Friday

07-02-2025 Vol 19

Chapter Spotlight: Small Hands, Heavy Burdens from Growing in the Dark by Amy Love

Childhood should be a time of innocence, laughter, and exploration. However, for many, reality tells a different story. In Chapter Four of Growing in the Dark, Amy Love reflects on her challenging upbringing, a narrative that reveals the burdens borne by small hands working tirelessly in a family dumpling business.

At just five years old, Amy was thrust into a world of responsibility, waking each day at dawn to assist with the family’s livelihood. The morning routine was not gentle; it began with her father’s loud calls from the back of the house, a summons that could escalate into pain if she failed to respond swiftly. The fear of his leather belt instilled a sense of urgency that overshadowed the childlike curiosity typical of her age. Rising to the harsh reality of her situation, she learned early that love was often intertwined with fear, and that compliance was necessary for survival.

The treacherous walk to the local market was a daily ritual shared with her eight-year-old sister. Every morning, their journey was fraught with danger, as they faced the unsettling prospect of being followed by strangers in vehicles. Each encounter sent waves of adrenaline coursing through their bodies, forcing them to sprint for safety and hide behind parked cars. These moments of terror left Amy’s heart racing and her feet sore from running over sharp objects, serving as a grim reminder of their vulnerability.

Upon reaching the market, their work began in earnest. Filling the water tank used for steaming dumplings was their first task, a simple yet daunting chore. Lighting the gas stove presented another challenge, as the girls took turns facing their fears. The process was fraught with anxiety; the risk of burns loomed large, and the fear of failure nagged at them. Each failed attempt to ignite the stove heightened their anxiety, until finally, with a flash, the fire would roar to life, reminiscent of a volcanic eruption. Looking back, Amy acknowledges how lucky they were, having only lost their eyebrows on a few occasions. Such moments highlight the harsh realities of childhood—a time when the stakes felt alarmingly high.

With the stove lit and the water heating, the next part of their job awaited: pushing the heavy wooden dumpling cart to the market. Constructed by their father and designed to be both functional and intimidating, the cart was loaded with 70-80 bamboo steamers, each filled with ten handcrafted dumplings made by their eleven-year-old sister. The weight of the cart was overwhelming for the small hands of Amy and her sister, leading to frequent stops to catch their breath. Each struggle to push the cart up the steep hill near their home became a battle against not only the physical burden but also the fear of what would happen if they lost control.

This daily grind was not merely a job; it was a harsh introduction to the responsibilities of adulthood. The duo learned quickly that their youth was a luxury they could not afford. Playtime was a distant dream overshadowed by the demands of the dumpling business. While they lacked the understanding to process their emotional turmoil, the physical pain in their hands and feet became a constant reminder of their struggles.

Amy Love’s poignant reflections in this chapter paint a vivid picture of resilience in the face of adversity. She illustrates how, even at a young age, the weight of responsibility can shape one’s character and outlook on life. The lessons learned during those formative years were not simply about work; they were about survival, sacrifice, and the complexities of familial love.

As readers journey through this chapter, they are reminded of the powerful quote by Toba Beta: “Only when man is cornered, potential is forced to appear.” Amy’s story exemplifies this truth, as she and her sister faced their fears, navigated the burdens of adulthood, and emerged stronger for it. This chapter serves as a testament to the strength found in vulnerability, the endurance forged through hardship, and the resilience that can bloom even in the darkest of circumstances.

Growing in the Dark is not just a memoir; it is a guide for anyone grappling with their past. Amy Love’s narrative encourages readers to reflect on their own experiences and find strength in adversity. Available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Google,  iTunes & Kobo., This book offers insights into healing and personal growth, reminding us all that while burdens may be heavy, they can also lead to profound transformation.

Headlines Team