I am 18 years old and the oldest in my O’ Level class. I started school late and after finishing Grade seven my parents could not find money to continue paying for my education. I had to spend the whole of the following year at home until my uncle in Gweru came to pick me up from our rural home and pay for my secondary education in this town.
My problem is that my schoolmates are always teasing me and making fun of me about my age and my background. It pisses me off and sometimes I feel like beating them because I know I can. When I beat one of them last term he reported me to the teacher and now the teachers think I am violent.
That is not who I am, my classmates make me do these things and I don’t know what to do now because it looks like they are allowed to play with my feelings and I cannot do anything about it. What can I do my sister, I want this to stop? – Bruce
Dear Bruce
We all come from different backgrounds, some that we are proud of and others we are not. The unfortunate events in your life were not your choice and you need not feel bad about it at any one time.
The kids in your class take advantage by making fun of your history because they know you are ashamed and embarrassed by it. You need to accept what happened and know that you are blessed that your uncle came to your rescue. Imagine if that was going to be the end of your education? So smile and know that you are blessed.
When they start teasing or making fun of you, just tell yourself that they are small-minded and ignore them. If it continues to bother you, report them to your teacher and explain the reason that led you to beat one of them the last time.
Attacking them again is not the right solution and will not gain anything positive. Focus on your studies and ignore those who would try to detract you from your goal of a good education and a better life. – Gracey
Post published in: Lifestyle