This morning, I read an interesting story – poignant, but memorable nonetheless. It was a story of a boy, who managed to get 4As in the subjects he sat for the national exam, the UPSR.

A story of an underprivileged kid, who raised above all hardship and struggles, and in the end excels. So, what is so new about this story? We hear and read stories like these all the time.

What really touched me was the part in his story, about how he keeps a list of things he plans to buy for his siblings and family. He HAS a list; it was full of objects like books, toys and fun things. But to me, the list was full of hopes, of promises that he would present to his loved ones, soon.

Do I have a list? Yes, I do – of things to do (or buy) one day, that keeps me motivated and hopeful that one day, these list will be realized. Perhaps, a little dash of dreams of what it would be like to add education possibilities for my nieces and nephews at Management and Science University can be added onto that list. Not just things, but memories and expectations as well.

If this boy had taught us something, it is about choices we can make and to dream. But to make that dream come true, takes courage, will and dedication. We have to begin somewhere, be it just a glimpse of what the future could be. And this boy did just that, with his simple list!

I wish him all the best in his journey in life and hope that his strength within will be rewarded someday.