this is powerful 

For anyone who struggles to read them (from left to right):

I am afraid to hold my boyfriend’s hand.
My friend’s parents sent her away.
I found death threats in my locker.
I submitted to electroshock therapy.
I lost half my friends after coming out.
My grandmother sends me hate mail.
My school won’t let me bring my date to prom.
I’m not here any more.
My dad tried to beat it out of me.
No one is proud of me. 

After a whole lot of soul searching, I realized that all through my life it was the act of facing and overcoming my insecurities that has always brought out the best in me. Looking back now I see that I was somehow able to tap into the best parts of myself in those moments when I needed to get through difficult situation - on or off the stage. It kind of hit me that the most meaningful thing I could do with this book (and my story in general) is to inspire people to do the same… There are nor hot lights shining in my eyes, no microphone being held up to my face, and no screaming media people, barraging me with questions. It’s just you and me.

- David Archuleta (Chords of Strength)