One upon a time there was a boy named Saad who was very smart not only in his studies, but also in curriculum activities. His parents and his teachers both liked him because of his overall performance. Due to his friendly nature, he had many friends with whom he spent quality time every day.

Saad was a sixth grade student and the youngest in his class. He was so capable that whenever he came across any challenge, he would easily solve it on his own. Besides, Saad belonged to a middle-class family and used to live in an apartment with his parents and a younger brother.

One day, they got the news that the coronavirus was spreading everywhere and therefore, a strict lockdown was going to take place to keep everyone safe at home. This was shocking news for everyone around the world and the strict guidelines were given by the government of each country. As the lockdown started nobody was allowed to go anywhere unless it was necessary. All the schools, malls, supermarkets, restaurants and public places were closed.

Initially Saad had online classes so he stayed quite busy in his school work and assignments, but once the summer vacation was announced, he made himself busy with craft work, baking, painting, playing with his younger brother, exercising, etc. But after few days, he started feeling bored as he didn’t have anything exciting enough for him to do.

He missed his school life, social gatherings, friends and the life before this pandemic time. He wanted to get rid of this boredom and for that, he made a routine to follow but still that also didn’t make him happy. The only thing Saad was excited about was the upcoming Eidul Fitr. He was just waiting for the day to come.

Finally, it was Eid and Saad woke up early in the morning, took a bath, offered his prayers and got ready just to make himself feel fresh as he couldn’t go outside to greet anyone. He received eidi from his parents and grandparents. First he announced that he was going to buy some games, but then he thought that he already had many games and toys so he decide to save it until he really needed something. He had a wallet which he always carried in his pocket wherever he went, whether from one room to another.

One day Saad’s younger brother got sick and he was taken to the hospital in an emergency due to food poisoning. The doctors told his parents to pay the cash amount as the ATM service was unavailable. Due to the urgent rush towards the hospital, Saad’s father didn’t bring enough cash with him and he was worried what to do. Saad told his parents that he had some cash which he had received on Eid and had saved it. Then he gave his wallet to his parents. There was enough money for the treatment as well as to purchase the medicines which the doctor had prescribed for his younger brother.

Finally they all reached home and Saad’s parents were very happy and proud of him of his wise decision to not spend his money on unnecessary things.

Published in Dawn, Young World, October 3rd, 2020