Professor Virohsa, masking her concern, looked at Ashlie as she sipped her tea and started to speak. She nodded and waited for Ashlie to take a deep breath. "First of all, it is okay to cry and to feel confused. It is perfectly a normal reaction and emotion", she said. "It is ok. And in case you were wondering, it is not a signal for strength or weakness. In fact, it is a signal you are human. Being human is very complicated and complex due to all of the emotions we go through. And it is perfectly ok to experience those emotions", she told Ashlie as she watched her.
"Poor child, I can see that you are suffering from the uncertainty that comes from growing up. But the good news is that everyone your age goes through the same thing. We all have mood swings and we all have no idea what it is that we are supposed to do", she explained. "So feeling inadequate, emotional, angry, or doubtful is perfectly normal", she said reassuringly.
"I do think there are a couple of things that are important to think about. One is the self, the second is about your love for journalism", she said briefly as she placed some more tea on Ashlie's cup.
"About the first relating to self, I think that you need to consider the expectations you have of yourself, people have of you, and the expectations you think others have of yourself. Most of the times, the expectations that push you are your own. So when you feel like you are at your limit of stress, it is best to reconsider the standard you have placed on yourself. There is nothing wrong about changing your mind and allowing yourself to have time for yourself, dear. Maybe by having some time where you are not bugged with things to do, you can begin to re-examine what is important for you, which values you are guided with. And then, make a decision to whether you want to be with certain people or meet new friends later on. In all likelihood, you will meet new people as soon as you start working. There is no rush to have a group of friends, those are very inconsequential", she said slowly. "And as I stated before, it is perfectly ok to feel that you are not quite ready to make a decision. The good news is that you get to go through at your own pace", she said reassuringly.
"The second thing that is important to talk about is going to be your love for journalism. That is a very good path to go in. For instance, my sister was schooled in writing and she loves every second of it. Perhaps, you can consider continuining such passion after school?", she asked.
Last edited by fr2nc1z; 09-09-2005 at 03:36 AM.
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