There are definitely times when the Internet isn’t great. People post vague statuses on Facebook targeting others. Commenters say horrible things on YouTube videos. Bullying has become more widespread and easier. Internet addiction can suck people’s time away.

In many ways, though, the Internet has improved our world. There might be a lot of false, unreliable information online. But there is also a lot of truth.

There are a lot of subjects that may not be expressed as fully or as objectively as they should be when talking to others in person. Or maybe sometimes it just takes an objective source for someone to see the truth.

I have learned so many things from going on Tumblr and YouTube. These sites have a huge community of empowering individuals. The people on them give news, facts, and encouragement that make a much bigger impact than they might realize.

Education and news, both in America and worldwide, often do not do as much as they should in teaching people about sexuality. The spectrum of sexuality is extensive. It can be hard to understand and to know every aspect of it. But comprehending this spectrum as well as you can is important. People are complex creatures. They are not so one-sided or definable. If everyone person took just a little time to understand the vast array of sexualities, acceptance and understanding would be far more widespread. The informative posts of Tumblr users and YouTubers educate on this spectrum. They discuss equality and fairness. They are continuously working to make our world more accepting.

I have also learned ways in which to improve myself from going on the Internet. This has come especially from YouTube. YouTubers often understand the influence they have on their viewers better than many other celebrities. They work to share their morals and to be strong role models.

It may seem bad that so many young people watch YouTube so frequently. Watching some of these YouTubers who aren’t great role models does pose an issue. But frequently watching those who are good role models reinforces good values in viewers.

I watch many strong, independent women on YouTube. I have become stronger and more independent in watching them. They openly discuss their issues in an attempt to show others that their issues are OK and are valid, and they educate viewers on their issues. However, these women also do not let others push them around. They speak their minds and stand up for themselves.

One of the most important things I have learned from the Internet is to be myself. Certain people or events may sway you. They may make you begin to change or they change your life, often in ways you may not want. Staying grounded and being able to realize when things are not how you want them to be is important. Seeing people on the Internet be themselves so fully and tell others to do the same is so helpful.

And that’s why I’m really grateful for the Internet.