November 15-19 is Anti-Bullying Week at the schools. Like so many others, I have been reading with dismay about the recent victims of bullying, and I ache inside for the pain these young people have experienced.
I have often thought of bullying as a problem that faces children older than mine, but a recent conversation with my first grader has given me pause. Maybe it starts right here, right now with our little ones.
At summer's end, K and I went to Target to pick out her backpack, lunchbox and water bottle for the new school year. After great deliberation, she chose a Star Wars water bottle to match her Star Wars backpack.
K loves Star Wars, and she was very excited about her new items. For the first few months of school, she proudly filled her water bottle herself and helped me pack her lunch each morning.
But a week ago, as we were packing her lunch, K said, "My Star Wars water bottle is too small. It doesn't hold enough water. Can I take a different one?" She searched through the cupboard until she found a pink water bottle and said, "I'll bring this."
I was perplexed. "K, that water bottle is no bigger than your Star Wars one. I think it is actually smaller."
"It's fine, I'll just take it," she insisted.
I kept pushing the issue, because it didn't make sense to me. Suddenly, K burst into tears.
She wailed, "The first grade boys are teasing me at lunch because I have a Star Wars water bottle. They say it's only for boys. Every day they make fun of me for drinking out of it. I want them to stop, so I'll just bring a pink water bottle."
I hugged her hard and felt my heart sink. Such a tender young age, and already she is embarrassed about the water bottle that brought her so much excitement and joy a few months ago.
Is this how it starts? Do kids find someone who does something differently and start to beat it out of her, first with words and sneers? Must my daughter conform to be accepted?
The confusing part for me is that I know these first grade boys. I can't simply see them as random mean boys bullying my baby. They are good kids individually, and K often plays happily with them.
But when you put the boys together in a pack, maybe they start to feel vulnerable and insecure, which causes them to do unkind things, such as tease my daughter for carrying a Star Wars water bottle.
Maybe they do it to get laughs out of each other. Maybe they do it because if they are busy teasing K, nobody will tease one of them. Maybe they do it because they want her attention and have limited social skills at this age.
"K, it is okay to be different. Not all girls need to drink out of pink water bottles," I told her.
"I don't want to be too different," K lamented. "I'm already different. Nobody else in my class wears glasses or a patch, and nobody else was adopted. Now I'm even more different, because of my Star Wars water bottle."
K cannot control the fact that she is different due to adoption or poor eyesight. But she can control what accessories she carries to school, and she is trying to exercise that control. She has learned that there are degrees of being different, and she wants to minimize how different she is.
Being different is a complicated topic. We say that we celebrate diversity, and we preach tolerance. But at the same time, we as adults are often fearful of those who are different. I see people tease each other for being gay or poor or overweight. I see grown-ups bullying others for holding different religious and political beliefs.
I see people publicly lauding diversity and privately attacking those who are different.
It trickles down to kids teasing each other for the types of toys they prefer. So it starts now, with a couple first graders and a water bottle. Right here, right now, we as a community need to recognize the slippery slope of bullying those who are different. We need to show our support for each other's choices, as long as they do no harm.
I talked to K about all my musings. Talking about it is the best defense. I have urged her to bring the Star Wars water bottle if that is what she really wants to do, even if it makes her different. Today, she felt brave enough to bring it. I hope that she is able to eat her lunch without feeling nervous.
I would love to be able to show K that she is not alone, that other females appreciate Star Wars. If there are any female Star Wars fans reading this, please feel free to show your support for K. I will let her read your messages or comments, and I think she will be surprised by what I suspect is a vast number of female fans.
And if you have a little boy out there who wants to carry a pink water bottle, tell him about K and reassure him that if she can carry a "boy" water bottle, he can carry a "girl" water bottle. Let's help all our kids grow into confident adults who can appreciate being different.
* * * *
Wow! K is overjoyed by the comments coming in!!! My sweet first grade daughter has been sitting with me at the computer, reading aloud all the wonderful, supportive notes from readers, and her face is shining. Each night after dinner, we are going to sit together, and she is going to read several comments to me and her daddy. We are going to print the comments out and make a book for her to read whenever she feels the need. Today she wore a Star Wars shirt to school and said to me, "Tell the people about it!!!!" This is really restoring her self confidence. She did a jaunty little pirouette in her Star Wars shirt before school.
Check out Carrie Goldman's award-winning book Bullied: What Every Parent, Teacher, and Kid Needs to Know About Ending the Cycle of Fear.
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Filed under: adoption, anti-bullying, Star Wars
Hi, Katie! I'm a woman and I like Star Wars! I remember seeing The Return of the Jedi with my family, playing with the action figures, and reading books based on the stories. It's a good story, and boys don't get to tell you what stuff you're allowed to like.
You listen to your heart. If your heart says, "I like this!" but some other kid says "that's for boys," you know they're not correct, because you're a girl and whatever you like is fine!
Thanks, Andrea. I read this to Katie! She had a big smile!
Yay!
I think Katie just went viral... :)
I know!!! And you were her first supporter here, so thank you!
I'm not a girl but I do have alot of star wars books and an R2-D2 Puzzle I would like to send to you. I've been wanting to give them away to someone but I couldn't think of any one who liked Star Wars, then I heard about you through Felicia Day, one of my favorite actors. So if it is okay I would like to give you these books.
Hi, Katie! I'm so glad to hear you are letting those boys keep you away from enjoying Star Wars. I am a 24 year old woman and Star Wars is not the only thing I like that is supposed to be "only for boys". I like all type of action movies, video games that are "for boys" and I've even beat boys in sports and games so just be happy with whatever you want. It doesn't really matter what they say because most of the time, like your mom said, it's done in an effort to deflect attention. Do what makes you happy not what makes them happy :D
Dear Katie,
I am a Star Wars fan and I know many other girls who are also fans. I grew up watching the movies with my parents and big brother. Do not be afraid to be yourself, you bring value to this world!
May the force be with you sweetie,
M
Hi, Katie! I'm 32 years old and have loved Star Wars since I was a little girl. I used to love pretending the scene from A New Hope when they were stuck in the trash compactor. I was always Luke. :) I proudly wore a Star Wars shirt when my husband and I went to see Episode 1 in the theaters. Now I have two little boys (both are adopted!) who love Star Wars and are teaching me all about the Clone Wars. I know my boys would just love to know there's an awesome little girl out there who is adopted like them and that loves Star Wars like they do! :) I think you're awesome, too!
Miss Katie,
What a wonderful girl you are! Nowadays, I just do not understand what makes kids do these types of actions. Bullying is not okay and definitely should not be left alone. I am 17 years old and I am proud to say that I am one hardcore star wars geek! Mr. Lucas (creator of Star Wars) did not create it just for boys, he made it for the general audience! I know the whole trilogy by heart, have read the books and even play all of the video games. I have always had a knack for star wars, batman, power rangers - everything a boy would love haha. Even now I cannot get enough of it!
What these bullies did to you was not necessary. When I was a child, I was also bullied. The bullying was really severe when I was in kindergarten and 1st grade. I felt so alone because my parents were divorced. My dad was working all the time so I did not have someone to turn to. You are a beautiful girl and very lucky to have so many people to support you!
When I look back at it, I laugh it off because those kids who used to bully me, are now the kids who get into alot of trouble and have no friends. Also not to mention, I somehow grew really tall so now I am twice their size :) You are who you are and a couple of kids should not make you feel uncomfortable with yourself.
Just keep your head up, stay positive and enjoy life! Those kids who bully you, will never be the great person you are. Bully-free and Star Wars for life!
- Kim
Hello Katie,
I am a woman that is a Star Wars fan too. My parents first took me to see it in 1977 and from then on, my walls were covered with Star Wars posters and I collected all of the action figures(which I still have and show off proudly). Star Wars isn't just for boys, it's for everyone. Princess Leia and Padme are wonderful role models for girls to grow up strong and fight for what they believe in. So, if you want to carry a Star Wars back pack and water bottle, then do it. Be proud of it. Those boys will look back and realize how cool you are for having these things. You are a beautiful young lady that knows what she likes. Don't let anyone tell you that you can't like something.
Katie,
I know how you feel. Not only was I different when I was younger, but I also have a boys name! The boys at school would tease me all the time for it, and I would cry and wish I could change my name to Brittany or Jessica, something like the other girls had. But as I got older, I realized that I really liked being different, and now I love my name! I'm happy that I have a boys name, and I'm proud of who it has made me. Never be afraid of what you like or who you are!
- Stevi
P.S. I like Star Wars too!!! I make Chewbacca noises with my dog all the time!
Star Wars Rocks and don't let anyone tell you differently. When I was in 3rd grade, I wore glasses, dinosaur sneakers, and was reading bigger books than I could carry and people said i was weird. I also had a Star Trek lunch box that I rocked everyday. Now, one of the boys that said I was just a nerd, happens to be my boyfriend, 20 years after he thought I wasn't cool.
Nerds rule this world. I am so unbelievably excited that you are able to recognize the amazing epic that is Star Wars and think those boys are just jealous and probably need to out grow their cooties.
Trust us, you are pretty cool in our eyes.
Man, I wish I'd had a whole bunch of random people telling me how awesome I am when I was younger. If I could go back and change one thing about my life, it would be the lack of self-confidence from a young age. Here's what I wish someone had told me sooner (so I didn't have to learn it later!), to not just Katie, but anyone who happens to read this: you are awesome. Even if you don't see it now, someday you will have amazing people around you who not only accept you, but get you. So, don't dare try to be anything other than what you want to be, your future friends will be missing out!
As for where self-confidence comes from, if you believe you're awesome, you are awesome. If you don't completely believe it, but tell yourself that it's true, it eventually becomes true. If someone tells you that you're not cool for any reason, it may not be because you intimidate them, but it's only as true as you allow it to be. The only thing you can really do about those doubts you have about yourself is ignore them--actively decide not to pay attention--because some of them will never leave regardless of how much people tell you they love you. Self-doubt is the most resilient psychological force I've encountered.
Hi Katie!
Let me tell you, I'm a 44 year old girl (I'm still a kid at heart)and I LOVE Star Wars. I used to wear the t-shirt all the time. I had the lunch box, the backpack and the pajamas. Sometimes boys can be mean about things like that, but I really think it's because they wish they had the Star Was thermos too. Don't ever change who you are to fit in with other people. You will fit in with a lot more friends being just the way you are. You definitely have the Force with YOU Katie. Keep smiling that beautiful smile of yours. Oh, and you are not different for wearing glasses and being adopted... you are SPECIAL and UNIQUE. Did I mention that I was Darth Vadar for halloween one year. Ha,ha,ha,ha... I loved scaring the boys!
Hi Katie! I have LOVED Star Wars since the first movie in the 1970's (and yes, I did see the first run in the theaters!). I cried twice the first time I saw Empire Strikes Back (first for freezing Han Solo & second for Luke losing his hand). I, too, wore Star Wars t-shirts to middle school and I even built a model of the Millennium Falcon like boys built model cars, with real modelers glue! My prize possession was a Luke Skywalker jacket purchased by mail order from the official Star Wars club! I still have some of that stuff and of course I have the movies.
PLEASE do not let anyone tell you you're not supposed to have those things. Now, a couple of those things are collector's items (so who's laughing in the end!)! While it is terribly hard for you while you're in school (and the pressure to conform will continue through high school), remember that once you get out into the real world as an adult, all of this will go away. The only thing that won't change is you - you will always have to be yourself, so don't let anyone EVER pressure you to be someone you're not. Trust me, that's good advice to take through life!
Btw, I am a Star Wars purist. The last three movies were good, but the first three are still the GREATEST!! I had a HUGE crush on Luke Skywalker when I was a kid and now as an adult, I have a MONSTER crush on Han Solo (Harrison Ford). Goes to show, once Star Wars is in your blood, you never get rid of it!! :-D
Hi Katie!
I'm a girl in my 30s, and I love Star Wars. It's one of the things I remember most fondly about my childhood, because it was something I did with my dad. (We also watched Star Trek, Dune, and all kinds of other science fiction shows!)
When I was in my teens, I started going to conventions and meeting other people - other girls, too - that loved Star Wars as much as me. And I learned that there's a huge, vibrant, happy group of powerful, funny, smart, cute, brave girls who love science fiction in all forms.
These days, all my friends - guys and girls - love Star Wars (and Star Trek, Firefly, Tron, and other stuff). Including my niece, a little girl who was adopted from China. She has a Star Wars backpack, too - and she uses it every day in school. :-)
Remember what Yoda said - Anger, fear, aggression. The dark side are they. Don't be afraid, and don't be angry, at the boys who're teasing you. They're just having their own issues with the dark side.
Hi Katie,
In 1977 I was seven years old and that summer Star Wars played in the theaters. A few months later for Halloween I was Darth Vader. My mom made my costume, I was and continue to be very proud of that costume. We bought the mask, but my mom made me a jump-suit and a cape. I still have the mask.
When Empire Strikes Back came out I got the lunch box/thermos that had Darth Vader, Luke and a lot of Storm Troopers.
I am now forty years old, I have degree in visual arts, I have worked in schools and museums as well as computers. I work both men and women. In my office I have that lunch box sitting proudly on my bookshelf, battered and very used, but there. I also have a Darth Vader glass from my childhood and couple Star Wars Pez on my desk. I'm sure I get a few strange looks from time to tine, but mostly I get comments from people, men and women, about how cool it is that I still have some of these things from my childhood, they all remember them. Many of people comment that they wanted those items when they were young and never got them or have long ago lost theirs.
Sometimes people are afraid to be themselves and find it easier to follow than lead. Don't be afraid to be yourself and lead. Don't let anyone tell you "that is a boy thing" if you like it is a "Katie thing".
Keep doing what makes you happy Katie.
Katie, you have gone viral beyond description!
I've been sitting here trying to figure out what to write, and to pass on great words of wisdom to you so that you may gather strength from them and essentially just kick butt in being yourself, but its kinda hard to do so when thousands of other people have probably done it better :)
So instead I'll just tell you my story, and how I managed to defeat the evil bullies in my school when I was your age (maybe a little older actually...).
I grew up loving Star Wars and back in the early 90s they would show the movies on TV ALL THE TIME which was great for me seeing how I didn't own a copy of the movies.
One Christmas my dad got me the Original Trilogy on VHS (ask your parents to explain what that is if don't know lol) and must have watched those movies a million times over, to the point where I knew them completely by heart. I was in Star Wars Heaven!!
I also had the action figures, little model kits, stickers and books like you wouldn't believe!!! I even had a C-3PO piggy bank! I was a Star Wars Fan!!
Well I go back to school and my fellow students just couldn't understand what was so amazing about a galaxy far far away, and they would bother me about it to the point of tears. I didn't want to go back to school, I didn't even want to watch the movies any more...I felt ashamed, I felt weird...I felt like I was just wrong. My mom tried to help, telling me not to listen to them and to just be myself. To remember that Princess Leia wouldn't take any of the bullying and neither would Darth Vader, but I still felt...bad.
The one day my class had a field trip to see an Orchestra play some fancy classical music, and the final piece for the concert was supposed to be something by Beethoven I think.
Now not only am I Star Wars fan, but I'm a Cellist too and I LOVE classical music and seeing orchestras play, but I was in such a bad mood because of everything that I wasn't even enjoying myself on the field trip.
But when it came to that final piece, that piece that was supposed to a Beethoven piece...You could probably imagine my surprise when the Conductor announced that there was a change in the program and because everyone in the Orchestra was such a fan (and the movies were coming out again in theaters) they were going to play the theme to STAR WARS!!!!!!!!!!!
Everyone in my class could not believe it, and I was in shock.
I'm getting goose bumps now thinking about it!
Those few minutes watching the Orchestra that famous tune just lifted my heart and my spirit that no matter what happened in the coming days or the rest of my life I knew that I was not alone and that there were other star wars fans out there just like me!
And just like you, we are all here. Give you support and love and telling you that no matter where you are and what you're feeling there is always someone out there who has your back. And the Star Wars community has your back.
So go to school with your lunch box and backpack and whatever else you may like and be proud of who you are and know that we are all behind you :)
May the Force be with you...always
~Gabriela from Miami
I've always loved Star Wars! I got teased a lot. I was and still am really weird, but now I know it and I embrace it and people actually like to be around me now that I'm more confident. I think you are beautiful just by looking at your picture, kiddo! Just FYI, the kids who teased me in school are all losers now. some are in jail, some have many rotten kids and rotten husbands. NONE of them are as happy as me. I am a VERY successful car salesperson now and am very popular because I'm a girl who loves cars. Be different, be confident, and know you'll always be God's princess! Not everyone has the strength to be different! Keep it up!
Hi Katie!
Let me tell you, I'm a 44 year old girl (I'm still a kid at heart)and I LOVE Star Wars. I used to wear the t-shirt all the time. I had the lunch box, the backpack and the pajamas. Sometimes boys can be mean about things like that, but I really think it's because they wish they had the Star Was thermos too. Don't ever change who you are to fit in with other people. You will fit in with a lot more friends being just the way you are. You definitely have the Force with YOU Katie. Keep smiling that beautiful smile of yours. Oh, and you are not different for wearing glasses and being adopted... you are SPECIAL and UNIQUE. Did I mention that I was Darth Vadar for halloween one year. Ha,ha,ha,ha... I loved scaring the boys!
I think it's awesome that you have a Star Wars water bottle, Katie!
When I was a little girl, I had Star Wars Underoos. Underoos were sort of like a matching pair of underwear and an undershirt. I had a set that looked like Wonder Woman's costume. Then I had a set with R2D2 and C3PO. The Star Wars set was my favorite! I also like Star Trek. Sometimes, kids made fun of me for that. But there were more kids who thought it was great that I could draw the Starship Enterprise and knew how to do the Vulcan salute.
I like a lot of things some people might think aren't for girls. I really love science, computers, and math. Some people say girls aren't good at those things. Marie Curie was a great scientist, and Ada Lovelace was a great mathematician... and they were both girls! And I wear glasses. I tried to wear contacts for a while, but they weren't comfortable and everybody said I just don't look right to them without my glasses. The glasses are part of me. :)
You are a beautiful girl, Katie. :) Exactly the way you are, inside and out.
Hi Katie! I'm also a Katie. I'm 23 years old, and I also wear glasses and I also love Star Wars. I even once went as Princess Leia for Halloween! When I was your age, I had a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles lunch box and water bottle. The Ninja Turtles were also supposed to be for boys, and some of the boys made fun of me for it too. It upset me, but every time they did it, I just looked at my water bottle and thought about how happy it made me. Eventually they got tired of teasing me and as I've grown up, I've found there are a lot of girls that like things supposedly "meant for boys," and that a lot of boys appreciate being friends with girls who like some of the same things they do. My boyfriend, Aaron, also like Star Wars and it was one of the things that helped us to become close friends when we first met in high school. Boys can be really mean, but you just have to keep on smiling and tell them that Star Wars is not just for boys and that you like your water bottle. We Katies know that Star Wars is totally for girls too, and one day those boys will realize just how wrong they are.
Fear not! The Force is strong with you. ;)
Hi Katie -- I'm a girl who likes Star Wars and my daughter who is also a first grader loves Star Wars too. She wore a Darth Vader costume for Halloween this year. She's been teased for it too, but we tell her that it's okay to like whatever you want. It doesn't make you less of a girl to like something that boys typically like; it just makes you a girl who is smart enough to know what you like and strong enough to let the world know it. Keep on rockin' your Star Wars gear! :)
Message from my 10 year old daughter:
Hi. I like Star Wars too. I think it's fine for anybody to like Star Wars. I even have a Star Wars t-shirt.
My message: Kids who make fun of you have the problem, not you. Maybe they are embarrassed about something they like. Maybe they have a mean mom and dad. Maybe no ever told them that they were special. You are special. You are a beautiful little girl with cute glasses and an awesome Star Wars bottle. I'm 35 years old, and my water bottle is covered in pictures of the Muppets. Some grown-ups might think that is silly, but I think they are funny, and the bottle makes me happy. I was bullied A LOT in school. Kids made fun of my clothes, my bag, and my name (to name a few things). There was nothing wrong with me, but I didn't realize that until I was in college. I don't want you to wait until you are eighteen to know that. Parents know the most about their kids, so listen to them! When your parents tell you that you are special and wonderful the way you are, believe them. They know more than some sad bully at school. And the adopted part? That just means that you know for sure that your parents dreamed of you before you were born. They planned for you and wanted you and adore you, so much that they worked extra hard to bring you home.
Hey there Katie!
I'm Mike, and while I'm not a girl by any means, I think it's cool you're into Star Wars. As you can tell by all the comments before mine, there are plenty of girls that love Star Wars. I, too, love the movie series, among other things. And, while I was picked on for liking that stuff when I was smaller, I still like it to this day and even sometimes wear it on my sleeve (Literally, even! I own a few geeky T-shirts that I proudly wear!). Eventually, as I grew up, I realized I couldn't let people tell me what to like and what not to like.
So while I don't have a Star Wars story to tell, I'll leave you with this: I'm glad you were able to be a brave girl and brought that water bottle to school and I'm sure your mom is incredibly proud of you for doing so!
Hey Katie!
I'm a guy but I wanted to let you know that some of the coolest girls I know love Star Wars! And don't be afraid of being different, because it's the differences that make us who we are. It's what makes our stories so unique. Even though you're still young, I'd say you have a pretty cool story so far!
Hi Katie!
Let me tell you, I'm a 44 year old girl (I'm still a kid at heart)and I LOVE Star Wars. I used to wear the t-shirt all the time. I had the lunch box, the backpack and the pajamas. Sometimes boys can be mean about things like that, but I really think it's because they wish they had the Star Was thermos too. Don't ever change who you are to fit in with other people. You will fit in with a lot more friends being just the way you are. You definitely have the Force with YOU Katie. Keep smiling that beautiful smile of yours. Oh, and you are not different for wearing glasses and being adopted... you are SPECIAL and UNIQUE. Did I mention that I was Darth Vadar for halloween one year. Ha,ha,ha,ha... I loved scaring the boys!
Katie,
It's ok to be different! Not only was I "weird" when I was little, but I have a boys name! They would tease me all the time about it, and I would cry. I told my mom I wished my name was Jessica or Brittany, something like the other girls had. But as I got older, I realized that I liked being different. Don't let anyone else tell you what you can and can't like! Just be yourself!
-Stevi
P.S. I like Star Wars too! I make Chewbacca noises with my dog all the time!
Hi Katie,
I am also a Star Wars fan and I know many other girls that are also fans. I grew up watching the movies with my parents and big brother. Don't be afraid to be yourself, you bring value to this world!
~M
Katie,
I am a boy, but I was touched by your story. Everyone has feelings and shame on those boys for hurting yours!
I bet if those boys asked George Lucas he would say "Star Wars is for everybody!"
Actually, there are so many girl Star Wars fans that the voice of Ahsoka on the Clone Wars, Ashley Eckstein, created an entire line of Star Wars Clothing just for girls! It is called "Her Universe"
Here is a link: http://heruniverse.com
I am going to send your story to them!
I hope you know you are a brave and cool young lady and many Star Wars fans, boys and girls, kids and adults think so too!
May the Force Be With You,
John
johnston,Iowa
Star Wars was one of my fave movie series growing up! I was also a huge fan of Indiana Jones and Alien.
I just found these the other day and even though I'm long grown up I still wanted these Light Saber Chop Sticks: http://www.thinkgeek.com/geektoys/japanfan/c50f/
I was bullied as a kid and it was really hard to stand up to it, I eventually did after tolerating it for far too long and it was such a weight off my shoulders. It really does get better... May the force be with you! :D
Dear Katie,
what makes you different is what makes you special. Never forget that. I am lucky enough to have four beautiful daughters who are all unique in their own special way, but one shines a little brighter than the others and there is only one reason for that. She has learnt to be herself and never appologise for who she is. She rides skateboards and catches butterflys and dyes her hair red and laughs loud. She wears stockings with little silvery skulls on them she reads manga. She is the most happy person I know because she is herself at all times and never tries to change herself for others. Remember to be you and you will shine the brightest, just like my daughter.
Jess from Australia
Hi, Katie! I'm a 32 year old who has liked Star Wars since I was a little girl. I loved pretending the scene from A New Hope where they were stuck in the trash compactor. I was always Luke. :) I proudly wore a Star Wars shirt when my husband and I saw Episode 1 in the theater. Now I have two little boys (both are adopted!) who love Star Wars. They are teaching me about the Clone Wars. I think they would think it's so cool that there's a little girl out there who is adopted like they are and especially who loves Star Wars like they do! I think you're pretty awesome, too!
Dear Katie,
I am a girl, and I grew up loving Star Wars. The very first time I saw it on TV, I knew it was just the best thing in the entire world, and I wanted everything Star Wars I could possibly find.
Unfortunately, I discovered Star Wars when it was very unpopular, so there weren't many Star Wars toys or lunch boxes to be had. I would have been so happy to have a Star Wars back pack, and a Star Wars water bottle!
Some of the boys were mean to me too, because I liked stuff that they considered to be "boy" things. I liked Batman and Transformers and GI Joe too. And I liked My Little Pony (Morning Glory is still my favorite), too, so I couldn't just pretend I was one of the guys.
It got harder in high school, when the boys were even meaner to me because I liked a bunch of "boy" things, but I didn't always like them in the same exact way the boys did. Sometimes I pretended like I did like Star Wars and Batman and Transformers and Doctor Who, but I wasn't very happy. And sometimes I pretended that I liked them in exactly the same way the boys did, but I wasn't happy doing that, either. It took me a long time to figure out that I was happiest enjoying the things I liked, and enjoying them just the way I enjoyed them! So like what you want, and don't be afraid to show it!
And those people who were mean to me? I don't see them any more. I fond someone who likes me just the way I am, and he likes Star Wars and Batman and Doctor Who too. It's the best thing in the world to be married to someone who likes the same stuff that you do, because we always have someone to talk to about your favorite things! We keep all of our lightsabers and Star Wars weapons in a box in the dining room, and all of our Star Wars action figures are in a big Darth Vader case in the kitchen.
Also, when I got older, I started meeting girls from around the country, and right in my area, that liked the same things that I did, and they liked the same things about them! We all became good friends, and we get together a couple times of year at science fiction conventions so that we can talk about Star Wars and Batman and Doctor Who together. We're getting together next weekend to talk about nerdy things in Chicago, too! If your mom will bring you, you're welcome to visit Chicago Tardis (it's a Doctor Who convention, but we all like Star Wars too!), and see all the girls there, dressed up in costumes of our favorite characters, talking on stage about our favorite things, and hanging out together, having fun. If you can't make it, keep looking online, there will be tons of pictures posted, and you can see that there are a lot of nerdy girls out there! Until then, do a Google Image Search (with mom's help, of course!) for "Dragon*Con." It's a convention that happens every year, and people dress up as their favorite characters. See if you can count just how many girls and women are dressed up as Star Wars characters...it's a lot!
One of them, my friend Tara, likes a lot of things, like Star Wars and Star Trek. She even made a Star Trek doll for a friend, and went dressed as a Star Trek character for Halloween! She even edited a book called "Chicks Dig Time Lords," which is just about us girls, and how much we love Doctor Who. I even have a comic that I wrote, in the book! She decided to write the book because there were so many people who thought that Doctor Who was just for boys. She wanted to let them know that Doctor Who was for everybody, including girls, just like Star Wars is for everybody, including girls!
