Everyone loves to have a time in their lives when they can do whatever they wish just the way they want it, but sometimes things don't go as planned. It's either you are stopped from having that time of your life which you so much desire or some circumstances come between you and such a wonderful time which becomes unachievable. In my case, I was stopped, though it seemed like it was a punishment to me. Having typical African parents can be a bone of contention at times; mine are very strict and emphasize that very much.
Growing up as a female child, my parents didn't give room for waywardness or nonchalant attitudes. They are a bit religious so they believe their child or children shouldn't be seen in inappropriate places that could tarnish their image. My mother will always support my father, even in cases when I feel she should have supported me, being the woman that she is. The upbringing I was given while growing up didn't give room for attending unnecessary parties even though I wished to attend some while growing up before I eventually lost interest in going out.
A few years back, my secondary school alumni organized an end-of-the-year party on the second day of Christmas. I was so interested in attending because I wanted to see some of my classmates again, but then I was left with a way to convince my parents to permit me to go. Then the fear of what they will say is always my priority. I hate receiving a negative answer from anyone, including my parents. Sometimes, this always makes me never ask them for something because I don't want to get a no as an answer, but because I desperately want to attend the party, I had to gather the courage I needed to approach them and request their permission.
I see the party as an opportunity for me to have the time of my life that I've always wished and desired. Attending the party will give me a few hours of freedom and this was something I've always wanted because I wasn't given such privilege to go out at will while growing up. In the end, I just have to try anyway. I approached my parents and told them my intention to attend the party. My mother was a bit lenient and she partially agreed until the story changed.
"That's nice; I once attended such a party organized by my mates in school then; it's always fun," my mom said with a smile.
Deep down in me, I was already happy because it seemed there was luck on my side. My dad, who was silent as I was explaining myself, suddenly cleared his throat. I knew the bombshell was about to be dropped, although I had made up my mind in case I wasn't allowed to attend, but I remained positive.
"Who are those that organized the party? And where is the location? And what time is it?", my dad asked.
Then my heart began to race; it nearly jumped out of my chest, but I had to summon the courage. I told them where the location was and the time; likewise, the organizers and my dad's facial expression already gave me his reply even before he said anything.
"Firstly, the location is too far from here and with the time they chose, I'm not so cool with it. How can you start by 5pm then what time will you close? How will you get home? Things organized by people you've not seen for years can't be so trusted. Your friend, as of then, is sure not your friend anymore. For these reasons, I am not convinced enough to let you go to such a party", my dad concluded.
Instead of pleading and trying harder, I just replied with "Thank you, sir" and left their sight. I was so hurt that day but there was nothing I could do. I overheard my mom saying my dad was right, time had changed from when they were in school. What would have been my best time, but I had to move on and let go?
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