*My Messages & Tips for Young Girls Struggling From Bullies*

Believe it or not, I am a victim of childhood & preteen bullying. Many people in my past tortured me for what I wore, how I looked, and it started from the 3rd grade and ended in the beginning of 8th grade. The most honest thing I can say, is that moving to Florida was the best decision my parents ever made. I went through many different phases in my life. In third grade, I decided that I didn't want to be "popular" anymore. My friends were very upset with me. I started to hang out with a girl that everyone teased. She was my best friend for three years. The things that girls can say to young people in elementary and middle school are heartbreaking. Boys downgrade certain girls because of what the "popular" ones say about them. I was called ugly, disgusting, skinny, flat chested, frizzy haired, and etc. by many people in school. I never defended myself  to avoid confrontation. I always kept to myself and never let it get to me when people who once were my friends destroyed me. It hurt when these people would hang out with me after school, but avoided me while in class to "protect" their reputation. I am unique and I always have been. My style is my own and I am not ashamed of it. It has always been this way. The things that cut through me the most and made me cry everyday at home after school was the name calling. There's only so much a kid can do before they break. I was even accused of serious accusations, which I will not name because people thought I cared about their lives. It got so bad that in 7th grade, I would spend half my time in the nurses office. I would pretend I was sick, so that I didn't have to go to class. She told me that she was tired of seeing me and that I wouldn't pass any of my classes if I spent all my time in her office. Somehow, I couldn't confide in her. I didn't tell her about the people that ridiculed my appearance and the shape of my nose. I didn't tell her about the girls that picked on me and pushed my books down the stairs for no reason. They were despicable and had no excuse! When I moved down to Florida, it was a clean slate for me. People never called me names and most importantly, they respected me as a human being. Yes, for most of you that haven't figured it out yet, I am talking about Nutley, NJ. I love my hometown because it made me who I am today. Many girls can't handle the ridicule I've faced and they take what they think is the best resort. Losing a life gives your bullies satisfaction. Show them you can live. Continue going to school and being yourself. No one has the right to take away your dignity. As an adult, I've gotten the last laugh and deep satisfaction from apologies! Believe it or not, my bullies apologized to me for being jerks! They claimed they were jealous of me. The guys also apologized and some of them even asked me out. I refused most of them. Many people think I'm perfect and don't understand. I am a victim of bullying. It destroyed my self-confidence and self-esteem, but I survived and you can too! If you ever become a victim of bullying and feel that the only way out is death, please contact 866-939-0911 or 18002378255. It's never too late to get help. You are never alone! That's what I felt for so many years, but I wasn't. Don't be weak! Choose your life. It's more valuable than you may believe

*The Process of Obtaining Italian Citizenship*

I know many of you have asked me how to get your Italian citizenship. Surprisingly, I don't have it myself. Unfortunately, my father became a citizen of the United States of America in the late 60's and was forced to renounce his Italian citizenship. This was the common casualty of becoming a U.S. citizen. Thankfully, the laws have changed and my father was able to get back what was rightfully his. I couldn't even imagine giving up my citizenship and choosing between the two. It's an extremely difficult decision that many people faced in their American settlements. My maternal grandparents had to make the same painstaking choice. The truth is, no one knew any better. They thought that becoming an American was the best thing that ever happened to them. Here we are, years later, times have changed. It's a privilege to have both citizenships. It's an honor to have any two citizenships in the world. As an Italian American, born to an immigrant father and an American mother, I want what is rightfully mine. I believe that I should have the right to gain my Italian citizenship. The only reason I can't gain it is because my father renounced his over 30 years before I was born. If this has happened to any of your ancestors and you're looking to gain citizenship, it's a three year process. According to the Italian consulate, you must live in Italy three years before requesting citizenship. The only way you're protected is if you are a minor. Attention all parents, I highly suggest that you get dual citizenship for your children. In today's economy and society, it's beneficial when applying for a new job, school, travel, and etc. I absolutely adore Italy and I feel connected to "quella terra" (that ground). I will do anything I can to gain citizenship and opportunities that people across the world thrive for. Your first step is to visit your local consulate website, see if you qualify to apply for citizenship, make an appointment, and bring all potential documents (original and translated) with an apostille. 

Best of luck my friends!!!!! I am moving mountains... I wish you the same... Never let go of something you live for! 

