JEYENBI

Limitation

When I was in grade school, I'm afraid of eating too much especially every time the school pulls a party or even in simple celebrations. I'm scared that they might also look at me the way my grade 4 adviser looked at me before.

*****

We were having review session that time and I was giving my full attention on what was being discussed. When suddenly, he noticed my male classmate seated in front of me.

"Ang tahimik mo naman 'ata masyado," he said. The class laughed because of that but I don't know why, so I just frowned.

I was really thinking of what was the reason of their laughter but then, my adviser looked at me. "Segurado ako kapag nasa high school ka na, ganito ka na kalaki," he spread his arms on both sides and even puffed his cheeks.

Again, the class laughed even harder. Yes, I'm taller than I should be in the age of 10 but it hurts me so much. Considering that he is my homeroom teacher and my second parent.

I let the incident slipped but he continued mentioning my appearance.

It was our closing party when he kept on offering me foods. I felt uncomfortable so I refused to have another plate or serving of any food.

I came home hungry and then my mother asked me why. I answered truthfully. It wasn't my plan to tell her because I know my mother. She'll do anything to protect us, her children.

She then called my teacher. She was furious that time but he kept on denying everything I said to my mother. He even had the nerve to end the call first.

From that day on, I learned how to set limitations to myself. Not only in terms of food but also on how much consideration I'll give to someone.