1. Don't MOCK yourself! I have always used humor to get to know people, but never self-depricating! Never feel the need to "beat people to the punch" You may be different, but no one has the right to make you feel small. Not even you Calico!

2. Don't take the HURT! If someone hurts you, calmly make them see the error of their ways. When someone hurts MY feelings I look at them as though they are an interesting science exhibit and say, "Excuse me? Exactly what are you saying...?" When they have to think about what they have said, and actually take responsibilty for it, they tend to grow. If they don't feel bad and simply repeat the ugly words, I just shake my head and walk away. This person is not worth your time.

3. Don't EAT the hurt! Never accept what someone says when it hurts. It took me a long time to deal with that. You know who you are, and that the words are just words. Deal with the person who said them and see the words for what they are.

4. MAKE WAVES! You're allowed! You are just like them! It's very important to know, you DO have the right to be angry, or impatient, or just have a bad day. I spent so much time trying to fit in, or trying not to be noticed actually, that I forgot I have feelings and rights too! I still can't do some things, like returning items to a store if I got the wrong thing. The "Don't make waves" mentality, which I put on myself, just hasn't erroded enough yet.

5. KNOW the reality! Life is gonna be harder on some days. So build up your energy! Take a day where you don't have to be around crowds, you don't have to "deal" with it. Just stay close to people who love you and enjoy! Also, spend time getting way too introspective! Stack up all the things you know and things people have done to you. Spend quality time figuring out you are wonderful and push the evil stuff out of your head!

6. Be outgoing! I have said, don't beat them to the punch, but try to beat them to the smile! Beat them to the handshake, the hello! People WANT to know you! You are, after all, unique and that's a good thing Calico!

(Editor's Note: Other calico insights can be found at Calico Corner.)