Strengthening Each Other: The Struggles of Two Sisters on Paliat Island

That night, the sea breeze gently swept through the edge of East Java Province, Paliat Island. The atmosphere enveloped a small wooden house standing strong by the beach. In the absence of electricity, Dina (15 years old) sat by the window, gazing at the starry sky—the only natural light illuminating their night. Beside her, Grace (11 years old) slept soundly after a full day of helping with household chores. The struggles of these two sisters have become a source of strength for one another, facing days without the presence of their parents by their side.

Since 2023, Dina and Grace have lived together on this small island. Their parents went to Bali in search of a living, leaving them with a responsibility greater than what children their age should bear. Dina lost her father due to the separation, and Grace, who recently embraced Islam that same year, faced her spiritual journey alone.

Strengthening Each Other in Their Journey to Know God

Grace faced her spiritual journey with many challenges. At her young age, she chose Islam as her path in life—a decision that brought significant changes to her daily life. Fortunately, her school provided the foundation of Islamic teachings, helping her understand the pillars of faith and pillars of Islam. However, she realized that learning about religion wasn’t enough just at school.

At home, Dina became her steadfast companion. Every day, Dina patiently guided her in memorizing prayers, teaching her how to properly perform wudu, and ensuring that Grace never felt alone in her journey to understand Islam. Whenever Grace struggled with reading the Qur’an, Dina would patiently help her pronounce each Arabic letter until Grace could read more fluently.

With Dina by her side, Grace felt stronger. Despite their limitations on Paliat Island, the two sisters have supported each other—not only in living their daily lives but also in finding deeper spiritual meaning.

The Steadfastness of Two Sisters Amidst Limitations

Every day, Dina wakes up early, preparing meals, washing clothes, and keeping their house clean. Grace always helps as much as she can, trying to be the reliable sibling. They attend school with determination, planning for their future in the face of adversity. Amidst the sounds of the waves and the sea breeze, there are dreams they continue to nurture.

For many, adolescence is about playing and enjoying time with family. But for Dina and Grace, adolescence is about survival and learning to grow up faster than they should. They don’t ask for pity. They just ask for opportunity—the opportunity to learn, grow, and prove that they can overcome any obstacle.

A Trust from Dear Initiators for These Remarkable Sisters

One day, the Human Initiative team visited their small home. Dina and Grace received a surprise from Dear Initiators in the form of a gift of kindness, which contained a food package for their daily needs. It was a gesture of care that reminded them that they were not alone—that there are hands out there that want to help them rise. A smile of happiness appeared on their faces, not just because of the gift they received, but because they felt the warmth of community care.

Let us strengthen each other. Let’s help those who need it. Because behind the silence and darkness of the night, there are many children like Dina and Grace who continue to shine with hope.

Dear Initiators, you can help children like Dina and Grace by donating on solusipeduli.org or sharing their story through your social media. Thank you for your kind initiative. May the struggles of these two sisters inspire us all to continue supporting those in need.

Names have been changed to protect the beneficiary’s privacy.