This year, I am me.

Last year, I wasn't me. 

Well, I wasn't the real me, the true me. 

I was the me who ate lunch in the library because I was afraid of talking to new people. 

I was the me who wouldn't speak up in class, even though I knew all the answers. 

I was the me who wouldn't make new friends because I was too scared or rejection. 

I was the me who was a background character in my own life.

I was the me who wasn't happy with myself or with my life.

But this year, I am me. 

This year, I am the me who talks to people, even strangers-- a thought unimaginable last year.

This year, I am the me who can't wait for lunch so I can see my new friends. 

This year, I am the me who is learning more by asking questions and participating in class. 

This year, I am the me who likes myself and is confident. 

This year, I am the me who has accepted who I am and what I'm worth. 

This year, I am the me who is happy. 

This year, I am me.

And to be honest, there is no one else I'd rather be.