just read.
This book contains mature themes, explicit language, and scenes of a sexual nature intended for adult audiences only. It is rated R and is not suitable for readers under the age of 18.
Trigger Warning:
This book also includes depictions o...
Oops! This image does not follow our content guidelines. To continue publishing, please remove it or upload a different image.
Onika Maraj Manhattan High School
October 3
I pulled up Blue's chart on my computer, scanning through her grades and mental health notes. The numbers were troubling, so I turned the screen to show her. Instead of paying attention, she was absorbed in her phone.
"Blue!" I called out, trying to snap her out of it.
She glanced up briefly before returning her focus to her screen.
"Excuse me?" I said, my voice more commanding now. "Hand me the phone. Now."
I extended my hand and waited. After a dramatic sigh, she handed over the phone, looking frustrated.
"Ms. Nicki, you don't get it," she complained, her voice edged with anger. "These classes are so fucking hard. And the teachers? They're always on my case, saying I'm not doing enough."
I frowned, trying to stay calm. "Watch your language, Blue."
"Sorry, Ms. Nicki! I didn't mean to"
"Now, Blue, why do you think these teachers don't like you?"
She shrugged, rolling her eyes. "They just don't. They're always on my case for no reason."
I tried to dig a little deeper. "Is it because maybe you've cursed them out a few times?"
Blue's expression hardened. "Yeah, because they deserved it."
I raised an eyebrow, trying to remain patient. "What makes someone deserve being cussed out?"
Blue looked at me like I was asking the most obvious question in the world. "They're always picking on me, saying I'm lazy or whatever. I'm not gonna sit there and take that sh...I mean stuff."
I sighed, keeping my voice calm. "I get that you're frustrated, but reacting with anger and cursing isn't the best way to handle things. It's important to express yourself, but there are better ways to do it."
Blue shrugged again, clearly unconcerned. "I don't see why I should just sit there and let them talk down to me."
"It's not about letting people walk all over you," I explained, trying to keep my tone even. "It's about handling situations in a way that helps you get what you need without making things worse. When you curse at your teachers, it makes them less likely to help you and more likely to see you as a problem rather than a student who needs support."
Blue shifted in her seat, her defiance starting to waver. "So what am I supposed to do? Just take their crap and smile?"
"No, you don't have to take their crap," I said gently. "But you can address your issues calmly and respectfully. If you're struggling, it's better to talk to them about it or come to me so we can find a solution together. But if you're always reacting with anger, it's going to be hard for them to see past that and help you."
