Today I write on a mission with a pen that can't keep up. Thoughts firing away like cannons, demanding each black inked letter they deserve. These are the ones I've been able to get down so far...

Like anyone with a fast beating heart and a story brewing, I have been torn down for trying to tell mine. We each have a voice, a platform, and a passion, and with expression comes both valiant support and raging disagreement. As human beings we are unique and purposeful, and when we diverge, the clash may engulf the entire point and cloud the passion that started it off. What I'm trying to say is that disagreement and debate are not only common, but they are okay.

As each differing opinion gets released into the world, and opposing sides prepare for mobile warfare, I must remind myself that bravery and activism don't always pair well with likeability and overall popularity; but to those telling the stories, being charming is rarely the first priority. As we grow and opinions of the world form to our individual molds, the disagreement will come naturally, but the mutually respect sometimes gets lost in translation. Demeaning one another and tearing down someone's character is never the correct answer to differing views, so don't be so quick to degrade something just because it scares you. It is easy to villainize your opponent, because it is simpler to hate something just for being different than it is to understand it. This part is key, because that's the moment where, if you let it, hatred washes over the shore and destroys the harmonious world we have built. That is the moment where compassion and goodwill have truly lost.

If you, like me, have been devoured and mislabeled by spiteful words, have no fear. Those who are quickest to judge are always the ones with the most to learn; ones who ironically, know nothing about you. Don't be afraid to be yourself, and don't let harsh words discourage you from telling the story you were made to tell. Let your words lead the way. And when those words get big enough to start a roar, well, that just means it's working. If your opposing side is angry and hateful, you're on the right track, so don't stop now. Don't let them win. Let your voice be loud and smooth and crisp, and when they throw bitter disrespect at you, clear your throat and keep going. For there is only friction when there is fear, fear that maybe your voice is too powerful for them to quiet down, fear that others may start listening, too.

To some, I am their liberal target practice, and to those I have nothing to prove. I have no rebuttal or objection, for it is your opinion, even when it is false. But I do have a lot more to say. So if you want more, keep on reading, because the end of this sentence is not the end for me. I will not be bullied and afraid. I will not be enclosed and encapsulated. I will not be apologetic or unoriginal. I will not be silenced. Not today, or any day.

I will rise up, above animosity and intimidation, and I will be my true and authentic self. I hope most others have grown mature enough to respect that. For those who haven't, troll on, my tired pen awaits.