Hi, my name is Mallika. And I just moved, again.

This time to the big city, they call it the Big Apple.

There’s loud noises, fast yellow cars, and big buildings like the New York Times describes. It’s where my mom works now.

Dad said not to worry about it but it feels like worrying is all I do. Mom said, “this time it’s different,” since we moved into our forever home.

Tomorrow is the first day of Third grade. I really can’t wait but sometimes I get really shy and nervous when meeting new people.

Easy for her to say, it is not always easy being the new girl. “Will I even make new friends?” I thought to myself.

 “Well it’s not every day you meet new teachers and start a new school...right?” Mom joked.

Dad and I woke up bright and early the next morning and we had breakfast.

"Have the best day ever, honey!" Mom wished.

As we get closer to my new school, I can hear all the kids arriving. My stomach said we should run the opposite direction.

Step 1: Meet the Principal

Step 2: Meet my aid

Step 3: Conquer 3rd grade!  

I repeated to myself.

The first bell rings.

I take a few deep breaths. "Here I go.."

By the time I walked into my first class, introductions seem to have started. 

Mr. Lee says, “Ok class, since I already introduced myself, who’s up next?”

Everyone has to share their name and a fun fact about themselves. This is something I am used to since my family and I always move around. Although I am nervous, I want to make sure I leave a good impression. Now that it is my turn, I quickly grab my cane and walk towards the front of the room....

The whispers began.

"Why are you wearing sunglasses if we are indoors?"

Before I could even start, a loud voice shouts.

"What is that stick for?"

yes

I had a feeling this day wasn't going to be planned.

Step 4: Officially feel embarrassed and humiliated.

I go and wait in the main office, for my dad to pick me up. I am trying to hold back the tears from coming down my face.

At last, the last bell rings. "Day one, done," I thought quietly to myself.

I didn't respond to his question. Instead, I stayed quiet the entire car ride home.

“Mallika, honey, are you okay?” Dad asks.

During dinner time, my mom was curious about my first day. I finally built the courage and explained to them what happened at school today and what others said about me. 

"I am different, I have to accept it," I told them.

"Why can’t I go to a school where more people are visually impaired like I am?"