Lila never ceased wondering and inquiring about how things worked in the world.

But sometimes she did not feel so special either.

She gazed at a picture of herself in school and thought,

"Why can't I be cool like Mia with the new shiny shoes and beautiful hair?"

So she clutched her favorite stuffed bunny tightly and wondered whether anybody noticed her at all.

Lila pulled her curly hair back hard at school and also spoke very quietly.

She hoped no one would notice her.

"I don't have anything special to say," she told herself.

While the rest of the children were laughing and playing, Lila was quiet, covering behind books.

But inside, she longed to be as brave and vibrant as the rest.

It was a bright morning when Mr. Jamie clapped his hands and exclaimed,

"Today, we are going to celebrate what makes us special!

Hold up your hand and tell the class one thing you like about yourself."

Lila's heart started racing. Her palms were sweaty.

What do I like about me?" she asked herself.

Her thoughts cleared as her gaze traveled over the smiling class.

Later that night, Lila sat cross-legged on the bed, thinking about the day.

She hugged her bunny tight and whispered,

"I like my laugh. and I feel sorry for people when they are sad."

From the corner of her eye, she saw a small glowing form appear next to her.

It looked like her—but smaller, brighter, and radiating light.

"That's your cheerleader voice!" it trilled, laughing.