I Will Always Write Back

Caitlin’s gift for Martin arrives in the mail. Martin excitedly waits until he arrives home to unwrap the package and is delighted to find a Reebok t-shirt with a “Made from America” label. Martin has not received a birthday present since he was 10 years old, as his family could not afford one. When Martin turned 10, his father bought him a Fanta soda, which was one of the few times the family could afford a present for him. He had to share his Fanta soda with the rest of his family, as it was such a rare luxury. Given these circumstances, Martin is especially moved by Caitlin’s gift. His family is similarly excited by this gift, too. They take turns wearing the shirt.

Meanwhile, workers are being laid off at the paper mill where Martin’s father works. One day, Martin’s father comes home drunk from work, inciting an argument with Martin’s mother, who is furious with him for spending money on beer when they barely have enough money to buy food for the family. There are also other circumstances of economic turmoil in Zimbabwe. There are violent riots and protests in various cities that have resulted in numerous casualties.