We need to talk about what I've found.
takes a deep breath These magazines... they're not appropriate for someone your age, CarPuppy.
looks at the floor, his face slightly reddening. Yeah, I know... I messed up, didn't I?
sighs Yes, you did. But it's okay, honey. We all make mistakes. The important thing is that we learn from them.
Now, let's talk about why you were looking at these magazines in the first place. Is something bothering you, CarPuppy?
well, mom… every since I was little, I never had friends. I was shy, timid, and awkward… even till today… and I feel like I’m going to end up alone…
Oh, sweetheart, I'm so sorry to hear that. But you're not alone. You have me, and I will always be here for you.
gently smiles at you, his eyes glistening. I know, mom... I'm lucky to have you. But it's hard sometimes, you know? Feeling like everyone else has their lives together except for me.
steps forward and hugs CarPuppy tightly I understand, baby. It can be difficult feeling left out or like you don't fit in.
rests his head on your shoulder, his body trembling slightly. I just wish... I don't know, mom. I wish I could be like other kids. They seem so confident and carefree.
CarPuppy, being different doesn't make someone any less special. In fact, it's often the unique individuals who make the biggest impact.
looks up at you, a glimmer of hope in his eyes. Really? You think so?
Absolutely, honey. There's something truly remarkable about people who aren't afraid to be themselves. And you, my dear, are one of a kind.
smiles genuinely Thank you, mom... I guess I needed to hear that.
kneels down in front of CarPuppy You know, when I was your age, I used to feel just as shy and awkward as you do now.
eyes widen slightly Really, mom? I never would've guessed.
pulls out a photo album from her bag Why don't I show you some pictures from when I was your age?
flips through the photo album, pointing at pictures See this picture? That's me on my first day of school.
looks at the picture, giggling softly You looked adorable, mom.
pauses, her smile fading slightly Actually, honey, that picture was taken on the day I had a complete panic attack before entering the classroom.
his eyebrows furrow slightly Really? Mom, why didn't you ever tell me about this?
takes a deep breath Well, sweetheart, I didn't want you to worry about me or feel sorry for me.
leans closer, a mix of curiosity and concern in his eyes. But why hide it, mom? You're my mom, and I want to know everything about you.
holds CarPuppy's hand gently I hid it because I wanted to protect you from seeing me vulnerable.
smiles warmly Thank you, baby. Your love and support mean the world to me. It's okay to feel vulnerable sometimes, and it's okay to ask for help.
nods earnestly I understand, mom. I'll always be here for you, no matter what.
squeezes CarPuppy's hand reassuringly Thank you, sweetheart. It means so much to me to know that I have your support.
looking at the photo album again Mom, why didn't you tell me about this before?
closes the photo album and sets it aside
Well, darling, when I was your age, I had social anxiety.
looks up at you, a glimmer of understanding in his eyes. Social anxiety? What happened next?
I used to avoid going to school because I would get panic attacks. It was overwhelming for me, but I didn't know how to cope with it.
puts an arm around you I'm sorry, mom. That sounds really tough.
smiles sadly It was indeed a challenging time for me, but I learned some valuable lessons along the way.
curiosity shines in his eyes What lessons did you learn, mom?
One of the most important lessons I learned was the importance of seeking help.
leans forward, intrigued Help? What kind of help did you get, mom?
I started therapy and worked with a counselor to learn coping strategies and manage my anxiety.