I got to meet a lot of really neat people, including my husband, because I was a girl who liked stuff like Star Wars. I found friends who were girls that all liked the same things I did, and all of those people who were mean to me aren't even a blip on my radar. I know it's not easy to be bullied and picked on. And I know that it's never right for people to do it, but I also know that you are pretty cool and awesome, from what your mom has been saying on here, and you will get through this!
May the Force Be With You!
--Tammy
PS, my favorite character is Aayla Secura, which one is yours? If you and your mom ever want to talk with me or my friends, let me know!
Hi Katie, do not get discouraged by people who think you should be something else or like other things. They do you rule you. Be happy with those who will support you. Stand strong to yourself there are others with you.
Katie,
Star Wars is LOADED with strong female characters. Princess Leia, Padme Amidala, Aayla Secura, Mon Mothma and everyone's favorite Padawan, Ahsoka Tano.
These are just a small fraction of the Female characters in the Star Wars Universe that without them, it would be NOTHING! You're fandom is not only wanted, it's needed! Without girls you, Star Wars can't survive. Being an Artist who essentially makes his living drawing Star Wars characters, I can tell you when I make appearances at Conventions, my most requested characters to draw are Princess Leia, Padme, Aayla Secura and MOST of all, Ahsoka!
Don't let those boys get you down! Be strong and let the Force be with you... always.
Tom Hodges
Artist: Clone Wars Web Comic, starwars.com
Katie! You rock! And Geek girls rule! Sweetie, you love Star Wars and you keep loving Star Wars as long as you want. Don't let a bunch of silly boys take that away from you. They can't if you don't let them. You like what you like, and that's what makes you Katie. Nobody else can be you, and that's pretty special. :)
I'm a 41 year-old woman and you know what? I not only like science fiction, I write it. Sometimes they even publish it and put it in bookstores. :) When I was your age, I wanted to be an astronaut. I couldn't go into space myself, so I wrote about flying in space instead. One of the first stories I wrote was about a girl who was a Jedi in training. No lie. Back when Return of the Jedi came out, you know who took me to see it? My mom. Not my stepdad, but my mom. Just the two of us, no boys allowed.
Star Wars is part of what makes you an awesome little girl, Katie. So are those wicked cool glasses! I've had glasses for as long as I can remember, too. Being different is a really good thing. If we were all the same, wouldn't it be boring? Who'd want that? I know I wouldn't. You keep rocking that Star Wars shirt to school, and when those silly boys tell you Star Wars is just for boys? You know for a fact that it's for girls, too. You remember that you're a great, awesomely cool geek girl. And you're not alone. Look at how many of us are here if you need proof of that. Geek girls may fight over Star Wars versus Star Trek, but if there's one thing we pretty much all come together on? It's supporting another geek girl when she needs it. :)
Katie, you are seriously awesome. Never forget that. I'll bet Princess Leia would be very proud of you. The Force will be with you, always. :)
As a mom this broke my heart but as a Star Wars love it made me mad. I too have a little girl that likes Star Wars although she likes the dark side. Just to make you smile is a picture of my little girl on Halloween as Darth Vader.
[IMG]http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa60/racheljantilla/darth.jpg[/IMG]
goosh sorry wrong link >.< http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa60/racheljantilla/darth.jpg
Katie,
I'm a college student and I am in the school of mechanical engineering at Purdue University. Talk about a boy field!! The great thing though is you have to know you are not the only one. I'm in a sorority of a 100 girl engineers and have tons more that are friends not in my sorority! They are all girls that love to do a man's job in engineering. Nothing says you can't like boy things and be a girl as well. I dress up and do my make up, but I also love cars and motorcycles and can sometimes explain better how an engine works than a lot of boys. Trust me you are not alone and you are surely not the first or last girl who likes "boys'" toys.
Be strong and let them know that you are a girl who likes star wars!!!
-From a fellow Katie :)
PS We have an awesome name.
wrong link sorry here you go.
http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa60/racheljantilla/darth.jpg
Hi, Katie! I am twenty years old and I love Star Wars! Do what makes you happy - the happiest girls are the prettiest girls!
Hey Katie! My name's Paige, and I'm a freshman girl in college who loves Star Wars! My favorite thing to do is watch it with my little brother- he has autism, and while he's high functioning kids sometimes are really unkind to him. Do you watch the Clone Wars? Me and my friends (all girls!) get together and watch it every Friday, maybe you'll be watching at the same time. Remember that any kid who would tease you for liking Star Wars would make a terrible Jedi- they don't have your strength and your lightsaber skills. More than anything, don't feel like the only girl who likes sci-fi-- there are enough female Star Wars fans that they have their own store! Mary Shelley was the lady who helped define science fiction as we know it today by writing Frankenstein, and who knows? Maybe you'll be the next great mind to shape the genre!
Awww... Katie... I bet I was in first grade when I saw Star Wars for the first time. And who says a girl can't love that movie? Haven't they seen Princess Leia? She's a girl and she's an awesome one!
And I'm going to tell you something...try to remember it if you can... there's nothing wrong with being a little bit different. Because we're all a little bit different, know that?
Different is what makes each of us special. And sometimes, that difference is what makes some people even more special. You're probably going to be one of those people, because you're already cool enough to love something as awesome as Star Wars.
I don't know if anybody who has mentioned this, but there's an entire website dedicated to Star Wars stuff just for girls-do a google for Her Universe. If it wasn't OKAY for girls, they wouldn't make stuff just for us. ;)
Hi Katie!
Let me tell you, I'm a 44 year old girl (I'm still a kid at heart)and I LOVE Star Wars. I used to wear the t-shirt all the time. I had the lunch box, the backpack and the pajamas. Sometimes boys can be mean about things like that, but I really think it's because they wish they had the Star Was thermos too. Don't ever change who you are to fit in with other people. You will fit in with a lot more friends being just the way you are. You definitely have the Force with YOU Katie. Keep smiling that beautiful smile of yours. Oh, and you are not different for wearing glasses and being adopted... you are SPECIAL and UNIQUE. Did I mention that I was Darth Vadar for halloween one year. Ha,ha,ha,ha... I loved scaring the boys!
Persevere you must. The best confidence builder is experience. Never forget, the force is within you.
Hi Katie,
I'm a boy but I wanted to let you know it's great that you're a Star Wars fan. You're young and already have great taste in movies!
Those boys that are making fun of you must be forgetting about all the cool girls in Star Wars. Leia, Queen Amidala, and a few female Jedi would probably have a few things to say to those boys. Plus they could kick their behinds too!
Katie, this is for you
Katie,
You look so much like me at your age! I wish I had been half as brave as you. When the other girls were buying unicorn and tiger folders, I always secretly wanted the ones with Star Wars and Star Trek on them. I was a victim of both family and social pressure to be as pink and perfect as possible. You're so very lucky to have a mommy who supports your passion. It wasn't until I was a 4th grader (I know! old!) that I started being brave enough to go and get the 'geeky' lunchboxes, and never looked back. Today, I have two bumper stickers on my car. "My other ride is a Constitution Class Star Ship" and "Sure, it looks slow, but it can make the Kessel Run in under 12 parsecs."
Remember, hun, it is the geek who shall inherit the earth. Actually, scratch that, we already own it. For we, and no other, are gifted with a unique awesome at birth that others envy.
Hey Katie,
I'm 26 year old girl and I LOVE Star Wars and I just married a boy and he loves Star Wars too! I am very proud to be a geeky girl who loves all sorts of things, like movies, games, animals and outer space. The reason I like Star Wars so much is because Padme and Leia are strong, beautiful and amazing women, who are great role models! My husband has 27 star wars shirts and I have a few too! Here's a picture of me in my favorite Star Wars shirt http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=4574079&l=72b004d81d&id=505613807 The picture was taken at a comic book convention and I am standing besides a life-sized Lego C-3PO!! And you know what? I got to meet the girl that does the voice for Ahsoka from the Clone Wars cartoon and she started a cool clothing line for girls just like us! Its called Her Universe http://heruniverseshop.com/
Wear your Star Wars tee shirt and drink out of that cool water bottle proudly because you have so many girls of all ages supporting you!
<3 Anne
Oh by the way...I have my own trading card...have marched in the Disney Hollywood Studios Star Wars Weekends parades for 4 years in a row, have been in the newspaper, on tv, in magazines for charity work,and many other things all because of my involvement with Star Wars...
Sweet girl, you keep rocking the Star Wars swag!
I told my little boys about you. They are 9 and 6. They said, "I would totally want to eat lunch with her! Girls don't have to be pink monsters. Tell her that, Mom. And that I like her glasses (9 yr old)." He wears glasses, too. :)
I know you've had a million awesome women tell you this already but you are an amazing, awesome individual. There isn't another like you anywhere. And this is a FANTASTIC thing! How dull and boring would the world be if we were all alike? If every chick on the planet was decked out in pink from head to toe and every boy was wearing all blue...crazy, huh?!
:virtual fist bump:
Hey Katie! Don't worry, you're not the only girl Star Wars fan. When I was your age, I had way more Star Wars toys than Barbie dolls and my sister and I watched those movies every chance we got. I'm 24 years old now and I still love Star Wars.
Don't let those silly little boys bother you for having awesome taste in movies! They just don't know how to handle a cool little girl who likes the same stuff they do...And don't let them tell you it's "just for boys." It's for everybody who likes Luke Skywalker and Yoda and everything else about Star Wars.
My sister and I want to know - Do you like Luke or Han more? We have a disagreement over who is better, maybe you can help us solve the problem. :)
Dear Katie,
My name is Katie, too! We even spell it the same way! I am a HUGE Star Wars fan! I have been since I was about your age. I went through some of the very same things you're going through now. It got to the point where I was PROUD to be a girl and a Star Wars fan! When we would play a game where we would say an unusual fact about ourselves, mine would always be that my favorite movies ever are Star Wars. It is stil, to this day, my favorite movie series ever. Don't ever be ashamed of what you love, and don't let the people around you control what you love. Wishing you well, and keep loving Star Wars! I know I sure do!
Love,
Katie
P.S. I wish I had a cool Star Wars backpack, lunch box, and water bottle. Keep it up! ;)
Hi Katie!
I'm a girl who loves Doctor Who AND I'm a Computer Programmer! I usually work with ALL boys and they sometimes like to make fun of me for liking Doctor Who so much! My daddy introduced me to Doctor Who when I was two and showed me how to use a computer, so I don't care what they think and neither should you! I think it's awesome when a girl likes non-girly things and isn't afraid to show it!
Erin
P.S. I married a Star Wars/Star Trek geek. We like to watch Star Wars together.
Hi Katie!
My fianc
ups! the link didn't showed up. Try this: go to www. flickr. com / kurakensama / 4689419665/ (without spaces) I think you'll like it :)
Hi Katie! I am a 26 year old girl who also wears glasses (since 1st grade) and Star Wars fan (since 4th grade). My dad showed me A New Hope and I immediately wanted to see more - he said he had to wait for 3 years to see Empire Strikes Back, so I could at least wait a week until we could rent the next movie. That Halloween I dressed up as Princess Leia. My mom did my just like her! It was so fun. When I got to high school and got my first car, I put the key on a chain with Boba Fett (my favorite character) on it. Some people didn't think that was all that cool - but I didn't think THEY were all that cool! Then, when I got to college, I even found someone who wanted to dress up as Han Solo and go with me to a costume party while I dressed up like Princess Leia. We went as Leia and Han on Hoth (I live in a cold city, but not as cold as Hoth!) and had a great time - one of my all-time favorite Halloweens ever! Katie, I think you sound like a pretty cool girl and who knows what she likes. Keep it up - it might be hard today, or tomorrow, but one day, you'll realize you're one of the lucky ones for being who YOU want to be.
Hi Katie,
Your story made it all the way up to Canada! I'm 23, female, and I have loved Star Wars ever since I was your age (my favourite characters are R2D2 and Jar Jar Binks). I even still have my action figures and video games! Those bullies need to learn that this is the 21st century and there's no such thing as "only for boys" anymore. And if they don't believe you, just show them these comments and how many other girls love Star Wars too!
Wishing you all the best,
Alison
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Hi Katie! I am a 32 year old woman and I have always loved Star Wars. Not only do I love Star Wars, but when I was a little younger than you (about 5 or 6), I dressed as Darth Vader for Halloween. It is still my favorite picture costume ever! The boys at your school just don't know it yet. Some day they will really think it's cool when a girl loves supposedly "boy" things. Keep your head up and show off your Star Wars pride, friend! My husband would also like to add that girls who like Star Wars (and science and math and sports and the outdoors and any other kind of "boys only" subjects) are the COOLEST girls in the world!
Katie, you sound like a remarkable young girl. Don't give up what you like just to make others happy. I, for one, love Star Wars where my brother does not. One Christmas, he was even given a nice box set of the movies, and he didn't even want it. Luckily, I inherited it, but I never got any cool SW toys because I was a girl. Ironically, in school I was teased for being too girly, liking Barbie dolls long after the other girls got bored with them. Instead of hiding my interests, though, I specifically had my mom buy me Barbie valentines and gave them to my classmates to show that I know what I like, and I wasn't about to let their opinions change that. Stay strong, and don't be afraid to do whatever makes you happy.
Carrie, thanks for posting this article. People should be made aware of social growth, and how it affects us as adults.
Hi Katie!
There are so many amazing comments here that pretty much cover it all, but I have to throw in one more. When I was your age I also wore glasses (still do), wore an eye patch (no longer have to) and most importantly, LOVED Star Wars (definitely still do) along with a bunch of things that were not "girl" things to like. It may not seem likely now, but as you get older you will meet so many people who think you are the coolest for liking what you really like instead of just going along with what everyone else seems to be doing.
This year one of my friends threw a Star Wars costume party for his 30th birthday. It was pretty great to see so many people I know proudly showing off their fandom!
This is 29 year old me dressed as an ewok, having a blast:
http://flic.kr/p/8CEoKm
You sound like a wonderful girl that is going to grow up to be an amazing woman!
Hi Katie,
My mom raised me on Star Wars and Star Trek. It's developed a huge love of all things "geeky," which USED to be mostly for boys. Not any more! I went to see the first Transformers movie in the theater, as well as the midnight showing of Star Wars Episode III with my husband. Both times it was my idea! I went to school for a computer networking degree. A lot of times, I was the only girl in my class!
You can do & like ANYTHING you want! Wear your Star Wars shirt with pride!
Hi, Katie! I just finished graduate school and I'm hoping to be a teacher in an elementary school really soon. Let me tell you something. If you were in my class and those kids made fun of you, they would be in big trouble. I've loved Star Wars since I was your age, and I think it's wonderful that you do too! One of the best parts about being a child is that you have such a great imagination. People with great imaginations go on to do amazing things. All children should be able to enjoy the things they like, and should never be made fun of for liking them. I can tell you're going to be very happy in your life, and I know that some of those kids (the ones who are smart enough) will regret saying that to you. Remember, don't let ANYONE tell you what you should like and what you shouldn't like! You rock!
Hi Katie. I'm also a girl, and I grew up with Star Wars. Always remember that what counts is what YOU want. Those boys are silly, and are probably just jealous of your awesome Star Wars gear. You're a beautiful girl because you are different. You don't have to be just like everyone else. It's our differences that make us special. Keep your chin up and know that you are awesome!
Katie,
Star Wars is NOT just for boys!!! It's for EVERYONE! My daughter (also named Katie) loves Star Wars. Hang in there and bring your Star Wars lunch box and water bottle with pride!
May the Force be with you!!!!
Bridget
Grapevine, Texas
Sweetie, be thankful you like Star Wars. Right now it may not seem like this, but when you get older, the coolest and most interesting boys will think you are AWESOME for liking Star Wars. When you are older, you'll see. The boys that like Star Wars LOVE it when girls know a lot about Star Wars and other cool movies. I happen to LOVE Star Wars, and so does my husband. So does my 7 year old niece, now that I think about it. She has good taste, and so do you!
Hi Katie!
Keep your head up! I'm a 23 year old New Yorker who loves Star Wars, Lord of the Rings, dinosaurs, and various creepy crawlies. When it comes down to it, you have to do what makes you happy. I was made fun of liking dinosaurs when I was little and it hurt my feelings. I ran from it at first, but with help from my friends and family, I realized that I had nothing to be ashamed of. Staying true to yourself can be hard, but you'll be better for it. You're an inspiration. Good luck!
Hi Katie! I just wanted to let you know that I know exactly how you were feeling. When I was a little girl, my favorite show was a show called He-Man and I got teased all the time by the boys. They said the same, thing - that it was for boys only.
Well, that's simply not true. Girls can like anything boys can like and boys can like the same things as girls sometimes, too.
I'm all grown up now and I have a daughter . Her name is Maggie and she's in the first grade too. Do you know who she says she's going to marry when she grows up? Darth Vader. She LOVES Star Wars and so do I. She also loves Pokemon & Super Mario Brothers.
Be proud of yourself no matter what. A lot of people think you're super cool. Have a great Thanksgiving and a great Christmas!
Hi, I'm Kayla and I've like Star Wars since third grade. =) I also dealt with a little bit of isolation because of it, but mostly from my female peers. Don't worry, the boys will learn to love it. Now I'm in High School, and I'm known as the one who loves Star Wars. We're even thinking about doing a Star Wars themed Court Warming, and everyone is asking my advice! It gets better. ;)
Hi there, Katie! My name's Abby. :)
I read about your story and couldn't help but feel like you and I are very alike (I even have blue glasses, just like you!). I grew up with a much older brother and my dad around - while my friends were playing with Barbies and makeup, my brother was teaching me how to play basketball and video games, and my dad was going for bike rides with me, teaching me to fish and collect rocks and look at bugs, and showing me all sorts of fun shows and movies and music. It was such a fun summer! But by the time I got back to school, I found out that no one else liked all the things I liked! I was made fun of, and worse, I felt alone. But I never let other people tell me what to do, or what to like. I'm eighteen now, and all of my best friends are boys and I couldn't be happier! I know it seems hard, now...but anyone who doesn't accept you for who you are and what you like isn't anyone you want to be around, anyone. You're just too cool for them, I promise.
Have a good school year, Katie!
Hi Katie - Tonight my 2nd grader daughter and I just watched disc 2 of season 2 of The Clone Wars. My daughter became a big Star Wars fan this summer, just like I did when I was 7 and the first movie came out (which you may know as Episode 4). Like you, my daughter was teased for wearing an R2-D2 shirt to school because girls aren't supposed to like Star Wars. But she found the courage to wear it again and some 4th grade boys told her "hey, cool shirt!" in the hallway one day. A couple of weeks ago she & I bought a Star Wars shirt in the boys' section of a store and I asked her if she'd be embarrassed to wear a boy's shirt and she said no! She has a Clone Wars towel that goes with her to her swimming lessons each week. And best of all, all the kids on the block have lightsabers now, especially the girls and they have fun with them all the time. Girls can like Star Wars too!
Dear Katie,
I am a woman, and I have loved Star Wars, and Star Trek, and science, and space, and math, and all sorts of "boy" things since I was your age. I have a college degree in a science called physics, and I now teach science to kids your age, partly because I loved Star Wars and wanted to go to outer space when I was a kid. Please don't listen to other people, just listen to your own heart.
Hugs,
Laurie
Hi there I just want to let katie know that I have been there and know exactly how she is feeling. I'am 22 now but all through out school I was teased for my glasses, my weight, my height and my absolute LOVE for Star Wars. I know being diffrent is scary and the people that make you feel the worst about it our the ones who are most scared of it. When I remember going to school and having the same classmates from the second grade through the fifth grade you really get to know those people and want to be liked. I wasnt, no matter how hard I tried, by a hand full of those class mates. There was however the rest who I loved and they loved me too. Those are the people that really matter, the ones who make you smile. I still have my fifth grade year book and my faviorte message is from a girl name Maryanne who wrote "whenever I have a Star Wars question I'll always come to you." My book shelves are filled with Star Wars books and toys. My Moms room is decorated with a Yoda poster and always remember that Princess Leia was a rebal leader and no one is stronger, braver or more beautiful then her, except maybe you.
Also adoption is the ultimate form of love, you were chosen just like my grandparents chose my mother and my uncle. Sometimes it may seem hard but learning these things now is a great blessing. Some people never learn that being yourself is absolutly awesome that they try to be others and only end up getting hurt. Remeber love yourself, love your family, love your friends and others will love you for being so brave.
I'm so happy to see all these messages. I subbed to the thread when I posted, so I just keep getting little rays of sunshine in my inbox every time somebody posts something. I hope other "different" kids can take some sunshine from all these posts for Katie too!
Katie, I'm a man, but I wanted to chime in here anyway. When I was your age, my Mom showed me Star Wars and it changed my world. I know many, many girls who love the saga just as much as anybody else, including my Mom. Geek girls rule the world and, when you get older, you're going to find a whole worldwide network of people who will love you for your love of your hobbies. Heck, looking at these comments, you already found us!
May the Force be with you, Katie. Always!
Hi Katie! I am a girl to, and I never really got to watch Star Wars, but I really liked Star Trek. I got made fun of for that by some boys. It made me sad at first, I did not understand why they were acting like that. Then someone told me that it was OK to be different sometimes. I am glad that I found out it was OK to be different. Just always be yourself, wear what makes you happy. Take the water bottle that makes you happy, and someday, someone else will see you and see that you like the things that make them happy to, and you will become good friends. Don't hide who you are and who you like to try to make someone else stop making fun of you, it will just make you unhappy with yourself. Best of luck to you sweetie! Just because of you and the story that your mom posted, I am going to be sure to watch Star Wars now.
Katie, you rock! I'm a girl and I love Star Wars too. I have a Boba Fett hoodie, and I wear it all the time. Don't be afraid to be who you are, because who you are is awesome!
Katie! I know you have a bazillion comments but I had to add mine. I was 9 years old when Star Wars first came out. I was watching TV with my mom and the commercial for it came on. I remember my mom looking at me and saying "I think I want to go see that movie. Want to come?" I was shocked. I thought Star Wars was for boys and I was really surprised that my mom wanted to see it. But she promised to buy me popcorn so I went. That movie was the greatest thing I'd ever seen. I went home and right away started bugging my dad to take me to see it again. And he did! He took me the very next day and it was just as great the second time.
That was about 35 years ago and now all these years later we still have Star Wars movies and TV shows. Why? Because people, boys AND girls, men AND women, love them. You are totally not the only one!
It can be hard to be different from most other people. Sometimes it's really hard and you have to choose between what makes you happy and what other people think about you. But I believe that if YOU think it's normal for a girl to like Star Wars, and if you let your friends know that you think it's normal, eventually they'll start to think so too. It's really special to have something like Star Wars that makes you so happy and you should enjoy it any way you want!
Katie - I'm a 26 year old woman and I have loved science fiction ever since I can remember.. since my mom, also a woman (obviously) loves it too. When I first saw Star Wars, (The prequels weren't out yet when I was your age) my sister and my best friend (also a girl) were totally obsessed with it, and would go around pretending we were characters from the show (at first I wanted to be Princess Leia, but sometimes I wanted to be Han Solo, because he was also really cool.) When I was younger than that, I used to wear overalls all the time because I wanted to be like my dad, who built houses. I was the only girl at "insect camp" at the zoo, where we learned about different kind of bugs... I loved bugs and lizards, and generally hated everything pink, because my little sister loved it. (I got over that, and am wearing a pink dress today.) I also liked chemistry sets, legos, electronics, and computers. I'm lucky to have a ten year old brother who likes all the same things I do, and sometimes we play video games together, he thinks it's really cool that his sister likes the same things he likes. In short: I was a nerdy girl, and a girl who liked "boy" things, and I grew up perfectly ok. Those people who are mean to you - they're insecure and jealous because you know who you are and you are cool. So keep rocking your Star Wars water bottle, please.
Hi, Katie. I'm a girl and not only do I like Star Wars, I also like sports. When it comes to hockey, I know more about that sport than most guys do. It's OK for you to like anything you want to like, doesn't matter if you're a girl or a boy, young or old. I know it's hard, but try not to let anyone take away something from you that you enjoy.
Dear Katie,
I'm sure by now you know that you are not alone. When I read your story I teared up a bit. Why? Because it's my story too. Although I'm much older, I was once in first grade too. I loved a lot of the things boys liked. He-Man, GI Joe, Transformers, Thundercats, and especially Star Wars. I tried to get my hands on almost anything involving outer space that I could. Not only did I get made fun of for that, but I wore glasses. When I was in first grade, I had to have surgery on each of my eyes. I had to wear patches over each of them as they healed. Afterwards I wore glasses. I was also the only kid I knew who was adopted. I knew my parents loved me but I still knew that it made me different. It was hard. If I wasn't teased for one thing it was another. But you know what? I made it through. And I still love all of those fun geeky things that people made fun of me for especially Star Wars! Now I get to go hang out with other people who like it too and meet some of the actors who played characters in Star Wars like Chewbacca, Darth Maul, and C-3PO! I don't get teased for my glasses, in fact some people think they are very cool and wear fake ones because they're jealous! Being adopted can be cool too! In fact, one of the things I liked about Luke in the original Star Wars movies was that he was adopted too! He didn't know who his birth mom and dad were but he still had two people who loved him and cared for him very much.
Don't let other people's opinions frighten you away from what you love. I promise that you will find others that are like you. There's nothing wrong with liking "boy" things. In fact, I've met some of my best friends because they liked "boy" things too! We still love them! All of us are different or weird in many ways but that's why we like eachother so much. If we were all the same we'd be boring. Hopefully this helps.
All my best wishes to you,
Amanda T.
Katie,
I started watching Star Wars when I was about three and haven't stopped since. I don't even remember the first time I watched it. I have a couple of t-shirts and most of the books. And yes, a lot of people thought I was different as a kid. But I found there were people like me and I'm still good friends with them.
Now I'm 31, in the military and I've been to Iraq twice. But I still like Star Wars. In fact, my last time over there, a bunch of my friends even had a Star Wars marathon during off-duty time and watched all six movies (spread over several days).
So I hope you take a stand for girls everywhere to show that we don't have to only like certain things. Best of luck to you in school.
Sarah
Hey Katie! I met all three of my best female friends at a Star Wars party, and made tons of others too. I never understood why people said that things were "for girls" or "for boys"; we're girls, and we like Star Wars, so it's for boys just as much as it is for girls.
I bet those boys love Star Wars too, and they're just jealous of your awesome water bottle--I had a Darth Vader water bottle when I was about your age, and it was the coolest thing ever. I also really like your glasses! Are they dark blue? They're really pretty!
May the Force be with you.
Oh, and I think it's awesome that you wore a Star Wars shirt to school! I bet the boys are just jealous of your Star Wars stuff.
Hi Katie-
I want you to know you have a pretty spectacular mom. It's pretty obvious that she loves you VERY much. Katie, I am not the biggest Star Wars fan, but I LOVE Star Trek. I also love scary movies, and sitting under a tree to read a good book. Your story made me sad, because I am not only a female fan of "nerdy" stuff, but a mom as well. Most moms would agree with me when I say no parent wants their child to feel sad or bullied in any way. I think you're very brave, and I think you should carry that Star Wars bottle whenever and where ever you like.
I think that the support you're getting from your mom and others will make you feel stronger...when you're older, you'll think about this and smile, because you showed dignity and grace. Keep your chin up kiddo, and remember, the best thing you can do when you're feeling picked on or stressed out by the way other people treat you is talk to your mom. Trust that your mom will listen...that's what moms do. May The Force Be With You, young Katie, and I hope your days are better.
PS...over 600 comments, Ms. Katie...I think that means you're pretty awesome!
Hi Katie!
Star Wars is wonderful and being a girl who enjoys Star Wars is even more wonderful.
