Dear questioner,
Good morning,
My name is Kelly.
Growing up can be a confusing time. It's normal to feel unsure of yourself and have low self-esteem. It's important to remember that just because your classmates may seem to have good relationships, it doesn't mean they don't have their own challenges.
It's important to remember that you still have family who love you very much, and that some people have good interpersonal relationships. However, it seems that your family relationships may not be as positive as you would like.
Perhaps we could talk about our confusion together?
[Discuss the importance of self-confidence]
I recall from my childhood that I was quite mischievous, and my mother often told me that I wasn't as attractive as I could be. I believe that the more she said this, the more I behaved in ways that were less than ideal. At the time, I was not as happy at home as I could have been, so I often sought solace in the company of my friends. I remember that when I was around four or five years old, I frequently found myself sneaking out to play.
I also had the experience of encountering friends who didn't like me, and I remember a group of people who often laughed at me behind my back. I chose to stop playing with them.
Later on, I had the opportunity to make a few more friends. If I had food, I would always share it with them, and if they had something fun to do, they would call me. I probably had one or two really good friends before elementary school, and we often played together, forgetting about those who didn't like me.
I would say that I had low self-esteem when I was at primary school, because my parents were not always encouraging. When I first started at primary school, my math teacher was very strict, and I was afraid of him. He got on well with my parents, and I was always afraid that he would tell on me. He often wouldn't let me go home on time, and when I came home late, my parents would scold me, saying that I must not have studied hard enough to get left behind by my teacher.
I was fortunate to have a Chinese teacher who was very encouraging. In gratitude for her guidance, I made a conscious effort to excel in Chinese. I ensured I completed all required tasks on time, demonstrated consistent effort in my studies, and was consistently recognized as one of the top students in my class.
I would like to share how I gradually gained confidence.
I am aware that I have some areas for improvement, but I also do my best to do things well within my abilities.
In primary school, I also encountered a few individuals who found my mathematical abilities somewhat lacking, but I was fortunate to have a few close friends with whom I would walk every day. In hindsight, those joyful moments served as a welcome distraction from the less pleasant experiences.
I must admit that I lack a certain degree of self-confidence. Apart from my family, I often feel that other people are laughing at me because I don't look good and I'm always the butt of jokes.
Perhaps it would be helpful to consider whether we laugh at our classmates.
I don't believe this was the case with most of my classmates. Even if there were a few exceptions, I remember that when I was a student, I met several classmates with disabilities, and I would actively help them. Moreover, they were cheerful, lively, and enthusiastic, so I don't think anyone would have laughed at them.
In fact, most of my classmates are kind and simple, and there is no standard of beauty. When I was a child, my parents also said I was not good-looking, because at that time I did not yet have my own aesthetic ability, and I was still a student and did not know how to dress up.
On the other hand, there were also people who complimented me on my cuteness and liveliness.
I've noticed that I don't always see eye to eye with my classmates, which can sometimes make me feel a bit lonely.
My dear, I can relate to your feelings. Being alone can be lonely, and everyone desires friendship.
Perhaps we could consider inviting a classmate to hang out with us?
For instance, if A is not interested, we could perhaps ask B. There are many people in the class, so you could consider taking the initiative to chat with everyone.
I believe that being proactive and enthusiastic will help us gain friendships, even if it's just one. You might like to give it a try.
It might be helpful to try appreciating your classmates more, sincerely expressing your feelings when you see the good points in others, remembering a few of your appreciated classmates, and sending them a card during the holidays.
Perhaps you could tell them what you like about them.
You might also consider giving your favorite classmate a book they like, which could facilitate communication. It might also be helpful to pay attention to what they like reading.
I believe that friendship is a two-way street. If you put in the effort, you will surely reap the rewards.
How do you cope when you feel lonely?
I must admit that I was not particularly adept at mathematics during my primary school years. However, I did enjoy reading and Chinese, and I often spent my recess time reading comic books. I continued this habit for many years. Later, my teacher often invited me to tell stories to the class, and my classmates often gathered around me to read together.
I believe that activities such as reading, singing, and drawing have the potential to foster closer relationships among individuals.
[Relationship with family members]
Could you please tell me a little bit more about why you and your mother have been having some disagreements?
Mum and Dad love you very much. Would you say you like the way they love you?
Perhaps it would be better not to argue and then go home and argue, because you're in a bad mood after school?
