This happened recently and anytime I remember it, I still feel this mix of embarrassment and annoyance. Like, I really just wanted a normal day but my body had other plans.
So it was during a youth fellowship gathering in school. It was a big one, not the regular small group different departments were present and the hall was almost filled. I hadn’t attended for a while so I was happy to show up and just enjoy the vibe. I dressed well, kept it simple, and even got there early for once.
The program started beautifully. Praise and worship went smoothly, the atmosphere was nice, and I was seated comfortably in the middle row. Everything was fine, until my stomach started misbehaving.
I don’t even know what triggered it, but the rumbling started gently. At first I ignored it, thinking it would pass. But instead, it got louder and more intense. The kind of sound your stomach makes that even people two seats away can hear, yeah, that one 😭.
I kept my head down and tried to look unbothered, but inside I was praying the ground would just open up and swallow me. People around me started turning their heads. Someone even whispered, “Who’s stomach is doing that?” I just pretended not to hear.
The discomfort got worse and I knew I had to step out. I tried to be as calm as possible, gently stood up, and made my way out. I didn’t want to draw attention, but in a quiet hall, any small movement feels loud.
I got to the restroom and that’s when I realized the universe was really out for me that day, there was no water. None. I was just standing there, sweating and frustrated. I had to text someone I trusted from the fellowship to come and help me out quietly. Thankfully, she did, and even brought sachet water. May God bless her.
I cleaned up, composed myself and went back inside. But the moment had already ruined the rest of my mood. I couldn’t concentrate again. I just kept thinking about how obvious everything probably looked. I stayed till the end of the program but once we said the final “Amen,” I picked my bag and left.
Looking back, it’s actually funny. Like, it was just a natural body thing, but in the moment, it felt like the world was against me. What made it worse was how I tried so hard to be lowkey that day and still ended up with a dramatic experience.
Anyway, lesson learnt: always eat smart before fellowship, and always check the restroom before you sit down comfortably.
Thanks for taking your time to read my post.
