Bangkok: Amidst the bright lights and hustle and bustle of the big city at night, while most people are relaxing or enjoying dinner, there is a group of children who don't have the opportunity to watch TV, read comic books, or play like other children their age. Instead, life forces them to enter the adult world by "working" to ensure their family's survival.
According to Thai News Agency, on a narrow sidewalk, illuminated by dim orange lights, a nine-year-old girl stood diligently selling flowers with a bright smile and cheerful voice. Behind that smile lay a heavy burden; she had to fill in for her ailing mother. The little girl's daily routine involved selling flowers until 10 pm, returning home almost at 10:30 pm, and waking up at 6 am to prepare for school.
When asked about the difficulties, the girl replied simply, with a resolute heart, "I'm not tired." Every holiday or free time from school, which should have been spent resting, drawing, or playing like other children, she had to help her family prepare flowers, sort leaves, and tie bouquets-work that required both physical strength and meticulous attention to detail.
Even though life was full of hardship, the flame of her dreams never faded. The little girl was happy every time she drew. Every coin she earned from selling flowers, which her mother might give her as pocket money, especially on holidays like Valentine's Day, was put into her piggy bank to save up for her future dreams. She always believed that if she studied hard and saved money diligently, one day opportunities would open up for her to have a life like other children.
On the other hand, a young boy is pictured walking through restaurants holding a bottle of orange juice, respectfully greeting and thanking customers at each table. While many adults see nighttime as a time for relaxation and socializing, for this boy, it's a demanding job that requires immense courage to approach strangers amidst numerous watchful eyes.
Selling goods all night might seem insignificant to adults, but for a school-aged child, each bottle of orange juice they sell is worth more than just a refreshing drink; it represents the sweat and utmost effort of a child trying to help their family.
The story of these two children reflects "inequality" in society, which is not far removed from our lives but can be found on the streets, in restaurants, or in the smiles that try to hide the weariness of the children we encounter in our daily lives.
While every child doesn't get to choose their starting point, every child deserves equal opportunities - the chance to experience childhood, to go to school, to play, to draw, and to pursue their dreams without having to endure hardship beyond their years.
We may not be able to change the whole world immediately, but the most important starting point is to "not close our eyes" and see the people hidden in the small corners of society. Because when we begin to see, we will begin to understand, and that understanding will become a small driving force that will one day bring our society closer to true equality.