I’m going through a phase.
I’m 15. So, being in a phase is normal.
This phase is where I consume spicy foods and sauces to get attention.
I challenge my friend to a spicy challenge.
It’s going down at youth group later tonight.
I’m at the grocery store buying dried habaneros.
A kid I know from Algebra who works in the produce section is advising me against my purchase. He tells me a story about a guy from the bakery who cried for half an hour after eating these peppers.
$2.71 later I’m all set with my peppers.
My friend is bringing the sauce.
For the challenge, we have to eat a spoonful of the sauce and one dried pepper.
Whoever acts like it hurts less wins.
—
All the youth group kids watch us, shaking their heads.
The sauce is down and I’ve chomped up the pepper before the heat registers.
My friend’s face holds no expression.
I swallow. And cough. I feel a tear form. I touch my tongue to the roof of my mouth and back down. The heat is only increasing. I’m in a lot of pain.
I crack. I’m yelling. Everybody is laughing at me.
My friend says that the pepper tasted great.
He’s unfazed.
The youth pastor hands me a some cold milk and a thick piece of wheat bread.
It only helps a little.
Maybe I should quit this phase. I’m not sure the pain is worth the attention.
—
The next day at school I have cramps. I’m in the bathroom half the day.
Yup, the pain is definitely not worth it.