Growing Up and Growing Into Badminton Anonymous

As I raised my arm to smash the birdie, I let out a whoop of excitement at finally being able to play my favorite sport with friends again. When I found out about my school’s badminton club, I signed up right away, but realized that I wouldn’t be able to go because of my mother. However, it wasn’t because she’s overprotective. It was because she’s a tiger mom, and restricted me from doing so many things I loved.

When clubs started, I watched as all my friends headed off. My closest friend, Jason Qu, had also joined the badminton club. I avoided him because I didn’t want to explain why I couldn’t go. I felt that if I told him the reason, he would think badly of me. After school, I trudged home, watching my friends playing Frisbee and badminton in the courtyard, desperately wishing I could join them. The next day, Jason asked me why I hadn't gone to club. I hesitated, then nonchalantly said, “Oh, I forgot I had to pick up my sister.”

“Well, you better come next time, you goof. You left me all alone,” he replied.

“All lonely without me, eh?” I winked. But I couldn’t help thinking about what excuse I would have to come up with next time, and the time after that.

Although my life had been like this ever since I can remember, I...