Has this ever happened to you? A common misconception in my life is that I’m a sweet, nice, gullible, passive chicken shit. The truth is, I’m the exact opposite. I’d never use the words “nice” or “sweet” to describe myself, though I am capable of being both depending on how I am treated.

I’ve come across a great many people in my life who didn’t like the fact that I don’t conform, and that I refuse to allow myself to be boxed into a mold. There is immense power and strength in that, and yes, these people did things to try to slander me and/or diminish me in some way. They didn’t succeed. I find it incredibly sad when the biggest bullies in the world are people who should know better, especially when they’re parents.