There Will Always be Mean People..and That's Okay.

Growing up I wasn't picked on too much. Sure kids tease, but I wasn't constantly tormented or harassed by others. 

Kids have a way of pointing out everything about you that they learn from society as "abnormal".

Red hair. Freckles. Weight. Crooked teeth.

Everything that you have insecurities on - that's what they use to tear you down with words.

Many of us fight with the demons inside of our heads that tell us we're not pretty enough, skinny enough, popular enough.

Some people never overcome them.

I've felt that the past few years I've grown as a person - grown away from the negativity and jealousy that was inbred and have accepted myself for who I am.

And you know what? Life is way more fun when you don't worry about everyone else's opinions of you - because their opinions are rooted down to their own demons that they battle.

Last weekend though, my self confidence was challenged.

I met a friend at a local tavern to meet her new boyfriend. He had clearly been drinking prior to meeting my friend and I there. We all chatted small talk together and I wasn't thinking too much as he walked away to get himself another drink.

When he returned he began talking to my friend and I wasn't really paying attention -

then I realized he was talking about me, to me. 

"...And you have funny eyes, a big nose, and an overbite!" He clearly stated staring at me.

I was taken aback by what he said. How could someone I just met - intoxicated or not - point out all of my physical "flaws" after just meeting me? Why would anyone do that? Most of the time I choose to bite my tongue and walk away, but this time I got defensive and responded with an equally appropriate (though not necessary) jab - commenting on his clinical obesity.

He said, " Hey you know I'm just messing with you."

and I said, "Well, I guess I am too then."

I then politely excused myself and drove home. And thought.

This world is full of negativity and cruelty. Why anyone would choose to blurt out all of the insecurities that I've worked on overcoming is beyond me.

After a day of licking my wounds I decided to let it go.

I feel bad for anyone who says and does things like that, because they must live an unhappy life.

There will always be mean people in this world but that's okay.

Words can knock me down but I will not let it ruin my happiness.

Because happy people are beautiful people. 

~Melissa