Caution: Children at work

There is a grand new amusement park that is being built in Gurgaon. It would be an exciting place I must tell you. With its world class rides, roller coasters, fun slides and delicious food, it would be a paradise for children. Most of us would be visiting the park with our children and family as soon as it opens for public use.

Dheeraj, a 12 year old boy couldn’t wait for the park to open for public. He has visited the park many a times already. My wife Priya and I went to meet him yesterday evening. We had learnt that Dheeraj had hurt himself badly. When we reached his home, his mother told us that his sister had taken him to the doctor for dressing. Disappointed that we were late, we handed over the fruits we had got for him to his mother and started to leave. It was just then when we saw Dheeraj walking slowly towards his home along with his sister.

Had it been any other day he would run towards us but today he wasn't as excited. Slowly and unwillingly he walked towards us. He didn't smile. He didn’t say a word, for he couldn’t. Five stitches on his little cheek didn't allow him to open his mouth enough to be able speak. Half his face was covered in bandage. He looked more embarrassed than pained. He took out a handkerchief from his pocket and covered his face in embarrassment.

Dheeraj stays in a slum in Gurgaon. He is a very bright kid full of energy, excitement and always eager to learn. I have taught him for a while in my free time. We have often played cricket together. Dheeraj was working at the amusement park when he fell on iron rods and hurt himself.

On Monday, the stitches would be pulled out from his cheek. I am sure the wound would heal soon. However, only time would tell, how deep a scar have we left on his face and ‘him’ and whether that would ever heal.