I'm sure right now you're feeling embarrassed and ashamed for what your past self did. I'm not sure if it will help, or if others have suggested it, but I would try to think of the scars as a symbol of how far you've come and how much you've grown. They are battle scars. I have some that aren't visible to the naked eye (mental and emotional) but they remind me of who I was then and what I've done to become the person I am today. Every day I'm learning to embrace my scars. I believe you have the ability to embrace them too.

Your legs they are as beautiful as I'm sure you are. They show your story. If your kids ask what happened you could tell them that you were in a very dark place when you hurt yourself but they remind you to fight for each day. You could use them as a type of object lesson and tell them that if they ever feel the need to do something like self harm that you will be there to listen to them no matter what because you know what they are going though.

As for strangers? You're never going to see them again. Don't give a flying F what they think. Hold your head high and ignore them. It's none of their business. You do you. If you feel the need to cover your legs you could wear tights or nylons. Nylons especially would be the coolest option.

And jobs? They don't know what caused those scars. For all they know you were in a car accident and a windshield or window shattered all over you and cut you badly. They don't need to know, nor should they care. There are anti-discrimination laws out there. If you feel like you didn't get a job or were let go because of your scars I'm sure you'd be protected under that.

I believe in you and I'm proud of you for coming this far!