This reminded me of a childhood tale that I'm sure most of you have come across - "the ugly duckling." In short, a swan mistakenly hatched from a ducks nest becomes the source for ridicule and neglect because of his strange and different appearance. Through stories such as these, although they appear innocent at first glance, their messages are clearly communicating one thing: "to be accepted means being indifferent." If children as young as this are being subjected to such erroneous statements then it is obvious as to why being the "odd one out" is such a stigmatized nightmare.
What is being forgotten here is that difference provides the raw material for ideas, innovation and change. The world has evolved through creativity and will continue to do so. Like the "ugly duckling," it is only when we embrace our uniqueness that we find passion for life and ultimately happiness.
Now, let that be a lesson to you all - go, be creative and discover your own "ugly duckling."
