Sometimes I wonder why my family insists on calling me Angel. I mean, it’s sweet and all, but come on, have they met my siblings? Half my time is spent pulling Ali out of trouble, convincing Aylin to stop drawing on the walls, or dodging Kerem’s peanut-related chaos. If anything, I should be called “Chaos Manager.”

But I guess the nickname started because I’m always the one running around, making sure everyone’s okay. Like when Granny fainted last summer, and I grabbed a wet cloth faster than she could say “heatstroke.” Or that time I cleaned up Ali’s scraped knees after his bike decided it was time for a nap on the pavement.

Honestly, though, I think it’s because I care too much. I can’t help it, it’s just who I am. Seeing someone in pain, even a stranger, makes me want to jump in and do something. Maybe that’s why I want to be a doctor. Not for the glory, or the title, but just to be there when someone needs help the most.

So yeah, maybe Angel fits after all. But let’s not tell my siblings. I don’t want to inflate their expectations. One day they’ll be like, “Angel, save us from doing the dishes!” and, well... even I have limits.

• Do you have a nickname in your family or among your friends? If so, why do you think they call you that?
• Do you enjoy helping others, or do you sometimes feel overwhelmed by it?
• Have you ever taken care of a family member or friend during an emergency? What did you do?
• Do you think being caring and helpful is something you’re born with, or is it something you learn over time?
• Have you ever thought about pursuing a career where you help people, like Angel wants to be a doctor?
• Do you have siblings or friends who often get into trouble? How do you usually handle their situations?
• What would you do if someone jokingly asked you to “save them from doing the dishes”? How would you respond?