In a small town called Zarazuma lived a woman called Lily who puts the view of things into painting. Most women in the village gossip with her name. To them, it is abnormal for a woman to paint. At first, Lily ignored the gossips , however, she started avoiding gatherings and places where she would be seen. She also stopped painting in public.
One evening, she went to the riverside to have a quiet time and while she was alone, a man came and sat beside her. For some minutes, they didn't talk to each other.
“I have seen your paintings” , Mr John, the carpenter said to her. I wonder why you stopped painting. Most of your paintings have been able to pass a message to me each time I look at them.
This was the first time Lily have seen someone who admired her works and so she was filled with joy.
Do you admire my work? I have been painting for years but no one has ever shown that he or she loves my art. Thank you, this show of admiration means a lot to me. I stopped painting because of the gossip. People think I am different from other women.
The man smiled. "Being you is enough. It always has been. No matter what anyone says, the world needs the unique light only you can shine.
With those words, he stood and walked away, leaving Lily alone with her thoughts. The words really touched her and she picked up her brush and, with renewed purpose, began to paint again—not for the approval of others, but because it was who she was.
From that day forward, Lily embraced her differences,and as the years passed, the whispers faded, and were replaced by admiration of her works.