A Conversation With the Ugly Duckling

" Hello dear duckling! I know it's been a while. Every time I hear your story I cannot help but beam a smile. " " Hi! How are you? Yes, my story travels on Like a bird in migration...You do realise I'm a swan? " " Ha ha ha! Of course I do! I call you 'duckling' with affection. Your story comforts many, who with it feel a deep connection. " " Wow! Really? I somehow got separated From my family years ago. My new brood called me 'The Ugly Duckling' For what I was, they did not know. So for a time I felt quite lonely Sometimes afraid, always dejected. For however hard I tried, I did not fit in and was rejected. " " But one day, you had a twist of fate! You found the place where you belong. Your radiance, your beauty praised...." " I wasn't ugly all along! " " So what message would you give To those who feel misplaced, Whose difference makes them victims Of bullying, of disgrace? " " I'd say that their normality Lies in how they feel. Their vulnerability misconceived as weak Is the very thing that makes them real! So if you face 'The Ugly Duckling' phase, Please remember, it won't last. One day you'll be valued and This will be part of your past. " " Thank you for your wisdom You precious, famous swan. You've not allowed bad beginnings to embitter you. This is a moral that lives on. Many more will benefit From the inspiration you supply. May they think of your example. May they hold their heads high. "