I am the shortest fellow in my class

I am 20 years old. I am the shortest fellow in my class. All my friends mock me. I cannot say anything to them because they are my best buddies. Even my girlfriend left me because of this. I am so depressed and down that I don’t feel like going to school. They are also calling me ‘chhottu namboodiri’. Please help me.
Akarsh

Dear Akarsh,

You feel hurt when your friends tease you about your height; you feel quite helpless that you can’t deal with their behaviour effectively.

If you want to stop this teasing without damaging your friendship, have a frank talk with your friends. Include the following: your feelings, that you value their friendship, but you also value yourself, and the action you want, etc. For example: “I feel hurt when you, my closest friends, tease me and make fun of my height. I am fine with my height, but I don’t like being teased about it. I would like you to stop this.” Be firm when requesting them to stop. If they still continue to tease you after a few times of your asking them to stop, evaluate: Are they really your friends? Or just having a laugh at your expense?

Simultaneously, develop your personality, maximize your strengths and avoid self-pity. When you value and respect yourself, others will also respect you. Take inspiration from others: Actor Danny De Vito is just 4 feet 10 inches, but he has found his talent and showcases it. Remember: gold kept in a ‘tiny’ box is far more valuable than many ‘big’ objects! It has its own shine. Find the gold within you and even though you are short, you can become a person that others will look up to!

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