My phone rang. It was a text from an unfamiliar number, showing a photo of a smiling man in his 30s. "What a strange picture to receive!" I thought to myself.
For the past three years, I have been getting texts meant for this man, Jared. When the second text came, I was a playful sixth grader.
"My Mom just told me that the Football Club will host a free barbeque dinner on Saturday! Hope you all will enjoy it, " it said.
"YUMMMY!" I carefully responded.
The story of Jared became deeper. I learned that he was part of the" Bowery Mission, " which sounded like a gaming group. Looking it up, I realized it was an organization that helped poor families. This was around the same time I stopped volunteering in my community. I spent more time taking art classes and trying different sports. I then joined the group texts. When a message came about donating food, I texted back, "Count me in!"
However, I started to feel bad about this lie. A man sent a long message, talking about the hopeless moments in his life. As I imagined what a good friend Jared could be, I felt ashamed that I was unable to provide the support this man needed and realized that I was not even a good listener to my own friends.
Throughout this time, I noticed how much Jared's life has changed and I have also been discovering who I am. Learning from Jared, I have grown out of the naughty self, made more efforts tor my community, and become a more understanding friend. Last month, I received another text. Yet, I replied:" Hey, sorry, this is-not Jared, but I hope he is doing well. "
