Standing Up For Myself

For the first time ever, I have learned how to stand up for myself. I don't know what caused the switch, but I sure like it. I have always been a people-pleaser; I hate when people don't like me--for whatever reason. Maybe this change has to do with teaching middle schoolers. One young man said recently, "No offense, Mrs. Ainsworth, but I really don't like you." And you know what? I didn't care; my feelings weren't hurt in the least. And that's a huge step for me!

I've been placed in many situations lately where I've had to speak up and defend myself. I've taken too much stuff from too many people for too long and tried to smooth over the situation later. Why? Because I can't stand conflict or drama. But at the risk of sounding arrogant, I'm very proud of myself and this recent maturity!