The boys in Chapter 5 of A Long Way Gone received corn through an act of compassion from a mother, despite their initial attempt to steal it.
A Desperate Act for Survival
Driven by severe hunger and the harsh realities of their situation, Ishmael and his group encountered a young child, approximately five years old, who was carrying ears of corn. In a desperate moment, the boys stole the corn from the young child.
An Unexpected Act of Kindness
However, the situation took an unexpected turn when the young boy's mother witnessed the incident. Instead of reacting with anger or seeking retribution for the theft, she displayed remarkable empathy for the starving group. Understanding their dire circumstances, she chose to help them.
- Initial Incident: The group, including Ishmael, stole ears of corn from a 5-year-old.
- Mother's Intervention: The boy's mother, showing profound understanding and kindness, intervened.
- Generous Outcome: She then gave each person in Ishmael's group an ear of corn.
This pivotal moment underscores the contrast between the boys' desperate actions and the unexpected humanity they encountered, providing them with much-needed sustenance during their arduous journey.
