The Path of A Refugee

Hi my name is Riyadh, I'm 15 years old. I live in Damascus, Syria. The city is engaging in harsh civil warfare with Al-Assad's troops. My father is fighting with the rebels and my mother takes care of all of us (two younger sisters and myself). We are all eating a desirable dinner at our rundown but tender house.

Over the course of my life I have been living in a war ridden country. Syria wasn't always like this but Assad’s regime changed the country for the worse. My father is in rebellion group trying to fight assad and his forces to ensure a democratic system over the Syrian government.

Tonight at dinner our father pulled me a side to talk to me about a decision that will potentially change my life forever. I quote “Riyadh tomorrow your mother and siblings will embark on a journey to Australia, you can choose whether you want to go with them and attempt to find a new life. Or stay and fight with the rebels. I personally would like you to go but as I believe you have the responsibility to decide your own destiny, I hope you can make a great decision for yourself and us.