Dedication: I want to share my story because I want to share my thoughts that young girls should believe in themselves and not let their fears hold them back.
Life can be very hard and full of ups and downs when you feel like you don’t fit in anywhere or when you face challenges. Lately, I’ve been gone and still going through a lot, for example, switching schools, being left out by my friends, and always being compared to others. I could sense that people didn’t appreciate me because I was from a different community and kept feeling like they made assumptions about me. It made me sad and feel unimportant, but recently I realized it’s okay to be on my own. Instead of letting this bring me down, I decided to use what I’ve been through to help others going through similar struggles.
Since I had just moved school in middle school, I faced problems fitting in and being accepted by others, which sometimes led to anxiety. I knew that I had to throw such anxiety out of the window and express my feelings clearly to my family. I focused more on my schoolwork and improving my academics and personality. I was taught to overcome anxiety and accept myself for who I am. This helped me from feeling nervous and started to enjoy my days more. Therefore, I think this has helped me be more confident in facing new challenges.
I think one of the biggest challenges I faced was thinking that I was too weak to do any sports and that I wouldn’t have enough time to complete work. I decided to go for it and tried out for the badminton team at school. At the last moment, I almost gave up, but I pushed my way through it and made it into the team. Not going to lie, it was tough and at times I felt very anxious about it. But I went with my motto that “Confidence is the Key”, therefore, I didn’t feel like quitting and also helped others who were struggling for it. Although I don’t consider myself the best player on the team, playing badminton has taught me to find joy and participate in something that makes me happy. Middle school has taught me how to face lots of fears and obstacles that made me doubt myself. But I realized that I’m stronger than I thought and that I can overcome anything. I want to share my story because I want to share my thoughts that young girls should believe in themselves and not let their fears hold them back. In addition, they aren’t alone and they can achieve anything by working hard, determination, and self-reliance. Therefore, to all the young girls out there who are going through tough times, I want you to know that you are strong and brave. You can overcome any difficulties and believe in yourself, follow your dreams, and don’t give up. You could accomplish amazing things. Keep moving forward and do ask for help by reaching out to your family and teachers. Keep going and never stop believing in yourself.
~ Bibhuti Bhattarai, Grade 9
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Photo credit: Photo provided by the storyteller