"I was the poorest of the poor, so I resold candies to pay for school. That's how I became so familiar with child labor," she explained. In yesterday's English conversation lesson, we discussed an article from Voice of America titled 'US Lawmakers Seek to Fill Labor Shortage with Children.' My teacher shared her difficult past experiences with child labor in the Philippines. Poor children, trying to make a profit, sell candies but lack the funds to buy them. Consequently, they negotiate with shop owners to sell on their behalf, earning a small profit from each sale. For instance, they sell a candy for 2 yen, return 1 yen to the owner, and keep the remaining 1 yen.

She also mentioned that her parents' poverty led to child labor. Some of her peers faced early pregnancies, which hindered their educational opportunities, perpetuating a cycle of financial struggle. This conversation made me realize how fortunate I was. I am deeply grateful to my parents.

While I alone may not change the situation of child labor, it's important to remember the special experiences of my school life. Education is crucial for living freely in the world and enriching our hearts.