We Have A Situation

"Don't let a bad situation define you."

Ellie Bishop said this in an episode of NCIS and it never hurts to think about what you could learn from your situation. Whenever someone says, "Well, I grew up with an abusive father so that's why I beat up on people." NO! I realize that our parents' "sins" can very often follow the child like a dark cloud, but it's up to us as individuals to change the narrative. I hate it when my dad yells at me (which is far between but it happens) because of that I do my ultimate best not to yell at anyone because I know what it's like being on the other side of that. So for others to say that their parents do it so it's ok for them is NOT OK!

The point Ellie and I are trying to make is that there will be bad situations but we need to overcome them and be who we are called to be. I'm not going to let anyone change me and sadly it took me awhile to realize that. I struggled with who I was because I was trying to be everyone else but me. I didn't stop trying to hide myself till halfway through high school when I noticed that no matter how hard I tried, many didn't want anything to do with me. (Even more depressing, when I finally was myself they still didn't like me). So the lesson I learned there was that if people don't like you for who you are, they aren't worth smack. Leave them and that's what I did.

I want to encourage you all reading this to let go of bad situations and focus on the positives. Be yourself. Be compassionate. Be loving. Be funny. Don't let those bullies, your parents, your "friends" or your bf/gf hold you back. I remember being the person who's self confidence came from how many people came to my birthday party. It's stupid. Growing up, I've had MANY MANY MANY bad situations between being an African American and having a disability, it's been rough. However, through many awesome people that have graced my presence helped me embrace what I'm talented at and encouraged me to keep at it no matter what. I will always be grateful for them and look forward to many more years with them.