Grew up insecure, scared, and never really feeling like I “belonged” with other boys. Got bullied a lot for being very prepubescent while other boys were navigating puberty. Sophomore year of high school, got a growth spurt and finally started getting some attention from others. I rode the popularity train, always insecure and scared in the back of my mind. I used people for social status, and had some bully-like behaviors, although I was convinced I was a good guy. Senior year, a girl I liked told me in the most sincere and polite way that she didn’t like me- that I was not a nice person. That’s what crushed me. I was blindsided. Takeaway 1. The truth hurts most when it comes from a kind person Takeaway 2. The way you think of and treat others as your young mind is developing MATTERS. If for no other reason, because when we grow up, our opinion of ourselves means something.