Suppression and oppression, sealed and still. For so long, I hid myself. Deep within, I knew it was wrong, wrong to hide just to be liked. Whenever I tried to be myself, there was always a conflict between who I am and who others wanted me to be.

Now I see more clearly, and I tell my younger self: do not be afraid of what they say or how they feel about you. Why did you deprive yourself of the freedom to be yourself? Why did you listen to their voices more than your own? Why did you believe them? Why did you care so much about what they thought?

To be myself is to care less about anything that makes me feel less than who I am. It is to be free, to be happy, to strive, to express, and to live authentically. The world may not always accept me, but why should I seek its approval? Why should I hide my sunshine and dim my light?

To be myself, with no need for approval, standing tall and fearless, listening to the quiet voice within my heart, choosing to truly live rather than merely let time pass by. It is never too late to be myself, as long as I am still here.

How much have I covered for so long? My dreams, imaginations, possibilities, aspirations, abilities, and strength. How long will I allow them to be silenced? How long until I have lost them all? But no. I will be myself.

There is no one else like me, and I will remain my authentic and original self, against all odds.