Dialogue - Laura Herrero

DIALOGUE

Marcello and Alberto are in a cafeteria drinking something and talking about their classmates and Marcello’s behaviour toward them.

Alberto: Recently, I’ve noticed that you act roughly with our schoolmates. I think that you should try to chill a little bit or they are going to be afraid of you if they aren’t already.

Marcello: What do you mean? I don’t do anything wrong! It’s just that sometimes they piss me off, so I get angry. Also, you know that I’ve bad temperament.

Alberto: It’s not just that. You’re always making fun of their outfits, hobbies, or even when they try to talk to the class or answer the teacher’s questions.

Marcello: Well, that’s true, but I can’t help laughing. I mean, they’re hilarious and wear ridiculous t-shirts. How am I not supposed to say something funny about it? It’s unavoidable!

Alberto: Except that it’s is not funny. Marcello, you are hurting their feelings and making them uncomfortable in class. You have no right to judge what people do and wear, because everyone has the right to be themselves without feeling threatened by people, especially by their classmate.

Marcello: Come on Alberto! Don’t exaggerate! I’m sure they don’t see it that way, otherwise, they would have told me.

Alberto: Of course they aren’t going to say anything. They don’t want you to get angrier and to risk to become your teasing target. What it’s more, some of them don’t want to tell you because they know it would hurt your feelings. Despite that, you continue teasing them without thinking which the consequences of your words and action are and how it affects them.

Marcello: Wait! You’re telling me that they think of me like if I was a…bully?

Alberto: Just think of how you would feel if it was the other way around.

Marcello: You’re right. I don’t think I would feel great if they do the same. From now on, I will improve my behaviour and treat them better, I promise. Thanks, Alberto, I really appreciate your honesty.

Alberto: Your welcome! That’s what friends are for!