I grew up in Aleppo, Syria, a city that once thrived as a cultural and historical gem, often referred to as the “jewel of Syria.” This ancient city boasted a UNESCO World Heritage Site in its downtown area and was vibrant with art and life before the turmoil began in 2011.
Raised by a single mother who worked tirelessly as an anesthesiologist across multiple hospitals, my childhood was marked by joy and safety. I still cherish memories of a public park just a short walk from our home, where my mother would take my brother and me to play. I loved gathering delicate white jasmines to fashion into crowns, and I can still feel the warmth of the sun as I lay beside my brother, listening to the soothing sounds of the nearby fountain. These moments reflect a time when my childhood was characterized by peace and innocence.
Through my grandparents’ stories, I learned about the waves of displacement caused by various conflicts. My grandmother fled from Lebanon and my grandfather from Turkey, seeking refuge in Syria—a nation known for its hospitality and safety. Growing up, I believed my country was a sanctuary, a place where countless others could find solace.
The Children of Today’s Syria
Today, the landscape of Aleppo has drastically changed. Children now inhabit only 20% of the city I once knew, unaware of the rich history surrounding the citadel. They lack the understanding of the bustling city that existed around them. I remember my grandmother sharing tales of her life in the old city, where we would explore the market and admire handcrafted silver necklaces, artifacts of a culture now largely lost. With 80% of Aleppo in ruins, these children only glimpse the past through faded photographs or hear about it from older generations. The roles have reversed; while I lived in a vibrant city with war as a distant narrative, today’s children experience life amidst destruction, hearing stories of a once-thriving community.
The Burden of Adulthood
During my time volunteering with the SOS Children’s Villages in Syria, I witnessed the profound impact of war on families and children. Many had fled their homes with nothing but the clothes on their backs, urgently in need of food, shelter, and safety. Schooling became a lost dream as many children took on adult responsibilities, foraging for survival in a world that forced them to mature far too quickly.
I met children who had been playing outdoors only to find themselves in a hospital after a bomb fell, uncertain of their parents’ fate. Imagine waking up to a world where home is gone, and survival rests on your young shoulders. These children, now stripped of their innocence, are thrust into a harsh reality filled with adult worries.
Reclaiming Childhood
When I first interacted with children at the SOS Interim Care Center in Aleppo, I was struck by the weight they carried. It felt as though I was speaking to a room full of 40-year-olds, burdened with thoughts of survival rather than the joys of childhood. My colleagues and I worked diligently to help them rediscover the joy of being children—reminding them that their focus should be on play, education, and friendships.
Addressing their immediate needs for food, water, and shelter is crucial, but so is acknowledging the psychological scars left by war. Many children grapple with trauma from losing family members or witnessing violence. It is essential to provide counseling and support, allowing them to heal and learn that life can improve. At the SOS Child-Friendly Spaces, expert trauma counselors assist these children in reclaiming their childhood through play and social interaction.
For those looking to make a difference, consider sponsoring a child in Syria. Every act of kindness matters.
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Summary
This reflection by Nour Al-Hakim highlights the stark contrast between childhood memories of a thriving Aleppo and the current experiences of children living amidst war and destruction. It emphasizes the urgent need for psychological support and basic necessities for these children, who are forced to shoulder responsibilities far beyond their years.