"All we do is think about the feelings that we hide / All we do is sit in silence waiting for a sign."

-Halsey

Hey you. I think it might have been a while since a writer has ever tried to reach out to you. Nowadays it seems like the only thing the internet cares about is how much Drake loves Rihanna and how much we all hate Taylor Swift. Sometimes, you may find an article about how to plan the perfect one night stand, how creepy clowns are popping up all over America, and maybe a piece about getting ready for freshman year in college. Honestly, if I'm sick of reading the same thing over and over again, I'm sure you are too. Here's the thing, I think it's time to cut the crap. There is so much more to this world than hating on those around us, the hundred layer challenge, or worrying about how to cut your contour is. If you are feeling like the ugly duckling in this world of ducks, remember that one day you'll be the swan.

Dear Weirdo,

This world is going to hate you. It's gonna try to drag you down to its level, and when it figures out it can't, you will become an outcast. You are going to lose your place in the elite social status of your school or work. You will be picked on, mocked and made into the butt of jokes. Your life will never be in step with the rest. Even if you aren't walking in the opposite direction of the crowd, a falter in your stride will get you kicked out of the group. Everything that you stand for will become a pillar of oddity.

However, despite everything, I hope you know that you are brave and unique. The commonly known phrase, "a diamond in the rough," is about you. I am not going to label you as beautiful, transgender, depressed or weird. I am not going to sit and laugh at you for being the loud theater kid or the one virgin in your school. I won't judge you if your idea of a fun time on Friday night is to stay in and read a book. The color of your skin is something you should be proud of, and if you ever want to decorate it with tattoos or piercings, I can't wait to see the work of art you become.

Dear Weirdo,

I hope you know that you are wanted and needed in this world. With so many of us becoming lifeless barbie dolls or slaves to society, we need you to put down the brakes on this runaway train. All of you wallflowers are what make this world worth living in. You don't need to be afraid of what the others are going to say about you. Honestly, I'm pretty sure they're either jealous or blind.

I know that things are difficult right now. If you haven't been able to find that group of friends that accept you for who you are, I hope you are brave enough to create that group. I know that it is going to be hard. I know that your life is going to be one that is going to be filled with misunderstandings, hardship, and grief; however, you need to know that it will also be full of light, love, and happiness. Remember to find beauty in at least one thing every day. Remember that your identity is not made on the assumptions on those around you. Keep on being you and forget about the haters. Keep on moving forward, and soon you'll heal from your troubled past.

Always,

A Weirdo.