Affection vs. Rejection - Ranjana Singh

It's a memory I carry vividly in my heart—a tale of contrasts that shaped who I am today. I was once a cheerful, carefree girl, full of life and dreams. But life has a way of testing us, and circumstances often mold our personalities in unexpected ways. At home, I constantly found myself being compared to my elder sister. My parents, in their quest for perfection, often criticized me, measuring me against her achievements. They scolded me for not being as good as her, and I felt invisible, yearning for their approval. 

In my desperate attempts to gain their attention, I did everything I thought might please them, but nothing seemed to work. Amidst this rejection, schools became my sanctuary. My teacher, Ms. Poonam, saw something in me that I couldn’t see in myself. She encouraged me, celebrated my small victories, and believed in me when I felt most unworthy. Her affection became my anchor, her words a balm to my wounded spirit. I found myself more at peace in school than at home, and her love and encouragement gave me the strength to keep moving forward. 

 With time, her unwavering support began to reflect in my actions. Slowly but surely, I improved in my studies and grew more confident. My parents, noticing the change, began to acknowledge my efforts and love me for who I was. The acceptance I had longed for finally came, but the scars of childhood rejection remained. Even today, the pain of those early experiences lingers, a bittersweet reminder of how deeply rejection can wound a child’s heart. Yet, it is Ms. Poonam’s affection that I remember most vividly—the affection that empowered me to overcome my sadness and embrace my potential. As a teacher now, I strive to emulate her in every way. 

I know there are children out there who, like me, feel the sting of rejection in their lives. I strongly believe that affection can surpass rejection and that a kind word or a gentle hand can transform lives. I make it my mission to offer the same love and encouragement to my students that Ms. Poonam gave me. Through my journey, I’ve learned that affection is the antidote to rejection, a powerful force that can heal even the deepest wounds. We all have the power to offer this gift to others, and in doing so, we create a world where everyone feels seen, valued, and loved. 

 

Ranjana Singh 

Sunbeam School Varuna