Every single human on earth is brought into the world with some destination, but with no maps. In order to reach the place where you belong you have to go through all the obstacles life throws at you. It is OK to be afraid-- fear is good. Use the fear you have to help you grow as a whole and open up yourself more. No matter how bad it thunders and lightning, don’t let it bring you down; it cannot be stormy forever.

Over the past fifteen years, according to the New York Times, the suicide rate has increased tremendously by about 24 percent. Every person handles situations different from everyone else. Some don’t let what others say eat them alive, while others cut themselves because that pain feels better than the worthless feeling in their heart. In 2014 42,773 people died from suicide, compared to 29,199 in 1999. I don’t know what pain is worse, the actual abuse or the scars it leaves on your body and memory, forever.

Believe me when I say it will get better, I promise. No matter how hard the hits are, or how cruel the words are, you can fight through it. Do not let anyone tell you that you are not good enough, because that is showing how insecure they are. You are good enough; every single person was put on this earth for a purpose, including yourself. Put the knife or razor down and never touch it again. Put the rumors, words, abuse, and whatever else took the pain away in the past and believe in yourself. No matter how low you feel know that if you take that the knife and cut yourself to the point where you won’t make up, there is someone who will be completely lost, and become a totally different person.

One problem with the world we live in today is that social media makes harassing others easy. Another problem is it is easy to let others constantly pick on you, but when it comes to tell them to stop the nonsense it’s not as easy when the stuttering and nerves start. Speak over the nerves and don’t let the stutter get to you. Stick up for yourself, and make yourself known. Make yourself known that it’s OK to finally say no to the constant rumors and abuse, physical or verbal enough is enough. Stand up not for only yourself, but for others who are too scared to a put an end to it, but not afraid to put an end to their life. We need to show everyone what abuse does to people-- it destroys you mentally and physically.

No matter how far you go down the wrong road, there's still time for you to turn around. Embrace your scars, because they are what make you who you are at this very moment. If one person even looks at your scars the wrong way or criticizes you for them, simply indicate “ I am here, stronger than ever. If it weren’t for my scars I would not be the strong and brave person I am today.” The scars on your body are beautiful marks to show that their is a chance to turn around and live the beautiful life we were supposed to have. Their will always be bumps during the journey, but that is simply just part of life. Without overcoming the curve balls life throws at us, no one would know what being strong is.