Why do you think this? I ask Saheb whom I encounter every morning scrounging for gold in the garbage dumps of my neighbourhood. Saheb left his home long ago. Set amidst the green fields of Dhaka his home is not even a distant memory.
There were many storms that swept away their fields and homes his mother tells him. That's why they left looking for gold in the city where he now lives.
"I have nothing else to do" He mutters, looking away.
" Go to school ", I say glibly, realising immediately how hollow the advice must sound.
There is no school in my neighbourhood . when they build one I will go.
If I start a school will you come? I ask, half joking.
yes he say smiling broadly.
A few days later I see him running up to me. is your school ready?
"It takes longer to build a school, I say, embarrassed at having made a promise that was not meant.but promises like mine abound in every corner of his bleak world.