Finding the Courage to Be Yourself

I may only be 8 years old, but I have learned a great deal. I’ve learned that bullying is for losers and losers are just not cool!

Writing two books has shown me that I may be young but, I can achieve whatever it is that I put my mind to. If I strive hard and really focus on what it is that I want, I can do it all. I want other kids my age to know that they can do the same things I’ve done if they put their minds to it.

If I had just 500 words to share with others, I would tell them that beauty comes in all shapes, sizes, colors and differences. Just because someone may look different than what you may consider ‘normal’ doesn’t mean that something is wrong with them. God makes us all unique and we are all born with a gift to share with the world.

I’ve learned that what makes one special is not something another human can define. I think it is very important for parents to teach their children at an early age how to accept people and to not judge others because of their own perceptions of how a person should look.

I’ve also learned that you can inspire people with your story if you have the courage to share it. It helps people and encourages them when they hear how you’ve overcome something. So, don’t be afraid to speak up.

When I decided to write my first book, I was six years old. I was shy, afraid and very timid to tell my story. But, as I started to get emails and letters from people from all over the world of them telling me how I inspired them to stand up for themselves or to stop bullying, I gained the confidence I needed to continue on. It was exciting to learn that I’d helped people in that way. Now my book is in libraries and schools across the country. It is even in the lesson plan at schools in Korea. I never thought my story would be able to affect and help so many people.

Now I know that what people considered different in me was my gift. I used that gift along with my voice to stand up for others that may have been facing the same issues with bullying as I did and now I see that is has helped many. I hope to inspire many more and to help others use their voice as well!