Enter the half-joke, half-serious concept of “silver springing” someone. It’s the idea that you and all the love you bring with you are unforgettable — like a ghost that will eternally haunt them.

I’ve learned that it’s okay not to have all the answers, and it’s okay to speak up even if it feels risky. Following your heart is important, even when it doesn’t make sense. You can’t control the future, so focus on the present and speak up when you feel compelled to do so.

While it is easy to blame our negative self-perceptions on society, it is important to recognize that we are a society and have the power to shape our beauty standards and self-image.