NEW JERSEY — A 14-year-old New Jersey teen stood up for herself in a photo that has gone viral.
According to reports Carleigh O'Connell’s friends told her about a hurtful spray painted message. According to a post on her mother's Facebook page, Carleigh’s "rear-end" was the focus of the graffiti on a concrete block at the end of a jetty.
Instead of letting the message get to her, Carleigh stood proudly on the rock over the graffiti in her bikini and took a photo.
She showed her mom the photo, who posted it to Facebook with a message that read it part, "So for me as the mom… I type this with tears in my eyes. Not tears of sadness or anger for I will never give anyone that is mean that much power. Tears of joy knowing that my daughter can face negativity with a smile and sense of humor. This will take her far in life. No perfect report card, high test score, athletic race or award could top the pride I have today."
Carleigh said she felt empowered taking the photo and hopes her story will inspire others.
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