I am 46 years old, I was almost 12 when Star Wars was released in 1977 and I've loved it ever since.
Today, I am one of a growing group of women artists who have turned a love for Star Wars (and other neat "boy" stuff, including comics, action/adventure movies) into a career. This past summer I was invited to be an artist at Star Wars Celebration V (in Orlando, Florida) and got to pick one of my favorite characters to draw for a poster for the convention...Boba Fett.
I am also one of a small group of woman sketch card artists who LOVE to draw Star Wars and other wonderful things! Here is a list of some of my very talented GIRL artist friends who LOVE Star Wars and other "boy" things. Most of these ladies, like me, are official Star Wars artists!:
Jan Duursema (she invented the characters of Aayla Secura - Twi-lek and Quinlan Vos!)
Cat Staggs
Katie Cook
Nicole Falk
Denise Vasquez
Leah Mangue (me!)
Allison Sohn
Amy Pronovost
Ingrid Hardy
Soni Alcorn-Hender
Connie Bumbar Permsampieri
Cynthia Narcisi
Darla Eckland
Jessica Hickman
Irma Suriani Ahmed
Karen Krajenbrink
Laura Inglis
Renae DeLiz
Carolyn Edwards
Jen Mercer
Sarah Wilkinson and many more!
Katie, you are awesome just the way you are. You go on enjoying Star Wars...thousands and thousands of girls/women do and that's just the way we (and the boys around us) like it!
Glad to have you aboard, Katie! :D
Leah Mangue
Katie the Awesome!
I was thinking just this morning about when I was going to school and the kids were teasing me about the things that I did that they didn't understand. I couldn't figure out why I was so different then the other kids, and I wanted to be the same. I liked The Ninja Turtles, and playing baseball, and hockey. Now that I'm grown up, I wish someone had told me that being different was WAY MORE FUN then being the same, and that I would always be the most happy when I was being myself. I know your parents are doing a GREAT job of telling you this, and that all of these amazing ladies are telling you the same thing. I want to tell you too, Katie, that you already have a BIG headstart on all thos other kids, because you are learning to be yourself, and we all think you are SO COOL! Star Wars is an AWESOME movie, and you keep being proud to be Katie! Much Love from all of us!
<3 Rachel
I'm proud of you, Katie, and thankful for the both of you for bringing this story to share with us. 3000 likes and 700 comments and I'm already passing it along to friends I know will find it inspiring as well. Here's to happiness and joy where we can find it, and I hope you never lose who you are.
Hi Katie
I'm a girl and I love "Star Wars", too! I even dressed up as Princess Leia for a school costume party, once. Don't let anyone make you feel bad because of what you love! <3
Hi Katie- I am a 38 year old woman who loves science fiction. I know all the Star Wars movies by heart and have several of the novels. Yoda is my favorite character, but I also like Obi-Wan Kenobi, I even like to talk like Jar-Jar Binks sometimes :-) I am also a huge Star Trek fan, it's one of the things my husband and I watch together a lot.
When I was your age I really liked to play with "boy" games and toys like trucks and baseball and Transformers rather than with dolls or dress up. I was the only kid in my class who wore glasses (with bifocals!) and I thought I didn't know any other kids who were adopted, or who had medical problems (I was born with a birth defect and had to go to doctors a LOT). I've never liked the color pink and I still have my Star Wars and Star Trek toys. Does this make me different? You bet! Does it make me weird? Maybe, but in a good way, 'cause I can understand other people who are "different" and be their friend, and my real friends wouldn't have me any other way than who I am!
Hi Katie! My name is Nancy, I'm 19 years old and I live in Australia. I love Star Wars! I remember first watching the movies when I was little and now I watch them again whenever they are on the television. I like other science fiction shows, especially Doctor Who, it's my absolute favourite TV show ever! All my girl-friends love Star Wars and Doctor Who as well.
Some of us got teased in school and that was a really difficult time, but we all stayed true to ourselves and didn't let other people tell us what we should like or dislike. Now we're all almost grown up and we're unique and individual and much more interesting people than we would have been if we'd listened to the bullies and tried to change what we liked.
Be proud of your differences and celebrate them! They make you a more interesting person. You are amazing - don't ever forget that!
Best wishes and good luck for the future, Love Nancy
Hi Katie,
I'm really proud of you for wearing your Star Wars shirt to school even after the boys made fun of you. It takes a lot of courage to stand up for what you believe in and you did it! Be true to who you are, because you are beautiful and amazing, and you have a wonderful smile! Also, you are a Star Wars fan, which means that YOU ROCK!
When I was in 1st grade, I wore glasses and I was in foster care, so I understand what it's like to be different from the other kids at school. I also liked a lot of things that the other girls at my school didn't like. I played with bugs, and watched cool sci-fi movies and read comic books. Even now, as an adult, I still do those things and I love them. I'm different from most of my friends but they like me for who I am because I am a good friend. You are such a cool girl, I bet there are lots of people who like you just the way you are and who think you're awesome just because you are you.
Keep smiling and may the Force be with you!
Hi Katie! Tomorrow our school is wearing pink (even the boys) to show that we stand up to bullying. We're showing our support for a boy at another school that got bullied just because he was wearing a pink shirt. I always told my two girls that NO ONE EVER has the right to make you feel bad about yourself. I'm so glad to hear that your mom is helping you stay strong. You like what you like, and that is WAY OK! I bet there are lots of kids in your school who are glad that you are brave enough to be "different." It might help someone else be brave too. I'm proud of you! And Star Wars is not just for boys! My girls loved it growing up too! Who are Princess Leia and Queen Amedala anyway? GIRLS!!! Hello! And they kicked butt! Silly boys. :o)
Katie,
I have two daughters. Becca is 7, and Kate is 5. They both love Star Wars.
Here's my favorite Dr Seuss quote which I think is especially appropriate:
I think the three original Star Wars movies are brilliant. After all, who is one of the most important characters? It's Princess Leia, who is no wilting flower. Princess Leia is smart and tough and not afraid to stand up for herself. Take a leaf out of her book, Katie. Princess Leia is proud to be herself. You should be too!
Hi Katie!
Star Wars is wonderful and being a girl who enjoys Star Wars is even more wonderful.
I am 46 years old, I was almost 12 when Star Wars was released in 1977 and I've loved it ever since.
Today, I am one of a growing group of women artists who have turned a love for Star Wars (and other neat "boy" stuff, including comics, action/adventure movies) into a career. This past summer I was invited to be an artist at Star Wars Celebration V (in Orlando, Florida) and got to pick one of my favorite characters to draw for a poster for the convention...Boba Fett.
I am also one of a small group of woman sketch card artists who LOVE to draw Star Wars and other wonderful things! Here is a list of some of my very talented GIRL artist friends who LOVE Star Wars and other "boy" things. Most of these ladies, like me, are official Star Wars artists!:
Jan Duursema (she invented the characters of Aayla Secura - Twi-lek and Quinlan Vos!)
Cat Staggs
Katie Cook
Nicole Falk
Denise Vasquez
Leah Mangue (me!)
Allison Sohn
Amy Pronovost
Ingrid Hardy
Soni Alcorn-Hender
Connie Bumbar Permsampieri
Cynthia Narcisi
Darla Eckland
Jessica Hickman
Irma Suriani Ahmed
Karen Krajenbrink
Laura Inglis
Renae DeLiz
Carolyn Edwards
Jen Mercer
Sarah Wilkinson and many more!
Katie, you are awesome just the way you are. You go on enjoying Star Wars...thousands and thousands of girls/women do and that's just the way we (and the boys around us) like it!
Glad to have you aboard, Katie! :D
Leah Mangue
Dear Katie, This grown woman loves Star Wars. In fact, my boyfriend says it's one of the things that attracted him to me. He had never dated anyone who loved Star Wars as much as he does. Science fiction stories are wonderful ways to explore, and no one type of story is ever reserved for boys or for girls. Boys can like romance stories; girls can like science fiction. I'll tell you another secret--I played with Legos more than I played with dolls, too. :-)
May the Force be with you, Katie.
Katie -
I LOVE Star Wars, and Star Trek, and pretty much anything science fiction. I love them so much, that I joined the Air Force, studied Physics in college, went to the International SPACE University for Grad School, and am now working to establish a planetarium in the same town I went to college at, so I can teach kids just like you about all the AWESOME, COOL stuff in the Universe. Oh, & I'm a girl.
I don't remember seeing Star Wars for the first time: I was about 2 1/2 when A New Hope first came out, but my Dad took me to see it. In college, all my friends & I not only dressed up to go see the re-releases, we decorated the theater. My husband & I still dress up whenever we go to any science fiction movie at the theater, and we're in our thirties. In grad school, I went to see Episode 1 three times - twice in French! And I've seen it in German, too! And I chose what cereal to buy because it had a Star Wars toy in it! My favorite Christmas present ever was a 3D puzzle of the Millenium Falcon.
My best friend has two daughters who also love Star Wars. The 8 year old has done the Jedi Academy training in DisneyLand, where she got to fight Darth Vader, and this year she was a Jedi Padawan for Halloween. She got me hooked on Lego Star Wars.
I wanted glasses when I was your age, but I didn't get them until I was in 6th grade. In college, I got contacts, but not so I would look "normal": I wanted to be a Klingon & thought my glasses interfered with the look. When I was in 5th grade, none of my girl friends were in my class, so I played Transformers with the boys. One time, I even got a long-term babysitting job BECAUSE I like science fiction. Those kids still remember me, and were excited to see me when I came to their school as a substitute teacher.
As for being adopted, Princess Leia was adopted, so you are in excellent company!
Hi Katie! I just wanted to tell you to never deny your love of Star wars for ANYONE! I love Star Wars! I wears t-shirts, pins, patches, I have dolls and even a C3-PO necklace! And I was a Jedi for Halloween once! Nothing wrong with girls who like Star Wars! I mean, come on! How cool is Princess Leia!?!? And I promise you, when you're older, those boys will think it's COOL that you love Star Wars! TRUST me. :-) Stay strong and good luck! The force is with you...always. ;-)
--Jen!
Dear Katie,
You are a beautiful girl and I have no doubt you will grow up to be a beautiful and kind woman.
I love your glasses! I wish there were such pretty/cool glasses when I was your age. They really suit you too. Enjoy all you can see with them!
As for Star Wars, I was a fan when I was a kid (I used to collect figurines and I used to collect Barbies) and I'm still a fan now (although, I don't know where my collections went). Girls and women love Star Wars too. Chances are the boys are making fun of you because they are jealous they don't have such cool accessories. It reflects more on the them than you.
Throughout life people are going to make fun of you because of what you don't or do have. The up side is that you are going to meet a lot of people who don't care and like you just the way you are.
You are the best person to decide what you like and don't like. Follow your heart. Today you may want Star Wars, tomorrow you might want pink, purple, or black. Either way, the choice is yours.
Best wishes,
Maureen
Hi Young Padawan!
I'm a 23 year old women who loves Star Wars too! My husband also loves Star Wars and so do both of our child (who just so happen to be girls). Our oldest who is 4 loves Boba Fett (just like her daddy); our yougest who is 1 year old loves Ewoks (just like mommy) and even dress up as one for Halloween this year :).
I was alot like you when I was a little girl and believe me there's nothing wrong with being a little different because I sure was. Just because you like something that some would consider "boyish" doesn't mean you can't like it too. I know what people say can hurt but as long as you keep your head up and try to not let it botther you everything will be ok. I wish you the best young padawan Katie and I think the force is strong with you. Your certainly not alone in your love of Star Wars with all the support your finding here and My girls and I are right there with you :)
Oops, double posted! (feel free to edit the excess!) :D
L
Dear young Jedi Katie,
Poo to all those who don't let you be yourself. May the Force be with you.
Katie...I am a nurse who runs around everywhere with my Star Wars water bottle. Some adults find it cute, some find it stupid & say I should act my age. I just tell them "I am a Star Wars geek & proud of it!"
My daughter Tia went as Yoda for Halloween when she was 6, 7 & 8 years old. When she was 8 the boys said she could not go as Yoda...all Tia said was "well I am....for the 3rd time. And I look way better as Yoda than you ever would!"
So my dear....please don't give up on something you really like.
Oh...and by the way, my daughters best friend Andrew...well he really likes the color pink! Can you imagine what type of stuff the other kids are saying to him??? But he doesn't care. He still wears pink shirts, has a pink lunch bag & has a pink wall in his room & has pink pillows on his bed. So you see...you are not alone out there! Just be yourself and be proud of it!!!!
*Hugs to you Katie from Colorado Springs*
Hi Katie, I've been a Star Wars fan since I the very first movie on opening night. I was only 8 and I thought it was magical.
If you think about it, the very first Star Wars is kind of like a fairy tale in a different setting. The brave young man (who turns out to be a Jedi Knight) is taught by a wise old man, how to use the power within himself to go on an adventure to save a beautiful princess. Along the way, he finds some friends to help him and together, they defeat the evil forces and all get a special reward from the princess. Sounds like a few other fairy tales I've hear. How about you?
It's ok to like what ever you want, even if it could be a "boy" thing. It's the people who do their own thing, like what they want to like, that are always the most succesful and the most happy in thier lives.
My little girl is 8 and loves karate. She was bullied at her school when she first started her training, because all the other girls were doing dance classes. But, she didn't like dance classes, so she stuck with what she liked to do best and she is much happier because of it... and she's pretty good too! :)
I heard a saying recently that I thought you might be able to think of when it gets hard
"Overcome the idea that we must be regular
Hi Katie!
You know, i started liking star wars since i was little, i didn't know much about it, but i didn't get into star wars, a lot more, until i was 15... and now that i think about it, i reeeally WISH i had started at your age. :)
Your story reminded me of the times i was teased in high school, starting in 10th grade (i'm 21 now) for the same thing, and let me tell you that the bad part of it, for me, was that it was mostly by people i considered good friends... i too was ashamed of liking star wars, taking my watches or folders, notebooks etc; to school, at first, but i let go of the shame, and learned to love it more (because, after all, Star Wars IS awesome! :] ).
When i started to "show" how much of a fan i was, i did feel comfortable but it took me a while to get used to it, and i eventually managed to get over my fear of showing i was a fan... the funny thing is that by the end of high school, everyone (my classmates, friends) knew i loved it, and at times in class if the teacher ever mentioned something about star wars,(which were actually a couple of times.. hehe) everyone would turn their heads to me,the room would be silent with only the teacher talking... which made me feel uneasy at first, as well, but then i would find it funny.... so, i would raise my hand and answer the question, all while showing that i was a proud fan.......
so, you see, don't be ashamed of your pride, Star Wars Fans are THE BEST! just know that you have TONS of people, your fellow star wars fans, that you can call friends... because after all we all have something big in common... :D
So, everyday when you wake up, remember how awesome you are. Don't let the comments from people,your fellow classmates, or anyone-for that matter- bring you down, because after all, what they tell you doesn't really matter....all you can do is think of how much they are missing out on the coolest saga ever, and the great people one can meet because of it..
and you know what? i'm no longer friends with the people that teased me the most, those people i thought were my close friends...... BUT thankfully, BECAUSE of Star Wars, i met, and now have even more friends that are also fans, who are very dear to me, and awesome!
MAY THE FORCE BE WITH YOU, ALWAYS KATIE!!! You are very strong in the force! :D <3 P.S. Start saving up for your first convention (if you haven't been to one yet).... you're REALLY going to LOVE it! :D
Hi, Katie! I'm a girl and I've loved Star Wars since I was your age, too. I also love Star Trek, and Star Gate, and star everything else! When I was little, I got picked on a lot for being very, very tall and for liking books but not cartoons. As I got older, I found friends who liked the same things I did and the teasing stopped. There's nothing wrong with liking awesome things, and nothing wrong with being awesome yourself. You stick to your blasters and don't let anyone tell you that you need to be like everyone else. You keep being you and rocking on.
May the Force be with you, Katie!
Dear Katie,
I have always loved Star Wars. In fact, I am a laser engineer, so I design and build lasers for a living. In college I studied physics so I could learn how to make a laser like the ones you see in Star Wars. The ones I make aren't quite as futuristic as the ones in Star Wars, but they are pretty cool. My favorite piece of clothing is a Princess Leia t-shirt that has a giant picture of Princess Leia shooting a ray gun. The movies are really good, and you have excellent taste.
May the force be with you.
Warm Regards,
Olivia Koski
Brooklyn, New York
Dear Katie,
You are beautiful, precious, and strong. We are all here supporting you! You are so brave to go forth and do what you feel is right for you. Bless you for your courage. As you set this example, other kids will see how amazing you are and they too will feel empowered to do what makes them happy!
I'm including my post to you from Blogger here as well. Here it is:
"Miss Katie,
You are a Sister Jedi, and we stand with you in spirit everywhere you go.
The Force is with you, and we are, too. Your Light is stronger than the Dark Side. Walk with your pretty head held high, continue to enjoy and embrace Star Wars, and know you are a female Jedi Master.
We honor you."
There. I'm so happy you have such a loving Mom to support you in all of this. How truly blessed and fortunate your family is to have one another. Hang tough, Katie-girl. You are a Jedi!
Wishing you and your family blessings of all the wondrous good in the Universe,
Kcat
Katie! I wish we lived closer! My daughter June is in first grade and she too loves Star Wars! Both her dad and I grew up with Star Wars and love it! So, June loves it too! She will be the first to tell you that Star Wars can be for girls too, just look at Leia and Amidala/Padme! Don't let those boys get you down! Star Wars is for everyone! And you can get the best of both worlds! We found a pink Star Wars shirt which she proudly shoed off to Lord Vader at Disneyland! You are awesome!
Hi Katie!
I'm a 27 year old girl, and I love Star Wars! And video games, Lord of the Rings, and sports. I know how you feel because growing up, I got teased a lot, too. It's hard sometimes, but you will meet plenty of people who like you just the way you are. Just look at all these great comments- there are lots of girls that love Star Wars! And eventually, the boys will think it's pretty cool that you like Star Wars, too. In fact, part of the reason my husband fell for me was that I had a Lord of the Rings poster and a Playstation2 when we met.
So hold your head up, keep sporting your Star Wars gear, and may the force be with you.
Andrea
Hi Katie,
I just wanted to say that I think you are a very brave girl.
I remember seeing Star Wars for the first time when I was Five (Which was a long time ago) and ever since then I have been a huge fan.
When I was younger I never really liked to play with things like Barbie dolls and other things that were considered girl toys. I would play with cars and dump trucks and all sorts of other stuff because I thought it was fun. (I was never really into all the cool things)
Now I have R2D2 Christmas lights that I hang in my room even when it's not Christmas and I collect all sorts of other R2D2s.
Just remember that there are all sorts of strong and Brave women in Star Wars. They can Princesses and Jedi or they can be Queen of an entire planet.
Don't let some mean kids make you feel bad. If you want to carry a Star Wars water bottle they you go right ahead and do it!!
Lynne
A fellow Star Wars Fan in Winnipeg Manitoba Canada
Katie-
Be whoever you want to be. At the end of the day, what everyone else thinks of you isn't important. The only thing that matters is how you feel about yourself! And you are not alone! I am a girl and I like a lot of movies that are traditionally "just for guys". But when you are an adult, people will think that's cool =)
I'm so sorry that you're already having to go thru this, kiddo. I hope that you'll remember that often times, when people tease or bully you, it's because they are jealous of something about you. Whether it's your excitement about Star Wars, your great family, or how much joy you get out of life, some people feel the need to tear down things that they wish they had for themselves. So, maybe it can help you feel sorry for the people that try and make you feel bad about how special you are.
I'm adopted too and I love Star Wars. You're not alone. There are a lot of us "cool girls" out there!
Stay strong,
Nicole
Katie,
I think it's AWESOME you like Star Wars, but you know what, it doesn't matter what I think, because it's what YOU like that matters. I am woman who really likes Star Wars, and Star Trek (the OLD one) and all kinds of SciFi. I always have -- and I like Batman and Spiderman too. My little girl wears glasses and she LOVES Star Wars and studying planets and anything to do with maths and she says that makes her pretty different too. She also told me that "everybody is a little different" and we think that's good because it would be boring if we all were the same.
Oh, hang on to that water bottle, it might be a collector's item one day! And Katie, I think your mom is awesome for telling the story.
Emma
Hi Katie (and Katie's mom),
My name is Dan and I am a man. I am writing because I have loved Star Wars since I was a little boy. I grew up watching and re-watching the original trilogy and those are three of my all-time favorite movies. It is always a delight to get the chance to meet another Star Wars fan.
Katie, I wanted you to know that in my lifetime, I have met dozens and dozens and dozens of people who also love Star Wars. And you know what? Many of them are girls! In fact, I would consider my female friends who are Star Wars fans to be amongst the cool people I know! Like yourself, they know that Star Wars is AWESOME!!!
You are not alone in loving Star Wars, as I'm sure you can tell from the tremendous response you have gotten this evening! I just wanted to say that if Star Wars gives you joy, then don't let anyone make you ashamed of liking it! You keep watching Star Wars and be proud to carry your water bottle to school! If anyone gives you grief about it, just remember one thing: they are probably jealous that they don't have a cool Star Wars water bottle of their own!
You ladies take care, and while I know it sounds cliched, I just have to say it: May the Force be with you!
Dear Katie,
My name is Molly and I am 19 year old girl who happens to be an enormous star wars fan. I am actually quite jealous of your water bottle, it's probably the coolest thing ever. Just recently I got my picture taken with Boba Fett and Darth Vader on the steps of the Franklin Institute and I was so excited. I have a lot of friends who are Star Wars fans, both boys and girls. As for those boys bothering you, I promise they'll go away eventually, and even if they don't you'll be okay. Star Wars is a great series and you should never be ashamed of your fandom. Stay strong and may the force be with you.
Oh, by the way, here is a good site for kids about bullying.
http://www.pacerkidsagainstbullying.org/
I'm so sorry that you're already having to go thru this, kiddo. I hope that you'll remember that often times, when people tease or bully you, it's because they are jealous of something about you. Whether it's your excitement about Star Wars, your great family, or how much joy you get out of life, some people feel the need to tear down things that they wish they had for themselves. So, maybe it can help you feel sorry for the people that try and make you feel bad about how special you are.
I'm adopted too and I love Star Wars. You're not alone. There are a lot of us "cool girls" out there!
Stay strong,
Nicole
Hi Katie! My name's Bethany. :) I'm a 25-year-old girl who absolutely LOVES Star Wars, and so does my sister! I first became a Star Wars fan when I was 12 years old, just a little older than you, and I've been loving it ever since. In fact, I like it so much that I read Star Wars books and watch the Clone Wars TV show every week. So don't listen to those boys when they tell you girls can't like Star Wars, because that's just not true! Drink proudly out of that Star Wars water bottle--I bet those boys are just jealous because they wish they were cool enough to have one! ;)
Dear Katie,
I was just like you in first grade. I had glasses, in fact I had just gotten my first pair, and I loved Star Wars. Still do in fact! It's a wonderful world with lots of interesting characters. I also am adopted with lots of people who love me :).
I love other kinds of science fiction and I have made some wonderful friends because of it. One is an archaeologist like Indiana Jones, a few others are college professors and one is a law student. I played with Ninja Turtles and I played soccer and football with the boys at recess when I was your age. Eventually those boys will see how special a girl who kind of understands them really is. Until then, remember you are a beautiful unique person and they would be lucky if you were their friend.
Be yourself always!
JB
You've gotten overwhelming responses and I suspect that neither you nor Katie still need my input, but I need to raise my hand in solidarity with all the other lady Jedi out there.
I have a Boba Fett action figure, one of the first editions, that I still keep with me when I move. I even used to play the Star Wars role playing game, which was super geeky of me. But there is nothing wrong with that. Just got to be yourself, because everyone else is already taken. And if you like Star Wars, that's great. There are a ton of other ladies out there who do as well.
Dear Katie,
I am a 21 year-old girl who likes Star Wars too! I've always been into things that are considered "just for boys." This does not stop me from liking them, and it should not stop you either. Do not change what you like for anyone! Be true to yourself. There will always be people who disagree with your likes; however, there will also be people who share them with you! I think it is awesome that you have lots of Star Wars items. ^_^
May the force be with you,
-V
GO KATIE GO! :-) You have a great name, and great taste in movies. From Kaiti, who looooves Star Wars!
Hi Katie~ :)
My name's Maggie, and I, like sooooo many other poeple, girls and boys, that have commented, LOVE Star Wars. My dorm room is plastered with posters of Yoda and Vader and Obi-Wan, and I even have a poster with more characters than I can count on it! My best friend, who I consider to be my unofficially adopted sister, got me interested in Star Wars when I was in high school. We even bought robes and costumes at Goodwill and choreographed lightsaber fights like in the movies, and we did it in our yards for people to see! (I *really* don't recommend this, though, we got pretty bumped and bruised!)
I've been bullied pretty much all of my school years. In grade school, my parents were artists and we lived in a farming town, so I was an oddball. In high school, I was shy, so a group of boys used to make fun of me. Once I realized I didn't actually care what they thought because I had enough amazing friends without them, I was able to just laugh. Please Katie, if anything I hope you always get to laugh.
I've always loved science, probably because of my dad, and right now I'm in college studying Physics, Astronomy, and Math. The cool thing is, a *lot* of the Astronomy majors here are girls. And we LOVE Star Wars! I've dressed one of my best friends up as both Queen Amidala and Princess Leia for Halloween, and people think it's AWESOME!
I know people say this all the time, and I heard it so much when I was younger it didn't matter to me. But I want to say from experience: It does get better. Embrace who you are. If you walk with your head up and a smile, bullies won't have anything to tease you about, because no matter what, you can still smile.
I don't know if you're still reading these after so many, but if you are, hopefully you know by now that you're absolutely not alone. And even if you're different from some of the people around you, you're part of a much larger group of people that love you for expressing yourself, love you for loving Star Wars, and love you for sharing this story. Best wishes!
Katie - How lucky you are to have such a great mom. I love that she took the time to blog about your experience so that we can all learn from it.
I'm the mother of a 15-month old daughter, Aurelia. And I hope she's as brave as you are when she gets to be your age.
I'm sure others have said more wonderful, more inspiring things than I, but I wanted to add one thing. It gets better. That doesn't mean that kids won't still hurt your feelings - they will sometimes. But it gets better, and boys will care about you, and be friends with you, and appreciate that you like Star Wars! Or they won't care a whit about Star Wars, but they'll like you for you. It gets better, I promise.
And mom? My husband has been a collector of Star Wars stuff for ages, and we'd love to ship your sweet girl some toys, if there's a PO Box to send it to (this is not a creepy attempt to find out your personal info). I'd be happy to send something to the folks at Chicago Now to deliver to you. Just let me know.
xoxo to Katie,
Mama Mumpower
I just wanted to make sure that Katie saw she got love straight from the OFFICIAL STAR WARS BLOG!!!!
http://starwarsblog.starwars.com/index.php/2010/11/18/young-girl-bullied-for-liking-star-wars/
Katie, I'm a girl and I grew up LOVING Star Wars! I'm talking, quoting, fun fact spewing, book reading, action figure playing, lightsaber dueling, Halloween dressing up LOVED Star Wars.
I know what it's like to feel different with glasses, braces and frizzy hair and it isn't easy. Some days all these great and genuine things people and your parents are telling you just may not feel like enough but I am here to tell you that it gets better. Seriously! I'm in college now and kids are working hard to try to be MORE different than every other person around them (and they all look a little silly, honestly - but it's great to see).
