Faith

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Misty

“Aye sweet pea.”

“Hi dad. Is mommy there I wanna talk to her first.”

“Sure love.”

“MISTY!”

“Aug? You know I'm right in the bathroom why are you shouting.”

“I wanted to.” He laughed.

“Well go check on your son then. I'm sure he woke up.”

“Shit. I forgot he was sleeping.”

“Mhm. Just give me my phone and go.”

Taking it from him, I watched as he got up and left. Giving Nai my attention I smiled. It's been a week since she’s been in Canada and though I was missing her, I was happy for her.

“How are you sweet pea?”

“I want to come home momma.” She said instantly, making me frown.

“What? Why? Did something happen?”

“I'm bored. Everything I've done already.”

I knew she was lying to cover up her real reason. Nai never cares if something was repetitive or not, she would take the knowledge and use it to her advantage.

“Tell me the truth.”

“Everyone hates me here.”

“What?”

“None of the other girls speak to me because you and dad are my parents, especially you.”

“What kind of shit?”

“They knew beforehand that I was coming and they all just been shutting me out. To make it worse, it's an odd number of girls so when we have to partner up, I'm left alone. I don't need this throwing me off momma. I want to come back home, I don't need here.”

“Take a deep breath babe and exhale.”

Doing as I said, she then wiped her tears and looked at me.

“You remember how me and daddy always tell you you will come across different types of people in this world, especially being our child?”

“Yes.”

“Well you are experiencing it now. It is not your fault you were given us as your parents and that's what makes you perfect. You're beautiful, talented and intelligent. You don't need them and I've told you this.”

“But momma.”

“No buts Naima. Yes I know you have to learn to work in groups but its clear those girls are intimidated by you as a person and us as your parents which is silly so you give them a reason to actually be intimidated by you.”

“Take charge?”

“Yes. You're a strong girl. If they don't want to like you then what do you do?”

“Give them a reason to not like me other than their preconceived reason.”

“Exactly. I don't care about them. You are my daughter and your talents and growth are my focus. Don't you ever let anyone tell you or make you think you can't you hear me.”

“Yes momma.” She smiled.

“What have I always told you?”

“God didn't put me here for friends.”