UNWORTHY

2. Family

I was born in August 16, 1998 in a small west African Country surrounded by beautiful rivers, mangroves, and happy people. Well except that they are not happy with me and my choice.

Growing up from an early age, I have always adored myself; to the way I talk, walk, and even sing (often to myself). Although I have heard the worst about my physic and appearance, I didn't care at all until when I turned 16. That's when every thing changed.

A week after my 16th birthday, my mother died whiles giving birth to my younger brother. I felt so lonely after her death, it was only then that I realized I was not as strong as thought I was. It was all Ma.

She knew what I was and would become from childhood and she accepted me for that. Something most if not all African mothers would never do.

My mother accepted me for who I was, fed and clothed me with the best colors I'd ever ask for.

Supported me through school and even told me stories of people who defied odds of the society and became great people through out the world.

I knew what was coming from my dad and the rest of the family after her death. I knew it would be bad. Just not as bad as it turned out to be.

One faithful Sunday, after Ma's forty days of death, I overheard my half brothers telling my dad how I look like a girl, worthless and not strong enough for any manly job. They took turns to say how disgusted they all were in me. That I would bring shame to the family if something is not done about me. I was not the least surprised when my father agreed with them.

I mean, that man always hated me for all reasons known to him. He never liked what I wear or how I talked. He never  once appreciate nor applauded my outstanding grades throughout my school. And I was sure he'd go extra miles to get me out of his sight and family.

The next morning, my father woke me up only to tell me that I am going to a boarding school to memorize the Quran. I tried to insist, to convince him that I can learn it here whiles I go to school too. But apparently he wasn't taking it. He insisted that I must go to a boarding school and that it is for my own good but I was too sure it was to get rid of me.

I am not against learning the Quran but I wish I'd stay home and just be going to school whiles I learn it too.

Sadly, that is not happening!!!