Stories of Love

Thursday, 13 September 2007
8:00pm

The 3 of us cuddled in bed together and decided to watch a locally produced short film titled "Stories of Love".

It was a story about a teenager and her autistic brother (aro 9-10 years). As their mother walked out of them, leaving them with little money but no roof over their head, they had to approach their relatives for help. Fortunately, one of their aunties let them've a house to stay but she refused to help them further. So the poor teenager has to work after school to earn money for her fees and their livelihood. Being autistic, her brother was often lonely, unable to communicate his feelings. He spent his time writing short notes to his mother with a hope that she will return eventually. Else, he will stare blankly in space or at his mother's photograph.

When his sister learnt that he likes dogs, she decided to adopt a golden retriever as his companion and friend. There was a scene when the boy had a packed lunch and he had to pour out his cold noodles on the plate. The dog was by his side keeping him company.

When the 3.5 year old saw this scene, she asked "Mummy, why is he so lonely?"

I was very surprised by her question and her ability to grasp the boy's feelings.

I asked her back in turn "And you? Are you lonely when Mummy & Daddy are at work?"...

Guess what her reply was to me... "No, I am not lonely as Auntie May plays with me."

I am happy that my helper and the 3.5 year old have developed a bond and love for each other. But I wonder if it's healthy for my child to be overly dependent on my helper for companionship, for support & love in the absence of her parents.