Kidsday: Power of song against bullies

I have been bullied, and I am using my voice and the power of song to make a difference. Bullying has been a more serious issue with the increased use of social media. Cyberbullying has developed into an evil all its own.

Kids experience bullying in physical, mental, emotional and cyber forms; bullies target your self-esteem and mess with your mind. I have been pushed around for years for being what my parents call an "independent thinker." I am very creative. I like to express myself through the arts, and I train for voice and dance.

Other kids don't understand, and they think I am blowing them off and choosing this stuff over my friends. As much as I love hanging out, that won't help me get a song written or recorded.

If you have been bullied, you know how it feels. The bullies have an arsenal of words that cut right through you, and after a while, it starts to sink in. Do I deserve this? Are they right? Why do they target only me? What is so wrong with me? Let me be the first to tell -- there is nothing wrong with you; the bullies are projecting their own insecurities and self- esteem issues onto you.

When they break you down and make you feel terrible about yourself, it makes them feel better. This, however, is only temporary; that is why they continue for months or years and then find a new victim.

You need to stand up for yourself, let them know they have no power and their words melt when thrown at you. When you do this, their efforts go unrewarded and they stop; you show them they have no power. You should always stand up for what you believe in, care about and set as your goals.

Being different is what makes the world go around, If you don't cower, they have no power! Maybe it's not you; maybe you see it happening to a friend, a kid in the school yard, some person you have never met before. If you see something, say something; your small intervention can make a big difference.

I understand being too afraid or feeling too alone and embarrassed to tell anyone. I turned my feelings into music. Running away, self-deprecation and suicide are never options. When you begin to love yourself, you can love and respect others.

Bullies may never love you or respect you, and you may never impress them, but you do not need their approval. You are not alone; I get it, and you don't have to accept it.

"Every day's another battle, I got another fight; every season change, I'm older, I know who I am inside. Your words feel colder, but you're aiming at a fire!" These are the lyrics to my song "Not Today."

I have been invited to perform in assemblies at schools across Long Island against bullying, kid to kid. We talk, we sing, we have some fun, and we raise awareness.