In the early years of my life, I had always felt different. I believed that everyone was against me. They called me out for my differences and for not being what they had seen as “normal” in their eyes. I did not understand that going through puberty and adolescence is not the entire picture. These experiences do not define who is for you or against you. As I matured, those that once hurt me also grew up. Hurts were healed. I saw more clearly that the right people followed and were attracted to me for the right reasons.

I often brought myself down. I dwelled on thoughts that I believed were the worst things to think about myself. These thoughts were often not true. I realized the right people in my life had made the right connections with me. They saw that I have overcome so much in life. This often inspired me to do my best, even when there was pressure to do the opposite.

To do right and be a better person, I had to reach my lowest point. Seeing those who thought highly of me at a point that was not really who I was made me ashamed. I never wanted to be that person again. I faced an imperfect path to reach that point. Various experiences made me realize I needed to act to make life pleasant for myself and those around me. I often remembered those I disappointed because of my actions. I also considered those drawn to me who saw the reason to do what was right. This helped me become the mature person I had the power to be.

Seeing others perceive me as an inspiration made me feel determined to do what was right. I knew I had to lead by example, no matter what it took. I wanted to show them everything, regardless of the challenges I faced to get to where I am today. I knew I would face setbacks. Yet, I was determined to do whatever it took to be the best person. People saw me and gravitated towards me. I was amazed by their support. They were drawn to me because I had been through so much. I overcame my struggles and did what was needed, day in and day out. It was the reason I held myself to a higher standard. I saw that there was so much more to life than just surviving.

In those early days, I thought I was a total loser. I was even bullied to believe that I was nothing. I had to learn that I was my own person in my own way. The right people would be my friends for the right reasons. I didn’t need to pretend to be someone I was not. Having my own tribe of people gravitated to me and saw me for who I truly was. This gave me the inspiration to continue doing my best. I knew that there I was someone who mattered.