i was riding in a jeep going to Ayala this morning when a boy, probably an 8-year old, stepped inside the jeepney and started putting wrinkly envelopes on our laps. the passengers ignored, because it was a normal scenario where kids will get inside a public transportaion and ask for donations.
the boy looks dejected and he was wearing no slippers. he was unclean and was on tattered clothing. his round eyes looks blank.
the driver yelled at him. and warned him to step out. but the boy took a seat and waited for his envelopes to be returned to him with money on it.
the driver was really mad. cursing over and over about the syndicate who uses this kids for their own good. and why the city lets this kids roam around the streets.
i looked at the boy and realized how lucky my nephews are, getting all their needs - living with a family, going to school, getting the latest gadgets - experiencing normal childhood.
my thinking was interrupted when the driver suddenly pull the brakes so hard that almost everyone stumbled on their seats. i was lucky i was able to hold on the railings.
the little boy collapsed as well and accidentally bumped his head on the metal divider of the jeep. he seemed hurt. he touched his forehead and saw a small amount of blood dripping on his right hand. we all looked at him and blood flowed all over his face.
everyone just stared. i was also shocked that i did not know what to do or say.
then suddenly the boy just hurriedly stepped out of the moving vehicle. the driver did not even do a plain stop. i tried to help but the jeep was moving so fast. i looked around me and saw other passengers also worried about what happened.
i was guilty for doing nothing until my mind was captured by all the dirty envelopes scattered over the vehicle floor as i watched the boy flee away...
