Angel Feathers

Speaking Up

Dear Diary:
         My name is Lizzie. Today was the first day of school. I'm in fifth grade this year. Mrs. Sanders says I should keep a diary to write down important things. She asked if I'd like to read some of it aloud each week. No way! I shook my head. Talking is super awkward, especially with a new teacher.

All my friends were here from last year, so I felt comfortable. Today we learned about reptiles and amphibians and how they're cold-blooded. I thought that was bad, but Mrs. Sanders explained how it means their body temperature matches whatever it is outside. Joey asked why people call each other cold-blooded, and she said it means someone doesn't have feelings, like regret or guilt or sadness. That sounds scary. I don't want to be one of those people.

*

         Today a new kid came to school. My friend Paul said he's autistic, and that means he can't speak. But Joey said not all autistic kids can't talk, only the severe ones. They started arguing. Joey asked Mrs. Sanders if the new kid can talk, and she said no. So he must be severe. His name is Aaron. He's small and dorky and wears glasses.

At lunchtime no one let Aaron sit with them. Paul said they're afraid of him cause he makes weird sounds and waves his arms. He sat in a corner, rocking back and forth. He didn't eat anything. I wanted to ask him if he was ok, but I was afraid to. My uncle said autistic kids can hurt people. I don't think Aaron would hurt anyone. But I don't know. And he couldn't tell me anyway.

*

         Today we learned about volcanoes. Hayden said Aaron is cold-blooded because he's autistic. I wanted to ask Mrs. Sanders if that's true. I don't think it is. But I stayed quiet. Everyone's talking about Aaron except me. I don't talk much about anything, usually. I like to hear what others are saying.

I'm worried about why he doesn't eat. He doesn't bring lunch, but he doesn't buy one either. Maybe he's not hungry? But he seems really sad. No one ever asks if he's ok. Sometimes kids yell at him. He doesn't seem to notice.

*

         I think I should do something about Aaron. He never eats lunch. But what can I do? I'm afraid I'll cause trouble. I'm so worried, I don't even remember what we learned in class today. Something about photosynthesis and rainforests and Amazon.

I thought of offering him some of my peanut butter and jelly, but what if he's allergic? I think I should tell a grownup first, before doing anything. Ugh. I don't like having to talk to people. It makes me feel sick inside. What if I say the wrong thing? Maybe I shouldn't say anything at all. He'll be fine, right?

*

         I was wondering what to do about Aaron today. Mrs. Sanders read us one of the really old Winnie the Pooh stories from a big book. One quote jumped out at me. I think Eeyore said it:

"A little consideration, a little thought for others, makes all the difference."

I felt like she was talking to me! I knew what I should do, even though I was super nervous. When we got up at recess, I waited until everyone was gone. My heart was beating really fast and I felt so jumpy, like I wanted to run away.

"Mrs. Sanders, I need to talk to you."

"Of course, Lizzie. Is something wrong?"

"It's about Aaron. He doesn't eat anything for lunch. I'm worried. He looks really sad."

"Really? That's not good. Thank you for telling me. I'll reach out to his mom and let her know so she can pack him a meal."

Then Mrs. Sanders looked me in the eye and smiled and patted my shoulder.

"I know it might have been difficult for you to speak up, Lizzie. It's ok to let trusted grownups know when you see a problem. You did good."

"Thank you so much, Mrs. Sanders!"

It was such a relief to get it over with. It wasn't nearly as awkward as I was afraid of. I'm glad I spoke up.

*

         Today Mrs. Sanders told me about Aaron. He wasn't eating because he doesn't like what our school serves. He's super sensitive about textures and how food looks and smells. So now his mom knows to prepare something he can eat.

At lunchtime, he had food. He was grinning and eating heartily. I felt so happy knowing he's ok now. Speaking up is really important. Eeyore is right: caring about others makes a big difference.

Words: 790.
Written for "Writing 4 Kids" 
May prompt:
"A little consideration, a little thought for others, makes all the difference." - Eeyore.

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