I once had a suit that fit every occasion. It didn’t matter what the event was — a wedding, funeral, concert, church service, or birthday party. That suit was always my choice.

It was the best I had.

And just as Dolly Parton sang in her song “Coat of Many Colors,” I wore that suit with pride.

People who didn’t understand my reality judged me. In fact, a woman who once wanted to support my non-profit organization — and I’m sure she may see this someday — jokingly mocked the suit. To her, it was the worst suit I had ever worn. But to me, it was the most colorful suit I owned because it covered my pain, brokenness, struggles, and hardship.

Yes, I felt judged because of that suit. Yet, I still held my shoulders high.

The truth is, no matter what you do, people who do not know your story will always judge you from their own perspective. Many people become victims of what psychologists call the “Frame of Reference” theory — people judge others based on their own experiences, beliefs, and understanding.

But hear this clearly: you are not defined by your current condition. You are defined by where you are going.

You do not owe anyone an explanation for your journey. What you owe yourself — and your Creator — is growth, purpose, and success.

In their book “The Let Them Theory,” Mel Robbins and Sawyer Robbins talked about allowing people to think whatever they want while giving yourself permission to fully be who you truly are.

And that is freedom.

So, to anyone going through difficult seasons silently, wearing smiles over pain, or trying to survive with the little they have — I am proud of you.

Never be ashamed of humble beginnings. One day, the very things people laughed at may become the testimony that inspires others.

Keep walking.
Keep believing.
Keep becoming.

Yours in Youth and Community Service,
Mr. Shun