I was sitting in a restaurant, attempting to study but losing hope. Wondering if I really want to do this. Wondering why I am so dumb, if I can even make it.

Sitting across from me was a family of three. Mother, her baby, and her toddler. Initially I looked up because of her baby’s scream. I noticed her toddler then, her adorable little boy who was sporting a soccer outfit, missing his arm from elbow down.

I couldn’t imagine the hardship the mother and the toddler must have and must be going through. Despite all that, the mother made sure to smile. She made sure to keep a cheerful tone and most importantly, she did her best to keep her children happy.

But it was the smile of the toddler that awakened something in my heart, something that remained sunk in the past.


If what I do can keep a child happy and I can see them smile like that
If I can save a child’s life and see him or her live through
If I can somehow contribute to a child’s bright and innocent smile

Then what I go through now is worth every second that I stay up to study.

Thanks, little guy. This one is for you.