The boy selflessly offers his school lunch to his mother every day, watching her enjoy the meal from the other side of the gate. - Photo: SCMP composite/Douyin
BEIJING: Millions in China were deeply touched by a 12-year-old boy who ate his classmates’ leftovers so he could save his lunch for his mother, who has a mental disability.
Li Shibo, a Primary Two student from a rural area in central China’s Henan province, was discovered by his teacher handing over his canteen lunch to his mother, who was waiting for him outside the school gate.
The teacher, known by the surname Wang, noted that he did not see Li when afternoon class began on October 14. After searching for him, he witnessed a poignant scene.
Li was watching his mother from the other side of the steel gate as she enjoyed his lunch, occasionally fixing her hair.
Upon seeing his teacher approach, Li almost ran away, fearing he would be reprimanded for giving away the school’s free lunch. Instead, Wang praised him for his kindness.
Wang recorded the moment on video and shared it on Douyin, which received an overwhelmingly positive response.
In another video, Li is seen collecting leftover food from his classmates. He remarked that he only needed some water for lunch because “I am still young”.
A local disabled persons federation informed the Chinese media outlet Jimu News that Li also has a minor mental disability.
He lives with his mother, his elder sister – who also suffers from a mental disability – and their bedridden grandmother. Li’s father passed away in a car accident several years ago.
The family receives subsistence allowances from the government and is supported by Li’s uncle and aunt.
Local authorities stated that they provide the family with free meals.
The teacher mentioned that he often saw Li’s mother wandering around and stopping by at the school entrance.
Many believed that Li’s mother waited outside his school to keep him company, sensing the deep bond of love between the mother and son.
“He knows his mother is different from other parents, but he loves her regardless,” commented one online observer.
“This is the finest expression of filial piety,” added another.
Thousands visited Wang’s account, eager to donate money and essential goods to the boy’s family.
Parcels ordered online by kind-hearted individuals from across the nation nearly filled Li’s village home. Volunteers who visited had to request that donors hold back their contributions.
The teacher expressed that if Li’s mother comes to school again, he will personally ensure she receives a free meal.
The local civil affairs bureau announced they would visit the family and explore additional ways to assist them. - South China Morning Post
