The looks on my classmates’ faces were priceless! They couldn’t believe their eyes and ears
My mother planned a big birthday party for me with my whole class invited (with the school’s permission, of course), even my teacher. The plan was for my teacher to pop over in the middle of the party and see what I was like in my comfort zone. The party was a hit. I loved the fact that it was in my own house, so I had no one to be shy of. The best part was that the girls who didn’t know the other side of me got a pleasant surprise.
The moment I saw my teacher walk in, it was like a clamp popped onto my mouth. She gave me a birthday card and a small gift. It was a sweet gesture, and until today I appreciate her thoughtfulness.
When I look back at pictures of the party, I see my younger self surrounded by my classmates, the cake my mother baked with the pink and green icing, and the colorful streamers and balloons. But most of all I see the grins splashed on all our faces, especially mine. I look like the happiest kid on earth, without a care in the world. Anyone who looks at this photo would never dream that behind my sparkling eyes, rosy cheeks, and relaxed manner was a child with selective mutism.
During second grade, we were given a “show and tell” assignment to present to the class. I already knew I wasn’t doing it. It was impossible for me to stand up in front of my teacher and the entire class and give a speech. It was like my biggest nightmare becoming reality.
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