Don't worry about things being "girl things" or "boy things" - worry about them being "Katie Things". If you like it, honey, it's yours! If it's just not you - don't worry about it :) It's okay to not like the things your classmates like, as long as you respect their right to like it. I'm sorry they haven't learned that lesson yet, some of them might not ever but the really really cool thing is that you know it now.
Just be you! And by reading all of these comments, I can tell that everyone else thinks YOU are pretty cool.
Good luck and may the force be with you ;)
Kacie, a Jedi-wannabe Buckeye :)
I'm so sorry that you're already having to go thru this, kiddo. I hope that you'll remember that often times, when people tease or bully you, it's because they are jealous of something about you. Whether it's your excitement about Star Wars, your great family, or how much joy you get out of life, some people feel the need to tear down things that they wish they had for themselves. So, maybe it can help you feel sorry for the people that try and make you feel bad about how special you are.
I'm adopted too and I love Star Wars. You're not alone. There are a lot of us "cool girls" out there!
Stay strong,
Nicole
ps: check out my profile pic. It's me and my fiance dressed as Princess Leia and young Obi Wan Kenobi!
Little Miss Katie,
I've just recently gained a love for Star Wars. I am a twenty year old girl and I am one of the geekiest people I know and yet I have a lovely boyfriend of two years who is just as different as me. I wouldn't change the way he is or the way I am. My geekiness is what helped me catch him. Give it a few years and you will see what I mean.
The important people who care will never make fun of you (out of elementary school because right now, it means they like you ;])for liking something different and, in fact, will celebrate you for it.
In High School I dressed up as all the Holidays my senior year TWICE. The first time I did it, people looked at me weird and said things behind my back but eventually they learned that it was just who I was. At that point they excitedly asked what would be the next day. It is OK to be different and I take joy in the fact I am not the same as everyone else.
People can be fickle and I am sure those boys will decide to rejoice, one day, that you are a geek; a Star Wars geek at that.
All of us who have posted (and those who haven't) love you and hope you show those boys that you can like what you want when you want and how you want. I am happy you are not a cookie cutter person, there are too many of those and we need to fill the world with uniqueness and imagination otherwise it will become boring and old.
The force is strong with you. Keep it strong. Head up!
MR. (yup, my initials spell mr.)
Dear Katie:
I am 22 years old and I love Star Wars just like you! I know it sucks to be teased or called names when other kids think you're different or weird. But you know what? Deep down inside, they are all scared that they are going to be teased by someone that thinks that THEY are strange. So you should be brave and be proud of the way you are so that you can show everyone else that it is ok to be yourself. And I know that it is hard to imagine the future, but at some point there will be other people who won't tease you because you are 'weird', but will love you because of it and want to be your friend instead. I promise. It happened to me.
So hang in there, Katie. It will get better, even on days where it seem like it never will.
Katie,
I don't know if you carry a purse yet, but this is mine:
http://img441.imageshack.us/img441/1914/20101118233439359.jpg
If you can't see it for some reason, it's an Empire Strikes Back lunchbox, and I carry all my girly belongings in it. (Picture was taken with my special edition R2D2 phone) :]
Don't let those boys or anyone else get you down! Star Wars is awesome, and you're awesome for sticking up for yourself and liking whatever you want to like.
Being original is a fantastic and rare thing. Flaunt it, girl!
To mom, thank you for supporting your daughter and encouraging her to not falter under peer pressure. I was fortunate enough to have a mom like you growing up, and I owe it all to her for allowing me to become a resilient and independent woman. Cheers to great and loving mothers!
Hope this helped, Katie. Just remember, when you're the most original person in the group, YOU determine what's cool.
Oh, and may the Force be with you.
Hi Katie!
When I was in first grade, I liked to play with the boys because they did more interesting things and weren't afraid of bugs and worms. I liked bugs and worms and toy cars and Legos. I also liked being a girl and wearing dresses. I thought in my head that it was okay to wear dresses and like boy things too but no one ever told me it was okay to do both so I kept it a secret.
Then one day when I was a bit older, my mother took me and my brothers to see a brand new movie called Star Wars (this was a long time ago, when the movie first came out). I loved it!!! I especially liked Princess Leia because she was a girl and a princess and also she was really smart and was good at getting out of trouble and I think she might have been tougher than Luke and Han Solo. That was the first time I ever knew that girls could be girls and do boy stuff too.
I think Princess Leia would be proud of you for making up your own mind about what girls can and can not do. I think it's wonderful you chose a Star Wars backpack and water bottle.
Oh I know about being different too. I'm not adopted but I did have to start wearing glasses in 5th grade. I hated them. And then one day someone said that I was lucky because I could take them off and magically the world would be blurry and then put them on and the world would be sharp again. Kids without glasses don't get to do that. I especially liked looking at strings of colored lights without my glasses because they'd blur in a really pretty way and best of all no one else could see it like that because I was the only kid I knew that had glasses. Sometimes people say that you are different when they really mean you have something special. Being able to make the lights blurry was special.
You sound like someone who has many many things that are special only to you. As you know, it's sometimes hard to be the different one. But lots of people actually admire people who are willing to be different and I bet they admire you. I hope so! I do!
And oh yes, Star Wars is still my favorite movie of all time. May the Force be with you!
Hi Katie
When I was your age I had glasses and an eye patch and I liked Transformers which was a cartoon that the boys liked. Sometimes they did make fun of me, and it did hurt my feelings, but the more they did it, the more I pretended that I didn't care. Soon, they got bored by it. I didn't let them have them have the satisfaction of controlling how I felt about things or even about myself. If you like something or feel strongly about something, don't change that for anyone. That's what makes you special and who you are. :)
Hello, Katie!
I'm a 22 year old woman who also loves Star Wars and other science fiction and fantasy! My favorite subject is math (I am actually going to college to study it) and I too wear big glasses and fun t-shirts with pride. (My favorite is my Mobile Suit Gundam t-shirt!) So you are definitely not alone in the "girls who like Star Wars" department! And in case you like science and math, you are definitely not alone there, either. (My academic advisor and main teacher is actually a woman, and one of the best I've ever met!)
I am so proud of you for going out there with confidence with your Star Wars swag! You are indeed a very cool girl, and it's great to see other girls who also love the things I love with pride and flair. I admit I am kind of jealous of your Star Wars water bottle! Maybe I'll pick one up for myself sometime. :D
And yes, as others have been saying, it does get better. I actually met my fiance at a science-fiction/fantasy/gaming club in college! I've made some great friends, both boys and girls, through our shared love for Star Wars and other things.
So keep on trucking, Katie, and may the force be with you as you grow as a woman and as a fan!
Hello, my name is Clara and I think what you and your daughter has done is wonderful. Proud To Be Me Day is a great idea. If you could email me the details about it that would be great. My school would like to do Proud To Be Me Day. My email is: millerclara1@gmail.com. Thanks you. :)
Katie,
I commanded those boys to bully you. Join forces with me and we will rule the playground.
I am your father!
Sithfully,
Anakin
Uh oh!
hey, katie! my name is heather and i'm a girl who not only loves star wars but had to wear an eye patch and glasses for years when i was just about your age! i completely and totally feel your pain, especially about how mean people can be. i was made fun of for the exact same things those boys are making fun of you now - and although i'm not adopted, i want to adopt someone who is as brave and strong as you are. people made fun of me when i was your age for exactly the same things. i'm almost 24 now, and i still love star wars - and from wearing the eye patch, i have much better eyesight!
stay strong and keep your head up. you are a beautiful and unique individual, and you are bigger than the people who bully you. plus, i promise you'll still love star wars when you get older - although you might not love your eyepatches! i'll wear one of my star wars shirts tomorrow in honor of you!
may the force be with you!
heather h.
Hi, Katie,
I don't know if you and your mom are still reading these comments, but I felt compelled to write after being directed here by Her Universe's tweet and reading your story. I first fell in love with Star Wars when I was six years old and the first movie came out. I was always the only girl who loved it, and my friends sometimes teased me about it (sometimes still do), but I didn't care. I knew what a wonderful world the Star Wars universe is, and that was all that mattered. I have since made sure that my 10 year-old son is a fan, too. We love sharing action figures and looking for new Lego sets to build. I'm a teacher now, and I always have a few students (boys AND girls) who think it's cool that I love Star Wars so much. (I even have a Darth Vader laser pointer that I use in class.) I hope you never stop being proud of being a Star Wars fan, because they are always the nicest, coolest, smartest people around. :)
When I told my son about you, he said that those boys were "messed up and not right at all" because Star Wars is for everyone of all ages, boys and girls alike, and that anyone would be crazy NOT to like Star Wars. He also said to tell you that the only thing that is for "boys only" is the men's room. :) He knows a thing or two about being bullied and teased. He gets called weird all the time for the things he likes. He used to get teased about being a big SpongeBob fan. And he doesn't like the kids at school to know that he likes Hannah Montana because he's afraid of getting teased. I tell him that what makes him different is what makes him special and cool. I also tell him that it's the ones who get called weird who end up running the world. :) Be proud of who you are and what you like. You're clearly an awesome girl with great taste. And keep talking to your mom about the things that bother you. That always helps. And because it can never be said enough, may the force be with you!
Oops - wouldn't be a good teacher if I didn't give credit where credit is due. The tweet where I learned about you came from @nerdist (a very cool guy who likes girls who like Star Wars). Since then, I have seen several other tweets and retweets going around about you! :) The Star Wars Universe and the Twitterverse are on your side.
For Katie:
Dear Katie,
I wish I had a Star Wars water bottle when I was your age! You're lucky you've got one. I am 26 years old and I still wear my Star Wars t-shirt sometimes and I'm sure I will be wearing it when I'm 60! You are also lucky because you know what you love and what makes you happy. Don't let anyone take that away from you. = )
Bipana
Katie I'm a guy in my 30's, so I'm an old fogey. I now use a wheelchair to get around but when i was your age I could walk. But I walked with my knees bent and feet turned inward. I walked "funny" as they used to say. And when I was your age I was made fun of for that. But I learned something very important when I was being made fun of. First that the kids making fun of me were just acting out from their own lack of confidence. So do yourself a favor and forgive them and be kind to them. Secondly I knew then, as I know now, that I was a good person. That I tried to be a good person and thus there was nothing wrong with me. In fact, I learned that if we weren't all different to some degree we'd be bored to death!
And don't forget that what they see on the outside of you and comment on doesn't matter because they don't know the inside you like your family and friends do and will. Remember that when Luke first met Yoda he laughs at the thought that this creature before him was a great warrior. And Yoda told him not to judge him by his size. Be Yoda. The bullies don't know what a great warrior you can be. :)
Hey there Katie! I'm Gail and I'm 23 years old. The first movie I remember watching was Star Trek: The Voyage Home when I was just a toddler, and I first watched Star Wars when I was your age. My favorite scenes where the ones with the most aliens, and when I grew up I very much wanted to be just like Han Solo and Princess Leia.
I never went to public school, but was homeschooled until I went to college. However, I got teased by kids in my church and my homeschool group for liking things like Star Wars and Star Trek (and pirates. I loved Pirates and these were the days when pirates weren't cool. Which shows how dumb people can be who decide what is "cool" to like because pirates are always cool). Or I was teased for being white skined, or having freckles, or silliest of all having one finger that is ever so slightly crooked that most people don't even notice. It wasn't fun. I won't lie, but it is tough to be yourself. But you know what? It is completely worth it.
There is a whole great, big world waiting for anyone brave enough. If you can be yourself now with confidence you'll be amazed at what happens. For instance I've taken to wearing a bowler hat, and instead of getting teased for wearing a very different hat out, people come up to me and tell me how much they like it. Sometimes they even buy a hat like mine after seeing it. Instead of conforming to what people think is cool be yourself and people will see whatever you chose to do is cool. Regardless if you chose to have a Star Wars bottle or a pink bottle.
Also there is so much just waiting for you discover it. I still love star Wars (as I type I'm looking at a Han Solo action figure that I bought when I was seven), but there are so many things like Star Wars out there. When you are old enough you can look forward to things like Lord of the Rings, Hitchhiker's Guide To the Galaxy, Doctor Who, Princess Bride, and any movie by Jim Henson. But Star Wars will always rock and so will you.
Live long and prosper and may the force be with you,
Gail
Hi Katie,
I have a Katie in first grade too. Her favorite game and movie are Star Wars, she wears glasses and has a eye patch too to help her right eye get stronger. You are very loved and are going to do wonderful things with your life. Remember that who you are is much more important then who your friends think you should be. Listen to your mom cause she loves you more than anyone else in the world and be confident that you are a wonderful little girl created for a wonderful purpose.
Katie,
I'm a girl, and I like a lot of "boy" things. Tell the smelly boys that their "lack of faith" disturbs you:)
I'm a diesel mechanic, which is not a normal "girl" job. I like it because repairing things is like working on a puzzle. Lots and lots of boys make fun of me, but I like to do this.
I like computers, and math and science and Tonka Trucks! When my kids were your age, I bought them the old fashioned metal Tonka Trucks, and I have 2 girls and a boy who played with them all the time.
Do what you like, and like what you like, and don't let anyone tell you different.
Hey, Katie
Another Katie here!
I'm writing from Bulgaria, it's 4 AM here, but I wanted to say:
I am maybe the hugest SW fangirl here, plus I've always been the most different anywhere I go. Very shortsighted, a bit tomboyish, a bit plump...they made fun of me when I was your age, but somehow I started just being proud of what I am. I was good at languages and art, so I continued doing this, i s
Hi Sweet Katie! I just want to tell you that you are a very beautiful little girl. I'm a woman and love Star Wars and other "Boy" movies. I think those boys are just jealous and probably want that water bottle for themselves. Ignore them and remember that you are above them and their teasing and keep in mind that you are loved and appreciated by your family and real friends. You Rock!! :)
Hi Katie;
I am 24 years old (nearly 25), and I have loved Star Wars and boy stuff since I was a kid. I too, was made fun of for being a 'nerd'. When the girls were off playing with Barbies and having sleep overs, I was reading comic books and trading my brother his GI Joe for my Barbies (because playing with him was SO much cooler than playing house).
I was also bullied about the fact that my mother died when I was young, and that my step-mother had to be taken care of by home-makers because of s bad car accident she had.
All the time, I was made fun of for being different. It hurt. I remember crying most nights after school because of things the kids would do and say to me.
But you know what? All that bullying, I learned to feel bad for them. You see, they had to live by standards of what they thought they had to be. They couldn't jump out of their shells and live by their dreams.
I still live by my dreams today. And now? All those boys that thought I was a loser for liking boy stuff? They now think I'm the coolest girl they know.
Besides, everyone knows the coolest Jedi Knights were girls anyways :)
Hi Katie!
I, too, am a fan of Star Wars and so is my 11 year old daughter, Chloe. She is in the sixth grade. Her ipod touch cover is a Star Wars cover with Darth Vader on it! She also loves all sorts of other "boy" stuff, like video games. Her backpack looks like a big Nintendo controller. Just wanted to let you know that you are not alone! :)
I began to be happy especially because I'm so different and awesome. Smile, be above the things and do what you're good at-you'll see very soon:)
kisses from farrrrrrrrrrrrrr Europe! :*
Hi Katie, I'm just a boy but I've grown up a lot. I've been picked on for being adopted, being girly, wearing glasses, being heavier than other kids, and for being smarter than other kids.
But all those kids who bullied me have not amounted to much and I'm living a pretty great life. I'm doing what I want, making good money, and being happy.
You sound like a terrific person for liking what you like and for being so brave. I think maybe you're braver than I was at your age. In fact, I think you're so brave, you're giving me inspiration to be even braver. Thank you, Katie.
The world needs more people like you and we're all glad you're just who you are.
Dear Katie:
I have never met you but you sound like a very interesting, fun, and smart girl. I am a girl and I have always been a little different. When I was a teenager my dad asked me why I could not just be like everyone else. My response was that I am not like everyone else and I do not want to be - I am me. And, Katie, you are you. Enjoy it, you are special.
I am a big Star Wars fan. I use Star Wars quotes in the college classes I teach and my students enjoy it. I have also been told by guys that they think it is cool that I am a Star Wars fan. I have an 11 year old niece and she was Princess Leia for Halloween this year and I am buying her the complete Star Wars dictionary for Christmas. So, you are not the only girl who loves Star Wars. You are not alone - you are one of many very cool, very smart, and very unique people!
Enjoy and be proud of the things that you like. You are not weird, different, or wrong - you are you and that is the best thing you can be. Star Wars is for everyone (boys and girls) to enjoy.
May the force be with you.
WJAC
Katie! You don't realize how cool you are! Every girl I know wishes they could know more about Star Wars - that is THE ULTIMATE in cool, and for you to be so young and you already know about it!!! Most of my friends found about it from their boyfriends later in life, then had to go back re-watch it to even be able to carry on a conversation with the cool kids. You're so far ahead! And you're viral! You're the coolest chick ever and you're just starting out!!!
I have found, as I was growing up and being a girl who liked Star Wars & computers that the kids who tease you in grade school, ask you on a date in high school ....and then ask you for a job after college. Carry your Star Wars bottle with pride my lady! This is just the beginning!
The Force will be with you, always.
- Melodie 29yo
Fellow-female-star-wars fan and business owner Hollywood, CA
I've been a Star Wars fan my entire life. When I was in grade school, I had Star Wars folders and pens, but I was the only girl who liked Star Wars and the boys thought I was weird. Now, I'm 22 years old and many of my friends, both boys and girls, like Star Wars. Don't let someone else ruin what makes you happy.
When a boy makes fun of you for liking Star Wars, look at him and say, "Aren't you a little short to be a Stormtrooper?"
Hi, Katie! I'm a boy (okay, a grown-up man), but I'm a huge Star Wars fan -- and my girlfriend is an even bigger Star Wars fan, and has been her whole life! She even bought real Light Sabers so we could go in costume as Jedi Knights. We know for sure that Star Wars is not just for boys, and we feel kinda sorry for those kids who teased you -- they're the ones who are missing out.
There are science fiction convention in Chicago a few times a year -- CapriCon in February, Duckon in June, WindyCon in November (just missed that one) -- where there are a whole bunch of other people of all ages who love Star Wars, Star Trek, Lord of the Rings, Japanese animation, books, art, comics, all kindsa stuff. You and your mom might want to drop in on one of those, because you'd meet a whole bunch of smart and friendly folks who like the same kinds of things you like!
May The Force Be With You!
Hi Katie,
I am 31 years old and I am typing this while wearing my glasses and hanging out with my Chewbacca action figure. Which was a gift to me on my 16th birthday from a boy who was a friend of mine! I must say, though, that while I don't have a Star Wars water bottle, that sounds pretty cool - I think I'm jealous! :) How's that for kind of cool - you've made a grown up jealous of you!
You should never be ashamed of liking things that people may think are different because it's just part of you being uniquely YOU! Go on and rock that Star Wars stuff like the awesome girl that you are because you have a whole army of support right here, led by your awesome mom. Maybe those boys are just jealous of what a great water bottle you have!
You keep just being you...because you are a pretty great young lady!
P.S. Between you and me, I think people who wear glasses look smarter. ;)
Katie,
When I was in first grade, computers were not as much of a part of our daily lives as the are now. There are calculators out there that can do more than my first computer did!
The graphics were barely recognizable as pictures. They were more like putting LEGOs together in a pattern than true pictures! Some of my favorite games only had words! No pictures at all.
But that didn't change the fact that I loved those games, and played them no matter what people said.
And I still do so today, though almost 30 years later they sure look a lot prettier! I've made many friends through reaching out and finding people who enjoy the same games I do, as well as other non-game-related interests. I met my husband because we liked the same series of nerdy books! He has two beautiful daughters, both who love Star Wars. My elder stepdaughter has had both Spiderman and MarioKart lunchboxes, and loved them.
Sometimes, people get possessive of things they see as important to them, and they try to make them exclusive in some way. They say things like "You can't be here, you don't have enough money" or "You look different than me, you don't belong here" or "You can't like that thing, it's for people like US and not like YOU." All of these people are wrong, of course, but it's up to those of us being excluded to show them why they're wrong, just by being ourselves and not letting their small-minded feelings change how we behave.
The things you like are a reflection of who you are, and no one is allowed to change that about you.
All else fails, just use your Jedi mind powers and tell those boys "This is not the water bottle you're looking for."
Good luck Katie!
Hi Katie!
I'm a girl, I'm adopted, I wear glasses, and I love Star Wars, too. My cousin and I saw the movie many times at the theater when it came out, and I collected Star Wars glasses, Star Wars folders, Star Wars shirts, Star Wars books, Star Wars pencils--you name it, I had it. I still like science fiction and fantasy enough to write about it for a website, and I have plenty of friends, boys and girls, who like it too. If you like something, you like it, and it doesn't have anything to do with whether you're a boy or a girl. Stand up for what you like, Katie, and you'll find that you're not alone.
Katie,
I have loved Star Wars my entire life. Don't be ashamed. I'm a 27 year old woman who is trying to slowly build a lifesized R2-D2. If you want to see something cool, check out this. http://www.r2kt.com/ Its a story about another girl named Katie who wanted a pink R2-D2, and the people who build the droids made it for her. Good luck with the bullying. And just remember one day those boys will be begging you to date them.
Hi Katie - I am also a grown women Star Wars fan. I loved Star Wars from the first time I saw it and it was the first time I saw a strong brave heroine. Princess Leia was smart and brave and I thought she was amazing. Sounds like you are just like Princess Leia smart and brave so you are my heroine too. You truly sound like an amazing kid and your mom sounds pretty awesome too. Good luck and may the force be with you.
I'm sure as the parent of a young girl, this is the last thing you wanna hear, but!
The same boys teasing her for liking star wars will be the ones lining up to take her to prom in a few years.
So you better look out.
Dear Katie,
I am a woman who loves Star Wars! When I was 5 I wanted to be Princess Leia SO much! I begged my mother to put my teeny wisps of hair into those signature buns. She somehow managed to coax my hair into two itty bitty buns and I felt like I *was* Princess Leia. That support and encouragement was fantastic. And it sounds like your mom is an amazing woman, Kaite!
I love science fiction and computer games! In fact, I play an online Star Wars game and a friend of mine from that game showed me your story. He knew I would want to support a little "Geek Girl" in training! And when I say Geek Girl, I say it with pride! I am a Geek Girl and I love it! There are lots of us out there, Katie! For some reason there are those out there who still think girls should only wear pink and play with Barbies. Now, I had many Barbies when growing up and I still love pink, but there is room for Star Wars in there too! You know what we need, Katie? Pink Star Wars shirts!! Ooo with sparkles! We can like pink if want and still like Star Wars! I hope that seeing so many other women who like things that are thought to be reserved for boys gives you strength!
Take care! Be strong! And remember, Kaite....May the Force be with you!
- Anhinalee
Hi Katie - I am also a grown women Star Wars fan. I loved Star Wars from the first time I saw it and it was the first time I saw a strong brave heroine. Princess Leia was smart and brave and I thought she was amazing. Sounds like you are just like Princess Leia smart and brave so you are my heroine too. You truly sound like an amazing kid and your mom sounds pretty awesome too. Good luck and may the force be with you.
Dear Katie-
I am a girl and I love Starwars. The first movie I remember seeing at the Theatre was Return of the Jedi. Han Solo was my first crush. I married a man who loves Starwars even more than I do. Infact, he dresses up like Boba Fet just for fun. Sometimes I dress as Princess Leia and we attend charity fundraisers together. We had a Starwars cake topper on our wedding cake! There were plenty of people who laughed at that. But I didn't care because it was my wedding and I like Starwars!
Hi Katie - I am also a grown women Star Wars fan. I loved Star Wars from the first time I saw it and it was the first time I saw a strong brave heroine. Princess Leia was smart and brave and I thought she was amazing. Sounds like you are just like Princess Leia smart and brave so you are my heroine too. You truly sound like an amazing kid and your mom sounds pretty awesome too. Good luck and may the force be with you.
My 9-year-old niece dressed up as Wolverine for Halloween. She loves X-Men, and some kids (and her own sister sometimes) tease her about liking a "boy" thing. But she had one of the best costumes at school! I was so proud of her for choosing to wear the costume she really wanted rather than being afraid of what the other kids would think of her.
Hey Katie, kids just don't know what's good! :) Someday you're going to meet people who like all sorts of things that might seem different. That's what makes the world a fun place; having different interests and then meeting other people who like the same things. It's such an awesome feeling! It's easy to go along with the crowd and like what's "popular" but where's the individuality in that? Don't change what you like or who you are for anyone. Just be you and be proud of it. You're unique but you're not weird! Those kids will learn to respect you if you just stick to your guns and be a confident girl. You're beautiful and one day soon you're going to seem very cool in certain circles just for liking the things you do. But don't wait for other people to confirm your coolness, own it right now! You're the only Katie in the world with your exact personality and your interests, and you are awesome just the way you are.
Hi, Katie! First, I want to tell you what good taste you have. Star Wars is awesome! I'm a grownup now, and I still own a lightsaber! (The blue one, like Luke's.) One of the earliest things I remember was my parents taking me to a drive-in movie theater to see "The Empire Strikes Back." I was younger then than you are now.
It's hard to be brave enough to be different, but I promise, in the end you'll be happier. It's a lot of work to try to pretend to be someone you're not, and you end up being too tired from pretending to have any fun! Other kids can be horrible, and sometimes they'll pick on you no matter what you do. If you looked exactly like them, didn't have glasses or a patch and had a pink water bottle every day, some people would still find something to pick on you for, because the problem is with them, not with you. So you might as well be brave and strong and do the things you like! (And here's a little secret, because I got picked on, too: if you act like you don't care what they think, eventually you really won't, and they'll get bored and stop.)
One other important thing you should always remember: there aren't things that are 'just for boys' or 'just for girls'. You can like, do, and be ANYTHING if you want to, and if the boys say you can't, it's just because they're worried you'll be better at it. If they give you a hard time, think about what Princess Leia would have to say about what they think girls can do!
Good luck, Katie, and may the Force be with you!
Kit
Hi Katie! I am a girl and I have liked Star Wars since I saw it in the theater for the first time! (yeah I'm that old!) All my friends who are girls and all my sisters love Star Wars. Star Wars is very cool.
Those boys don't know what they are talking about. Lots of girls like Star Wars!
My husband is adopted, and my son had eye troubles and had to wear a patch for a while so you're not all that different. Just remember that everyone has differences and hard times in their lives and you have yours now, but others will have theirs later. You will be a stronger woman for overcoming your differences now and be able to handle the challenges you face in the future much better for having had them.
Sending lots of love and good wishes to you!
Hi Katie:
My fiance showed me this page because he knew I would want to comment. I am a girl and a huge star wars fan! In grade school I had a star wars lunch box, and dressed up as Princess Leia for Halloween. A few years ago in college I dressed up as Princess Leia again. My fiance said one of his favorite things about me is that we have so many things in common, including star wars. Many of those things that we have in common are "boy" things! As a matter of fact, the reason I met him is probably again because of star wars. I loved star wars so much that I wanted to build robots like R2D2 - part of the reason I went into electrical engineering (even as an adult this is a "boy" field). If I hadn't gone to school to become an engineer I wouldn't have met him! Be yourself, take that star wars waterbottle to school, and may the force be with you!
Lexi
Hi Katie! I am yet *another* grown woman who loves Star Wars. My Dad took one of my brothers and I to see the first (fourth) movie in the theater back in 1978, I think it was. It was AWESOME. My favorite character is Boba Fett - I think his helmet is cool! I have a daughter who is only a little older than you - she's in third grade - and she likes a lot of things that maybe most girls her age don't (Pokemon and Star Wars!!) but it's OK because they make her happy. Your mom sounds awesome - I'm glad she wrote about your story, even though it makes me a little sad that you'd get teased for anything! Hang in there and I hope these messages help you to know it's ok to be different!!
