From a Tween’s Heart to Yours
I have a hard time thinking of things I like about myself.
Dear Adults -
If you see me alone and I’m looking upset, please ask me if I’m OK. You must ask me about 4 times and in different ways before I dare to tell you anything. I want to find out if you care.
I will argue with you about stuff I know nothing about just because I want to argue. Please don’t take it personally; sometimes I want to argue.
I cannot think far enough ahead to predict what may result from my choices. If you can see far enough ahead, and it’s important enough, stop me from doing these things.
I will dress in ways that you will think are odd. Please understand that I want to be different, just like all my friends are being different in the same manner. (Also, do not try to tell me that “being different, as a group” is not being different because I will not believe you.)
A bad haircut is the end of the world.
I will have ridiculous ideas about life, such as, “I want to learn things the hard way because I can remember the lesson better that way.” I will look back on these ideas and laugh.
I have a hard time thinking of things I like about myself.
When I’m acting wild and crazy in public, I’m doing just that: acting. I don’t dare show my friends who I am (not that I know who that is, anyway.)
My friends are often more important than family. I know, it shouldn’t be that way, but it is. In time, this will change.
I am scared to death about being left out of anything — even if it’s an event, in which I’m not interested.
I often worry about the lunch table at school. Will I wind up eating alone?
I hate mirrors, and yet, I will spend a lot of time in front of one trying to get it right.
I want my parents’ and teachers’ approval, even if it doesn’t seem like I do.
My moods will take me all over the place. I don’t know why and I don’t like it but I can’t help it.
Please understand me,
A confused and typical tween.
