国际英语资讯:Feature: Childhood changes dramatically between Syrian father, son_时事

国际英语资讯:Feature: Childhood changes dramatically between Syrian father, son

Hussain says his children, including Ibrahim, have suffered a lot, as all they have seen is killing and shelling, instead of cartoons on TV.

"My son's childhood was pure suffering with no schools or anything ... He saw all the ugly side of the war, the killing, weapons and shelling so his life was extremely affected," the father said.

Hussain recalled his childhood and how peaceful it was compared with his children's.

"My childhood was different because the situation was different. It was peaceful and the times back then were good. I used to swim in the river, play football, herd the sheep and work in the farms. It was much better than my children's," he recalled.

He told Xinhua that all he hopes is to let his children have a normal life.

"God willing the better days could come soon. I am helping my elder son get education here in Damascus. I hope him and his siblings could forget all that we have been through," he said.

Living in the house, the children have barely any chance of going out and having outdoors activities.

"If he (Ibrahim) wants to play, the neighbors would be annoyed and if he goes out to the street, I will be afraid that he might be hit by a car or even get kidnapped," he said.

Hussain sadly acknowledged that his son has been deprived of many things.

"Most of the time, he stays indoors. I lock the door and my children play inside. But when there is an occasion, I take them out to the garden or some other places," he said.