Little Miss Independent

A young woman's journey toward strength, and the quiet ways it breaks her

- By NIQUE SALONGA, 18

I thought being called strong was a compliment.

Growing up, my family took pride in my independence and achievements—I was the apple of their eyes. The kid that parents prayed for: smart, obedient, and strong. In every family reunion, they bragged about my grades, medals, and how I can micromanage everything without their help.

Looking back, I really was amazed at myself. I learnt how to overcome my fear of public speaking, climbed up the academic ladder, cooked, cleaned, and took care of my siblings at such a young age. With my parents working abroad, I knew that it was the only thing I could do to give back to them. Unlike others, I matured not because I needed to, but because I wanted to. I did not want to become a burden.

So, I kept it all inside me.

How I mastered silent crying.