"So tell me, Mason, why have your mum sent you to see me today?" I asked. For a newly graduated psychologist, I thought I did a pretty good job with guiding kids. I'd always loved to listen to the things that were troubling the younger generation. Usually it was subjects as violence in the family, drugs addiction, trouble with the boyfriend or girlfriend. You know, normal subjects a teen can go through.
My newest patient, Mason Dallas at 15, had troubled me though. We'd been seeing each other every other week where I ask him a lot of questions that he doesn't seem to want to answer. Maybe he's just shy or embarrassed. It's very common for first-timers to be, but Mason is very strong willed and doesn't say a word.
So when his mum called me this morning and said that her son, Mason, was ready to talk, I got excited. I wonder what convinced him. Usually it's the conscience that gives in. 'Could be Masons case.
I asked him again; "Mason? Why did your mum send you to see me today? Are you ready to open up?" Mason shrugged. He then sighed and it looked like he was trying to talk but there was something stopping him.
"It's okay Mason, I'm here to listen. I do not judge." I said to try and calm him down. It seemed to help. He looked at me with his wide open, blue and polished eyes. His face was as white as chalk and it looked like he hadn't slept for days.
"You look tired." I said. He nodded. Still just staring at me. "Why are you tired, Mason?" I asked. He finally gave me an answer.
"I don't want to sleep." he said with his hoarse voice.
"Why not?" A moment of silence flew by.
"Because... I'm afraid that, when I fall asleep at night, my reflection will sit up and stare at me through the mirrors reflection, that's placed right next to my bed." he admitted and burst out in tears.
