An original speech, written by our student Gurbani Sabhlok.

Gurbani is 14 years old, a young orator from Hyderabad. We are proud to have her as a student of the Teen Talk Program, an Online Public Speaking through Applied Storytelling & Theatre Program  for Teenagers under the mentorship of Trainer Khusshbo Chokhaani. We congratulate Gurbani for this exemplary true self-expression.

Human Judgments !!!

Every time, you walk out that door, you straighten down your clothes, so the cellulite doesn’t show. Why don’t we let the cellulite show? Because that marks the beginning of the journey of the judgment of self sometimes because of others as well, in fact, most of the time we judge ourselves negatively because of the unhealthy narratives around us. What is judgment? It’s nothing but a cycle of changing yourself for society. We can witness a day without the sun, but never a day without judgment. Judgment is of two types: positive and negative. Both have their own roles, but the negative overpowers the positive so much, it’s frightening. Some statements have such a deep impact that they last a lifetime. Teenagers are negatively affected by judgments the most.

It’s become human nature to criticize everything we see. All we do is, look for flaws. In a population of 8 billion, everyone wants to be on top by pulling others down in any form from academics to jobs, from health to wealth. Teenagers are judged everywhere and at every time. I remember my teacher once told me that her classmates in college often pulled her down because she wasn’t carrying a fancy smartphone, but rather a simple mobile phone for calling purposes only. She heard statements like “ I know you can’t afford expensive smartphones the way we can” This statement shattered my teacher’s self-confidence on her  ability to spend money. Till now she doesn’t buy expensive smart phones. The statement made during her college years has somewhere created a feeling of lack in her even after so many years.

Teenagers are judged intensively on their academic life. From marks secured to choices of academic subjects in high school everywhere judgements are waiting for you. For example-Everytime someone asks me the subjects I have picked, all I get to hear is “ssss! Are you sure you can do that? That’s very tough.” Like heck yes I can do that. And this creates an impression in me that you think I won’t be able to do it and I might have to drop some subjects. Please give us a break from your beliefs and stop pasting it on us. Let us breathe.

We live in the 21^st century. We say we have advanced. But have we? Parents still force their kids to marriage. Otherwise, “society” will judge. If you’re single, they’ll make fun. If you’re dating, they’ll ask about marriage. And if you’re married, “when will we hear the good news?” All these judgments give in so much pressure that people just can’t take it. They unwillingly get married just so “society” can be happy. But judgment never knows when to stop.

Close your eyes and let’s imagine. You are on vacation, relaxing, eating, and sleeping. You may have gained a kg or two. Now let’s open our eyes. We’re back home. OHNO! Here comes judgment without even knocking. Should’ve locked the door because all I hear now is “Ooo, someone’s gained some weight.” To be honest, it’s saddening that such small changes receive such drastic statements. And these statements can cause someone their life.

What joy does it give to anyone when they make a judgmental statement or comment on anyone? I wonder if it helps to earn money, success, or fame. We all know the answer. I’m not asking you to stop judging because that is impossible. A worldly human mind is bound to judge at all times. All I’m asking is to make your judgment positive and progressive. For Example- the next time you see someone not carrying a smartphone… appreciate the simplicity. We can all have smartphones but it’s extremely difficult to live a simple life with a simple phone in this highly digitalized world. If you feel desperate to tell an unmarried boy to get married, try to appreciate him for being extremely successful in life. Oh! And try to not underwhelm a child based on their academics. It’s painful. And to all those on vacation out there: go grab that bowl of Ice cream that’s calling out to you. You deserved it! But do create a space where anyone can walk into your home freely and enjoy their freedom without being judged.

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