Amina looked at her mother as if she wanted to say something. Her mother was busy preparing dinner in the kitchen and did not notice the worried expression on Amina’s face. Amina stood quietly near the door, holding her school bag tightly.
All day, she had been thinking about how to tell her mother the news. Earlier that morning, her teacher had announced a writing competition at school. The winner would receive a scholarship and a chance to represent the school at a national event. Amina was excited because she loved writing, but she was also afraid.
She wanted to join the competition, yet she lacked confidence. She worried that her work would not be good enough and that others might laugh at her. These thoughts made her nervous. She knew her mother always encouraged her, but she still found it difficult to speak.
Finally, her mother turned around and smiled. “Amina, is something bothering you?” she asked gently.
Amina took a deep breath and explained everything. She told her mother about the competition and her fears. Her mother listened carefully and then placed a comforting hand on her shoulder.
“My daughter,” she said, “success comes to those who try. Even if you do not win, you will learn something valuable. Never let fear stop you from following your dreams.”
Her mother’s words filled her with courage. Amina felt a weight lift from her heart. She decided that she would enter the competition and do her best.
That evening, she began writing her first draft with determination. As she worked, she realized that believing in herself was the first step toward success.
