I was way uncool. My hair was cut in an unflattering, frizzy bob, I was a little chubbier than the other girls, I wore thrift store clothes that didn’t fit me, and I said socially awkward things. I was alternately teased and ignored by the other kids, and that time is still painful for me to think about years later.

I don’t think I made it quite so obvious how desperate I was for love and acceptance. I always tried to give the impression that I didn’t give a damn what they thought. But I did, and I wanted so, so badly to be included and wanted.

And those things stick to you… even now, the love and attention I am so lucky to have in my life is something that’s hard for me to accept. Recently, at a camp for my church’s youth, my priest had to take me aside and tell me to LET myself be part of the group, without holding back with the worry that I’m intruding and unwanted.

But I did grow up, and I did grow into a (basically ) normal, happy person, with a lot of love, and better friends than anyone, especially me, deserves. I hope the same thing happens for A. I read this post earlier today, and it stuck with me, so I included A in my rosary.

Please continue to be there for him until he grows into his own skin. He appreciates it, and he needs you.