*How to Protect Your Wallet & Your Identity"

In light of recent events made aware to me today, I've decided to publicize warnings to protect your "wallet" and your identity. Identity theft has become an uncontrollable problem in recent years. People all over the world know someone who has had their personal information stolen. At first, people believe that it will not affect them to the fullest, but you're wrong! Once your identity has been stolen, people may access any personal accounts and wipe you out completely. If you have a large sum of money in your accounts, make sure you talk to you bank about IDENTITY THEFT PROTECTION. This will allow protection from any unwanted activities. Most banks  notify the individual once "suspicious" activity has been seen on their accounts. If a large sum of money is withdrawn without notification, your bank may freeze your account. This is only to protect the individual and their assets. It's in your best interest to beware of any suspicious individuals or activities. If you're paying for something at any location and the clerk asks to see your card, you have the right to show them your identification, but not your way of pay. Tell them in a polite manner that you would like to speak to their manager and make them aware of the situation. The person may attempt to copy your personal information. Next, look around you for any suspicious devices or people. If you notice anything out of the ordinary, hide your card. DON'T ALLOW YOURSELF TO BECOME A VICTIM. For more information, google IDENTITY THEFT PROTECTION!

*Church By The Glades*

Well, hello everyone! I usually don't post much about inspiration or spiritual guidance, but I felt like I had to share my experience with all of you. I was raised as a devout Catholic. I attended Catechism classes was baptized Catholic, made my first holy communion, and my confirmation. After that, I became dedicated to the Church. I attended a private Catholic High School in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. It was required that students complete 250 hours of Community Service by their graduation. Although, I have a terrible voice, I've always been fascinated with music and joined Choir at my school for four years. It was suggested that I become part of my local choir group at my local Catholic Church. I gained community service hours and met wonderful people. I am an alto. I didn't pursue singing because I'm not great at it, but after finishing my service, I became a CCD (Catechism) teacher for a kindergarten class at the local church. It was a lot of fun teaching and inspiring my kindergarteners. They were so adorable! I attended weekly Sunday mass, but after high school, I strayed away from church. I didn't feel connected as much as I used to based on personal events. In the past few years, my mother introduced me to a new upbeat kind of church. I attended it a few times and tears swelled in my eyes. I felt connected! It was the most amazing feeling in my heart. Many have judged it and called it a loud atmosphere. It's for a younger crowd and brings together youth with adults. They praise The Lord through  pop and rock music. It's the most inspiring thing I've ever been a part of. I'm not trying to preach The Lord on anyone and Church by the Glades doesn't either. They accept all people to listen. I suggest, if you live in south Florida, to attend Church by the glades and experience the unbelievable unity it reintroduces into the world. It made me appreciate and cope with many difficulties in my life. It continues to do so! Find your place of love and worship, wherever and whatever it may be!!! 

*Autobiography*

Lately I've been mentioning a lot of things about life. I know I've posted things in reference to my goals and future plans. There's also a section, "about me" on the main page. It summarizes my life in a paragraph, a "nutshell." Is that really all I am? Not quite so. I've decided to offer a few tips on life and if you ever plan on writing an autobiography, I think it's a great idea. It means you've prospered many things in your life through accomplishments and failures. 

*First off, are you proud of your life?

*Are you gracious about everything that comes your way?

*Do you appreciate all of the people that are supposed to mean something to you?

*Have you taken anything for granted? 

*Have you taken the necessary steps to create goals for yourself?

*Are you ambitious?

*Has your current status affected you positively and negatively?

*Do you wish you could change anything? 

*Do you show your emotions?

*What is your biggest fear?

*Have you acknowledged that every individual is perfect in their own way?

*Do you have a high or low self esteem?

*Do you love yourself? 

*Are you proud of everything you currently have?

Well, if you've answered yes to all of these questions, you're lying. We all have imperfections in our lives that have affected us in different ways. That's what makes us the people we are today. Sit down, take a pen and paper, and write a few sentences on your life. If you can manage only one paragraph, then you have to get up, get out, and make yourself proud of the person you are. You may not be a writer, but you should have a story. Make it memorable! You only have this life to live. You don't have to be a star to write an autobiography. Fill the pages with meaning and seek to change the things that make you sad. You are special. We all are. Some of us have extra baggage and extra depression. We need to make every moment worth a own and a paper. Surround yourself with wise people and fulfill your dreams!!! We only get one chance to make things happen! Go for it!!!!

