For those of you who have read my first piece, you may know that as a high school student, I struggled with bullying and depression like Hannah Baker and many teens growing up in the world. “13 Reason’s Why” is a show that truly opened opened my eyes and showed me what an epidemic bullying has truly become. It seemingly revealed shunned and hidden concepts that many lack to acknowledge during their high school days. So, as a person who has felt the true impact on bullying, here are 13 reasons why I chose to stay.

1. The Future.

If I chose not to stay like Hannah, I would never get to think about or see how beautiful my future could be. My dreams of becoming a doctor would be gone, and so would the idea of having a family of my own. I would never get to experience my friends’ weddings or even think about what my children may look like. High school is merely a part of one’s life and should not be the ending factor, no matter how hard it may be.

2. Family.

If there is one thing in life that I can say I am always grateful for, it is my family. The thought of leaving my family because of some selfish, horribly mean high school kids sickens me. Family has always been what keeps me going and what makes me happiest. They’re people who will never judge and that will always be there. When I feel that all is dark and I’m left standing to see only my shadow, my family is always there to shine the light on me. And if I had left, I’d never get to see that light again.

3. My three best friends.

I’m not sure I’d ever be able to leave this world knowing that I’d be leaving three of the most amazing young women I have met. Each of them is so special and unique in their own ways. They have made an incredible mark in my life and I could never even imagine leaving this world and not getting to enjoy the beauties of adulthood with them.

4. Movies.

Movies capture all of the feelings and situations we go through every day. They often touch on ideas that make life seemingly more worthwhile and understandable.

5. The Sunshine.

If I were to leave, I would never get to see the light of day again. I’d never get to see the sun that would always make me smile.

6. Food.

Leaving this world would mean leaving my mother and father’s delectable cooking. I could never leave the priceless dinner conversations behind.

7. My brother.

There’s nobody in the world that I’d rather grow with. Leaving my little brother would mean he would have to go through life obstacles without an older sister he can look up to.

8. Dreams of becoming a doctor.

Since I was a little kid, I have always wanted to help people. I began college out as a neuroscience major, promising myself that I would become a physician that could help people in ways like no other. If I left, my dreams of helping people would be over.

9. Dreams of finding Mr. Right.

Every day I often wonder if situations in One Tree Hill could be true. Is it possible to find someone as loving and caring as Lucas Scott? Well if I stay, I’ll actually get to see if Mr. Right exists and if so, who he’ll turn out to be.

10. Music.

Listening to music is most likely my favorite hobby. It allows us to feel all of the emotions we acquire and lets us truly embrace all the wonders in life. If you don’t stay, you’ll miss out on all the amazing things listening to music has to offer.

11. My dog.

If you have any pets, you’ll know that whenever you are having a bad day, that animal will always be there for you. The memories and endless love they continually give would be gone if I left. Who wants to leave this beautiful life knowing your loving pet will be left behind?

12. The World.

If I left like Hannah, I would never be able to understand and travel the world. I would never have the chance to see the Mayan Ruins or the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

13. Me.

I chose to stay for me. This is my life and no matter who tries to tamper with it, and despite all the unfortunate mishaps that have and will happen, it is never an option to leave. This world is a beautiful place and leaving will only close all the doors you never even got the chance to open in life. There are so many moments left to experience and memories to later reminisce. Always remember this is YOUR LIFE and you only have one, so stay a while and make it count.

*If you or a friend is struggling with depression, bullying or even suicidal thoughts/feelings, never be afraid to reach out; there will always be someone to help and always a reason to stay.