I know my story isn't nearly as bad as most but I decided to share it. Why? Because if I can inspire at least one person to stand up for themselves or someone else by sharing this story, then the purpose in sharing is accoplished.

I used to be a very friendly, social girl. Used to be. In 5th grade some, one boy in particular, made me feel stupid. He cused at me and ruined my reputation. I became scared to answer questions and what did my "friends" do? They stood their and watched, laughed sometimes. One day my "friend" asked me why I was acting like my parents had died. The real answer was a part of me had died. But I just fake smiled and asked her what she was talking about.

True friends can tell a fake smile from a real one.

Thank you for reading!