Ahmad Dirawi

My name is Ahmad. I was 13 years old when I went missing on September 17th 1982, in the events that are today infamously known as the Sabra and Chatila massacre.

Before that date, I was one of the best students in my class; I loved going to school and was particularly fond of writing. I also liked to memorize part of what we study, like poetry, the names of famous figures and remarkable dates in history. I used to hang out with my friends, although I also really enjoyed being by myself.

My mother would always tell me that I would grow very tall when I become an adult. At that time, I was still a child who is afraid of the dark. And when I went missing, my mother’s biggest concern was that I would be kept somewhere dark. She knew my fears, the fears of a 13-year old child.

My name is Ahmad Faysal Dirawi. Do not let my story end here.