Knock. Knock.

This article was sent to us by Natalie S., an eighth grader stationed in Texas. Do you have a story to share with your fellow military teens? Visit our contribution page to find out how you can submit to Bloom!

Knock. Knock. 

Anybody home?

No.

Not even Little Spark of Hope?

No, she’s hiding away from everyone and everything, too scared to become who she was meant to be.

What about anyone else?

Just Fear. What are you afraid of?

I’m not quite sure. I guess I’m afraid that they will leave me before I have to leave them.

Knock. Knock. 

Anybody home?

Just Anger, Sadness, and Regret. 

Do you wanna make a bet?

What bet?

The one where you will leave and no one will come back.

Fine.

Knock. Knock.

Who is it?

Your old pals - Anger, Sadness, and Regret.

Why are you here?

Cuz’ we heard you were somewhere near. 

But why?

We came to stay for a while. 

Sorry.

Sorry for what?

Sorry because you lost the bet and your old spots have been filled up.

By who?

By Love, Happiness, and Joy.

Since when?

Since the day I decided that my feelings and mind are no longer your toy.

Knock. Knock.

What do you want now?

We just came to say hi.

Well, even though you are no longer permanent residents here, I will allow you to stop by.

Why do you still welcome us? When we are around you, you don’t feel the best.

Even though you don’t know it, I still need you, as much as the rest.

We need all of our feelings, no matter what we think. Whether it’s sadness, happiness, anger, regret, pain, joy, fear, or love - there’s a time and place for each of them. We can’t let one emotion control our lives.