Being raised to be polite, kind, and "do unto others as you would have do unto you" taught me quite a bit. It taught me how to treat others around me, people in my community, people at school, my family and friends and those I come into contact with in all situations. Growing up, my Mom and Dad were always praised due to my manners and because I was "such a nice girl".

Now, twenty-two years later, I have grown since my elementary school days. I was shy, quiet, and always went with the crowd (shocker now). As I entered middle school I became more comfortable with myself and was able to slowly but surely speak up for what was right. Once it came time to High School, I really started advocating for myself and for those around me. Having to grow up early due to things going on in my personal life made me a bit bitter to the outside world, and I started to adapt a 'no bull' kind of attitude.

Being able to differentiate between standing up for myself and being rude or hurtful, has been my weakness. I still have my parents voice in the back of my head saying, "Always be kind". As time goes on and you start to learn who has your back and who will take advantage of your kindness, you realize that sticking up for yourself is the only option left. There have been times where I've been passive aggressive, or remained silent. However, here's what is the reward for being able to make yourself taken seriously and being heard: Respect.

Once you stand up for yourself against that 'friend' whose always rude to you, or the co-worker who is lazy, you realize that you don't get walked on anymore. Once you've had enough of the family member who makes comments about your life choices, and have a counter argument back, you don't get asked about your life choices anymore. Being able to stand up for yourself is a fine line; but being taken seriously, being respected, and standing up for what is right matters most.

At the end of the day, you're a person who deserves to be treated like everyone else. You may think, "I can't hurt anyone's feelings". Guess what? You don't have to. Standing up for yourself doesn't have to mean you're rude; it means that you can tell someone how to treat you, and they can learn that you are someone who advocates for yourself.

Don't be afraid to make your thoughts, feelings, and opinions known. Don't be afraid to stand up for yourself and to always stand up for what you think is right. Now is the time to take a stand for yourself and for your own happiness.