Shengliver’s Note: This entry was written four years ago by a teen writer in the weeks leading up to the NMT. The annual exam season is a trying time both for the Chinese teens and their parents, some of whom are even more nervous than their sons and daughters.

 

In the past two months, Mother has on several occasions expressed her wish to bring lunch to me every day so that I need not waste time shuttling between home and school. I have refused her.

 

It is a fact that a lot of helicopter parents bring meals to their children. Mother said she would follow suit.

 

Mother thought that I could save some time for study if I had the meal in the classroom, but probably she is unaware that the trip to and from school is an opportunity for me to relax. I take the time to go away from the boring atmosphere. When I am back in the classroom, I am refreshed.

 

If my mother really did that, she would be too tired, and I would be more stressed. I understand that Mum would want me to eat better and save time. Everything considered, however, I don’t think it would be worth it.

 

If I depend too much on my parents now, I cannot imagine how I will be getting along in uni. They will not be hovering over me then.

 

Most kids of Mother’s colleagues went to great schools. I hate it when I am compared with them. I hope Mother will take it easy and give me opportunities just to be myself.