UNREQUITED LOVE

Delighting with Family

Upon departing from the market, Allen encountered an elderly man who was navigating the scorching street. The man, who was selling bamboo shoots and sticks, was unable to afford the bus fare, therefore opting to walk back to his residence. Allen kindly offered him a lift on his motorbike, transporting him to his abode. In gratitude for Allen's gesture, the elderly man gifted him with some unsold bamboo sticks.

This act was particularly meaningful to Allen, as he required the bamboo to construct a protective fence around his garden.

Upon arriving home, Allen diligently honed his agricultural tools and embarked on the task of building the fence. He had previously planted a diverse assortment of vegetables, including eggplant, okra, squash, beans, and leafy greens. Once the labor was completed, Allen delighted in playing melodies on his guitar before tending to his fowls and swine.

The subsequent day, Allen's family paid him a visit to share the news that his younger brother would soon graduate from high school, with his sister still having two more years of education ahead. Felisa, Allen's mother, was overjoyed to learn that his younger brother would graduate as the top-ranked pupil in his class. Allen felt a sense of elation and pride for his brother's achievements.

At the graduation ceremony, both Allen and his mother were in attendance, and the Master of Ceremonies acknowledged Allen's presence. Within their community, Allen was renowned for his recognition as the recipient of the esteemed Most Outstanding Young Farmer award. Numerous youths regarded him as a role model, perceiving his accomplishments as proof that diligence and determination could help transcend poverty.

After the conclusion of the ceremony, the family promptly proceeded to Allen's farmhouse to commemorate his brother's graduation. Allen took it upon himself to prepare a delectable feast, incorporating rice, various root vegetables, and a succulent roasted pork dish. They also extended invitations to some of their neighbors to join in the celebration.

While the family savored the meal, Felisa engaged in a serious discussion with Allen about his younger brother's prospects for attending college. Felisa harbored doubts regarding their financial capability to support his education. However, Allen reassured her by disclosing that he had already secured a scholarship to cover his brother's tuition and miscellaneous expenses.

As of now, Allen's brother is pursuing a degree in Criminology at the university, dividing his time between weekdays on campus and weekends at the farmhouse. Meanwhile, Allen's mother and younger sister continue to reside in their original residence until his sister completes her high school education.