Elayne, what do you want to do with the money," my dad asks. I'm stumped by this question. 

"Maybe..." I pause, "We can donate them to the misfortune in the city."

"That's a good idea, honey," He reassures me, "I hope that is what the school does with it."

We walk past a stranded bike and a lady trying to get us to donate to the Salvation Army. Helping people should be everyone's priority during this time of year. It's cold and miserable outside, so why not help those in need?

What do you want to do with the money?

We arrive at the school and I see lots of other kids being dropped off. 

"Have fun in school, Elayne," My dad waves goodbye.

I walk into the building and down to the homeroom. I spotted my friend Mason and we walked to class together. The halls were bustling with other students heading towards their classrooms. 

We raised money in our Annual Christmas Bake Sale. We had cookies, brownies, and rice crispy treats. This year the teachers are allowing us to decide what we want to do with the money. As a lesson of responsibility.

have fun in school Elayne

"Alright class, today we are going to be talking about what to do with the money we raised. I won't put in any input until someone asks me to," Ms. Johnson says. 

"We should get a Christmas tree for the classroom," Xalia blurts out. 

"I agree. Christmas is coming and a tree would be perfect," Dan adds in.

"YAASSSS. That would be perfect!!!" Kaylee chimes in too. 

I stay silent. I don't agree with getting a Christmas tree. I think we should put it towards those in need. Should I say something? But what if everyone disagrees with me? I'm going to look like a fool, an outcast. I don't belong.

We should get a Christmas tree for the classroom!!

This is the only way that we can do this

The discussion continues and I never add in my piece. I have stayed quiet this entire time. Dan and Xaila are practically jumping up and down with excitement. Kaylee is making plans and Ms. Johnson is still listening to the conversation. 

"The Christmas tree is the best thing to do," Dan continues to argue. 

"This is the only way that we can do this," Kaylee exclaims. 

As they continue to make plans on decorating the tree, I keep my own opinion and sit on the classroom couch next to Mason. I start fidgeting with hands and listen into the conversation again. 

"I think we could even get a star with all the money we raised," says Xalia.

I don't agree