I don’t have stylish stuff like everyone else does. Every time I watch TV I see commercials for clothes, shoes, and stuff that everybody else has enough money to buy. But we don’t enough money anymore, not since Mom stopped working full-time. We hardly have any money. When I need clothes she takes me to resale shops. All they have are these lame clothes that are really out of style. When I wear used stuff to school everybody notices. I’m sure they laugh at me when I’m not looking.
I’m a good person. My mom’s a good person. We’re doing the best that we can but the other kids can really be mean. Even though we don’t have a lot of money I’m still myself, aren’t I?
CONSIDER THIS:
- Social interactions in school can be frustrating and challenging to deal with, especially when you are experiencing a challenging time in your life. It can be particularly hard to feel as though you are being judged by your peers based on your income or your clothing instead of your special personality or unique abilities.
- You might consider discussing your feelings with a trusted person. This might be someone such as your mother, another family member, a religious leader, a close friend, or a teacher or counselor at your school. Confiding in someone whom you trust about your emotions can help you to understand them better. Talking about your problem might also help you to find a solution to it. Your mother and many of the other people in your life may have experienced similar difficulties at some time. Discussing your situation with someone might give you valuable insight into how to handle it.
- You might also talk to your mom about the way you feel about your clothes. You could explain that you understand the importance of being frugal when you shop and suggest some inexpensive alternatives to the stores that she takes you. There might be some other resale or thrift stores in your area which offer clothes that are more suited to your tastes at a similar price.
- You might consider thinking of some ways to interact with your classmates or to meet some new friends. Joining a club or sports team, signing up for a free class, or volunteering at a local charity are all great ways to socialize in a less stressful environment. Joining a group or a class for a favorite hobby or a new skill you want to learn can be especially fun because it allows you to meet other people with similar interests.
- Most importantly, remember that you are a special and wonderful person. No matter what clothes you are wearing or what things you can afford to buy you are a extraordinary individual with a lot of valuable things to contribute to the world. You and your mother deserve to be applauded for persevering during this difficult time!
HELP YOURSELF:
- How might you feel if you confided in a trusted person about your feelings?
- What advice might a trusted person be able to offer you about dealing with your situation?
- What are some free groups and classes or volunteer opportunities that are offered in your area which might interest you?
- What three qualities do you admire most in others?
- What three qualities do you admire most about yourself?
- What things do you think make you a unique and special person?
- What are some things in your life which you are grateful for?
- How would you define having a full and happy life?
- What are some goals which you hope to accomplish in your life?
- Where do you see yourself in five years time? What about in ten years time?
