By Brittany Davis
It’s amazing how many people out there are genuinely rooting for you to fail. People who waste no time scanning you up and down, looking for any flaw they might be able to magnify, and bring to your attention. Searching for a way to find your imperfections, and then striving to make them 
known. People want to tell you that you’re not good enough, that you won’t amount to anything. They get satisfaction out of making you stand in front of a mirror, with a reflection that’s tainted by the words they say. There’s so many people out there who want to tell you that who you are isn’t worth it — well, I have news for you. You are. You do matter. And you’re more than enough.
The truth is, people are going to talk regardless of what you do. But you have to remember that they’re just words. Words are only powerful if you let them be. Remember that the opinions of others don’t define you. The labels, words, assumptions, they don’t matter. You determine the person you are, not someone else. When people put you down and try to hurt you, it’s their own energy they’re wasting. Don’t return the favor. Whether you realize it or not, by them taking their time and focusing it on you, you’re affecting their day. There’s no need to let them affect yours. You have the power to turn your imperfections into strengths. To see your flaws as beautiful; to make the life that you’re living matter. Don’t let those who don’t matter lead you to believe otherwise.
You are beautiful the way you are. All the things that they are harping on, are the things that make you different. Embrace them. They’re what make you unique. They’re what make you, well, you. Do you remember me saying that words are only powerful if you let them be? Well, here are a few that you should let sink in:
You are who you are. Never let anyone make you feel like you need to change. You matter. Their words may make you feel like you’re suffocating, but let these be the ones that you hold close. There’s nothing people hate more than their cruelty not working, than the shade they try to put over you not overpowering your glow. You can fight the darkness. It might not be within this moment. It might not happen as fast as you’d like, but you can find the sun. By standing tall and proud, you’re simultaneously taking a stand against those trying to dull your shine. Do it. Try. Have faith that things will turn around; that things will get better. Try. Do your best to keep your head up. Try and find the light. Let yourself shine on.
