Chapter 23

Jonas's eyes lit up. "Really, Daddy? I can go with you to help others?" I smiled and nodded. "Of course. Not only can we help others, but you'll also get to see a different side of the world. What do you think?" "Sure!" Jonas said excitedly. "I want to go! I really want to go!" Seeing the smile return to his face brought me a sense of relief. Perhaps this experience would help him grow stronger. … The next day, I took Jonas to an elementary school on the outskirts of town. Most of the children there came from impoverished families, and the school's facilities were quite basic. When we walked into the classroom, curious eyes immediately turned toward us. Jonas nervously hid behind me, and I gently patted his shoulder, signaling him to relax. "Hello, everyone," I said with a warm smile. "I'm Mr. Joplin, and this is my son, Jonas. We're here today to make some new friends and bring you some school supplies." I nodded to the teacher standing nearby, and she began organizing the ch