The Dresses in the Closet

Anika was a chirpy, talkative girl of the house, however, today at the dinner she seemed lost in her thoughts. She had her dinner quietly without much interacting with the family members. Being the youngest sibling, she was pampered and loved by everyone, yet something was disturbing her today and was clueless with whom to discuss her feelings. Post finishing her dinner, she excused herself and went back to her room.

She lied down on her bed and was sobbing quietly when she heard a knock on her door. She opened the door ans saw her mother with a warm glass of milk in hand.

She handed over the glass to Anika and said "Baby, what's wrong with you, you were quiet there today, didn't speak much. I know something is troubling you. Tell your mom, what happened?

And even before her mother could complete her sentence, Anika hugged her mother and started crying.

'Mom, why I am not like my elder siblings Priya Didi and Rahul Bhaiya? Priya Di is so smart, intelligent in studies, won so many awards, Rahul Bhaiya is so good in sports, no wonder he has won awards at the national level. But what about me, mom, what if I am not good at anything? she asked her mother.

Mom - Hmm. Self-analysis, right? You remember last week when we went shopping, you convinced me to buy two blue dresses for you. Can you be a sweetheart and take out those dresses from the closet? Anika seemed confused with her mom's request however she took out the dresses from the closet and handed over to mom.

Now, can you explain to me why you purchased two blue colour dresses?

Anika - Yes, Mom, this 1st dress is of silk material, which is more of the festive wear, whereas the 2nd dress one is cotton, that can be wear for regular use.

So, you mean, though both dresses are in blue, yet they serve different purposes. That means it's unfair to compare them since they both are unique in their way. Right? Anika nodded in agreement.

So, beta, why are you comparing yourself with your elder siblings? Yes, I know Priya and Rahul are good in their respective field, but that does not mean you are not good. You are an artist beta, at such a young age, your paintings/ sketches are extraordinary and beautiful. You amaze people with your beautiful work and here you are getting yourself trapped in the vicious circle of comparison.

It is good to get inspired by the people around you, but it's not ok to make yourself feel inferior.

Every minute you spend wishing you had someone' else life is a minute spent wasting yours. You cannot compare other's strengths with your weakness, instead, focus on your strength.

And Anika, your name itself means Grace, don't worry just focus on your passion and this would help you to discover yourself.

So, wipe your tears, and I have a surprise for you, this letter came from the Art & Exhibition gallery, they want to showcase your paintings. Congratulations, this is a big achievement.

Thank you so much Mom for saving me from getting into the vicious cycle of comparison. Anika hugged her mother again and smiled. Again, there was a knock on the door, she got up to open the door and saw her Priya and Rahul with a big cake in their hand. Her father was standing right behind them with a big smile.

Congratulations Anika. We are so proud of you, they all shouted together and hugged her.