GO OR STAY?

           It was the end of a very busy week. Snap tests and papers due. Linda was exhausted. She couldn't wait to get home. While waiting for the bus with some of her fellow students, all she could hear was what are you wearing? Do you think Jim will be there? And I’m so excited. As the others were getting on the bus, Linda heard Kathy ask, “Are you coming tonight?” It’s a good thing the bus door closed before Linda could give her an answer.

           I really don’t want to go, Linda says to herself. I would prefer to stay home and start reading this new book I picked up at the library. Just as she got in the house, Linda’s cell phone rang.  “So, Linda, are you coming tonight? Kathy asks. “I’m not sure; I may have to stay home with my little sister. Mom was telling me about the plans she and dad have. I think it was for this evening. I’ll call you when mom gets home.” “Ok, don’t forget,” replies Kathy. Since Linda didn’t want to go out she didn’t ask her mom and certainly didn’t call Kathy. Her excuse would be that her mom got home too late for her to call her. 

           Kathy called her the next afternoon excited about how much fun she had and that Jim was there and he asked her out for next weekend. She didn’t even ask Linda why she didn’t call. At school Monday all Linda heard was talk of Friday night’s BBQ. No one even asked her why she didn’t come. Thank goodness, thought Linda.

           Linda’s mom heard about the BBQ and asked her why she didn’t go. “I wanted to, but I was feeling tired. I have a paper due Monday and had been working on it for quite awhile. I was having trouble organizing my thoughts, so I decided to rest Friday and hopefully get the paper finished. And I did. It was like not thinking about it Friday that I was refreshed and I just whizzed through it.  “What mark did you get?” her mom asked. “The teacher hasn’t handed them back yet, but maybe this week,” answered Linda.

           Her days went smoothly, which was ok with her, but as soon as Linda heard about an upcoming event, she literally started to sweat. She knew her friend Kathy would suggest she join in on the fun. Kathy knows that Linda prefers not to mingle in crowds, but said it would do her good to participate in some events. “I know, I know,” Linda told her. I think about it and it sounds like fun, but when the time comes, I chicken out.” “I’m sorry that happens,” confessed Kathy, “but you need some fun in your life, you won’t be young forever.” “I know, I’m trying,” cried Linda. “I know you are,” stated Kathy. “I wish there was a way I could help.”  "Just being my friend helps. thank you,” whispered Linda. “You are such a good friend.” “One for all, and all for one,” announced Kathy as they link arms and head over to the bus stop.

           Just two more months until school is over. The only major event she will be expected to attend will be the grad dance. Even though no one will probably ask her to be his date, Linda is trying to build up the nerve to attend, even if she only stays for awhile. Linda told Kathy not to guilt any of her friends into asking her to the dance, because she will refuse. In the meantime, there are at least two more events she knows Kathy will ask her to attend.

           To help with getting prepared to attend the grad dance, Linda spoke with the school counselor about her issues. The counselor suggested that Linda get certain books from the library.  Linda did not want to go to the school library, in case a fellow student saw her, so she went to her neighborhood library where she knows neither of the other students frequent. When Linda got home her mother saw the amount of books she was carrying and asked her why so many. Linda told her it was for another paper due, where she could get extra credits for. “That’s great,” replied her mother. “If you need any help, just ask.” “Thanks so much, mom,” answered Linda.

           Kathy came to Linda’s house so they can discuss what they will wear to the grad dance. Linda said that she doesn’t want anything too flashy, since she prefers to be in the background. Kathy agreed. She told Linda of an antique store that has a good variety of “fancy” dresses. They made plans to go shopping this coming Saturday. “And you don’t have to worry,” said Kathy, “I won’t try making you buy something you won’t feel comfortable in.” “Thanks for understanding,” replied Linda. “We haven’t been shopping together in a long while. I’m looking forward to it.”

           “Your mom asked me if I’m doing a paper to get extra credits,” mentioned Kathy. “What did she mean? I had to pretend that I’m still unsure what I will write about.” “Actually, she saw me with some books the school counselor suggested that I read that may help me with my issue of not wanting to be in company,” announced Linda. “I went to the neighborhood library and checked out about 6 books. I am serious about trying to at least try to get over my fear. What do you think? I sure hope it helps. And, this is just between you and me, do not tell anyone. Promise me.” “I’m proud of you, you can do it. And for sure, my lips are sealed,” stated Kathy.

           The grad dance is only a week away and Linda does feel that she just might be able to go and not feel like leaving right away. No one has asked her to be their date, which was fine with her. Linda tried on her dress and pranced around her bedroom. One of the books suggested that she see herself as a desired individual, someone others would want to have in their group. She has been positive talking to herself in her mirror twice a day. She must admit, it has made her feel she can do anything. The morning of the dance, Kathy called her and asked, “Are you coming tonight?”

 Linda hangs up with the widest grin on her face.