Finding HER ^ WOMEN'S NETWORK

When I was a little girl, I often felt the need to protect the kids who were picked on. They were usually either shy, introverts or people pleasers. They would avoid standing up for themselves at all cost because they were so afraid of confrontation, or being bullied and made fun of in front of other kids.

So I made it a point to be THAT girl... I would bully the bullies.

And if I had something to say, believe me, they would hear it.

I didn't realize at the time that I was creating the path to my ultimate future.

The older I got, the more I realized that everyone has a story, especially the bullies. I realized they were often really insecure and had deep self esteem issues. Often times, they were also dealing with things in their personal life that the outside world knew nothing about. Bullying was their way of trying to take control or regain their power.  In fact, in hein-sight, that was also a big part of why I was so outspoken and became a bully  to the bullies myself....

I was also going through my own issues at home , so taking the power away from the bullies made me feel strong, respected and definitely needed. It gave me a sense of purpose at a young age. I knew that protecting the ones who couldn't or wouldn't protect themselves had a sense of security when I was around.

I began seeing transformations. From middle school into high school, the kids who were silent and shied away from sticking up for themselves, began to find their voice. They began to show assertiveness and confidence in who they were. 

Now, I certainly won't take the credit for their ultimate change, because I do feel maturity and other life experiences also made a huge impact on them. But I will say that over the years, I've been told that my acts of  "kindness", was a very impactful time in their life and has never  been forgotten.

~ Karleen