The scars that never faded

Bullying didn’t always come as loud cruelty. Sometimes it came disguised as jokes, whispers, and laughter meant to make me feel small. It followed me through classrooms and corridors, teaching me to doubt myself before anyone else could. I was judged for my innocence, mocked for what I didn’t understand, and blamed for speaking up. When I asked for help, I was told to adjust. When I stayed quiet, I was told it was my fault. Slowly, I began apologizing for things that were never wrong. Those years left marks that can’t be seen but are deeply felt. Even now, certain words linger, certain memories ache. Yet those same experiences shaped my empathy and strengthened my voice. They pushed me toward writing, where I could finally speak without being interrupted or laughed at. The scars may never fully fade, but they remind me of how far I’ve come. I am not defined by the cruelty I faced. I am defined by the strength it took to survive—and the courage it takes to keep going. -Aria lune