The World Judges, But You Don’t Have To Listen
We live in a world where opinions are loud, and kindness is often silent. Everyone has a perspective, but that doesn’t give them the right to impose it on others, on what we like, what we do, and what we want to accomplish in life. Society can be cruel, especially online, where people leave hurtful comments on social media instead of simply scrolling past what they don’t like. It’s disheartening to see individuals who are exceptional and want to make the world better face unnecessary hate.
The Right to Happiness
If what we love doesn’t harm anyone and brings us joy, why should we let others dictate it? The world is already filled with unhappiness, and we deserve every bit of happiness we can find.
Karim, 17 (Lebanese): “People act like being happy is a crime if it doesn’t fit their standards.”
Chloé, 19 (French): “Why do strangers care so much about how I live my life?”
There’s No Right or Wrong in Being Yourself
Following trends isn’t wrong, and neither is standing out. Yet, people get bullied for defying gender stereotypes, listening to K-pop, or simply being authentic. There’s nothing wrong with coloring outside the lines or staying within them. The real issue is condemning others for being who they want to be.
Jad, 16: “I got mocked for liking ballet, but why does it matter to them?”
Camille, 18: “If I want to dress differently, why does it bother someone else?”
The Hypocrisy of Judgment
It’s unfair to live life your way while dictating how others should live theirs. People demand freedom for themselves but deny it to others.
Théa, 20: “They say ‘be yourself’ but then laugh when you actually do.”
Layla, 17: “Why do people feel entitled to control others’ choices?”
The Flower That Stands Out
When I was younger, I asked my mom, “Why am I different?” She responded, “If there’s a garden full of flowers and one stands out, which would you choose?” I said the one that stands out. Now I realize some prefer the identical ones, and that’s okay, but no one should shame others for their choice.
Nour, 19: “I used to hate being different, but now I see it as my strength.”
Maria: “Not everyone will like you, and that’s fine—you don’t exist to please them.”
Teaching Acceptance Early
We grow and evolve, but we must teach children early to embrace what makes them unique. Parents should learn to accept their kids as they are, because forcing them to conform leads to pain, isolation, and even self-harm.
Maya, 16: “I wish my parents understood that my dreams don’t have to match theirs.”
Louis, 20: “So many kids suffer because they’re told they’re ‘too much’ or ‘not enough.’”
The Power of Speaking Up
Teens need to learn how to stand up for themselves. Society won’t always protect them, so they must find their voice.
Yara, 17: “I stopped apologizing for things that aren’t my fault.”
Enzo, 19: “Silence never changed anything—speak up, even if your voice shakes.”
Dare to Be Different: The World Needs Your Light
The world may try to dim your light, but never let it convince you that you don’t deserve to shine. Be unapologetically yourself, because conformity doesn’t equal happiness. Live your truth, embrace your uniqueness, and remember: the world revolves around you just as much as it does around anyone else.
Final Thought:
As Oscar Wilde once said, “Be yourself; everyone else is already taken.”
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