Getting a new piece of clothing and proudly showing it off can be an exciting and fulfilling experience. It’s a universal joy that transcends age. Even gray-haired professionals will sport a new tie around the office, subtly fishing for compliments. The thrill of sharing something new and receiving positive feedback is undeniably uplifting.
However, not all experiences of sharing new wardrobe additions are met with kindness. In one instance, a college student’s excitement over her unique shoes turned into an upsetting moment of harsh criticism and ridicule. Christine Tesalona, a nursing student at Molloy University in New York, shared her story on TikTok, revealing the emotional impact of bullying she endured as a result of her fashion choice.
Tesalona’s experience sheds light on the unfortunate reality that bullying doesn’t necessarily end in high school. Despite being in college, a place often thought of as more mature and inclusive, she faced hurtful comments from peers. Her story serves as a powerful reminder that cruelty can surface in any environment and at any age.
In her now-viral TikTok video, Tesalona shared her excitement about wearing a new pair of light-up roller skate shoes. She explained that these shoes, which can transform into roller skates and illuminate when in motion, were a rare treat for her. “I never buy anything nice for myself,” she admitted, visibly emotional. She was thrilled to wear them to class, hoping they would bring joy to her day and perhaps spark a few smiles from others.
But instead of receiving compliments, Tesalona encountered a group of girls in her class who mocked her shoes, crushing her excitement. Fighting back tears, she recounted the experience in her video, saying, “When I got to school today, I was really excited because I just got these new shoes that turn into roller skates, and they light up. It doesn’t feel very good when people laugh at you.” Her voice cracked with emotion as she shared her disappointment.
Despite the hurtful comments, Tesalona’s vulnerability struck a chord with viewers. Support poured in from all corners of the internet. One commenter wrote, “Show us the shoes, babe. They sound really cool. If they make you happy, that’s all that matters.” Another person added, “Darling, I would love to have friends that dress as cool as you. Your sense of style is amazing!”
@notsocasualchristineAm i too old to dress like this?
Tesalona also used her video caption to question societal norms around age and clothing. “Am I too old to dress like this?” she asked. Her question prompted a wave of responses from individuals who shared their own stories about embracing unique fashion choices, regardless of age.
One user proudly stated, “I’m turning 43 this Friday, and my birthday outfit includes a unicorn headband.” Another commented, “I would rather make my inner child happy than worry about what others think.” These responses highlighted the importance of self-expression and staying true to oneself, regardless of societal expectations or age.
Many viewers labeled the girls who mocked Tesalona as “jealous” or “insecure.” Their behavior was seen as a reflection of their own issues rather than any fault in Tesalona’s choice of shoes. In the comments section, Tesalona expressed her gratitude for the overwhelming support and validation. “I know it was a small thing to cry over,” she wrote, “but I felt like I was in fifth grade all over again and just needed to vent. Thank you, everybody, for all your kind words – I’ll be replying to every single one instead of studying for finals lol.”
While Tesalona’s story had a silver lining, it also underscores a broader issue: bullying doesn’t disappear with age. A recent survey revealed that over 63% of college students have witnessed bullying, and more than 27% have experienced it themselves. The idea that adults or young adults are immune to bullying is a myth. Hurtful behavior can persist in workplaces, universities, and social settings.
Tesalona’s experience also serves as a reminder of the power of kindness. A small gesture, such as complimenting someone’s shoes or standing up for them when others are unkind, can make a world of difference. Simple acts of encouragement and empathy can help someone regain their confidence and feel valued.
Her story is a poignant example of resilience and the impact of community support. While Tesalona’s light-up roller skate shoes initially drew ridicule, they also became a symbol of self-expression and individuality, inspiring others to embrace their uniqueness without fear of judgment. The online community’s response demonstrated the power of positivity in countering negativity.
In reflecting on this incident, it’s clear that Tesalona’s shoes were more than just an accessory; they represented joy, creativity, and a break from the mundane. The outpouring of love and support she received reaffirmed the value of being unapologetically yourself. As one commenter beautifully put it, “If your shoes light up your life, they’re perfect.”
Ultimately, Tesalona’s story reminds us of the importance of fostering an environment where people feel safe to express themselves. By choosing kindness and embracing diversity in all its forms, we can create spaces where individuality is celebrated, not ridiculed. Whether it’s a pair of light-up shoes or any other form of self-expression, everyone deserves to feel proud and confident in their choices.
