15 September 2026 — Syria
As students returned to classes this week, a heartwarming yet heartbreaking “Wishing Tree” activity has left a lasting impact on school staff and students alike.
As part of the annual Welcome Back to School celebrations, Shafak Organization invited children to write down their personal hopes and dreams and hang them on the branches of the school’s tree. While most wishes involved favorite toys, games, or good grades, one young student’s contribution stopped organizers in their tracks.
When asked by Shafak Organization staff what she had written on her note, a young girl named Shahd quietly replied, “To have a hand.”
Organizers noted that while the brief response carried immense pain, it also radiated an extraordinary sense of hope. Shahd’s wish is simply for a hand that would allow her to play, write, and gain greater independence in her daily life.
The poignant moment has since resonated deeply throughout the school community, serving as a powerful reminder of the resilience of children and the profound everyday abilities many often take for granted.
