Kuya Josh and Mr Matchstick

This is a short story made by Ms. Rhea Penflor and Illustrations by Anna Karina Jardin. It is about instilling values among children and keeping away from fire, as it may harm lives. This is an advocacy about education, values formation and fire prevention.
*THIS CANT BE REPRODUCED NOR PRINTED WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE FROM ITS WRITER AND ILLUSTRATOR.
Intellectual property rights belongs to Rhea Penaflor, Anna Karina Jardin, and Artistikong Kabataan Foundation Inc.

Every day, Kuya Josh observes Grandma use matchstick to light the stove especially when Grandma prepares breakfast. Kuya Josh calls Grandma “Nanay” while he calls his mother, “Mommy.”

One day, Nanay left Kuya Josh at home because she needs to buy something from the market.

Nanay: Kuya Josh, I’ll be back right away. Do not play with fire, okay? And don’t leave the house while Manang is washing the clothes, understand?

Kuya Josh: Yes, Nanay.

When Nanay left, Kuya Josh searched for the matchbox, first in the dining room, then in the kitchen. He found it but he has to climb a chair just to get it.

When he opened the matchbox, something popped out with its hands on its waist. Kuya Josh’s eyes grew huge.

“Kuya Josh, I am Mr. Matchstick. What did Nanay tell you?”

Kuya Josh: Uhm…Not to play with fire?

Mr. Matchstick: And what are you doing now?

Kuya Josh: I’m just…

Mr. Matchstick: Do not lie, Kuya Josh. Remember, it’s bad to lie.

Kuya Josh: Sorry, Mr. Matchstick. I won’t lie again. Please don’t tell Nanay because that will make her sad.

And then, Mr. Matchstick disappeared

Nanay just arrived from the market. She asked Kuya Josh.
Nanay: Kuya Josh, were you a good boy here at home?
Kuya Josh: Yes, Nanay. I promise not to play with fire or to say lies ever again. I swear Nanay.
Nanay: That’s my grandson. Come here, I bought you some fruits.

And Kuya Josh never played fire again or ever said lies.