Hi, Katie! I'm Jamie, and I'm a geek girl myself. But I think you'd probably rather hear about my little girl, Kiara. My daughter is 5 years old and sounds a lot like you. She LOVES Star Wars and CARS and dinosaurs. She started school a few months ago and someone told her that Star Wars was for boys, too. But, it's really for everyone. That's the cool thing about movies and clothes and the world: it's for everybody. :) I know being different can sometimes be a pain, but really, it's better to be yourself, not who other people think you should be. Other people are wrong. :)
*hugs* Hope you have a great day, Katie!
Hi Katie:
My fiance showed me this page because he knew I would want to comment. I am a girl and a huge star wars fan! In grade school I had a star wars lunch box, and dressed up as Princess Leia for Halloween. A few years ago in college I dressed up as Princess Leia again. My fiance said one of his favorite things about me is that we have so many things in common, including star wars. Many of those things that we have in common are "boy" things! As a matter of fact, the reason I met him is probably again because of star wars. I loved star wars so much that I wanted to build robots like R2D2 - part of the reason I went into electrical engineering (even as an adult this is a "boy" field). If I hadn't gone to school to become an engineer I wouldn't have met him! Be yourself, take that star wars waterbottle to school, and may the force be with you!
Lexi
Hi Katie - I am also a grown women Star Wars fan. I loved Star Wars from the first time I saw it and it was the first time I saw a strong brave heroine. Princess Leia was smart and brave and I thought she was amazing. Sounds like you are just like Princess Leia smart and brave so you are my heroine too. You truly sound like an amazing kid and your mom sounds pretty awesome too. Good luck and may the force be with you.
Dear Katie,
It is only the very coolest of girls who can really enjoy Star Wars the way that you do, and only the silliest and most childish of boys who can't appreciate that. All the girls I care about most in the entire world *LOVE* Star Wars, and any one of them is a thousand times cooler than me any day of the week. In ten years, these boys will be singing a very different tune if they have any sense at all. You, young lady, are VERY very awesome indeed. Good luck in the first grade!
Dear Katie,
I actually have no real memory of the first time I saw Star Wars, but I was told I was very young, sat in a man's lap, and was fascinated with the film until I fell asleep. As a young girl, I remember having Star Wars bubble baths and a "Return of the Jedi" poster on my closet door.
Growing up, I also remember that I tended to stand out for being different. Whether it was because I wore glasses, wanted a dump truck, played with the boys, or had experiences my other classmates did not, I began to feel like an outsider. For several years in grade school, I more or less shut down. As I got older, for one reason or another, I was bullied. I know it's miserable. But for all the teasing and bullying as a young girl, I don't regret one minute of staying true to myself.
A professional now in my early 30s, I'm still an aficionado of Star Wars and love my collection of Star Wars items - though I wish I still had that poster. Now, I can impress many boys with my love and knowledge of Star Wars. And just maybe you'll be lucky enough to have some those boys buy you cool Star Wars gifts. ;)
As you're unfortunately learning at too early an age, life can have its rough spots. Which is all the more reason to have those things - like you Star Wars water bottle - that make you happy. Be proud of who you are - you are beautiful and smart and you are a fellow Star Wars geek, which makes you just about the coolest person in the galaxy!
Hi Katie!
I'm a 21 year old female Star Wars fan, and I have to tell you that being a girl who likes Star Wars is awesome!! There will always be people who don't understand and who are mean sometimes. When you come across those unhappy folks, you just have to remember that it doesn't matter what they say, what matters is that you have the courage to be who you are. And don't ever feel like you are alone! There are so many of us geek girls out there! I've loved Star Wars since I was eight years old, and I still carry signs of my fandom around with me. Just yesterday I had my Rebel Alliance necklace on, and I always have Yoda with me on my keychain. I'm currently a student at Harvard where there are quite a few Star Wars fans like you and me, and just the other day I was stopped by a table of boys to discuss Episodes 1-3. I think eventually they realize it's ok for girls to like the same things. =P So trust me, it gets better!! Stay strong in the Force, Katie!!
Katie - you are awesome!! Me and my best friend (both girls) went to see Star Wars when it first came out... we went to see it 8 times together! And then we bought the soundtrack and listened to it repeatedly, while proudly wearing our Star Wars t-shirts everywhere we went. I wore mine until it actually fell apart at the seams!
I love science fiction, horror movies, cars and video games! And I've definitely been teased about all those things at one time or another... but nowadays guys love me - because I like all those things! And I'm still considered a girly-girl by pretty much everyone who knows me.
So do what makes you feel comfortable, but love the things you love and don't be afraid to be different - it's what makes you special!
Dear Katie,
I'm writing to you because, when I was your age, our situations were very similar. I was a victim of bullying. I wasn't adopted, but I grew up the only child of a single mother, and I liked (and still like) Star Wars and video games. I also have Atention Defacite Disorder, which at the time wasn't as understood or accepted as it is now.
I used to get picked on all the time. I got picked on for not having a dad, for likeing "boy things"(there's no such thing), for being a girl. I kept my ADD secret as long as I could because I didn't want another thing that made me different, but someone eventually noticed that I was going to the office at the same time every day to take a pill, and rumors started spreading. Kids started to call me stupid.
But then it got better. First, a speeker came to my school. He was a wealthy and succesful local business owner, and he had ADD like me. That stopped some of the bullying. Next, my mother enrolled me in girlscouts, where I made lot's of friends and discovered that I'm not the only girl that liked star wars and video games. She also enrolled me in self defense classes where I learned, both how to defend myself, and more importantly, where I learned that whatever else I am, I'm ME, and no one has the right to try and make me be something different.
So keep taking that star wars Bottle to school. Be proud, and when the boys start being mean, tell them they're just jelous and they must not know much about star wars. You also have my permission to tell them that a girl star wars fan from michigan says that You're a very awsome little girl.
*Hug* May the force be with you...Always.
Also, to Katie's Mom. I have some Star Wars books from when I was very young. It's not the full set (some of the books got lost in the move) but i've been hanging on to them in the hopes of passing them on to a young person who I know will appreciate them. They aren't long, each one is less than 100 pages and there are some illustrations. If you're interested you can e-mail me at Megguqt(at)yahoo(dot)com and we can talk about getting them to you somehow.
Hi Katie! I am a woman who has loved Star Wars since forever. I also am a professional artist and I draw Star Wars comic books for Dark Horse Comics! So don't let anyone ever make you think that Star Wars is just for boys--I know a LOT of girls and women who love Star Wars. If you have ever seen Jedi Master Aayla Secura who appeared in Attack of the Clones, Revenge of the Sith or the Clone Wars Cartoon, then you have seen my work. I designed and helped to create Aayla for the comic book where she first appeared (as well as her Master Quinlan Vos who just appeared in the Clone Wars Cartoon.) Being able to create these characters for Star Wars is one of the coolest and most fun things I have ever done in my career. If I'd listened to the bullies and let them dictate how I should try to fit in, I never would have become the person who is uniquely me. So, like what you like and don't ever be afraid to be who you are. Star Wars is for everyone and brave Jedi Knights can be girls or boys. May the Force be with you--always!
Hey Katie! I'm sure you've been hearing this a lot, but there is nothing wrong with being different -- in fact, it is the diversities in the world that make it interesting and fun! AND, there is NOTHING wrong with loving Star Wars! My best friend and I used to hang out at recess and any spare chances we had to have lightsaber battles and reenact the best scenes from the movies... There was this time when we had a project to make a pneumatic city (take a bunch of heavy-duty plastic, cut it into a shape, leave a vent for a fan to blow air into the shape), and I made the Millennium Falcon and dressed like Princess Leia!
Don't let other kids get you down. I would be willing to bet they are jealous of your Star Wars gear and wish they could wear/use it with as much joy and pride as you do! Believe me, I love all the things that some folks think girls shouldn't (Star Wars, Star Trek, Lord of the Rings, video games, etc.), and I found out that guys are actually intimidated and just don't know how to respond to a girl who likes all the awesome things they do!
Don't ever give up the things you love just because somebody else told you to. Good luck, Katie! You are AWESOME!!! May the force be with you!!
Hello Padawan-
I want you to know that I started my Star Wars love right around your age. I loved it then and love it now.
I also want to share with you what I tell my daughter and my nieces (who are about your age)...never let anyone make you feel bad about what you love. All of your favorites make you (all) the most amazing, wonderful, and unique kiddies. As a Mom and Aunt I am thrilled and thankful that my girls all have different interests from science and sports to dolls and dresses. It makes life fun.
Katie, sweetie, I have been a Star Wars fan ever since I was your age, and I still am (I have many Star Wars things; t-shirts, figurines, computer games, a beanie-baby Yoda that I have dangling from my rear view mirror in my car :D, and yes... even a backpack). I was bullied for liking Star Wars too, so you are not alone. I was often called a boy and worse. It hurt me for a while until I realized that my feelings were more important than the bully's opinions. My interests, though different, were MY interests, not theirs, and it was none of their business what I liked and didn't like.
Maybe, they felt threatened because I liked Star Wars. Maybe they felt threatened because I always got better grades than they did and they needed something to bring me down to their level of discomfort (one can only guess the mind of a bully). But in the end, your interests are what make you special, different from everyone else, unique. It is our uniqueness that sets you apart from the masses. Allowing them to dictate what you are allowed, and not allowed, to like will only hurt you more. Carry that Star Wars bottle and backpack with pride, girl. Be happy with yourself, because that is what is most important. If you ever doubt yourself remember all the wonderful people here who back you up. We're behind you all the way.
I had to wear a patch...a PINK one...I wished it was a Star Wars one though :) Don't worry what those boys say b/c you're going to grow up to be a LOVELY, GORGEOUS & INTELLIGENT girl who is going to have lots of friends (and when you're old enough) have LOTS of boys chasing you! You ARE Princess Leia so don't worry about it! This bullying is not nice, but I am SURE it will pass! You have LOTS of people on your side :) Take care Katie!!
Hi there!
I was a Star Wars fan in first grade too, and I was a tomboy. Trust me, Katie, I know how hard it is to be different. But I can tell you that my love of "Star Wars" has brought me far more joy in my life than sadness. Being passionate about something can change your life and it changed mine. Now, over twenty years later, I have a great circle of friends who not only are passionate about some of the same things I am, but embrace me for being so passionate about something. Kids who pick on you are really just afraid. It's hard to guess what they're afraid of, but trust me, by carrying that water bottle you are showing courage and that will mean more to you the older you get. Courage and passion are to be celebrated and I for one, celebrate you Katie! May the Force be with you!
Hi Katie!
Like you, I am a girl who loves Star Wars. My brother and I loved Star Wars so much that, when we were your age, we broke our video tape of the last movie by watching it too many times. This was a very sad thing back in the days before the internet and DVDs, where we couldn't just easily locate another copy! We had to wait several years before we could see Return of the Jedi again.
I loved Star Wars so much that I started playing dress-ups as Princess Leia instead of just other princesses, like the ones from Disney movies. Then, when I was in middle school and high school, I made a bunch of friends who also liked Star Wars, and Lord of the Rings, and a lot of other awesome movies. They liked to dress up for those movies - and we got made fun of a lot for dressing up for them, but we had fun doing it.
Now I've turned that into my job! I studied theatre and costume design in college, and now I get to make costumes not just for people who dress up like their favorite characters and show everyone what things they love, and for plays too!
Don't give up on Star Wars just because some of the boys you know are silly. I bet a lot of them are just jealous because your Star Wars water bottle is cool, and maybe their moms don't let them bring theirs to school with them. And if that's the case, that's pretty sad. I bet you can teach them to be more confident in themselves and not pick on others by showing everyone you know that it's not just okay, but WONDERFUL to be yourself!
Hi Katie,
I'm a 21-year-old girl and I love Star Wars (and Star Trek, too!). I was picked on when I was younger for being a nerd because I was different. In college I finally realized that everything I was picked on for was everything that I loved about myself. You should feel great about who you are now, even if silly boys are teasing you about it. (Some of them might even wish that they had a water bottle that's as cool as yours!)
Don't try to hide who you are, no matter what anyone says. Sometimes that's really hard, but you can do it! :)
Hi, I just wanted to let you know I'm a girl that likes Star Wars too! My name is Kirsten and I'm from the Netherlands. It's not just girls from the US that love Star Wars, there are girls like you all over the world!
Hi Katie!
Like you, I am a girl who loves Star Wars. My brother and I loved Star Wars so much that, when we were your age, we broke our video tape of the last movie by watching it too many times. This was a very sad thing back in the days before the internet and DVDs, where we couldn't just easily locate another copy! We had to wait several years before we could see Return of the Jedi again.
I loved Star Wars so much that I started playing dress-ups as Princess Leia instead of just other princesses, like the ones from Disney movies. Then, when I was in middle school and high school, I made a bunch of friends who also liked Star Wars, and Lord of the Rings, and a lot of other awesome movies. They liked to dress up for those movies - and we got made fun of a lot for dressing up for them, but we had fun doing it.
Now I've turned that into my job! I studied theatre and costume design in college, and now I get to make costumes not just for people who dress up like their favorite characters and show everyone what things they love, and for plays too!
Don't give up on Star Wars just because some of the boys you know are silly. I bet a lot of them are just jealous because your Star Wars water bottle is cool, and maybe their moms don't let them bring theirs to school with them. And if that's the case, that's pretty sad. I bet you can teach them to be more confident in themselves and not pick on others by showing everyone you know that it's not just okay, but WONDERFUL to be yourself!
Hi Katie!
It's ok to be different - I was when I was a kid, and I still am now. It's what makes me special!
Also when I was little, I used to have an Ewok house playset. It was my favorite toy! I also watched Sonic the Hedgehog, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, and other "boy shows". The boys may laugh at you now, but when you're all grown up they'll think you're SO cool! :)
~Lianne (Hudson NH)
Hi Katie -
I loved Star Wars, and I have loved it since I was a girl. I am now a spacecraft ground systems engineer. Star Wars and a love of all things outer space is not just for boys - and neither are math, physics, and science. You are great, Star Wars is great - so you obviously belong together. And if you someday decide to get a job working with real outer space stuff, that would be great too! Love you, keep on being your fabulous self!!
Hi Katie! I'm a girl and I've ALWAYS loved Star Wars! I saw the first one in the theater when I was about 12 and I've seen it DOZENS of times since then as well as all the sequels. You keep being yourself and be proud of the things you like. There will always be mean boys and girls, but you should stand up for yourself and show the world you are a wonderful, unique person who is confident and proud.
May the force be with you!!!
Hi Katie - I am a girl and I have loved Star Wars since before I can even remember. When I was a kid I was literally obsessed with all the films and had so much Star Wars stuff... shirts, posters pretty much anything Star Wars that I could find. I loved the movies so much that it ultimately got me interested in making movies, which lead me to a career working in video production.
I want to tell you that if it's something you love, whether it's Star Wars or whatever else, you go ahead and love it. Those same boys that pick on you now will one day recognize you for the super cool girl that you are!
May the Force be with you - always!
Hi Katie!
I was 9 years old when STAR WARS came out, and my dad took me to see it. It changed my life -- I discovered fandom, I started going to conventions, I made so many incredible friends... and now I write SF and fantasy to make other people feel the same way I did when I first saw that movie. And there are so many of us who have similar stories, as you're reading.
Star Wars isn't "for boys." It's for people with joy and imagination and courage and dreams. In other words, it's for YOU.
Hi Katie!
A friend of mine linked this story to me on Facebook. After I read it, I felt I just couldn't do anything else until I left you a comment because I think we have some things in common. First off, a little about me:
My name is Ryan. I'm 29 years old, and I live in Toronto, Canada where I work as a System Administrator (someone who works with computers and keeps websites like this one working). When I was little, kids teased me too...they teased me because I was fat, they teased me because I had glasses, they teased me because I stuttered, they teased me because, like you, I was a geek. I was different; and they didn't like that. While everyone else, all the other boys, played sports...I was inside tinkering with the school computers and playing around making things in the school electronics lab. They laughed at me, they called me nerd, geek...and much worse names that I won't repeat here.
The name-calling and bullying didn't stop unfortunately, it kept going all the way until I was in high school. Do you know what stopped it though? I met others like me. Other kids who were as obsessed with computers as me, other kids who loved Star Wars like you and I do, and who loved video games and comic books and cartoons and Star Trek and...most importantly, didn't care that I had glasses and braces and was fat. They didn't care what I looked like on the outside, because they could see past physical appearances and see me for who I really was. In fact, a lot of them looked up to me, because I knew more about computers than they did. And that right there taught me something that I'd like you to know: geeks like us...we're AWESOME.
Why are we awesome? We're awesome because we look at the world differently, we see what and how things COULD be, not just what they are...and Katie, you'll come to realize just how valuable that is as you grow up. We have a different perspective on the world by comparison to many other people...and that's what helps us become successful. Know who else besides us likes Star Wars, Katie? Bill Gates. The richest man in the world, the reason your computer is able to do what it does, and one of the biggest geeks out there. Know who else likes Star Wars? Sir Tim Berners-Lee, the inventor of the World Wide Web...without him, I wouldn't be writing this to you right now, and you wouldn't be reading it. And...most importantly...y'know who else LOVES Star Wars? My girlfriend, Sabrina. She's sitting beside me right now, watching me write this to you...and she's got a huge grin on her face because she thinks it's AWESOME that you're a Star Wars fan too. Star Wars is something special to both Sabrina and I, and in fact, it's a big part of how we met.
So the next time someone laughs at you for liking Star Wars, don't let it get to you...just remember that you're in good company. Geeks like us, we gotta stick together. Don't ever stop doing what you love, don't ever stop being yourself...not for anything or anyone. I didn't, and now, I get PAID to do what I love.
May The Force Be With You, Katie.
--Ryan
PS: Geek Girls are AWESOME!
PPS: I mentioned being a sysadmin...you wanna know something cool? I name all the servers (servers are computers that run websites like this one) at work after Star Wars characters. I think though...the next server I put into operation, I'm going to name that one Katie. :)
Katie, don't ever change a thing about yourself because you think people expect you too or because you think you won't fit in if you don't. I guarantee that there are other girls AND boys your age that love star wars too and would like that you share interests. Don't let anyone bully you or tell you that you can't like or do something because you're a girl. No matter what, may the force be with you, Katie.
Hi Katie, I am a grown woman who is a Star Wars fan. I was about your age when I first saw Star Wars at the movie theater with my dad, it was one of our things we did together. We also played video games together and played with Legos. I was always into science and math and wanted to be either a doctor or an engineer, I have an engineering degree. I studied Computer Science and Electrical Engineering with a minor in Statistics. After I graduated I went on to study Video Games in Education. We girls who are different are special, we are stronger. It isn't always easy to be different, but believe me it does get easier and somewhere down the line you will be comfortable with exactly who you are and those others will still continue to do what society wants them to do. You are on the path to true happiness, keep up the good work and carry your Star Wars water bottle proudly.
Hi Katie!
Can you post a picture of your R2D2 water bottle? I've never seen one before. It sounds so cool!
I'd love to get one too!
There are many children in poor countries around the world who have never seen Star Wars. They don't know how cool R2D2 is. Many of them don't even have access to good, clean water like we do.
You're a very lucky girl to have an R2 D2 water bottle.
May the Force be with you Katie!
Michael
Hi Katie,
I'm almost 41. I love Star Wars, Star Trek and other spacey stuff. Now, I'm the webmaster for a NASA mission which I think is pretty cool. I don't think I would be doing what I love if I hadn't had that interest in Star Wars (and space) as a kid, being a little different and having great parents. So it sounds to me that you have a pretty good start for your future.
Elizabeth
epoxi.umd.edu
PS I still occasionally, umm, stay home from work when a new Star Wars book comes out! And I am working on my Christmas wishlist and it has Star Wars stuff on it!
Katie, I have loved comic books and Star Wars, video games and super heroes and other things almost my entire life (I was 9 when Star Wars came out in the theater so I bet you think that's a very long life). My daughter is in 4th grade and loves all the "boy" thing I love plus she loves Indiana Jones, dinosaurs and Bakugan.
We have both been victims of bullies that hated the fact that we were different. My daughter had a Batman backpack in second grade and the boys in her class made her come home from school crying on more than one occasion.
But we can't let those small minded poopie heads take away our joy in the things we love!
One thing I've learned over the course of my life is that no matter how different we feel there are many other people in the world who are just the same as we are. They're just not in our immediate vicinity but they are going through just the same problems we are going through.
Stay strong, Katie! We'll all stay strong together!
Katie, don't ever change a thing about yourself because you think people expect you too or because you think you won't fit in if you don't. I guarantee that there are other girls AND boys your age that love star wars too and would like that you share interests. Don't let anyone bully you or tell you that you can't like or do something because you're a girl. No matter what, may the force be with you, Katie.
I'm a female star wars fan too :) don't let them think it's not okay for you to have a star wars water bottle! I play video games and I did karate for 12 years (from age 8-20) and other kids used to say that girls shouldn't do karate either. Being different is good though, it makes you stronger :) I'm 27 now and I'm so glad that I did those different things, I've had so much more fun being who I am than who other people think I should be :)
Hi Katie, my name is Angela. Your mom's story brought tears to my eyes. I have a five year old daughter who started dealing with bullies when she was three. Kids would call her fat and ugly and it just breaks a mother's heart. My daughter is beautiful just like you. And she is the nicest little girl in the world. It got to the point that I had to tell her that she doesn't need to buy friends. She would give anyone the last of whatever she has. You are going to okay if you continue to be yourself. Also, I'm sure that you know how fortunate and lucky you are to have your mom. There are so many kids in the world who don't have parents and it's pretty obvious how much your mother loves you. Stay strong. I tell my daughter to ignore the mean kids, but I know that's easier said than done. People who make fun of others are not happy with themselves. Just remember that, okay? LOL
Hello Katie!
First of all, I must say; I love you name. I have a friend named Katie who is a woman who is very strong and independent, but sometimes she gets picked on for the way she looks and the things she likes. But she has learned not to care, because a someone very wise once said: Those who mind don't matter, and those who matter don't mind.
You remind me of my favorite poem by Dr. Suess-- Oh The Places you'll go.
Congratulations!
Today is your day.
You
AWESOME!!
Hi, Katie!
I hope you're still wearing your Star Wars tee-shirt with pride! You can be a strong girl like Leia: she didn't care about what anybody said! She did what she knew was right and she was different, too.
Star Wars is a great movie and there are lots of girls and boys who love it as much as you do. There is no such thing as a movie that is just for boys or just for girls. There are girls who like Star Wars and action figures and there are boys who like Disney princesses and pink bottles. And the world is so much more fun because of that!
May the force be with you.
I'm not sure if you're still reading after over 1000 comments, but if you are I'm giving you a big e-hug and telling you to love whatever you love and not worry about the others.
My mom wouldn't let me watch Star Wars as a kid, and when I finally did watch it I fell in love with it! I also love video games, so when a few friends wanted me to play an online Star Wars game I did! A lot of other friends teased me about it (and still do), but you know what? I met my future husband on that game! Out of all the people all over the world, I met him and he only lived an hour away. We now have 3 kids (my daughter is in Kindergarten), and are pretty happy.
Since my daughter is the oldest, there's been times when my little boys will want to paint their nails or even dress as a princess!
My the force be with you sweet Katie!
My fiancee, niece, and my soon to be sister-in-law all love Star Wars. My niece's favorite character is R2-D2. My fiancee uses her Boba Fett lunchbox as a purse and she is thinking about making herself a costume that looks like Boba Fett.
Hey Katie! Your story reminds me a lot of myself. I got my glasses in kindergarten, had to patch my eye every day at PE, I was adopted by my dad, and I LOVE star-wars (and tons of other non-girly thing) I was teased for my glasses, my eye patch, and for preferring climbing trees to pretty dolls.
Dad even let me skip school to see the star-wars movies when they came out in theaters! (and the Lord of the Rinds movies too) I've found that if you're happy with who you are then no one else matters. And some day (A LONG TIME AWAY for you) you'll even find a handsome prince who loves you even more because you like all the Nerdy boy things he likes too!
As I've grown up I've learned that you don't have to give up the things you love some days you'll find me in a Starwars shirt and others in a frilly pink dress! That's the power of being a girl we don't have to choose we can be both frilly and cute one day and Starwars and fun the next!
Stay strong youngling! I can tell the force is strong with you! ;)
~LuLu
When I was young, I often felt 'weird' among my peers because not only did I read all the time, I often read fantasy novels, and I preferred to draw dragons instead of flowers. However, I never gave up my love of 'geeky' things, and as a 31 year old woman I like to watch Star Wars, I play World of Warcraft, I buy comic books, and other such so-called 'boy' things (which certainly aren't).
Katie, never forget the Force IS with you, and continue to fly your geek flag high and proud. Star Wars is for everyone, and don't let those boys tell you any differently!
Hi Katie!
Anyone that tells you Star Wars is just for boys doesn't know what they're talking about. When I wanted to order a ForceFX Lightsaber, my wife suggested I order one for her as well so we could have lightsaber battles (we're both 29 years old). As well, we both dressed up as Jedi for Halloween, and everyone thought her costume & lightsaber were just as cool as mine.
Don't let anyone tell you Star Wars (or anything else) is just for boys or girls. Be true to yourself, and you'll come out on top in the end! :D I was teased growing up for liking Star Trek (no one else in my school did), and I know it can be tough sometimes, but it is so important to be yourself regardless of what other people think.
Almost forgot! We dressed up for my wife's nieces last night when they landed at the airport, because one of them was dressed up as Darth Vader for Halloween, and they loved it!
Katie,
Not being a girl I can not comment on bullying from a girl's view, but I would like to direct you to a website that you might find interesting.
I few years ago a little girl, of the same name, also loved Star Wars too. http://r2kt.com/
Hi Katie! I just want to let you know that I am adopted too - and I have worn glasses since I was 8 years old. I have an older brother but no sisters. I played with a lot of boy's toys when I was your age, although my brother was nice and would sometimes bring his GI Joe to play with my Barbie. Just be yourself - if you want to have Star Wars things, then do it. I bet there are other girls in your school just like you. When they see what you're doing it might help them too. (And don't be too sure that you are the only adopted kid. I work with 3 other people - I'm adopted and two of them have adopted kids as well.)
Hi Katie,
I have a little girl named Katie too! She has long blonde hair,and is in first grade, and guess what, she loves star wars too! She is a bit of a girly girl, so she has a pink lightsaber. She has lightsaber battles (usually wearing a dress) with her brother and the neighbor boys. Too bad you don't live closer. She would love another Katie to help her chase the boys! She is at school right now, but if she were here, she would say "You Rock!"
Dear Katie,
I was about your age when Star Wars first came out and I LOVED it! I still love it as an adult, so when I had a daughter I taught her all about it. She has Star Wars Lego sets and books and action figures, and she even wears Star Wars shirts to school...and she's in 8th grade! She made a landspeeder car for the Awana Grand Prix one year and won first place for design.
Her love for Star Wars has turned into a love for science fiction in general, and she now watches several versions of Star Trek, Stargate Atlantis, and Doctor Who. She has Who t-shirts, action figures, and books, and again won first place with a TARDIS car in the Grand Prix. This year for Halloween she wore a Stargate Atlantis costume.
One of her middle school teachers started a rocket club this year, and there are 2 other girls in the club in addition to my daughter. They meet every week and build rockets to launch in the spring. How cool is that??
