Bijay

Bijay (English name: David), and he calls himself Mr. Wang. Funny name somehow. He is 12 years old.

On my 2nd day there, I saw him writing something on his “table"”. I stepped forth and asked what homework was he doing, and found out that he was practising his handwriting and English by copying a random chapter off his textbook. Impressed I was, for around me in Singapore, I hardly see any children that have such a "”pastime”.

Besides that, he can almost memorise the stories in his textbook as he has been reading ahead of what was being taught (repeatedly, and also includes reading other boys’ textbook as well). This also reflects the lack of reading materials and thirst for knowledge that the kids have.

Sometimes, the kids asked us if Nepal is a very poor country. I did not really answer their question. On the other side, I asked them when are their Birthdays, but the boys say they do not know when their birthdays exactly are. Sadly.

He always asked the volunteers if we want an extra serving of rice (Dal Phat). We never once said “Yes” (try eating plain rice for 2 weeks, and believe me, it is enough to develop into a little phobia/anorexic). Thus, he was always joking that we never once are hungry or say we need more rice.

"I like to play Table tennis and badminton. I like to eat pizza and momo. I like to listen English songs, Nepali songs and like to watch all movies. My favourite subject is Maths, Science and English. I like to read different stories and jokes. I like to visit different country. I also like to visit different country. I also like to ride bicycle. In my future I want to scientist or doctor. I like to drawing pictures. I like to writing and reading. I like to go to school always. I will read hard in coming day. I like Nepal very much.”

In my black notebook, he wrote an extra chapter, which is short but deeply engraved within my memory.

“Dear Chiayong,

I want to say that you are very good. You play with us and you teach us good habit like study hard, take care and happy in life. You are very helpful. You have bought school dresses, calculators and many other things.

Don’t forgot us. We never forgot in our life. You are going very soon. At that I missed you very much. I will tried to email and contact you.

Take care and work hard. Come to visit soon to us. We will waiting for you.

From Bijay.”

Study Hard Mr. Wang! I am very sure you scored well in your examinations!

Looking forward to seeing you all very soon!