Valerie Herrera (17): “Be Courageous And Show Who You Really Are”

Last updated on: September 2, 2015 at 5:41 am by Tom Zampino

Valerie Herrera (17): “Be Courageous And Show Who You Really Are” 2015-09-02T05:41:56-05:00 Tom Zampino

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A sweet story out of Chicago yesterday, from Cristo Rey Jesuit High School.

It’s a good reminder that courage comes in many forms.

Sometimes we just have to put our past behind and rise up to the unexpected challenge that’s right in front of us.

For 17-year old Valerie Herrera, bullied for her appearance in middle school because of skin condition called vitiligo, it meant first turning to music.

And then, when an unexpected guest appears – here, Pope Francis via satellite – and he encourages you to “be courageous” by displaying your considerable talents in front of a televised town hall meeting being broadcast, live, to hundreds of people in Chicago, Los Angeles, and McAllen, Texas,

Well, you just step up:

Herrera said she figured she would be speaking with school administrators or, maybe, she joked to a friend, “What if the mayor comes?” [But] minutes before the pope’s satellite feed, she was told she would be addressing Francis. “It caught me off guard, but I’m really happy and blessed that it happened,” Herrera said.

“We always thought he was a really good pope and that he was really humble and has just been one of the few popes that have actually made an impact on the people.”

Herrera briefly recalled her story for the Chicago Tribune:

The bad memories [from all the bullying] still linger, Herrera said, but the words the pope shared with her on air to be courageous and to walk in good company help her know that she can be great and succeed.

Sharing her story on national television has also helped, Herrera said, as she is able to remind others who are bullied that they are not alone.

“It doesn’t just apply to me but to anyone else — to show your talents, just be courageous,” Herrera said.

“Although people might think you’re different, be courageous and show who you really are.”

Good advice from this young woman.

And from Pope Francis.

It leaves me wanting to find that one courageous thing today that I, myself, can do.

You can read the entire story here – and share it.

Peace

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