Be proud of who you are, Katie. Enjoy your interests! There are other girls who like sci fi (and ninjas and pirates), and you will find them eventually. Tonight when you watch Clone Wars, know that my daughter will be watching, too. :)
Hi, Katie!
I hope you're still wearing your Star Wars tee-shirt with pride! You can be a strong girl like Leia: she didn't care about what anybody said! She did what she knew was right and she was different, too.
Star Wars is a great movie and there are lots of girls and boys who love it as much as you do. There is no such thing as a movie that is just for boys or just for girls. There are girls who like Star Wars and action figures and there are boys who like Disney princesses and pink bottles. And the world is so much more fun because of that!
May the force be with you.
Hi Katie,
You sound like a pretty cool girl to me. Be proud of who you are, always. I'm sorry you had to experience how silly other kids can be, but there's a thousand reasons why they are acting so mean and none of it has to do with you. When I was little the only things moms and dads would buy their daughters was girlie stuff in pink -- my least favorite color, ugh. I wish I could have had cool Star Wars stuff!
You know, boys bothered me a lot too. I realize now that most of the time they did it because the either liked me and were too shy to just play with me or, most often, because they thought it was funny to see me get so mad that they just kept doing it. Learn from me and don't let them get to you. Once it gets boring to pick on you, they'll stop. It will take time, but just ignore them and never let them hurt you. It sounds like you have a great mom looking out for you and not every kid (adopted or not) has that.
So, just be you.
Good luck lovely Katie!
Betty
Dear Katie-
I wear glasses, and wear Star Wars shirts, and drink out of a Star Wars water bottle. Occasionally, my daughters and I have lightsaber battles in the backyard. You are one awesome, unique and wonderful little girl. Keep it up honey, have fun, live your life, and ignore the boys. They're stupid anyway
Love,
A Grownup Geek.
Hey, Katie, sometimes boys get teased, too. I did. Too tall, curly hair, easily upset... or because I liked something the other kids thought was stupid.
And I wore glasses. And I got good grades.
And yeah, I dig Star Wars, too. And Star Trek. And Babylon 5 (for when you're a bit older). And, even now, as an adult, I'll watch cartoons. I love Phineas & Ferb: they do all the stuff I dreamed about when I was a kid. (I'm an engineer: I design and build tools used by robot submarines to fix broken stuff underwater. I started building stuff when I was a kid.)
Here's a little secret: we win! Stay true to you. Even as you grow and learn and as who you are changes and grows with you, stay true to you. You do that -- and it's hard sometimes, when your friends or the people you admire do things that you know are wrong -- and you win.
Some of the kids who used to pick on me? At our 20-year reunion, they told me they really admired me. (They just had a really weird way of showing it when we were all 6 or 7 or 10 years old!)
So keep your head up, keep a smile on your face (it keeps the teasers wondering what you're up to ;) ), and use that Star Wars stuff. There's nothing written anywhere that says "girls can't like Star Wars". It's there for anyone who wants to like it. Just be you, and be the best you that you can. I'm 100% sure that's REALLY GOOD!
Hey Katie!
I'm 27 and I've loved Star Wars ever since I was 3 or 4. I also love video games and comic books and other things that some people don't think girls should like. But that doesn't matter - because I know what I like, and clearly you do too! You should be proud of the things you're interested in and passionate about! It's not always easy to face people who tell you to be the same as everyone else, but I know you can do it.
And you know what, I was teased when I was younger because I wore glasses (still do!) and I liked school and I liked things that girls "weren't supposed to" and it wasn't always easy. But now, I make comics for a living because it's what I love. One day, you're going to grow up and you'll be proud of yourself for not giving in and being like everyone else.
PS. To Katie's mom - you're doing a great thing!
Hi Katie,
First of all, those glasses are great (I need some blue ones for Christmas) I've been wearing glasses since I was 6 and I'd have loved a pair like yours. I've also been a massive Sci-Fi fan since I was little. I loved Star Trek and Star Wars, and comics and computer games and everything else that's great in the world.
Stick with it all, I did, I teach Computer Games Design at a University in the UK now, and I love it. I get to talk about comics, computer games and sci-fi all the time - it's fantastic, and I wouldn't been here if I'd have lost sight of who I was.
So you've inspired me to buy some cool blue glasses and go play Star Wars when I get home. Don't worry about the boys, or the girls, or what they say - none of them are brave enough to go with what they want in the first place.
Hmmm, maybe it's time for a new lunch box, I saw a cool Clone Wars one the other day - it would match my stationary set I brought to go 'back to school' with...
Dear Katie,
First of all, you are such a cool little girl! I love your glasses, where did you get them? I am pretty blind myself, good thing my mom took good care of me as a kid, because now I can just wear contacts and nobody even notices. Sometimes I wear glasses just to look cool!
Second, I am SUPER jealous of your Star Wars stuff, I have some myself but not a lunch box! Now I want one. :)
You know, I got picked on at your age by kids who didn't even know what cool was. All those same kids came around later thinking how unique and interesting I was in high school. And a few of the boys who picked on me even tried to date me! Boys are silly for sure.
Anyway, I LOVE STAR WARS! One day I met a very special man who loved that I love Star Wars... because girls who like Star Wars are special! He tells me that all the time. Well, soon he and I are going to get married and merge all our Star Wars action figures on a shelf in our house! I have Yoda, R2D2, and Chewbacca, and he has a few storm troopers and the death star so far. In fact, in our house it is cool to love Star Wars, so you and mom would be totally welcome to stop by anytime!
One more thing... You know who I met last year? Peter Mayhew, the guy who played Chewbacca in the original Star Wars movies! He was huge!! 7 feet tall at least! If that's not cool Katie, I don't know what is! I was so excited I almost cried, hahaha.
Don't ever change, you are on the right path to being a genuinely awesome adult. Just like your mom! I wish I had a mom like yours! Just be who you are and like what you like, Katie. Nobody can take that from you, you can only give it away if you choose. Choose not to! Don't give them the best of you when they don't deserve it.
May the force with you! Keep rocking that lunch box or I will!! ;)
Hi Katie. Star Wars was the first movie I ever saw in a theater. I was four years old and was there with my older brothers and grandfather. I dressed up as Princess Leia for Halloween that year, though I really wanted to be Luke. But I had two older brothers, so they got first dibs on Vader and Luke. It was ok though.
I still love Star Wars. I also love all kinds of other stuff that people think is nerdy. I am a librarian. I love technology. I also love musicals - shows like Wicked, and Spamalot and Fiddler on the Roof too. It doesn't matter what anyone else tells me I should like because I am a woman. What matters is what I like. If you want to drink out of a Star Wars water bottle, please do it. And if next year you want a pink water bottle, or a blue one, or one with a Transformer on it, that's all ok too. You are growing up and so much of growing up is learning who you are - and I'll tell you a secret. It's part of BEING a grown up too. I find new things almost every day that I love, and things that I used to think were the best things ever that I no longer love.
I try very hard not to care what other people think or say about me because of what I like. It's hard sometimes, but it is so worth it.
Dear Katie,
I am a 38-year-old woman, and I have liked Star Wars since the very first Star Wars movie came out when I was five. I used to play Star Wars with my sister and my friend Mark who shared daycare with us. When I was older I would play with my friend Kathy and her Star Wars toys. Now that I am older I have lots of friends, both men and women, who like Star Wars and other movies, TV shows, and books about spaceships and monsters and good fighting evil. I'm really glad that you are feeling better about showing off your love for Star Wars at school, and I hope you can find friends interested in sharing your love for Star Wars. It might be hard to find friends who like those things now, but it gets easier to find those friends when you are older.
Hi, Katie! I'm a girl who loves Star Wars. I think it's totally awesome that you have a Star Wars backpack and lunchbox and water bottle.
I got made fun of by boys when I was much younger, because I was different. It hurt, and I used to cry because of it.
Now that I am older, I think it is silly, really, the things people make fun of other people for - I once got teased because my earlobes are not attached to my head!
My advice to you is to keep on loving the things that you do, especially Star Wars, because it is AWESOME. There will always be people who love you for who you really are and for the things that you love.
Also? The Internet is pretty neat because it can help you find people who like the same things you do. You might be one of the few girls at your school who likes Star Wars, but as you can see, there are LOTS of girls who like Star Wars on the Internet!
Hang in there. You are the coolest first grader I know!
Hi Katie! I'm a girl who has always loved Star Wars. In fact, when I was little, I was very jealous of my neighbor (a boy) who had a very cool x-wing fighter model. I begged my parents for one, but got a dancing doll instead. I sure wish I'd have gotten that x-wing fighter! I now have 3 daughters of my own, and they all love Star Wars. We play with light sabers in our basement and see who can do the best imitation of Darth Vader. Rock on Star Wars girl!
Hang in there girl. Jedis sometimes have problems too, but the Force is always with us. Yoda is proud of you for standing up to those boys.
Hello sweetheart I love starwars all of my female friends love it to.We grew up with it we would pretend we were princess lea and use sweetrolls as her hair. If you love something don't let them take that away from you us girls that love scifi need to stick together. I also wear glasses about your age when I had to get them.I know it's hard right now I got picked on because of them to when I was growing up.Remember you ar this beautiful girl thats smart and brave and you can like whatever you want and continue to be brave and outspoken and don't let them take that way from you.It does get better.I now have a large group of friends that love it as much as I do I'm 38 now but I know what your going through.
Hi Katie! I'm a woman and I've loved Star Wars ever since I was a young girl like you. I know sometimes it's hard to be different but being different is what makes people special! It sounds like you are a very brave and special little girl and your water bottle sounds very cool! If I had one like it, I would take it to work with me.
I also love your glasses! I wear glasses, too, and I wore them when I was a little kid. I used to not like them when I was little, but I love them now.
May the force be with you!
Hello,
I'm a guy, but my wife loves star wars. One year for Christmas I searched and got her all of the original Star wars soundtrack records. This year she is getting more star wars stuff just doesn't know it yet. We even named our little girl after Star wars. Eisliegh after Moss Eisley the star port lol. Star wars isn't a gender based story, its a epic story for all.
Jonathan
Hi Katie! I am so proud of you for wearing your Star Wars shirt to school and doing the things that make YOU feel good. My youngest daughter (who is 5, and also adopted) wanted Toy Story panties this year, but they don't make them for girls. (Can you believe it?) So she got the boys underwear, just because that was what she wanted and she wasn't going to let other people decide what she could or couldn't wear.
I know LOTS and LOTS of girls and women who love Stat Wars, including me. Hang tough, sweetie!
hi katie!
when i was your age i loved star wars. i had star wars figures and wished that i could have a wookiee for a best friend. i was also one of the smart kids. i didn't get to have reading class with the rest of the kids in my grade, i had to go to a fourth grade class. even then, i sat alone at a table at the back of the room because i was ahead of everyone. kids teased me, but i didn't let it bother me. i wasn't going to let them make me feel bad for liking the things i liked or feel bad for just being who i was. no one should ever feel bad for being who they are.
i tell my kids the same things i am saying to you now. i want them to be proud and not be afraid to be who they are. don't ever stop loving the things you do just because people try to make you feel bad. don't give them the satisfaction. keep your chin up, kiddo. you're not alone.
Hi Katie - I am also a grown women Star Wars fan. I loved Star Wars from the first time I saw it and it was the first time I saw a strong brave heroine. Princess Leia was smart and brave and I thought she was amazing. Sounds like you are just like Princess Leia smart and brave so you are my heroine too. You truly sound like an amazing kid and your mom sounds pretty awesome too. Good luck and may the force be with you.
Hi Katie!I registered just to leave a comment for you. I am young man who just turned 30. I work for a bank,go to the gym on a regular basis and Im getting ready to join the military. Do you know what i like to do in my spare time? I like to read comics and collect toys. At my desk at work I have my little action figures of transformers, gi joe and teenage mutant ninja turtles. Some people poke fun and ask me why I have this stuff at my desk. My reply, "because it makes me happy". Do what makes you happy (with your parents permission of course lol) Its ok for girls to like Star Wars so keep using your Star Wars water bottle. A little secret, I also like to listen to Justin Bieber but thats between us shhh dont tell anybody.
Katie,
I'm more of a nerd-girl, than a geek-girl, but I do like to get my geek on sometimes. I'm a big fan of Firefly and Buffy, and I can't get enough of Harry Potter. :) Don't let anyone tell you that it's not okay to like something because you're a girl. OR that you HAVE to like something else because you're a girl. What's important is knowing what you like and standing up for it. No one else will ever be as awesome as you are, period. You have an awesome mom, and now you have a few million awesome internet friends. Be strong, Katie, and keeping loving Star Wars, no matter what anyone else says.
Dear Katie,
first of all, I think you are absolutely cool for loving Star Wars. I fell in love with Star Wars when I was an about eight-year-old girl, I'm almost thirty now and I'm still a huge fan. I didn't have a Star Wars water bottle then (though I would have loved to have one :)), but I did have a Star Wars pencil case and I decorated all of my school things with Star Wars pictures I had cut out somewhere. And that was just one of the reasons I got bullied. I considered getting rid of whatever I could that made me different too - including my displays of love for Star Wars. However, that's probably just as cruel as the bullying. Never feel bad about being different, never feel bad about being who you are, because that's the most beautiful thing. Whatever gives you happiness, keep doing that, no matter what anyone says. I hope you'll keep on enjoying your Star Wars love and be proud of it. The boys at school who tell you it's only for boys don't know anything. You are not alone. As you can see, there are many, many female Star Wars fans out there. And we Star Wars girls are awesome.;)
Hi Katie! Never be ashamed of the things you love! I've loved Star Wars since I was a little girl, and I got made fun of, too. I know a lot of girls who got bullied, but as adults we're all much happier as "geeks", and strong, and successful. I know it's hard not to care what other people think, but you need to be happy with who you are and not worry about what other people want you to be. The people who really love you and care about you in your life will love you no matter what, and they'll probably love Star Wars, too.
~Sue (New York, NY)
Hello Katie! I like Star Wars too, and have ever since I was your age (the first job I remember wanting to have was 'Han Solo', never mind that I was a girl). Star Wars is awesome, and you should never be ashamed of liking what you like, whether it be 'for girls' or 'for boys'. Keep rocking your Star Wars love and don't worry, there are plenty of people who think you are awesome for loving Star Wars and being a girl.
Hi Katie and Mom!
I am definitely a girl. Though I prefer grrl, because girls can be tough and mean and fun and sweet and silly. Girls can be whatever they want to be. I have a 6 year old step daughter and we both love Star Wars. In fact, one of her favorite songs is a silly song about Star Wars by Weird Al Yankovic. I think we would both be really happy to see your Star Wars water bottle! It is very cool for anyone to do what they want and not just follow everyone else! Don't worry about what those boys say, because they are probably secretly just jealous that they don't have that water bottle! And one day, those boys will think it is very cool that you like Star Wars too!
Hi Katie - I'm a 31-year-old woman, who was teased a lot growing up. Having skipped second grade, I was teased relentlessly about being a "nerd" because of my grades. I also wore glasses at a young age, and loved things like Star Wars, video games, reading, and puzzles (plus, I was awful at sports).
I can tell you, like lots of other commenters before me, that it gets better. I grew up and stayed true to who I was and what I liked - and I found lots of other "nerds" who have remained my lifelong friends and have always accepted me as I am. I even married one, and we now have a 4-year-old daughter named Grace - her favorite thing is Star Wars (she loves the Clone Wars!)
You are lucky to have a supportive mother and family who love you for who you are, and don't ever want to see you change for someone else. Stay true to yourself and keep your head up!
Hello Katie,
I am not a particularly big fan of the Star Wars movies, but I enjoyed watching them, and having a little brother (who's not so little anymore, he's 18 already) that is a huge fan of Star Wars (he has so many Star Wars stuff in his room, it's quite a mess), I also enjoyed playing Star Wars games with him or by myself (like, when you're older, you should definitely look for Knights of The Old Republic, this role playing game on computer is really nice ^^).
I felt really touched and saddened at hearing that you are bullied for being different. I wish to tell you, that the fact that you are different, is what makes you unique and priceless. Like Katy Perry I believe everyone is a firework on its own (check out the song lyrics, they are nice :)
I may not be a fan of Star Wars or having been adopted, but I am a girl and I have worn glasses almost as long as I can remember, and I know how it can be sometimes hard to be different.
I wish to send you some human warmth and kindness (with some snow, because it's almost Christmas time !) from far far away, Finland where I am right now.
Hi Katie! I found this link on twitter, star wars caught my eye because I've always LOVED star wars, ever since I was a little girl! My family bought my 2 brothers & I lots of the figurines & ships, we used to set up all of our star wars stuff in the kitchen & play for hours. I laugh every time I remember this one time I got upset: I wanted to be Han Solo, & my older brother told me I HAD to be Princess Leia. "I ALWAYS have to be Princess Leia." It didn't occur to me that I couldn't be Han Solo, I just knew he was the cool one with the awesome ship.
I'm sorry that you've had to deal with being made fun of at school. It's not easy to face people who have said or done hurtful things, but I am telling you... the greatest gift you can give yourself... is permission to be yourself. Don't change who you are because of what someone else said. So many people go through life without really being comfortable with who they are. I went through school not caring what other kids thought of me, I just decided to focus on having as much fun as possible while getting good grades. It worked! Just try & remember that when someone makes fun of you or tries to hurt your feelings, realize that THEY are the ones who are hurting inside, and don't let them make you feel bad. Stay strong, stay focused on who you are & what you like. Don't change. Have fun!!! These are the years that you will look back on & treasure all of the memories. I pray that God sends you friends to help support you just as you are. Much love from Alaska, Your friend Carmen Hatfield
Hi Katie! I'm a 30 year old woman, and I grew up, along with my mom and two brothers, loving Star Wars! I even had a cardboard cut out of Luke Skywalker, and a Star Wars lunch box. My friends and I played Star Wars Trivia Pursuit. I agree with other commenters, I liked the series because it made me happy. But also because it has many important life lessons. In fact, we watched Star Wars in class in high school! Why? Because as Joseph Campbell, the famous writer on mythology described, Star Wars is the perfect example of a hero's journey. A hero's journey is something we all have to go through in life where we are called to challenge ourselves, and at first we don't want to or doubt ourselves (like Luke did!), but then we try and though it is hard and we might fail a couple of times, we don't give up. We know we can do great things. That is the hero's journey for all of us - all of us have to take the journey to love and be ourselves. Though we may doubt, though sometimes it is hard, to be and love ourselves is to be a hero. You are on your own hero's journey, just like Luke Skywalker!
May the force be with you, it is already inside yourself!
Court
http://www.webenglishteacher.com/hero.html
Check out this link, it is school lessons about Star Wars and the hero's journey and mythology.
Dear Katie,
I'm a boy, and I've liked Star Wars for as long as I can remember. And do you know why that is? Because Star Wars rocks, and people who like Star Wars also rock.
More importantly, it's important to be who you want to be, not who you think other people want you to be. If you spend all your time trying to be someone you're not, you'll start getting sadder and sadder as you get older, wondering what your life would have been like if you had only tried to be the person you wanted to be in the first place. And it will be No Fun At All.
So take your Star Wars water bottle to school. Wear your Star Wars shirt. Play with Star Wars toys if you have them (my favorites are TIE fighters). Don't be ashamed of your glasses (I wear glasses too), having a patch, or being adopted. Be who you want to be, and be proud of who you are. It makes life a nicer thing to live, and it attracts the sort of people who are proud of who they are too.
-- Kit
Katie,
I am a 29 year old mom with 3 small children who will be your age very soon, 2 of which are girls. I am so thankful that you and your mom were brave enough to share your story! It will be so helpful to me when my kids are older and having to deal with these types of things.
I know that there have been SO many people reaching out and sharing their support with you. I just wanted to add my voice to that mix.
I am a HUGE fan of science fiction, including Star Wars. My favorite show when I was in high school was The X-Files (it's a pretty geeky science fiction show about aliens.) My peers and friends used to give me a hard time for liking that and not liking all of the "girly" shows that they liked. It was hard sometimes. But I decided that I wanted to be who I was and like what I liked, no matter what. And, as I've gotten older, I have found out that there are A LOT of girls and women out there who like science fiction, just like me!
Don't ever be afraid to be who you are! You are so brave and so beautiful and you have a very cool mom for doing all of this to help you! You're a very cool kid in my book!
Hi Katie!
I don't know if I can say a lot that these other awesome girls and women haven't already said! First off, you sound like a great kid. Your pictures are awesome! You are a gorgeous little girl, you remind me of my little sister Carley[who lives on a farm and runs around in the mud like boys do]. The way your mom talked about you in this article, you can tell she loves you a lot. Trust me when I say that means so much, and it will always be special for you. I love my mom so much, i'm so glad that I have her.
Anyways, i'm 23. I remember when I fell in love with Star Wars. I had just turned 4, and my brother got the box set for his birthday. We sat around and watched all three of the originals[because that's all there were back then! And I loved it!] and he didn't seem to interested in it. But I was fascinated with them. There was so much going on! I even loved the two ewok movies they came out with - I can't find them now, which does make me a little sad. As I got older and got into school, I was teased about liking Star Wars too. I was told it was a 'boy thing', along with comic books and video games and legos, all of which I LOVED, and still do - until one very awesome boy came up to me one day and started talking to me about the movies. We became best friends over them, and we'd play every day at recess[sometimes we would play Indiana Jones, which was my second favorite series!]. The other boys started teasing my friend Pat for playing with a girl all the time, but he didn't care. He would just ignore them, which is more than most boys that age will do! This made me very happy.
When I got into middle school, I met my best friend Meg who was also a giant Star Wars and Indiana Jones fan. We would watch either Return of the Jedi[my favorite] or Empire Strikes Back[her favorite]. To this day we are still the best of friends, and we bonded over something as great as those movies. Now that i'm older, a lot of my guy friends think it's so cool that I know so much about those movies, and video games, and comic books. In fact, those things are the reasons we became friends!
I think one of the hardest things I had to adjust to was just a couple of years ago. I never needed glasses when I was younger, but when I turned 17 I had to get a pair. They made me feel very self-conscious at first, because I was not used to wearing them, but all my friends and family made me feel much better about it by telling me how they made me look smart and cute. But I think your glasses look cuter than mine!
Anyways, I hope that all of these wonderful women have made you feel better. We're all proud Star Wars fans - I'm proud to even call myself a Geek AND a Nerd!
If you keep your head held high and be proud of the things you know and love, you will grow to be an amazing, beautiful, strong woman.
To quote all these awesome women, and the guys that commented and are amazing for the way they think, and my favorite movies of all time,
'May the Force be with you.'
Katie. I'm 48 years old and have been bullied most of my life because I don't copy what others are doing, I do what I need to do. Most people copy each other in order to "fit in" and when they see someone doing their own thing, they wish they were doing their own thing too. Those boys aren't really bullying you because you like Star Wars and drink from a Star Wars bottle. Those boys will bully anyone they think won't stand up to them. They're insecure and are trying to prove that they're just as good as you are, or better. I've had to stand up to adult bullies who are just like those boys. They back off when they see your strength.
You're a leader because you do what you need to do, and don't follow the crowd. Katie, carry that water bottle proudly and know that it's a symbol of your freedom and leadership. When those boys start bullying you, take a drink from your bottle and smile.
Hi Katie! I'm a grown-up girl, and I like Star Wars too. My mom took me to see The Empire Strikes Back when I was 3, and I've liked those movies ever since. I used to wish for LEGO Star Wars sets when I was your age. I'm sorry that you're getting bullied, and that the boys you go to school with don't understand how cool it is that you like Star Wars. It took me a long time, but when I finally got to college, I found people who appreciated me for who I was and who liked the same things I did. It's been 15 years since then, and those people are still my friends. The people who bullied me when I was little? I haven't seen or thought of them in ages. Just try to hang in there -- and you can always come home from school and watch Star Wars if you need to feel happy again. Take care, kiddo!
Hi Katie! I hadn't seen Star Wars at your age, but the re-releases came out when I was a year older, in grade 2. I loved them! I had short hair, so I even dressed up as Luke for Halloween! I would have loved your Star Wars water bottle; be proud of it!
Katie, I have a little girl who is crazy about superheros. She went as Robin from Teen Titans for Halloween, and has watched Star Wars with her dad. She's gone through similar teasing (the boys tell her that she can't play superheroes with them because she's a girl, and has since won them over). She refuses to give up on what she loves. You're not alone. Please know that even if your classmates give you a hard time, little girls like you and my daughter make the grown-ups smile with pride. You're true to yourself, and please don't stop because someone wants to make you feel badly. The other kids are just jealous that they can't dream as big as you can.
Hello...my name is Jo-Ann...I loooooooove Star Wars...I drive my hubby crazy because I watch it every time it is on t.v..which lately has been often...It is the best show ever made! I think i have seeen each movie at least 100 times..and will watch them a 100 more! Do not be shy to love the things u love..you dont want to be like everyone else..that is boring...your uniqueness is what makes u special from others..never lose your passion for the things that make you happy, carry that water bottle with pride and know you are nto alone..you are part of a worldwide group of people who loooove Star Wars and that make you one heck of a girl with great taste in movies! Hugs and Love to you! xoxo
Dear Katie,
I remember watching the original trilogy on VHS when I was about your age (ask your mom what a VHS is, you might be too young to know *lol*) and I fell in love with it. Personally, Return of the Jedi was my favorite part of the trilogy. Boy made fun of me too, and yes I did cry and I felt bad, but eventually I realized that I shouldn't let them make me feel bad.
I didn't. I kept being myself, and I like the person I became today because I refused to change. It'll be ok, those boys are just probably jealous because you know a lot more about Star Wars than they do. Keep your chin it, and it will all be ok.
Good luck to you in school and don't forget who you are.
A beautiful, awesome, amazing young lady is who you are.
Hey Katie-
I'm 46 years old and saw the first Star Wars movie when I was just 13. It was awesome then and it's awesome now. My daughters are 22 and 20 and BIG Star Wars fans. They both love Star Wars and Star Trek and other science fiction movies and TV shows and it is so totally cool that you do, too. I love Star Wars so much that my phone makes R2D2 sounds when I get an email or tweet. How cool is that?
As my daughters would tell you, it is it fact completely awesome to be a Star Wars fan and a nerd. DFTBA! (Don't Forget to be Awesome!)
Hi Katie,
I'm a 25-year-old woman and when I was in elementary school, some of the kids picked on me...not because I had geeky things but because we were too poor to buy the geeky things I wanted, so I had very old things. It sucked.
But when I got older, in middle school & high school & then in and after college, I found that even though I don't fit in with everybody I can find really awesome people to be friends with. Some of them are boys and some are girls who are just as geeky as the boys we're friends with. And there are a LOT of us girls who love Star Wars. There's even a store just for women who love Star Wars, it's called Her Universe, because there are so many women who love it that we had to create our own store. So you're not alone, and you're not silly for liking it, you're one of thousands and thousands and thousands of us who think Star Wars and science fiction and other geeky things are cool. :)
Ruth
Hi Katie!
I'm sure you feel better by now considering all the love you've been getting, but I figured I'd throw in my two cents. I'm a girl, and I got teased when I was your age for liking Star Wars, sports, video games and other "boy" things. I'm 23 now, and I still love those things. As a matter of fact, boys my age tend to think it's awesome that I like those things. You're a girl. Be proud of it. Own it. We girls are pretty fantastic, and we can like whatever we want.
And Star Wars being a boy thing? Come on. One of the most powerful characters in the movie is Princess Leia. Who kills Jabba the Hutt?
