**Diary Entry 12th April**
Growing up, food wasnt always on the table at home. Mum did her best, but sometimes there wasnt even enough for a loaf of bread. Most days, I trudged to school with an empty stomach and nothing in my bag.
At break time, Id pull out my maths textbook and pretend to study. I acted like I was focused, so the others would think I was diligentnot starving.
One day, the new teacher, Mr. Thompson, stopped by my desk. *Why dont you ever eat at break?* he asked.
Nervously, I blurted out, *I want to be top of the class, sir. Better use the time wisely.*
He studied me for a moment, then just nodded. *Right, I see.*
As he walked off, I thought hed bought the lie. So I kept up the act, nose buried in sums while my stomach growled at the sight of my classmates eating.
Minutes later, Mr. Thompson returned with a paper bag from the canteen. He dropped it on my desk like it was nothing. *Ordered too much. Help me out, will you?*
Inside was an oat roll, a carton of apple juice, and even a satsuma. A proper packed lunch.
I nodded silently. The second he turned away, I shut my book and tore into it like I hadnt eaten in days.
Never told him. Never admitted that roll was all I ate that day, or that Id lied to save face.
Years later, I still remember that meal. Not for the foodbut because someone saw my need and spared my pride. No questions, no fuss, no patting himself on the back. Just kindness wrapped in respect.
After that, I looked at him differently. Taught me something, that did. Some people dont need explanations to do something decent. They just do it.
