I was walking into the classroom when I saw a group of women staring wickedly at me. "Meiko, Meiko!" they murmured. I bowed my head and pretended not to see them when I suddenly stumbled at Calla’s foot which she blocked in my path. I was about to get up but she pulled my hair. “I’m in pain!”, I said tearfully. "I'm not doing anything wrong" I added. "Nothing?" she shouted as her eyes widened staring at me. "Give me your briefcase, as well as the watch you have in your hand" she added and I quickly gave her what she asked for. Calla and her friends are my classmates. For almost two years now, they have been doing the same thing to me and to other students they know they can intimidate. I also miss class more often to avoid them. I didn’t have the courage to complain to the teachers or even to my parents.


The next day, when I came out of the school restroom, Calla's group was waiting for me. "Meiko, give me your money" Calla said. "Uh, what ... I don't have any money" I stammered but she grabbed the bag from behind me and searched it. "What do you call this?" she shouted while holding my wallet, which contained my allowance for three weeks. I was about to answer when she suddenly slapped me hard and kicked me. I had no choice but to cry.

When I got home, there I shed all my tears. "I'm afraid of what she can still do" I whispered to myself. I was also afraid that my mom might scold me when she found out I had run out of money. I have no one else to tell how scared I am and how much I struggle with what is happening to me at school. My mom might not believe me, I can think of no other solution but to hang myself to escape. The rope was ready but I was skeptical. "Lo..Lord, please forgive me, take care of me. I can't take it anymore, I'm tired of what Calla is doing to me". Until I realized I was talking to God. I reported to Him all my anger, fears and problems as my tears flowed. Eventually the door opened and mommy saw me. Although I was scared I had the courage to admit to mommy the truth. I saw her concern for me and she decided to transfer me to another school.

A few years ago, I heard that Calla was in prison. I also heard that Calla also experienced bullying when she was young. I felt pity despite what she had done to me. My previous experiences were not good, but my first call on the name of the Lord helped me a lot. I learned to forgive the person who hurt me even if she did not apologize. By then I felt relieved and I was able to sleep soundly without thinking of any anger or hatred in my heart.
© angie