You're amazing, Katie. Keep on liking Star Wars and being yourself. You're already way ahead most kids your age. You're an inspiration to us all :)
Hi Katie! I'm another grownup female Star Wars fans. It's great that you've gotten so many comments, so that when those boys say Star Wars is a "boy thing" you can tell them for sure that it's not!
As for the glasses, I was so excited to get glasses when I was 8, because I thought that finally I looked as smart on the outside as I felt on the inside! (I was not a very humble child.) And just this week I talked to a college student who was wearing glasses with no lenses in them. She didn't need them to see, but wanted to wear glasses anyway because they're fashionable!
And here's a weird thing: pink has only been considered a "girl color" since about 1940. Before that, pink was the traditional color for boys and blue was the color for girls. So there's no reason anybody has to stick to those color rules, because they don't really mean anything and they could always change back again!
Good luck, Katie! Lots of people (women and girls, but also men and boys) are supporting you from afar.
Hi Katie!
Not only am I female and I like Star Wars, but I also have a little girl who loves Star Wars. Her absolute favorite character from Star Wars is Darth Vader and last year she even dressed up like him for Halloween! She even wanted a Darth Vader lunchbox for school (we couldn't find one though). I bet she would think your waterbottle is cool.
Don't let those silly boys get you down, they may not know just how awesome girls who like Star Wars are. Youkeep on being yourself and don't let those mean boys change who you are.
Katie, I'm a grown Star Wars lovin' woman living in New York City. I have Star Wars sheets and Star Wars tennis shoes, and that is just the start of my collection. Those bullying bozos are just jealous and have nothing better to do. Use your Jedi mind trick on them and tell them to STEP ASIDE, there's a new sheriff in town, YOU!
Hi, Katie. I'm Julie. When I was a little girl, I was different too. Now that I'm grown up, I've figured something out - we're all different. Those of us with courage are different every day, and do things that bring us joy and happiness. Some kids are scared and afraid and pretend to be the same because it makes them feel safe - but they aren't safe, and they don't get to do things that make them happy, either. So you go on with your Star Wars water bottle, and anything else you love, and know deep inside that you're happy, and honest, and doing what you love.
That's what "real life" and being a grownup is all about, you know - figuring out what makes you happy and finding ways to do that. When those other kids are wandering around in high school trying to 'find themselves' and figure out who they really are, you will already know. Because you're brave and true to yourself. You're doing a great job. Keep up the good work.
I've always loved Star Wars too. :) And so does my little girl.
Katie,
I'm a woman, a scientist, and a Star Trek fan. Like your mom said, it is absolutely OK for you to be different. When my daughter was little, I used to tell her to dance like no one was watching. Just be yourself. She is now a strong, independent junior in high school, who alternates between her Harry Potter lunchbox and her Batman lunchbox.
My fiancee, niece, and my soon to be sister-in-law all love Star Wars. My niece's favorite character is R2-D2. My fiancee uses her Boba Fett lunchbox as a purse and she is thinking about making herself a costume that looks like Boba Fett.
Dear Katie, I grew up just outside of Chicago, and when I was 5 years old, the eye doctor said I needed to wear a patch to correct my vision. I was afraid to even leave the house with that patch on, so you are much braver than I was. Later, I got glasses, and I didn't really like them either, but I have never been able to see very well. Eventually, I got contact lenses, and people started telling me what beautiful eyes I had, but I still remember being afraid that the boys in my neighborhood would pick on me for wearing an eyepatch, but I made it through that time in my life, and I have to tell you, Star Wars is and will always be one of the coolest movies ever made. I know adults who still love that movie, so you go girl, carry that Star Wars water bottle, be who you are, love what you love, and you will be fine.
P.S. Sometimes boys are stupid, but they grow up, eventually.
Hi Katie -- I, too, am a girl who likes Star Wars. My Dad took me and one of my brother to see the first movie (ep. 4) in the theater when I was a little older than you - I think I was 7 or 8 - and it was AWESOME!!! I like Boba Fett best - he has a cool helmet.
I have a daughter, too, who likes Star Wars and some other things that the girls her age aren't into so much, but the boys are (Pokemon, Captain Underpants, Diary of a Wimpy kid) and it's OK because it's what SHE likes. Your mom sounds pretty awesome, and I hope that these notes help you know it's totally fine for you to like whatever YOU like! I'm glad your mom shared your story, even though it makes me sad ... hang in there!!
My son is in Kindergarten and would probably fall madly in love with a girl who liked Star Wars. He's cool like his mom. :) Keep your chin up Katie. You'll be the winner in the end.
Hey Katie,
When I was your age -- nearly 50 years ago -- and for a long time after first grade, I was treated badly by schoolmates for lots of reasons. I was fat, I talked too much and I liked comics. Superman, Batman, Spider-Man, Fantastic Four, Aquaman and Challengers of the Unknown to be exact. However, my fellow students quieted down and got very polite when they wanted to read my comics. And I still read them them to this very day, which reminds me...
A year ago, I introduced my lovely granddaughter Zoe, a first-grader in Dubuque, Iowa, who is your same age, to comics. Since then, I can't find enough Power Pack or Fantastic Four books for her to read. And her little brother has fallen in love with all things Batman, even dressing up as him for Halloween.
Katie: As long as you're true to yourself, people will know and love you for it. Not everyone... but almost everyone, especially those who really matter.
Much love and happiness to you and your awesome family... Wayne
Hi Katie! Wow. we are so much alike! I'm a girl, adopted, and I grew up LOVING star wars! In fact, I hope when I have a little girl, she loves star wars too! You're a fantastic little girl and you should be proud for being so brave and true to yourself! Those boys will come around soon enough. After all, if Star Wars was meant to be just for boys, why are Luke and Han Solo so cute? So listen what everyone else here says and just be yourself! May the Force be with you!
Hi Katie - I am also a grown women Star Wars fan. I loved Star Wars from the first time I saw it and it was the first time I saw a strong brave heroine. Princess Leia was smart and brave and I thought she was amazing. Sounds like you are just like Princess Leia smart and brave so you are my heroine too. You truly sound like an amazing kid and your mom sounds pretty awesome too. Good luck and may the force be with you.
Hi Katie!
My name is Lillian and I'm a Star Wars fan too! I was teased when I was your age too. No matter what happens, never let those mean boys get to you. You should be able to bring whatever water bottle you want to school. Don't let anyone ever tell you otherwise. Keep your head up, we all support you!
I loved Star Wars as a kid (still do) and also had to wear a patch. I was teased a lot too in school the only thing you can really do is not care what those boys say. Know that you are awesome and that eventually it will pass.
Katie, I was 13 when Star Wars hit the theatres. I saw it NINE times. I loved that movie. I know what it is like to be different too in fact when I turned 40 I wrote a book about it and got it published. Maybe someday you will write a book too and we can get people to stop picking on others because we are different.
P.S. Everyone is different and that is a good thing!
Hi Katie - I am also a grown women Star Wars fan. I loved Star Wars from the first time I saw it and it was the first time I saw a strong brave heroine. Princess Leia was smart and brave and I thought she was amazing. Sounds like you are just like Princess Leia smart and brave so you are my heroine too. You truly sound like an amazing kid and your mom sounds pretty awesome too. Good luck and may the force be with you.
Hi, Katie - I'm a 29-year-old girl, and I love Star Wars. When I was your age, I loved Transformers. I even had tennis shoes with Transformers on them (and, yes, I got teased). I stuck with them, though. Keep being the brave girl you already are, and keep loving the stuff that makes YOU happy! :)
Oh, and I've been wearing glasses since 4th grade, too. I've grown to love my glasses - they're my signature, and I actually look a little odd without them (to my eyes, at least). Keep rocking your pair! There are so many cool women and girls who wear glasses.
Hey Katie!
I'm a 20 year old guy from Ireland and I just read this article. I just wanted to tell you that I think you're so cool for having a Star Wars bottle and bag. I'm such a big Star Wars fan.
There's always going to be people who try to upset you because you like things that others don't. But trust me when I say that your individuality is a great quality you have, and it will only get better as each year goes past. In my whole life the most interesting and fun people I've met are the ones who were given a hard time for liking things and being willing to show it off.
I don't know if I've gotten across what I was trying to.. but I just wish that I had friends like you when I was in 1st grade, as I think you sound really cool. Please don't be embarrassed by your bag or drink holder. :)
Dear Katie,
When I was a boy, my sister and I both loved Star Wars like you. She was also like you because she had to wear glasses and a patch. My mom made my brother and I wear one of her patches for a whole day once! She wanted us to know what it felt like so we wouldn't tease her about it- and we didn't!
I bet those boys weren't thinking about how you felt when they were teasing you. Whatever they were thinking when they said those mean words, it sure seems silly when you look at all the nice words people are writing to you now!
Now that I'm grown up, my sister has a boy, and a girl your age who plays Star Wars with him! We all watch Clone Wars together.
I know your mommy and daddy are proud of you for being brave enough to be yourself. Keep it up!
Wyatt
Katie,
I am a 33 year old different girl who LOVES Star Wars. When I played dress up I did not want to be Princess Leia...I wanted to be Hans Solo! You are 110% perfect just the way you are.
I also have a 5 year old son who loves to watch Strawberry Shortcake and My Little Pony...and he has a pink cup by his bed because pink is one of his favorite colors. And his little sister likes to wear her Superman cape while she plays. They are also 110% perfect just they way they are.
Just keep being you and smiling. =-)
Hi Katie!
I think it's great that you love Star Wars! It's been one of my favorite things almost my entire life. I wanted to be R2D2 for Halloween when I was in first grade and carried a little R2D2 action figure with me to school all that year. When those boys tease you, just think about how awesome all those girl Jedi are!
I made a friend in first grade that liked Star Wars too and we'd play out stories that we'd make up on the bus on the way home so we wouldn't get bored. So who knows, just by wearing your Star Wars backpack, you might find someone that likes it just as much.
I hope you keep showing off your love of all thing Star Wars. Remember in the movie, all it took was one farm boy to save the galaxy! You might start a trend, and who knows maybe save a galaxy someday.
May the Force be with you Katie!
Katie,
I'm a 30 year old girl, and I've loved Star Wars since a kid. But not just that, I also love movies such as Indiana Jones, ET, Transformers, and all the classic "guy" things. I even played with hot wheels. And I was proud of it. Still am proud of it. So hold your head up high when showing your appreciation for something you genuinely love.
And you know what? I've a little boy around your age in first grade. He not only likes Star Wars, hot wheels, and other "boy" things but he also loves things that could be classified as "girly" too. Such as Littlest Pet Shop, and Calico Critters.
Hi there Katie!
Just wanted to add my contribution to the chorus here! =) I am SO proud of you for having the courage to be different and to stay true to yourself! That is just awesome! Being different is hard sometimes, but it is so important to always be yourself even when it's not easy. You rock that Star Wars water bottle, girl! :D Keep up the good work and know that you have so much support from people who don't even know! How cool is that?!
You are such a beautiful girl - keep smiling that lovely smile!
Oh and by the way... you have an amazing Mom! :)
~ Best wishes from a grown up girl who never liked pink either ;-)
Dear Katie,
I only know a little about you, but you sound a lot like me! My name is Katie, I wear glasses, and I love Star Wars. I remember watching them on TV with my family, and before that, I listened to parts of a radio adaptation of the old trilogy that my dad had taped years before.
And I used to get teased at lunchtime too, sometimes. I'm allergic to milk, so sometimes I brought food from home that other kids thought was weird (soy milk? eww, weird!), but I learned to shrug it off, and pretty soon they just accepted that as part of who I was. I bet that your classmates will realize that loving Star Wars is part of who you are -- and if they like it too, then maybe you'll have something fun to talk about! Next time they try to tease, maybe just ask one of them who his favorite character is, and share yours. (Mine's Leia.)
May the Force be with you,
Katie
Katie, I hear you. I'm a girl who loves Star Wars, too. But let me tell you something: you are cooler than you can possibly imagine. Nobody is in the right to tease you about liking whatever you want to like, least of all Star Wars. I've never seen a label on Star Wars that says only boys can like Star Wars. Star Wars was made for everybody to enjoy, and I've honestly never been friends with a girl who DIDN'T like Star Wars, so you're not alone here. Girls all over the world--no wait, girls all over the UNIVERSE--love Star Wars.
And you know what? Right now it may seem tough because a few boys teased you, but in a few years, you'll look back on this and a few things will occur to you. I know this because the same thing happened to me. First you will be proud of being unafraid to show your love for something. Then you will remember, Star Wars is really cool...and since you were all equipped with your Star Wars accessories, then you must be pretty cool, too. And you know what? You ARE cool. I'm 22 years old, and whenever I walk by a girl your age sporting some Star Wars gear, my friends and I talk about exactly how great we think it is. I know a few boys with big mouths might have teased you about it, but think about how many people think what you're doing is awesome, because that's a much greater number of people. And I'm not lying about talking about this sort of thing with my friends and universally deciding it's very cool. It is VERY cool, make no mistake about it. Don't be afraid to show it. And you know what? You might become a role model for other girls, because like I said, TONS of girls like Star Wars. I bet you MOST girls like Star Wars. Maybe by being brave like you're being, other girls will probably be braver, too. So a few boys are ridiculous enough to think that only boys can like Star Wars. Big deal. In a few years, they'll probably be embarrassed about teasing you for it (because they'll realize they prefer girls who like Star Wars too). And right now, today, there are all these people on this post, and so many more you might never hear from, who think you're just the cat's pajamas. I mean just think about all the girls I pass and see their things and never say anything to them (and maybe now I will)--I always think they're cool. I'm serious, I wish I was as cool as you are.
So keep being brave, and keep being awesome. You are not alone, and in fact, people admire you for being courageous enough to be yourself (boys and girls).
Katie, it's so cool you want to show your Star Wars love. I have a son in second-grade, and he loves Star Wars and would love to have a girl to play with that loves Star Wars as much as you.
Keep using your Star Wars water bottle.
Hi Katie!
I wanted to tell you that I think it's really cool that you like Star Wars and that you got that cool stuff to take to school with you. I'm a girl and I loved Star Wars, too! I even had the some of the Star Wars people to play with like Luke, Han, Princess Leia, Chewbacca and my favorite was R2D2 because his little silver head turned around. One day, boys will think it's cool that you like Star Wars, too.
Another thing we have in common is that I also wore glasses in the first grade. It was hard because none of my friends wore glasses and it made me feel bad. Now, even though I have contact lenses, I still wear my glasses sometimes because I like them and I like that they make me different. Boys tell me all the time how much they like my glasses and how smart and pretty they make me look. :)
You may not think so today, but one day, you'll be glad for the things that make you different. One day, you won't want to be like everyone else and then you'll love the things about you that are special to Katie and no one else.
much love, happiness and hugs to you,
Krista
Hi Katie - I am a 35 year old girl who loves Star Wars! My 8 year old daughter, Olive, loves Star Wars too. She got a (toy) light saber & pretends that she is Obi-Wan Kenobi.
She told me "Girls can like boy things & boys can like girl things! Boys can act like girls & girls can act like boys." When I told her about what your mommy wrote, she got upset that the boys would say that to you.
If you like Star Wars, do not be afraid to show it. I know it doesn't feel good when people say things that hurt your feelings or that are mean. But you have got to be yourself! You are awesome, & you are the only one who can show the world just how awesome you are. Own it!
I also have a 13 year old daughter who is into things that most girls her age aren't into - not Twilight or the Jonas Brothers, but anime & manga. When people at school tell her that she is weird, she just says "Thank you!" because they have paid her the best compliment ever.
Hi Katie!
I have a daughter who's one of a set of 8-year-old quadruplets, and she wears glasses just like you. She's the only girl in the whole family, and she loves Star Wars too. She even dressed up as Padme Amidala for Halloween last year. No one gives her a hard time about it, but maybe that's because her brothers won't let them.
Don't let those boys get to you. Be who you want to be and know that your mom and dad love you for exactly that. We'll all be proud of you too!
Take care,
Matt Forbeck
Forbeck.com
Hi Katie! My name is Katie too and I love Star Wars! I got bullied in school as well. I was considered different in my school because I had curly hair and everyone else had straight hair. Several people teased me, and it was a hard time for me. Now I love my curly hair, and others are jealous. I know it's hard to be different when you're in school, but now that I'm older I love being unique. You will too!
Hey Katie - I'm a 30 year old girl and I love star wars and I've got friends who are girls who love Star Wars so much they dress up and play Star Wars with their friends every weekend. Don't let the boys get you down and don't let them tell you that Star Wars is only for boys because its not. There are a lot of girls out there who like Star Wars or Lord of the Rings and Transformers and that's awesome.
Also I'm a librarian who helps boy AND girls find the Star Wars movies and books in my library every week. Boys and girls of all ages, even some old enough to be your grandparents :)
Also I have glasses too, ever since I was not much older than you. My eyesight is terrible and I can't see anything with out them, so you're not alone with that either. Grab your Star Wars backpack and your cute glasses and wear them with pride. Its ok to be different, we're all a bit different and we all feel alone because of it sometimes. But that's why the internet can be great, you've got a ton of other girls out there of all age who are here to help you :)
Katie, it's great you have a Star Wars water bottle to drink out of at lunch. My son is in 2nd grade and loves Star Wars and he would love to have a girl to play with that loves Star Wars as much as you.
Keep using it. It is awesome.
Katie,
You're an awesome girl! I wasn't brave enough to bring the things I liked to school with me. You're such a brave girl!! Keep it up. I'm 32 years old and I love Star Wars. When I was your age I also liked He-Man and She-Ra. Now, I have a husband, and we have a boy and a girl. The coolest girls like Star Wars. The coolest girls and the coolest boys. Those boys must not be real Star Wars fans if they don't know that girls can like it, too.
Stick with it!!
Hi Katie,
My name is Cyn. I'm a woman who loves Star Wars. I was 11 years old when the first 3 movies came out. I remember being very excited to go see them with my dad. I may not be as big a fan of it as you are but you know what, those boys are wrong. Their parents should be ashamed for how they're behaving. Geek/Nerd Girls RULE! You let those boys know that Star Wars is just as much for girls as it is for boys. It always has been and always will be.
Miss Katie,
When I was a girl about your age, my mommy and daddy took me to the movies to see Star Wars. That was a long time ago (and a galaxy far, far away)! I loved it then, and I love it now. I have been a geek for a very long time!
People tease for lots of reasons, and sometimes it's just to make themselves feel better or to be just like everyone else. Really, it is their problem and not yours.
You are doing the hardest thing ever: being yourself! I am very proud of you for being so brave, and I hope that you will carry whatever water bottle you want, always and always.
May the Force be with you!
Hi Katie!
We have so very much in common. Just like you, I'm adopted, I wear glasses, and I'm a BIG Star Wars fan! (Luckily, I stopped needing my patch when I turned 7.) When I was younger, I got picked on by boys and girls for these things and a lot more. I went to space camp and band camp instead of cheerleading or soccer camp, and my mom liked to take me to the science museum instead of the nail salon. Guess what? Now I'm in school to be a DOCTOR! And those boys and girls who picked on me? Well, they're not! But you know what? I'm not going to turn around and pick on them because I'm going to have a really cool job in a few years. I was lucky to find a best friend when I was in kindergarten who liked to be different with me, and even though we had rough times, we're still best friends. If you can find one or more good friends who like you BECAUSE you're different, hold on to them! And even if you haven't found them yet, thank your lucky stars that you have a mom and dad who love you so much.
The Force IS with you!
Rosie
Hi Katie,
I was your age when Star Wars first came out, and I've loved it ever since. I've gone as Princess Leia for Halloween more times than I can count. Here's a picture of the first time - http://tinyurl.com/prinleia. She's still one of my heros. She's smart, funny, brave, and resourceful. Maybe the boys who were being mean are just insecure because they know she's a better shot than Luke and Han!
The greatest gift you can give yourself is to be true to yourself. Your passions and interests can take you to amazing places, and bring wonderful people into your life. Don't let anyone else take away the things you love. That can be hard sometimes. When you get sad or scared, talk to your mom. She sounds pretty awesome. And I think you're awesome too!
May the force be with you.
Katie:
hello! my name is Ruby, and i would like to let you know that carrying a star wars water bottle is probably the coolest thing i've ever heard of a girl your age doing. i have grown up in the southern united states, where people who are different are usually given a much harder time than they would normally receive elsewhere. unfortunately, i have been the victim of teasing for nearly my whole life. i'm not very old (only 20!), so i remember what it was like to be your age and be teased for all the boy things i liked! i loved to play soccer and chase and football with the guys, and all the other girls made fun of me; sometimes the boys did, too. but it is important to know that no matter who makes fun of you, no matter what they say, YOUR opinion of yourself is the ONLY ONE that matters. if you love yourself, that should be good enough for you! if you can't love yourself, then you can't love others. remember that, if you can! i would like to share a favorite quote of mine, by dr. seuss, whose books you might have read in school:
"be who you are, and say what you feel - because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind."
:)
keep your chin up, and i hope you have a wonderful year at school!
I have a 3 year old daughter that loves to talk about and pretend to be 'Dark Vador'. I hope that she has someone like you to look up to when she gets in the first grade.
Katie, I saw Empire Strikes back in the movie theater when I was a first grade girl!!! My dad drove me and my sisters to downtown San Diego (it was a long long way) and they actually had lasers and smoke coming out of an enormous screen during the movie! It was so amazing! I will never forget it. I was so scared, but I watched the whole thing (while peaking through my hands). And then I saw Return of the Jedi with my uncle a few years later. I was just as excited (especially because he bought us one of those giant sized buckets of popcorn with extra butter.)
You know what I was teased about during lunch at school? Beef Relish. My mom would put the leftover roast beef into the food processor with mayo and relish and pulverize it. Then she'd put it in a container in my lunchbox with fork. All the boys would chant, "She's eating DOG FOOD!" (Beef Relish really does look like canned dog food!) And you know what, I loved beef relish so much, I never cared. I couldn't live without that beef relish. :) So kiss your Star Wars thermos and smile. Love is love!!!!
Katie, you are wonderful just as you are. My step-daughter, who is now in her second year of law school, was and still is such a Star Wars lover that I think she could recite each Star Wars movie from memory. I liked Star Wars too and I think that helped bring us closer.
You hang in there, and like what you like.
Hi Katie - I am a 35 year old girl who loves Star Wars! My 8 year old daughter, Olive, loves Star Wars too. She got a (toy) light saber & pretends to be Obi-Wan Kenobi.
She told me "Girls can like boy things & boys can like girl things. Boys can act like girls & girls can act like boys." She was upset when I told her what your mommy had written about the boys teasing you.
I know it doesn't feel good when other people say mean or hurtful things, but it is so very important that you be who you are. You are awesome & you are the only one who can show the world just how awesome you are. Own it!
I have a 13 year old daughter, Zoe, who is not into the same things that most girls her age are into. Rather than Twilight or the Jonas Brothers, she likes anime & manga & classical music (she plays the cello). When people at her school call her weird, she says "Thank you!" because they have just paid her the best compliment ever. She likes being who she is, even if that makes her "weird" to every one else.
Your daughter Zoe is just like I was at 13. More girls need to like anime and manga! (And classical music - flute/piano player!)
I should also add that you are one awesome mommy!
Hi, Katie,
My name is Lynne, and I first saw Star Wars in 1977, when I was 5 years old. Then, they re-released the original one in 1980 before the Empire Strikes Back came out. I cried a lot during the throne room scene when I saw it the second time. I don't know why, but I did. I loved Star Wars so much that I went with 10 other kids from my third grade class to see Return of the Jedi after school during the week that it came out. When the movies were finally re-released in the 90s, I stood in line at the Uptown Theater in Washington DC, for each opening day. I hosted a Return of Star Wars party when The Phantom Menace came out, and traveled into the city again to see it on opening day. When I got married in 2003, the throne room music from the original Star Wars was our entrance music for our reception. That's right, when I turned 30, I met a fantastic guy who loved Star Wars as much as I did! Together, we have Star Wars on VHS, Laserdisc (which you probably have never heard of), DVD in three different versions, and the radio shows on CD. We have Star Wars figurines, dolls, action figures, pez dispensers, coffee mugs, and let's not forget the very large Millennium Falcon. Oh and we have two versions of Boba Fett's Slave I ship--one vintage and one newer--that I bought on ebay. So what I'm saying, is that not only can Girls Love Star Wars, but I happen to think it's REALLY cool to love Star Wars. Our Kids are going to Love Star Wars--both my little boy AND my little girl. There's no getting around it. It's in their blood. Be cool, Katie. Teach the OTHER girls how cool Star Wars is!
Hi Katie!
Guess what? Girls can love space and Star Wars, too! I'm also a girl who loves both of those things, and I also had to wear glasses about your age. I like crafts, so I learned how to make Origami Star Wars planes: http://bp1.blogger.com/_6BciZmal5fE/R9DcVbBqVWI/AAAAAAAAAc0/Buq0R3ofyhs/s1600-h/Photo+5.jpg
People used to make fun of me for liking "boy" things and wearing glasses, but I now know that "boy" things aren't just for boys. I'm an engineer now, and I get to work on things like rockets and airplanes. We could use more girls like you who love Star Wars, so don't stop showing the world who you really are! You also don't have to stop liking "girl" things if you like them, too. You can still wear dresses and play with stuffed animals--don't let people tell you what you can and can't do just because you are a lovely lady! Good luck, and best wishes. :)
Hi, Katie! My name is Pam, and I'm twenty-two years old. I LOVE Star Wars! When I was little, my whole family used to gather around the TV so that we could watch Episodes Four, Five, and Six together. That included me, my sister, my two brothers, and my mom and dad, and we ALL liked them.
The nicest guy I know was adopted when he was a baby. He even had a different name when he was born than the one he uses now! How many people do you know that have two sets of names?
In fact, when my brother Brian was a little younger than you are now, he had to wear a patch, too! He looked just like a pirate.
Besides which, Princess Leia and Padme are both girls. If Star Wars isn't for girls, why are such cool girls in the movies?
May the Force be with you, young padawan. :)
Katie! I'm a woman and I love, love, love Star Wars. It's the coolest. I've liked it since I was your age and went to the theater to see the original three movies. My favorite character is Yoda. Keep being who you are; be true to yourself. You're awesome, Miss Katie! :)
Katie, one day you're going to look around you and discover that you're grown up. If you're lucky, when you look around you'll see a few people that you call your friend that you called your friend fifteen or twenty years ago. Most people aren't. Life is hard. Kids? They are often cruel, mean, hurtful, spiteful little beings. My five year old son would tell you that they suck. He's right - kids often do suck. I'm not sure why, but I know that it'll get better.
Life your life. Do things that make you happy. You don't have to be friends with everyone, but you should be nice. Carry your water bottle to school if you want, but don't let some boy's nasty comments stop you from something if you really want to do it. Sometimes you'll find that it's not worth your effort to do something, and that's okay too. Make sure, though, that it's YOUR choice, not someone else's.
Keep talking to your mom - although it doesn't seem like it sometimes, she'll be your best friend one day. Keep your head up, a smile on your face, and know that there's other people out there that enjoy the same things that you do. You'll find them.
