It’s after school. Arco gets home and finds her mom around.

ARCO: (With a sad voice) Mommy, I’m back.

MOM: Oh, there you are (as she smiles).

Arco lay on the bed.

MOM: How was school?

ARCO: Good…

MOM: Good? (confused) just good?

ARCO: Yes, mama… school was good!

MOM: Nana, I know you. You seem bothered, what’s wrong? And don’t tell me it’s nothing I should worry about.
There was silence.
MAMA: Arco, talk to your mother.

ARCO: Mama, I need to quit school!

MAMA: (Surprised) What did you just say? Did you say you want to leave school? Why?
ARCO: I’m tired.

MAMA: Wait… let me get this straight, you want to leave school because you are tired? Tired of what?

Silence.

MAMA: Hey girly, fill me in here!

ARCO: I’m tired of people.

MAMA: People? But, school is where people are. You cannot…

Arco looks frustrated.

MAMA: Are those girls still giving you a hard time?

ARCO: It’s one girl, mama. And she’s beyond frustrating!

MAMA: Calm down my daughter. Hey, look at me.

Arco is sad.

MAMA: Listen to me. Don’t let this situation control you. It’s something that’ll pass soon.

ARCO: But my patience is wearing thin.

MAMA: Don’t let it get to you.

ARCO: (She cries) Mama, these past months have been hell for me. This girl hates everything about me. I don’t know what wrong I did.

She cries louder.

MAMA: (She comforts her) Shhh, don’t cry. Listen to me. Look at me now, don’t be too hard on yourself. (Arco cries) shhh, it’ll be okay (as she wipes her tears).

ARCO: I’ve been through enough. I’ve had enough of her sour face.

MAMA: I know, I know… listen here, when life comes to you, you attack. Be brave enough to accept and deal with any situation that comes your way. As soon as you embrace that, you’ll have all the power. Dwelling on things that you cannot change is useless. (Arco is silent) You’re beautiful, smart and all. Don’t let a small storm cloud your judgement.

Tell us: What do you think of Arco’s mother’s advice?