The invisible struggles

Difficult Decisions

Elena, Lucas, Maya, and Alexandre had found themselves in the library of Windham University, surrounded by books and scattered notes. The end of the semester was rapidly approaching, bringing with it crucial decisions that could potentially alter the course of their academic lives and beyond.

Elena was immersed in her sketches, her thoughts oscillating between art and her own struggle with body dysmorphia. She had received an offer for a student exhibition that would showcase her talent, but this meant presenting her works to a potentially critical audience. It was an incredible opportunity but also a source of heightened anxiety about others' reactions to her work and her appearance.

Lucas, for his part, had been approached by the university's rugby team, encouraging him to officially join as a regular player. This opportunity would not only allow him to compete at a higher level but also help him move past his previous struggles with compulsive violence. Still, he wondered if he was ready to handle the stress and expectations of playing sports at a university level.

Alexander, well aware of Lucas's past issues with anger and violence, took a deep breath before speaking in a calm but determined tone. "Lucas, I know that joining the rugby team has been tempting for you. I really think it could be good for you."

Lucas looked at his friend, slightly surprised by the conversation but also touched by his support. "Do you really think so? But you know what happens to me sometimes. My anger..."

Alexander gently interrupted him. "Yes, I know. But there's a difference between a contact sport like rugby and your past issues with violence. Rugby could help you channel your energy positively, allowing you to vent in a controlled and supervised way."

Lucas pondered Alexander's words, feeling a glimmer of hope. "Do you really think I can distinguish that? I don't want my demons to take over like my father's..."

Alexander placed a reassuring hand on Lucas's shoulder. "Exactly. You're not your father. You are strong, but you can choose how to express that strength."

Lucas looked away, lost in thought. "You're right. I don't want to be like him. I want to be someone who knows how to control his emotions."

Alexander smiled sincerely. "And you will be. Make this decision for yourself, for who you want to become. We'll support you, no matter what you choose."

Lucas smiled, feeling a surge of determination. "Thank you, Alexander. Thanks for believing in me."

Maya was grappling with the idea of applying for an internship at a large technology company. She was passionate about programming and video games, but the thought of working in a professional environment triggered her social anxieties. She knew the internship would be an incredible chance to gain experience, but she was hesitant to take the plunge.

Alexander, meanwhile, faced an academic dilemma. He had been invited to participate in an advanced mathematics research project, an opportunity that could enhance his academic resume and push his intellectual limits. However, it would require dedicating even more time to his studies, sometimes at the expense of his personal well-being and health.

Elena sat down next to him, feeling a bit nervous but determined to offer her support. "Yes, it's okay. I heard about the math research project you were invited to."

Alexander nodded, a glimmer of enthusiasm in his eyes as he talked about his passion for numbers and theorems. "It's an incredible opportunity, Elena. But at the same time, it feels like... a lot."

Elena gently placed her hand on Alexander's, silently expressing her support. "I understand your concerns. But you're so talented in mathematics, Alexander. You shouldn't let anorexia or any personal struggle keep you from a chance that could shape your future."