"Sophistication isn't what you wear or who you know. Or pushing people down to get you where you want to go."~Taylor Swift~

Dear bullies of the world,

What makes you think you are better than the rest of us? That you're entitled to whatever it is you want, and that if someone else gets what you want, they aren't deserving, and that you are above everyone else? Because news flash: the world owes you nothing, and people owe you nothing. We all have the same opportunities to make what we want happen... It doesn't mean you should take others down to make yourself feel better.

Can you answer something for me? Good. What happened in your life that makes you cause people so much agony, pain, or even death threats? Is your life really that bad that it has come to that? Haven't you heard of all the suicides this year thanks to cyber bullying and bullying at schools? Words are a powerful thing; they can be a best friend or a worst enemy. The choice is yours.

I think we've all dealt with bullies in our lives at some point or another. How we respond to that says a lot about us. I've been "bullied" by people, and for some time I became a bully. Not in the same sense, necessarily, but I've used my words in harsh ways, because of what people had done to me. Hurt people hurt people; it's a vicious cycle. I have forgiven those people, and I've learned to move on from it. Why let them have the power now, so many years later?

I understand there are going to be people that you don't get along with or don't like, but setting out to sabotage someone because of appearance, material things, opportunities, or whatever it is that YOU don't like is not a good enough reason.

It's sad that all we hear in the media today is all the hate and bitterness in the world. You see how crazy this world has really become. So much so, that we forget about how beauty is still out there; how there are still good people in this world that love and show kindness with the smallest of gestures. It's important that we remember the good things, instead of focusing on the bad. We get enough of that. Why not encourage more and throw out positive language rather than negative?

If you're being bullied, I encourage you to talk to someone about it, so that extra measures can be taken, or you will at least feel like you're not alone. Most importantly, remember, you are loved and you are important. I don't care what the people at school or online are telling you, you are worthy of life and becoming something really great! I know it's hard right now, and this may sound cliche, but things get better. Some of the most successful people today, like Taylor Swift, were bullied. Look at where she is today! You can use your life and experiences to help others around you. If you are a bully, then my advice to you is just stop...for the sake of others, and yourself!

Don't let other people control your happiness. Know who you are and stand up for what you believe in. Remember that you have family and friends who love you and will be there for you during the hard times. Oh, and listen to "Mean" by Taylor Swift. That'll put things into perspective!

Also, another thing Taylor Swift has to say about this matter, "Never believe anyone who says you don't deserve what you want."

With love,
Shelby <3
Xoxox