisters leave. In the evening, he returns to his little sisters and spends time with them in their mother’s absence.
Narendran wants to become a police officer, but not just a regular officer. It is his goal to be an officer of the highest rank that he could possibly achieve in the police department. When asked why he chose this goal, he said, “I was once told that I am a deeply compassionate boy by a man, and something sparked inside me making me wonder why not become a police officer and protect my people. What more can I do for this society than protect it with my will?” He also tells us that he has been collecting all of the necessary information for achieving this goal.
Even though he is downcast about some elements of his home life, Narendran also speaks with great hope when he mentions his father. He swears that he will achieve something great to make his family proud, and he thanks our HoPE Learning Center for all the support he has received so far. He says that he draws strength and hope by spending time with his friends and teachers who encourage and help him plan for his future life.
It is only with the help, support and donations from kind hearts like yours that we can continue to support underprivileged and overworked children like Narendran. Visit this link to learn ways you can help, or click the ‘Donate Now’ button below to make your heartfelt donation. Thank you.
