Overcoming Criticism & Bullying From Others

Photo Credit: http://weareadifferentwoman.blogspot.com

This has to be one of my all-time favorite verses out of the Bible. Growing up (and still now), I would face a lot of criticism over my every little aspect about me (from my appearance to my life choices). People and society somehow think it is okay to tear people down when, in actuality, everything about a person is beautiful (flaws and all). I never understood this. I never understood how making someone else lose confidence makes another person smile. I probably will never understand that, but I swear I've heard every bad thing that could possibly be said about me...

-"Wow, you have a big head."

-"You look like you have an eating disorder. Are you malnourished?"

-"Wow, you've gained weight. Why are you so fat?"

-"Why do you wear makeup? Why can't you be comfortable without it?" (I actually am comfortable.)

-"Why didn't you wear makeup today? Why does your face look so weird? You should really go find some makeup."

-"You're only gonna get so far in life because you're pretty. Your brains will never get you anywhere." (That one is the one that hurts me the most...)

-"Why do you wanna go to pharmacy school? You're never gonna make it through that degree."

For years, I let people tear me down. I let people criticize me. I accepted it because I thought I deserved it.To this day, I literally get so surprised when someone actually gives me a compliment that doesn't feel backhanded. However, the point is now I'm standing up and accepting my worth. I'm not going to listen to every word people say if their main objective is to hurt me or steal my joy. I'm building back my confidence day by day. I'm not sharing this with you for you to feel bad for me or to feel sorry for me. I'm sharing this with you because I honestly felt someone somewhere needed to hear this story and know that you are NOT what someone else thinks you are. You are what GOD thinks you are. Stand up against the negativity and be the person that God wants you to be. If you get scared, keep the following verse in mind.

"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go." -Joshua 1:9 NIV

I want to leave this blog post with a challenge for you. I want you to compliment at least 5 people today. I want you to give someone a real, genuine compliment (not a backhanded one). Spread positivity among those who surround you. If you hear someone gaining up on one person or talking about someone behind his/her back, stop it. You can only make a difference in the world by standing up and being an example of doing the right thing.

Be the beautiful person I know that you are.

Adriauna Danielle