Today is a cozy Sunday, and I spent the whole day with little “Yogurt” – my niece who sweetly calls me “Mom.” I was surprised at how openly she shared with me about everything – from schoolwork to friends, even the most random thoughts.
One question that struck me was: “How can I say no when I don’t want to share my pocket money or snacks with classmates?” It sounds simple, but the story behind it isn’t light at all. Yogurt told me that some kids would say, “If you don’t share with me, I’ll stop being your friend and badmouth you so that no one else will play with you.”
Hearing this brought me back to my own childhood – who hasn’t met a not-so-nice friend at some point?
Here’s what I told her:
Be firm when someone tries to manipulate you into sharing money or food.
Choose your friends wisely. Be friends with those who are as sincere as you are. You’re not a selfish person – when you share willingly and your friend does the same, that’s when true friendship lasts.
You can politely but clearly say: “I’ll ask my mom, and if she agrees, I can share with you tomorrow.” Or: “If you need money, I can ask the teacher to talk to your parents so they can give you more allowance.”
I reminded her: “Mom taught me that only beggars hold out their hands to ask for money from others. It’s okay to ask your parents, but not your friends.”
If someone borrows money or school supplies and never returns them, you can:
Make a “debt notebook” where the friend writes and signs what they borrowed. If they don’t return it, you can ask the teacher to help.
When it comes to self-defense, I was very clear:
• If someone threatens to stop being your friend, talks badly about you, or pressures you to share money/snacks – be brave and say no.
• If someone hits you first, you have the right to defend yourself – fight back to protect yourself, then run fast to a safe place.
• The one who hits first is always wrong. You must not start a fight, but you have every right to protect yourself if you’re being bullied.
Most importantly, I want Yogurt to know:
I’m always here – if you have any problems, just call me.
Adults can’t step into every situation, but I believe you’re brave and smart enough to handle things – and I’ll always have your back.
Thank you, Yogurt, for seeing me as a friend and giving me the chance to be a “schoolyard drama consultant” for a day!
If you find this post helpful, feel free to share – maybe one day, your child will need this advice too.
Wishing everyone a warm and peaceful Sunday.
May the peace of God be with us all. Amen.
Chú thích: Sữa chua là cháu mình gọi mình là mẹ. Chứ Linkachu chưa lấy chồng và có con nha quý vị!\
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Linkachu – Someone who has battled weight for nearly 20 years and is currently exploring the “eat fully, still lose weight” method.
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Learn more about me at Linkachu.net
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