Do You Like Me?

The psychologist manages to stay calm and not react to his aggression, allowing Jamie to feel safe enough to take off his mask. He shares his feelings about his disconnect with his father, the toxic influence of social media, and his negative view of himself. My heart was in my stomach, thinking that perhaps my own child has these thoughts, and I am none the wiser. The kicker was when he asked her, “Do you like me?” WOW.
He had been vulnerable, aggressive, shared his inner feelings, and all he really needed to know was if she approved of him as a person. An imperfect child. Exactly that—a child who is learning. As most of us do with our own children, I often forget this.