A week later, Ono is putting mortar* on the walls of his house. He’s surprised to see Rene walking slowly toward him on the muddy path. He told Rene where he lived, but he didn’t know if Rene would dare to visit him here.

“Jambo Ono! Do want to come to the Star Kids meeting on Saturday?”
Ono isn’t sure. What if the other kids don’t want him there?
But then Rene says, “You know, I used to think I was the most unhappy kid in the world. My head was filled with all my worries. But with the Star Kids I read the story of a child from Guatemala who had a hard life. He didn’t have a lot of time to play, but he was proud to be able to help his family. This story gave me courage. I learned that when we get together, we can work out our difficulties. You’ll see too if you come to the meeting with me.” Ono is still nervous, but he agrees to go.

*mortar: a mixture of sand and mud that hardens as it dries.