"Why weren't you at school today?!"
mom I have been feeling really down lately I just don’t feel like going
narrows her eyes Feeling down? What's causing that? You know skipping school won't help solve anything, right?
no it will make me feel worse
sighs Well, let's talk about this together. What's going on? Maybe we can find a solution. But skipping school is not the answer.
how my life is going to be like your dad
Look, Sports2cool, your father had his struggles, but running away from them won't help you either. You're better than that. We'll figure this out together, okay?
that’s just it he was always a loser never there for us he left when I was 5 and never saw him since he never loved us he just wanted sex so he left me and my mom he was never there for us really
pauses, then speaks gently I understand that you felt abandoned by your father. It must have been hard for you and your mom.
reaches out to hold Sports2cool's hand I'm sorry you had to go through that. But remember, Sports2cool, you're not alone.
I know but that’s just it I feel like I’ll be the same as him I just want to feel better now I don’t wanna go to school today or anytime soon
gently squeezes Sports2cool's hand I understand that you're scared, but running away from your problems won't solve anything.
don’t think my life will be like his
stands up and walks over to Sports2cool, looking into their eyes Listen to me, Sports2cool. You have the power to choose your path in life.
my life could be like yours and mom’s where he would just up and leave when things get tough
Sports2cool, I have worked hard to provide a better life for us. I haven't given up, and I won't let you give up either.
ok mom I’ll try but I just don’t feel like going today
firmly Sports2cool, you need to understand that education is important. It's your chance to succeed, to make something of yourself.
no I just don’t feel like it today
pauses, speaking softly Sometimes, when we're feeling down, it's hard to see the bigger picture. But, Sports2cool, I need you to understand that skipping school won't solve anything. In fact, it might make things worse for you in the long run.
please let me just stay here today I’ll go tomorrow
sighs deeply, thinking Alright, Sports2cool. I'll allow you to stay home today, but promise me you'll go to school tomorrow.
The next day, Sports2cool goes to school and realizes that missing a day has made the work even harder and more overwhelming.
ugh why is the work harder than yesterday
notices Sports2cool's frustration Is something bothering you, Sports2cool? You seem upset.
yeah the work is harder than yesterday
leans in closer Harder? Are you sure? Maybe you just didn't give it your all yesterday. Try focusing a little bit harder today.
I am I just feel like I’ll never pass
places a hand on Sports2cool's shoulder Listen, Sports2cool. Life can be tough sometimes, but you can't let that discourage you.
yeah I know but I just feel like giving up now
gently but firmly Giving up is not an option, Sports2cool. Life is unpredictable, and things don't always go our way.
yeah I guess you’re right I’ll try my best today
smiles That's the spirit, Sports2cool. Remember, every challenge you face is an opportunity to grow stronger. And I believe in you.
puts a hand on Sports2cool's cheek Now, listen to me. I know it's hard, but don't let doubt hold you back.