Parents and children are family members. Disagreements can be a way of showing trust in your parents and that you can be honest with them about your feelings. It's also good that family members can let you express your uncomfortable emotions.
Perhaps it would be helpful to consider the reason for wanting to argue next time. Is there something different about this argument compared to previous ones?
If arguing doesn't seem to be the best solution, perhaps there are other ways to approach the situation?
It might be helpful to write about it before you argue and record it in a notebook.
If this answer does not fully address your question, please feel free to ask more questions next time. With time and patience, you will likely find the answer you are looking for.
At the same time, I will affirm you, appreciate you, and seek your input and guidance. This demonstrates that you are a person with your own thoughts and that you are thoughtful and proactive.
"I listened to every word they said, and it felt like my heart was bleeding."
Dear, I can imagine it might be challenging for you to recall the specific words or actions of your parents that have caused you distress. If it's not too much trouble, I kindly request that you write down what they said and categorize your feelings about it.
If you have any further questions, please feel free to write them down and we will do our best to provide guidance and support.
It's possible that your parents love you unconditionally and want you to be happy.
It's important to remember that many parents are still learning as they navigate the challenges of parenting. They may not always be aware of their actions or inactions, especially in areas where they feel less confident.
As a mother myself, I can relate to my daughter's experiences. I've come to realize that I can always improve, and I'm working on becoming a better version of myself.
You might also consider trying this approach. Perhaps you could choose not to argue with your mother for a few weeks and instead write her a letter every week, outlining your expectations.
It can be difficult to see your best friend getting along so well with other people, which can make you feel a little lonely.
My dear, this is a normal psychological state, which shows that you are very emotional and care about your best friend. Even if you feel a little jealous and uncomfortable, it is a reminder that we may care about each other too much.
I would also like to suggest that you consider making more friends, each with a different personality and strengths. Reading biographies and making friends can be beneficial for personal growth.
If you feel these issues are ongoing, you may wish to consider speaking with a professional counselor or learning more about interpersonal relationships in your community.
I believe that you will one day thank yourself for having experienced all the joys and sorrows of growing up.
I would like to suggest the following books for your consideration:
You might find it helpful to read books such as "The Courage to Be Disliked," "Mr. Toad Goes to the Psychologist," and "Say Yes to Life."
Rilke wrote "Letters to a Young Poet," and I believe there is a passage in there that might resonate with you.
If I might make a suggestion, perhaps it would be helpful to consider the following:
It would be beneficial to find a simple and sincere harmony that does not need to be changed, regardless of how you may transform yourself in the future.
It would be beneficial to cherish their unfamiliarity with life and to try to understand those who have entered old age. It is possible that they are afraid of the loneliness you believe in.
It might be helpful to avoid adding fuel to the drama that often plays out between parents and children. This can take a lot out of children and erode the love of many parents, even if their love doesn't always understand us. It's important to remember that they are actually loving and warming us.
It might be best to avoid asking for advice from them and to try not to worry about understanding. Instead, you could believe in the love that has been preserved for you like an inheritance. You might find it helpful to trust that there is strength in this love, and that a kind of happiness is possible without having to leave this happiness in order to expand your world.
I believe that together, we can explore this vast world and that the young you will create your own world.
With time, as you grow and read more and meet new people, you will gradually evolve into a different version of yourself.
I can relate to your confusion. When you are confused, I suggest we immerse ourselves in the sea of books and explore together.
Wishing you a very happy day!
I would like to express my love and appreciation for the world and for you.
Comments
I understand how you feel, and it's okay to not be okay. Everyone has their struggles, but remember your worth isn't defined by others' opinions or jokes. It's tough when you feel like an outsider, but maybe this is a chance to find your own path and connect with people who appreciate you for who you are.
Feeling lonely and misunderstood is really hard. But have you tried talking to someone you trust about how you're feeling? Sometimes just sharing what's on your heart can lighten the burden and open up new connections.
It sounds like you're carrying a heavy load. I'm sorry that you feel this way. Have you considered reaching out to a counselor or therapist? They might help you work through these feelings and give you tools to cope with the isolation and selfdoubt.
You're not alone in feeling this way, even if it seems like everyone else is fitting in easily. Your family loves you, and that's a strong foundation. Maybe you could start small, trying to join conversations with one or two people you feel comfortable with.
It's heartbreaking to hear you talk about feeling so isolated. Remember, it's okay to seek professional support. Therapists can provide strategies to handle these feelings and build healthier relationships, including with your mother.