Chapter Spotlight: She Turned My Life Around, in “Grow in the Dark” by Amy Love

The fact that Amy Love didn’t need to pursue education beyond middle school was a relief to her. Her struggles with poor grades led her father to believe that further studies were a waste of time and money. He bluntly stated, “School is not for you; don’t waste time and money!” Strangely, she wasn’t hurt by his words; in fact, she agreed with him. With this decision in mind, she planned to contribute to the family dumpling business and take on a part-time role at a local boba tea and coffee shop. To her, working and earning money held greater significance than anything else, a mindset shaped by her upbringing and the work environment she had experienced.

However, one of her father’s friends, who worked as maintenance staff at a nearby girls’ high school, suggested enrolling her in that school. His reasoning was that it would provide her with practical skills for her future. Taking his advice, her father enrolled her in home economics and commerce classes without discussing it with her first. On the first day, as they went directly to the registration office, the school director asked about her areas of interest. In her mind, Amy thought, “I just want to earn a decent income.” But true to her nature, she kept her thoughts to herself.

Her father suggested that she pursue a career in accounting, claiming it was a favorable option for a woman like her. He believed this path would connect her with management, allowing her to build relationships with individuals in higher positions within companies. This traditional view of success hinged on societal status and wealth, leaving Amy feeling trapped. Her fate was determined without her input. The accounting course she started cast a long shadow of misery over her high school years.

The first encounter with her homeroom teacher, Mrs. Zeng, was striking. Unlike any teacher she had encountered, Mrs. Zeng was sharp and candid, commanding respect and fear. Knowing she would be her homeroom teacher for the next three years added to Amy’s anxiety. Avoiding trouble was crucial; the presence of strict teachers and the fear of her father’s reaction to poor performance weighed heavily on her.

Yet, Amy struggled with an addiction to cigarettes. During breaks, she would sneak into the bathroom for a few puffs, praying not to be discovered. One fateful day, Mrs. Zeng summoned her to the office. Heart racing, Amy sensed trouble. Mrs. Zeng’s piercing gaze held her accountable for smoking on school premises. The consequences were dire: Amy would need her father to sign paperwork for her expulsion. Panic flooded her, and tears welled up as she confessed her acknowledgment of the school’s consequences.

In a moment of vulnerability, she asked Mrs. Zeng to let her sign the paperwork herself, explaining that her father, now 72, would struggle with the stress of coming to the school. The teacher took a moment to consider this. The significant age gap between Amy and her father led her to reconsider, and remarkably, Mrs. Zeng granted Amy a second chance. This act of kindness marked a pivotal shift in their relationship, transforming fear into a supportive dynamic.

Mrs. Zeng began to offer Amy opportunities that helped her see her potential. She listened and encouraged Amy’s participation in a Chinese reading competition, an opportunity typically reserved for high achievers. This chance bewildered and motivated her, instilling a sense of gratitude. Shortly after, she was selected as one of three students to serve as the master of announcer at the flag-raising ceremony, an experience that required her to command the attention of hundreds without a microphone.

Through training, Amy discovered her powerful voice, releasing years of pent-up pressure. Each new opportunity pushed her out of her comfort zone, revealing a determined and capable side of herself. No longer just the student with low grades, she began to embrace challenges with enthusiasm.

By the end of her high school journey, the transformation was evident. Mrs. Zeng’s influence illuminated the potential that lay hidden within Amy. She had become a guiding light, helping Amy navigate her path through darkness, proving that a single person’s faith can change another’s life.

Explore Amy Love’s inspiring journey in Grow in the Dark, available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Google,  iTunes & Kobo.