From a Redhead

by H.H.
(Texas, USA)

I used to hate having red hair, and glasses, and freckles. Kids always find something to tease other kids about, and red hair stands out from the crowd. As teenagers, kids can be really cruel. They will pick on anyone who doesn't "fit in". Having red hair was something that made me different. I was shy so I didn't hang out with the "cool kids" and so I was often picked on and given a hard time about being different. In hindsight, I realize that I wasn't the only one in Jr. High to get picked on for being different. Teenagers often react to different things by making fun of them. I ignored as much of the mean comments as I could, and occasionally had to stand up for myself. Sometimes walking away was a good option too. If a mean person makes themself feel better by putting you down, they are usually thrown off when you stand up to them and let them know you don't really care what they think. I did have some good friends growing up, and we relied on each other for support. Now I love my red hair. I get compliments on it all the time, and I like that I'm different.