One group supported the idea that poor people have dignity and human rights.
Another group thought I was overly sensitive and petty.
The last group said they were just curious onlookers.
I read the post in the counselor's office.
The counselor handed me a form to apply for financial aid for underprivileged students.
I was dumbfounded and declined.
...
The counselor, probably trying not to hurt my pride, said gently, "Thea, financial aid is meant to help you fulfill your academic dreams. There's no intention to discriminate against you."
...
I rubbed my forehead, feeling a headache coming on, and repeatedly said I didn't need it.
The counselor looked at me firmly.
I reluctantly showed her the smallest income section of my financial records.
It was from a book I wrote a long time ago, and I received the payment for it just last week.
It was about 20,000 dollars.
Counselor was stunned.
She remained silent for a while.
I could almost read her thoughts: it turns out I was the fool.
...
Back in the dorm, Leila was smugly flaunting Emilia's invitation letter to the freshman welcome party in front of me.
"Why are you so smug? It isn't even addressed to you," I said.