*Tips For Creating Successful Web Material*

Every individual enjoys new and exciting things. When people have an idea for a new invention, they should always search to captivate the audience as much as they can. Unfortunately, you must remember that if you think your idea is good, not everyone may think the same. So, if you're stumped and have trouble deciding if the material you have chosen is good, the following are a few words of advice I have for you.

* Is you material clear, concise, and not overboard? What I mean by overboard, is that you haven't added any extra material that should be eliminated.

* Always have second eyes check over your work. You can't rely on yourself alone.

* Does the material have an appropriate audience frame?

* Is the material too vague? If so, specify as much as possible.

* Don't include unnecessary information. It becomes confusing to follow.

* Make sure that your page numbers are visible. If not, people may miss out on specifics or details.

* "Dare to be different." Don't create something that everyone will have. People will ignore it!

*"Take pride in your work. You are unique in every sense of the word."

Websites take a lot of time to create. You must dedicate your life to checking and updating the site. Every day something new occurs, so keep that in mind. Laziness is unacceptable and dedication means everything. Finally, don't give up on your ideas. It doesn't matter what anyone thinks. You may have the future of America in front of your feet! :)

*Be Free and Fear No More*

The sweat won't cease to drip off the creases of my eyebrows. My body feels paralyzed in a state of anxiety. I can't take a breath. I can't scream. I can't think. The truth is, the choices I have before me are difficult. I have to decipher if something I want to pursue is worth it or if I will suffer the consequences. Fear causes many people to hold back from things. Fear has caused me to avoid making some of the most important decisions in my life. Fear is a COWARD! It's time to go above and beyond. If you feel trapped in an unwanted place, this message is for you. Fear has caused you to avoid some of the best things in life. Remember, we only have this one life to live. We can't change our destinies, but we can ameliorate them. Do everything that helps make you smile. Be happy and let go of this foolish thing that has caused so many frowns and unwanted tears. We are all human and we all have fear. It's time to let loose and experience the world in a way you have never experienced it before! Love it! Be it! Do it! Don't think too hard, it causes wrinkles! Just kidding! I thought I would bring a smile to you. Take a step towards happiness and let go of that dark side, which controls your life. Smack fear across the face. Be ready to be you!!!!

*College Degree With No JOBS!**

Attention all college students and college graduates, this post is for you. While in school, battling with your classes and potential full time job, make sure that you find time to add more than one internship to your life. If you don't do so, you may not get a job after you graduate. Shocking??!!?! Yes! The sad part is, even an entry level position won't consider you! It never seems to amaze me that people look for "experience." If you're fortunate enough to live life freely and don't have to worry about other expenses, I admire you. Others aren't so lucky! It's unfortunate that the $24,000.00 a year towards a private school tuition couldn't offer me a guaranteed position with my degree. I'm sorry I wasn't insane and didn't dedicate my life to having anxiety. I did exactly what I thought was best. I am extremely intelligent and can handle extra baggage, but the stress it brings to my life is impossible. I had the opportunity to pursue an internship my junior year of college. It was a lot of fun, but involved double the work I already had. Unfortunately. I had to decipher between my job or the internship. Since I needed the money, I had to choose my work over my career. It broke my heart. I dedicated my life to achieve high grades and include some time for outside hobbies. Little did I know that it would cost me an entry level position. I am an exceptional writer, an awesome editor, a high achiever, but it's not enough. I have a lot of recommendations, but it's only about who you know. Even when you know someone, they are skeptical about job offers. I never wanted help with anything. I wanted to prove that I could do it on my own. I've applied for over 400 positions in South Florida relating to my major. Only one person scheduled an interview with me. Unfortunately, I was overqualified for the position. They never even had the audacity to give me a rejection letter. So, all I can do is keep trying, but I've decided to take a break. I hope to God that I can get a job as a TEFL teacher in Europe. I worked my rear end off to succeed. I put a halt on my writing, which is my biggest passion. All I can do, is hope. I hope that God opens a door for me. I hope God opens a door for everyone else that spent countless time dedicating their lives to their potential careers, but also had to juggle a job. I hope they are able to pursue their dreams and aren't discouraged about the ten internships you need to get your goal. I hope someone hires us all. I will always remain positive and continue to believe. Nothing will crush my heart! Where I am now, is a minor setback that I will overcome. God is by my side! 

*I am officially a Certified TEFL teacher! *

My journey started with confusion and ended in triumph. I can officially say that my posts will continue. My book may now continue and I will see where my life leads me!!!!