Ever since I was young, I've always been a happy-go-lucky ray of sunshine. Ask anyone who knows me and they'll tell you that I am rarely seen without a smile on my face. I pride myself on my ability to search for goodness within each obstacle I face. I strive to encourage others to find something good that happened to them during the day and use that to help shape the way they view themselves, their day, and the experiences they have.

The motive behind the movement

I was bullied as a child and spent years combating nasty remarks and cruel acts and was singled out for being different and was looked down upon because I hung out with someone who struggles with a learning disability.

In my eyes, that person is perfect just the way they are. It bothered me that I was viewed as inferior simply because I didn't have the latest style of shoes or name brand clothing. What bothered me more was that people would blatantly make fun of my friend.

So, I decided to say something. Standing up for one person is only part of fixing the problem. We, as a society, need to do more. Unfortunately, I do not think it is realistically possible to eradicate bullying from occurring in schools. As wonderful as that would be, I just don't see it as being realistic. Would I like it to stop? Absolutely. What I've found that we can do, both on an individual and larger scale is to band together and spread goodness.

As a self-proclaimed optimist, I choose to see the glass half full and do my part to help others see the unique sparkle that resides within us all.This movement is intended to do just that; I want to take my experience with bullying and turn it into something beautiful. I believe my story and your story have the power to change lives because we all have the superpower of kindness.

Our job is to utilize that gift and share it with all we encounter in life.

Why is this movement different from all other movements?

The truth of the matter is that each movement and organization which serves to eliminate bullying and encourage positivity are unique and wonderful. What makes Your Voice is Your Sparkle special is the fact that it isn't stating that the goal is to eliminate bullying.

Let me be very clear when I say that I would love to live in a world where bullying doesn't exist, but it just isn't realistic. This movement is intended to be an outlet for individuals to share their stories in a non-judgemental zone and feel that they have the support and ability, to be honest about what they have experienced.

This is a movement focused on love, acceptance, and inclusion for all. This is for the bullied, the bullies, and everyone in between. My goal for this movement is to radiate positivity and encourage others to pause a moment and think about the consequences of their actions or their statements before they have the power to influence someone else in a negative way. Each of us as individuals has the power to be kind and that is why I truly believe and want to encourage others to embrace the fact that Your Voice [truly] is Your Sparkle.