Thirst on the Shoulders of Childhood

He carries a water jug on his back as if bearing the weight of thirst and betrayal. He stands before the tents, one hand resting on his weary waist, his eyes telling stories of a war he never chose and a hunger that never bargained with him. At an age meant for play, he has mastered exhaustion; in a time meant for dreams, he races the sun for a drop of life. How many times has he wished for water without a price? For childhood without a battle? But he knows that in his land, wishes are born broken—just like his small back beneath the weight of that heavy jug.