Being "bullied" is always something I thought just occurred on an episode of the show "Recess". I didn't think that kids could actually have hatred towards one another at such a young age. However, when I entered the big and hormone filled world of middle school I learned that I was entirely wrong and bullying was very real.

Dear Bullies,

You have caused me to feel a lot of guilt about myself for years now. Guilt about carrying around the stigma of being a bullied kid. Am I just oversensitive? If I tell someone does this make me a snitch? Am I doing something wrong to make you not want to be my friend? It concerns me that things that happened in 7th grade still makes me question my social skills and interactions at age nineteen. But, through all of the guilt you have taught me a lot, so thank you.

Thank you for teaching me my self worth. From making me feel so small I learned that I am the only one who can prove I am quite the opposite.

Thank you for teaching me to always be the bigger person.

Thank you for allowing me to see that things get better.

Thank you for reminding me of all the things wrong with me. Now I can acknowledge there's much more to life than trying to be someone you're not.

Thank you for showing me what friendship doesn't look like.

Thank you for showing me that bullying someone else never makes you feel good about yourself.

Thank you for pointing out the flaws on my body, allowing me to see that no one's body is perfect.

Thank you for teaching me that the internet is no place to get even.

Thank you for rejecting me even though I wanted nothing more than to impress you. I'm very thankful we never became friends.

Thank you for making me feel alone. If I never would have felt this way I never would have reached out to those who mean most to me now.

Thank you for making it easy for me to forgive you. Harboring hatred is not something I ever wanted to do.

After knocking me down you allowed me to pick myself up. Instead of questioning what I am worth, I know what I am worth. It sounds a little funny to thank you for putting me through something I never asked for but, it made me a lot stronger. So, thank you.