On Friday after school, Principal Roberts met Ms. Caldwell and showed his excitement about next week awards ceremony. 

He asked her if one of her students could give a speech about kindness to the younger students during the ceremony. Ms. Caldwell knew exactly which of her students demonstrates kindness in her classroom daily.

"Good morning Jack, I have an important task for you to do this week" Ms. Caldwell said

Jack was excited to know all about it.

Ms. Caldwell continued-"You will be writing a speech about kindness and presenting in front of the younger students during the awards ceremony on Friday."

Jack excitement faded away and said-

 "I have to present my speech in front of an audience?"

"YES! Isn't it exciting!"- Ms. Caldwell said

"I'm afraid of standing in front an audience, how am I supposed to give a speech?

I cant do this.......

but I can't say NO to Ms. Caldwell."

When Jack got home, he began writing his speech about kindness. He had no trouble writing his speech. But he couldn't help thinking -

"If talking in front of an audience was as easy as writing this speech"

Jack decided to be honest and let Ms. Caldwell know how he felt about speaking in front of an audience.

The next morning, Jack nervously handed Ms. Caldwell his speech. 

"Ms. Caldwell, do I really have to speak in front of an audience? Can you do it for me?" Jack asked.

Ms. Caldwell responded-"Jack, I believe in you and thats why chose you. You will be okay. I will be next to you."

Jack went home still doubting himself and in fear of the next day- Speech Day. 

"Mom, I don't think I can speak in front of an audience."

"Jack, feeling nervous is normal. The unknown can be scary but you have to face your fears."-Mom reassured him.

"What if I pretend to be sick? I can stay home and not have to give my speech"

"Will my mom believe me?"

The next morning, Jack woke up ready to start his plan. 

He grabbed a box of tissue and rubbed his cheeks until they turned red. He laid in bed and called his mom in to his room "Mom, I don't feel good. I feel hot"

Jack's mom grabbed a thermometer and took his temperature.

"Jack, you don't have a temperature. Get ready for school, if you feel sick go to the nurse and I will pick you up."