The dream had returned once more, gripping me with a cold, dark dread.
Sweat dripped down my brow, and my chest felt tight as I sat up and checked the time - 2 a.m. I'd woken up from this dream three times already this week, and it always left me feeling tired and out of breath. In the dream, I was submerged in water, but I wasn't drowning. Instead, I watched as a lifeless figure sank into the abyss, slowly withering away.
Despite my exhaustion, I headed out for an early morning walk around the university. The calm breeze and peaceful silence were a welcome respite from the chaos of my dreams. I'd once walked these paths as a student, but now, as a counselor in the guidance and counseling office, I felt a deep sense of purpose in helping students navigate the tumultuous waters of mental health.
It wasn't always this way, though. During my final year of college, I was diagnosed with depression and hospitalized for a time. The experience was dark and lonely, leaving me with a desire to prevent others from feeling the same way. That's what drew me to counseling, and I loved nothing more than diving into the exciting worlds of my students, helping them overcome their struggles.
As the new semester began, I had already started counseling several students with mental health issues, a reminder of why I had chosen this path. Despite the haunting dream that plagued me, I found solace in knowing that I was making a difference in the lives of those around me.
The security guard greeted me as I approached the guidance and counseling building.
"Good morning Mr. Gray. You're early again," he said.
"Right, it just so happens that I've woken up a little early this past few days,"
"Ohhh, that's why I noticed that you've been showing up early,"
"Yeah. But it's fine. Morning air helps boost the mind,"
"Yes, sir, I agree."
"Okay, see you around then," then I went straight to my office and prepared for today's lesson. Apart from being a guidance counselor, I also teach psychology. And being one of the youngest instructors, I enjoyed being mistaken as a student.
As the hour approached, I started my lesson as usual in one of the classrooms far from my office.
As I entered the classroom, the silence was palpable. The clock ticked away the seconds as students shuffled into their seats, preparing for the day's lesson. The psychology class was always interesting one, and today's topic was no exception. Self-esteem - a topic that could evoke strong emotions in anyone.
"Welcome, everyone, to Psychology 101," I began as I scribbled "SELF-ESTEEM" on the board. "Today, we will delve into the concept of self-esteem and how it influences our lives. Can anyone share what comes to mind when you hear the word 'self-esteem'?"
A few moments of silence passed before a student, as expected, raised her hand. "Yes, Ms. Chua?" I called on her.
"Self-esteem is about recognizing your abilities and limitations," she said confidently.
"Exactly right, Ms. Chua. Self-esteem is about understanding our worth and how important we are to ourselves before we can be important to others."
One of my students chimed in, "That's all well and good, but isn't it the people with low self-esteem that need this lesson?"
"Actually, high self-esteem can be just as damaging as low self-esteem," I replied. "As the saying goes, 'pride comes before a fall.' Have you ever heard of someone boasting about their life online, only to have it all come crashing down?"
YOU ARE READING
Yellowed
RomanceTo fall in love is to feel warm and fuzzy, glowing, and happy simultaneously. To fall in love is to feel all of your senses being brought to life, that the world is brighter, your heart hotter, and the breeze a softer feeling than anything you had p...