Hi Katie! My god-daughter's name is Katie too, she's only 4 though. You've gotten so many responses and they make me feel better too! Like a lot of other women who have written to you, I was your age when the first Star Wars movie came out. I loved it so much! We used to play Star Wars at school and in our yards all the time. I always wanted to be Boba Fett (the bounty hunter - a boy), because I thought he was fun to play and I didn't want to be a princess. I used to get teased a lot, and not just because I wanted to be Boba Fett or that I liked to play with cars and would rather climb a tree than play house. My family was very different, the food I ate was different, and I dressed differently too. To make it worse, I didn't act or talk like most of the other kids in my neighborhood either. The funny thing is that I never wanted to actually be any different than I was, I just wished there was some way my food could still taste the way it did when my mom made it, but maybe look like the pb&j my friends were eating. Or that my clothes had the brand names, but were still as colorful and comfortable as the ones my grandmother made for me. I was really lucky that I had parents who cared about me as much as your mom cares about you and they helped me understand that really it was better that I be myself rather than try to be what other people wanted me to be. In the long run I ended up with really amazing people in my life who loved me just how I was. My best friend is the same best friend I've had since I was nine and my favorite part about all my friends is the little ways they are different from me and bring rich experiences to my life. And by the way, now people can't wait to eat the food I make... although I'm still a little fashion challenged, but oh well.
One of the best things about this world we live in is all those things that make us all so different, and at the same time so human. Celebrate who you are, appreciate others for who they are, and hang onto that beautiful self-confidence, it will serve you well.
Hi Katie!
Guess what? Girls can love space and Star Wars, too! I'm also a girl who loves both of those things, and I also had to wear glasses about your age. I like crafts, so I learned how to make Origami Star Wars planes: http://bp1.blogger.com/_6BciZmal5fE/R9DcVbBqVWI/AAAAAAAAAc0/Buq0R3ofyhs/s1600-h/Photo+5.jpg
People used to make fun of me for liking "boy" things and wearing glasses, but I now know that "boy" things aren't just for boys. I'm an engineer now, and I get to work on things like rockets and airplanes. We could use more girls like you who love Star Wars, so don't stop showing the world who you really are! You also don't have to stop liking "girl" things if you like them, too. You can still wear dresses and play with stuffed animals--don't let people tell you what you can and can't do just because you are a lovely lady! Good luck, and best wishes. :)
Hi, Katie. My name is Heather and I am a 35 year old woman who likes a lot things are supposed to be for boys. I played with my legos for hours and now I'm thrilled I get to play with them with my little boy. I also love math, science, and animals (esp dinosaurs). I even went to school to study bats! Now I teach about these things. I'm also the mom that catches frogs in the backyard and all the boys think that is cool.
I think these boys are just jealous that you have such a cool water bottle. Just do what you want to do and someday these boys will figure out what they really want to say.... that you are cool and they want to play Star Wars with you!
Katie,
I've always liked "boy" toys, movies, and books. And I also got my glasses when I was in elementary school. I think we're alike in a lot of ways, but you're different from me in one very important way.
It's easy to go along with the flow and do what everyone else does. It's very hard, and takes a lot of bravery to follow what you like no matter what people say.
At home I could play with Lego's, watch He-man and Star Wars, and all those other "boy" things. But at school I gave in to what was expected of me by the other kids.
You are much, much braver than I was. I know your mom and dad are very proud of you, and you should be proud of yourself!
Hi Katie! I have loved Star Wars since I was your age, and I always wanted to be Princess Leia. I still love Star Wars. In fact, for my 32nd birthday this year, my husband bought me an AT-AT. Don't ever let anyone discourage you from something you love. For every person that says something negative to you, there are at least two more who think you're cool. You are unique, and that's awesome!
Hi Katie! I was younger than you when Star Wars first came out, and I have loved it ever since. The first thing I asked for was my own Darth Vader action figure, and I still have him! I even write Star Wars stories sometimes. My best friend is a girl and she loves Star Wars so much she used to sleep with her toy rancor! My mom likes Star Wars too. My sister likes Star Wars and dressed as Princess Leia for Halloween. In fact, all my girl friends like Star Wars. Because awesome girls like awesome stuff, and Star Wars is awesome. And so are you.
Hey Katie! I'm a Star wars fan too! I remember the first time I went to a Star Wars film was when I was in first grade. I was so tired I fell asleep during the movie. I woke up to the sound of Jabba talking and laughed. It's okay to be different. Take it from me, the only red head in the family. sometimes it can be hard but pull through. COURAGE! (;
Katie,
I know exactly what that's like. For me it was my extensive pokemon collection. The boys all made fun of me, to the point where they stole my card binder from my cubbard and threw it in the boys bathroom trash can. It hurt my feelings so bad, and I never told my parents about what happened. But the next day one of the boys came up to me and gave me the binder. He and his mom and cleaned it up after he found it. He said he thought it was really cool that I had such a large collection, and he told me the reason all the guys made fun of me is because they were jealous. their parents wouldn't buy them pokemon cards, and they didn't think it was fair that mine did. Boys are just silly. And now that I'm older, and I fully embrace all the "boy" things I like- I've been collecting hot wheels since I inherited my brother's old collection for another example. I also always have guys wanting to be my friend because they can relate to me through things like star wars, or comic books, or anime. It hurts, a lot. I know. But know that they're just so jealous of how TOTALLY awesome you are!
Dear Katie,
I don't know whether you know this, but the Star Wars universe goes beyond the six movies; there have been dozens of books and comic books written about the events before, during, and after those movies. Some of the best of those books have been written by women. That's right--not only do those women like Star Wars, but they were PAID to make up Star Wars stories! Search Amazon for "Star Wars tie-in books" and you'll find authors named Jude, Kerrie, Christie, and Valerie. Maybe you'll be one of them someday.
Don't forget that there are women in the Star Wars movies, too! I bet Carrie Fisher and Natalie Portman would be really proud of you for being yourself and not letting the other kids get you down.
You're very brave to go to school every day knowing that you're different from the other kids. They're all different too, in their own ways, but they may not be as aware of it as you are. I hope that all the support you've been getting helps you to feel good about yourself, and also reminds you to be kind to the other kids when you find out about the things that make them different. Sooner or later, everyone gets that nervous feeling and is scared of being teased or snubbed. If you see someone else being teased, I hope you'll find a safe way to stand up for them and tell the other kids--and their parents, and your teachers--that teasing someone for being different is never okay.
May the force be with you!
Cheers,
Rose
a female Star Wars fan in New York City
Hello Katie!
I'd like to tell you a story...
I was homeschooled until fifth grade and it was very difficult for me to fit in after so long of having only fantasy and sci-fi books for company. No matter what I did, I didn't seem to fit in...
one night in 7th grade, I was laying my clothes out for the next day of school. I put out jeans and a t-shirt, and I said to myself "ugh, I hate these clothes... I hate jeans." and it's true, I do. I prefer long skirts and dresses. And then I asked myself- "Why am I wearing these if I hate them?" The answer was "To fit in..." and I said to myself "But... I'm not fitting in wearing these clothes that I hate.... you know what? I'm going to wear what I want!"
And the next day, I wore a long purple dress that looked like something straight out of a Disney movie. I got a lot of "What are you WEARING?!" ... but a lot of "oh... I like your dress!" too.
And from then on, I've never cared what people thought of me. I wear what I like, I read what I like, and the people who matter don't care about it at all- they like me for me, not how I dress or what I do.
I hope you learn this too- it's a wonderful feeling not to worry about what people think of you.
Oh, and I like Star Wars too! When I was your age I used to imagine that I was friends with Anakin Skywalker. Before he turned to the Dark Side of course. I proudly call myself a geek, and I have lots of friends who are all girls and geeks. My boyfriend is a huge Star Wars fan too, and we sit together and watch the movies and quote lines back and forth. We made the Death Star out of chocolate together and ate it for dessert one night (complete with green sugar lasers!)
Basically, never give up on something you love because of what other people say. <3 May the Force be with you!
First of all...remind the boys that your parents chose you out of all the children out there and their parents had no choice about them....but not to perpetuate bullying with snippy comebacks, you are loved and that is the first most important thing, by the people who will be with you throughout your life...these children will move on to their own lives somewhere else. Second, as a member of the 501st Legion, the world's largest Star Wars fan club with over 5000 members world wide, you are more than welcomed to carry any Star Wars goodies you like....it's not just for boys anymore and really it never has been. I have been a fan since 1977 when it first hit the screen and I have been a sci-fi fan forever. I read comic books, spy novels, climbed trees, skateboarded, played sports, like cars and done many traditional "boys" things my whole life. I have also been a wife and a mother and done all the girl things too. Your only limitations should be your own imagination. Remind these little boys that many great nations have risen under queens and female leaders, there are women soldiers, astronauts, athletes, and what not and that they need to get their heads on straight and remember....some day...you may be their boss. Rock on Katie. You are awesome and they are intimidated by how awesome you are.
Hey, Katie-wanna know a secret? All the silly things that other kids tease you for now, are the same things that will make you a stronger, kinder person as you grow. I was teased for my interests as a kid and now I spend one weekend every year surrounded by people that enjoy the exact same things as me at convention in Atlanta, GA. I've also met some of my best friends because of our shared "nerdy" interests. Plus, all the things that I loved when I was younger and was teased about (Buffy, The Lord of the Rings, Star Wars!), are now considered way cool in my adult life. I was a trendsetter :) Keep your head up and know that you are an amazing, unique person!
And, Carrie, it sounds like you have an awesome kid! Continue to help her embrace all of her interests and she will amaze you!
Katie, I LOVE Star Wars! When I was young I watched all three of the first movies cuddled up with my dad on the couch! I LOVED the Ewoks and the Wookiees because they were fuzzy and cute. I also thought that Han Solo was a really neat guy. We even had two cats named Leia and Chewy. My favorite game is my Lego Star Wars game for the Wii and two of my female friends and I went to a Star Wars exhibit in Minneapolis a few years ago and it was so much fun! You know what? I even have postcards with Boba Fett on the refrigerator! They are super cool!
Those boys are silly! You can tell them all about all the cool ladies all around the world that like Star Wars too!
P.S. I'm a little jealous of your Star Wars backpack! I would show it off at school with pride!
Hi Katie,
I am a mom and a grandma who loves Star Wars! I am 50-years-old and saw the first Star Wars movie when I was 17-years-old. Guess how much I paid to see it in the movie theatre? Just $1.00! Guess how many times I went to see it with my girlfriends? FIVE TIMES! That's right! All of us girls LOVED Star Wars when we were teenagers.
I raised my children to love Star Wars too. When my two daughters were little and my son was little, they all had Star Wars toys. I believe that there is no such thing as "girl toys" or "boy toys." That sounds pretty boring to me. I think you should play with whatever you are interested in playing with. That's what I raised my kids to believe in.
I now have two granddaughters, Desiree, who is 10, and Zoe, who is 7. Zoe especially loves Star Wars, Batman, and Spiderman. I bet you and Zoe would be great friends, Katie.
Star Wars is awesome and so are you. May the Force be with you!
Your Star Wars loving grandma friend,
Lisa
Hi Katie,
I used to be picked on because I'm different, too. I'm small, 5' tall. Even now adults sometimes talk to me as though I'm missing something because I'm small, but I've come to like being different. I can't imagine being anyone but who I am. There are a couple of books that I read to my kids about how it's OK to be different. One is Tacky the Penguin and the other is William's Doll. You might like them, too. And, my username Jedlight which I use everywhere is a contraction of Jedi light, because Jedi are cool!
Dearest Katie,
We have so many things in common! I am now 26, but when I was young, my dad joined our family and adopted me. I wear glasses too and like to collect them in fun colors. Ever since I was a kid, I have loved Star Wars! Sometimes boys teased me about liking, wearing, and doing
Hi Katie!
I am a girl and have loved Star Wars since I was a kid! Now, my kids, a girl and a boy, love Star Wars too. Please don't let children, or anyone you meet in your life, get to you when it comes to what you think of yourself or what you do. You stay strong and hold your head high because you are a beautiful girl and you have a beautiful mom. God made people different just like he made the different colors of the rainbow, and every different snowflake. That is what makes each person unique and special. I'm sorry that you were teased, and I know that it hurt you. It will make you stronger. Unfortunately, there are some children and adults that just don't have beautiful souls, and for some reason it makes them feel good to hurt others. You just forgive and move forward in life knowing that it really isn't 'you', because the perosn being mean is usually hurting on the inside for whatever reason. You are a beautiful girl, and you aren't 'different', you are special and unique in your very own amazing way. Lots of love to you and your family! And may the force be with you.....always!
;-D
Dear Katie,
My daughter is also in first grade and loves star wars! She watches the clones wars and Ashoka is her favorite jedi.Like you she has star wars lunch box,toys and clothes.The boys tried to tell her once that she didn't know star wars.She turned around and let them know she knew a lot more than them.Those boys now love to play stars wars with her.Don't let those boys get the best of you. You and your mom need to check out heruniverse.com It is a website for girls, with cool clothes and etc.It was put together by the girl who does the voice of ashoka.Star wars has lots of strong girls.Our love and prayers for you and your mom.May the force be with you little one!
Katie,
I'm a 22 year old female, and I've liked Star Wars since I was around 8. I was 5'10'' by the age of 12, liked boyish things, and was just generally awkward. Kids at school would make fun of me. In high school I had a card board cut out of Anakin Skywalker and a pet frog named "Kenobi". But I found a group of friend that loved me for me! And no one else really mattered! When Star Wars Episode III came out on DVD, my friends and I watched all 6 Star Wars movies in a row. So don't get depressed about what other people think. You are just too cool for them!
Katie - I love Star Wars (and now Clone Wars because of my 3 kids). I was the only girl on my brother's little league baseball team and I played sports all through school. But, those things didn't define who I am as a person. And, your water bottle doesn't define you either. We all have unique abilities to discover, develop and share with the world. Standing up for what you believe in, even if it starts just with a water bottle, is a wonderful characteristic and it will serve you well as you get older. We like Star Wars so much because it encourages doing what's right, believing in something and helping others. I will be praying for you!
Hi Katie -
When I was your age, I read a book about astronomy and decided right then and there that I wanted to work in the space program and study planets and be an astronomer and a pilot. Which made me very different from most of the classmates I had at school. I held onto that goal, and worked for NASA for 20 years and am now the director of an observatory (see www.mmto.org), as well as the owner of a plane with my husband. Along the way, Star Wars came out (when I was grown), and I thought it was amazing then and think it is amazing still. Like you, I got teased a lot when I was younger. Keep your strength of character and enjoy all the wonderful things in life, like Star Wars!
Hey Katie! I hope you're feeling better now after all the comments you've received. I've loved Star Wars too for a very long time. When the boys try teasing you again, remember that Princess Leia is obviously Not A Boy, and she certainly was different from everybody else!
It's easier to say than to do, but try and not let those boys make you feel bad. There are lots of us out there who like the same things you like, and we're all girls! Those boys don't know what they're talking about.
Hi Katie!
I'm a 38 year-old girl and I went and saw the very first Star Wars movie when it came out when I was in Kindergarten, and I have loved Star Wars ever since! As you probably already know from these notes, there are LOTS AND LOTS of girls that really like Star Wars and there is absolutely nothing wrong with it.
Enjoy that Star Wars water bottle and ignore anyone that says that Star Wars isn't for girls. It's for everyone!
Katie, I'm a woman and I LOVE Star Wars! I've loved it since I was quite young. That's awesome that you love it too. Don't let anyone ever tell you what you can or can't like. Trust me, liking Star Wars makes you a very cool young lady, and while those boys don't realize it now, it will make you even MORE super awesome when you're a teenager or woman.
Hang in there, honey! You are wonderful!
I'm a woman and a Star Wars fan. And my 5-year old daughter is a Star Wars fan too. Some days, I let her play with my lightsabers... they're the fancy ones that make noise as you move them. I recently told her that if she focuses really well at her karate class (another thing that's supposed to be for boys), I'll let her use them for her sword practice.
Katie, when you are older the guys will adore the fact that you like Star Wars. Keep that thermos!
hola, katie. my name is daniela, but everyone call me "nani". i'm from Venezuela, a country in south america. see how far had your story come? amazing, huh? :) actually I got here because Alyssa Milano (the actress) posted this on twitter, so hey, you
Hi Katie! I am 44 years old and I love Star Wars! (Loved it when it first came out...yes dear, I am ancient. Like Yoda, with better moisturizer...) You can love any toys, any characters, any games, any songs - anything!! I have a 4 year old little boy who loves Dora (was one of his first words) - and I tell him every day - you can play Dora anytime you want. You know why? it makes you happy - that is what we grown ups forget sometimes...that we are allowed to be happy and not worry about what other people think. If you make it to New York, you and my son would have a great time. (I bet you are better with a light saber than all of those boys as well...)
Hey Katie,
I thought it'd be pretty cool if more guys wrote to tell you how awesome it is that you like Star Wars. When I was a little boy I wore glasses, and I liked to play on computers a lot. People used to tease me a lot because of that. Now that I'm grown up my job is to work on computers and everyone wants to know me to help them fix their computers. Don't let those other boys get to you. They're just jealous that you know what you like and and you're not afraid to show it. That's scary to little boys because they aren't always sure what they like. You wear and carry any Star Wars stuff you want PROUDLY! Someday those boys won't be so scared of you, they'll want to be your best friend.
Stay strong kiddo, and always be yourself!
--Serp
Hi Katie! I'm not a super big fan of Star Wars but I do like watching that "Star Wars: the Clone Wars" cartoon on television, and I'm a grown-up woman, even!
When I was younger, I loved Star Trek (which usually isn't considered as cool as Star Wars). I used to get teased a lot for liking Star Trek, but I really liked watching the show together with my family so I just ignored what kids at school said about it.
There are girl heroes and girl Jedi Knights in Stars Wars too, so it's totally NOT just a "boy thing."
I really admire your bravery! And you're very lucky to have such a supportive mom!
Dear Katie,
Have the courage to be unique. Being true to yourself might be hard sometimes, but don't deny part of what makes you special just to please others. I have loved Star Wars most of my life. I was also a little girl that liked GI Joe and Indiana Jones. In high school I got made fun of for carrying a purse shaped like a fish, but I didn't stop carrying it because I loved it. In fact, I still have it. Star Wars is cool, and those boys who make fun of you will realize that you're a cool girl for liking it one day, and if they don't, well, then it's their loss. Don't let them bully you into being anything less than you. Now, I happen to like pink, but I'd rather carry the Star Wars bottle if given the choice.
May the force be with you,
Liz Ashe
Dear Katie,
Greetings from another Star Wars loving Katie (albeit a Kate) in New Jersey. I may cook and knit, but I also like sports, Doctor Who, Star Trek, computers, technology, and a lot of other not typical girl things - and my boyfriend thinks it's really cool. You will find friends that will feel the same way and think you're AWESOME for being who you are and being true to yourself, I promise you that.
Always be proud of who you are and your interests and talents, even if they are outside of what others tell you are "normal." They make you - you. One of my friends in college said, "Be yourself, no one else is going to be." And he was so right.
Hold your Star Wars water bottle high every day. Because you rock, and your parents rock.
With love,
Kate
New Jersey, USA
Hi Katie!
I'm 27, a HUGE Star Wars fan, and a girl. I've been playing with Star Wars toys since 1st grade. I also wear glasses and am adopted. I used to be blonde, like you, but now my hair is pink (it's been pink, blue, green, orange, purple, and more).
I used to get teased in school when I was younger, too, but don't let anyone stop you from doing what you want to do. It's hard to be different sometimes, but most of the time, it's just fun.
In fact, now that I'm in college, I've found so many other geeky friends. One of my projects in a class is Star Wars related! We're taking Romeo and Juliet and making it all Star Wars. If you don't think that's funny now, you might in a few years.
Here's a picture, I do costuming too: https://docs.google.com/leaf?id=0B3N4SbLaEwSmNDA1MDQ3NWMtMWE1MS00YTU0LWEzNmUtNmViMjQ3M2ZhMTc1&hl=en&authkey=COGP2Hw
That's me, in full Star Wars armor (Boba Fett is my FAVORITE), complete with two lightsabers.
So, don't let anyone bully you. They're stupid. You should like what you like! It's a tough galaxy, but you can get by.
*hugs*
~Brenna
Hi there, Katie. I feel your pain, chickie-poo, but you'll find out some day liking Star Wars is going to make you the coolest chick in the room. My husband and I have been married for 13 years, as of last August, and he and I both love it - so much, the bride and groom on our wedding cake were Princess Leia and Boba Fett action figures! I was picked on for being weird when I was your age. I played Dungeons & Dragons, and people said AWFUL things about it sometimes, and it hurt me. There's a song you can find through google, "Geek & Gamer Girls" song - by Team Unicorn. They're four beautiful girls who LOVE Star Wars, Comic books, video games - all the really FUN stuff that us girls aren't supposed to like. When I hear that song, it almost makes me cry, because it's all about how girls like YOU and ME are the BEST girls in the WORLD.
HUGS - and stay weird. It's more fun.
Hi Katie,
I'm a girl, and guess what, not only am I a big star wars fan, but I also like video games. Not Barbie but the fun ones where you get to run around and do all sorts of things. And guess what, I work on them every day! I even got to work on a really cool star wars game a few years ago. People used to tease me and tell me I couldn't like any of that or be good at it because I'm a girl, but I'm one of the best now and everyone who used to make fun of me tells me they were wrong.
I wear glasses too you know. I can't see very far without them, and even when people say it's dorky, you know what I tell them? They make me look smarter!
I'm so happy that there's little girls like you out there who still love Star Wars. It's good to be different from other girls you know, it makes you stand out, and you should be proud of who you are, I know I'm awful proud of you for being able to stand up to those boys and keep enjoying things you love even if they don't want you to.
Darling Katie,
You hold your head up high and don't let those boys get you down.
I love Star Wars! I've even got a friend who just got the new R2D2 Droid (that's a really cool cellphone). She'd been waiting to get her new phone 'cause she knew it was coming out.
She and I are both major geeks! (we love science fiction shows, computers and all kinds of things that some people might consider "boy things").
But you know what? As cool as her phone is? I bet she'd love to have that rockin' Star Wars water bottle you have.
You keep being yourself little one. There are all kinds of people who think you're uber-fantastic just the way you are!
Hi Katie,
My name is Cyn. I'm a woman who loves Star Wars. I was 11 years old when the first 3 movies came out. I remember being very excited to go see them with my dad. I may not be as big a fan of it as you are but you know what, those boys are wrong. Their parents should be ashamed for how they're behaving. Geek/Nerd Girls RULE! You let those boys know that Star Wars is just as much for girls as it is for boys. It always has been and always will be.
Hi Katie!!
I'm 23, a girl, and I like Star Wars too!! There are a lot of things I like that other girls don't like: comic books and superheroes, video games, baseball, and anime. I wear glasses too, and I think it's totally okay to like different things. I wear my Wonder Woman shirt around sometimes and even if people look at me funny, I don't care because it's something I love. Don't feel bad sweetheart, there are a lot of girls just like us!! =]
Hi Katie!
I'm a 20 year old girl, and I have a lot of things in common with you. I've had glasses and very very bad eyesight since I was your age. I didn't always fit in with the other kids, because I liked "boy" things, and I was always bigger and taller than the other girls. I liked Sonic the Hedgehog, Transformers, and Pokemon-- what the BOYS liked. My favorite Disney movie was "Atlantis: The Lost Empire"-- no princesses for me! I wanted to go on adventures to the bottom of the ocean. I liked to help my dad build things or work out in the yard with him, or take scrap to the recycling yard-- not girly things! I liked science fiction and fantasy novels and movies instead of romances, I liked scary movies best. I read comic books and liked superheroes better than pop stars or princesses. I used to have lightsaber battles with sticks in the front yard with my friend, until we started playing Dr Who!
Yes, I got teased a lot. I didn't fit in with the other girls OR with the boys. But don't change yourself for anyone else. Love who you are, do what your heart wants. You may seem alone now, but when you get older, you will find so many people like you! They are out there. It took me a lot of years of trying to hide who I was to learn these things. I still get weird looks from people when I wear a Frankenstein t-shirt or when I buy Star Wars bed sheets at the store or when I buy comic books-- or when I tell people I draw comics! It can be hard to not let them get to you-- and it's okay if they do. Sometimes, people are mean. But the people who treat you like that shouldn't be your friends anyway. Surround yourself with good people and good friends. Be kind and compassionate to the people you care about. Take care of yourself!
Hi Katie -
This probably won't mean much to you at the age you are now, but when you are college age, the boys are going to LOVE that you know Star Wars (or any other "boy" movies or characters) - they will thing you are totally cool. It's true.
Hello, Katie!
I'm a girl and I LOVE "Star Wars"! I was 13 years old when the movie first came out in 1977. It was the best movie I ever saw!! When I was in first grade, I loved to watch "Star Trek" and "The Twilight Zone" on television, because they had stories about people and places that don't really exist in the real world.
I love stories about things that aren't real. Anybody can make up stories about real things, like horses or France. But only very smart people can make up stories about things that don't really exist, like space ships and aliens!! You must be really smart if you like those kinds of stories! :D
My favorite character is Princess Leia, because she does what she wants and doesn't care what anybody else says! She tells Han and Luke what to do, and they listen to her! I bet she would carry any water bottle she wanted to, even if they teased her a lot about it!
Who is your favorite character in "Star Wars?" What kind of water bottle do you think they would carry? What would they do if someone teased them about it?
I know it's very hard to think of something to say when somebody is being mean or teasing you for being different from them. Just remember that there are a whole lot of people in the world!! Just because your friends don't see someone else that likes what you like, it doesn't mean that we aren't out here! There are millions of girls who like "Star Wars". "Star Wars" isn't just for boys. It's for all smart people! And we're very happy that you like "Star Wars" too! I hope you carry your "Star Wars" water bottle everywhere you go!!
Your friend,
Lisa G
P.S. I wear glasses, too. It used to make me sad when people would tease me about it. But if I don't wear my glasses, I bump into things, and that hurt even more than being teased! So now I'm proud to wear my glasses all the time, to show how smart I am -- smart enough not to bump into things! :D
Hi, Katie. I'm Jake. I heard about your story, and I had to create an account so I could tell you something. I LOVE Star Wars, and I'm old enough that I saw Star Wars when it was first in the movie theater. I loved Star Wars so much that I had Star Wars WALLPAPER! But you know what? My wife was taken to the movie by her older sisters a bunch of times. One night after we were married, we were watching Star Wars together. She knew ALL the lines! I was SO jealous, and she teased me (in a playful way) that she knew Star Wars better than I did!
Then I found out that she STILL had a Star Wars PILLOW CASE!!! She laughed so hard when she saw how jealous I was that she sleeps with it EVERY NIGHT! Little things like that make me love her SO MUCH!!!
You seem like such a sweet little girl, and we wish we had a daughter JUST LIKE YOU!
May the Force be with you, Katie, ALWAYS!
Your friend,
Jake
Dearest Katie,
The force is strong with you young padawan and the fact of the matter is that these silly boys are just jealous! I don't know about you, but R2-D2 was always my favorite (...okay maybe C3PO too)
Katie, you are wonderful, amazing, beautiful and intelligent girl. No one can ever take that away from you. Please don't ever forget that.
May the force be with you!
- Ali
Hi, Katie. I first saw the original Star Wars when I was 5 years old, and I thought it was amazing. It had such an affect on me that now, years later, I can still remember the theater I sat in to see all three of the original trilogy. I can still remember playing with my action figures and taking my giant Millenium Falcon into the bathtub with me. Now, as a mom, I see my two boys play with lightsabers in the same way that I played with my own lightsaber. I know how much joy Star Wars brings to them, because I know how much joy it brought me.
I know it hurts when people make fun of you for being different. I had to deal with that from an early age. People teased and bullied me for a number of different reasons. But what helped me get through was realizing that I had friends who liked me as I was, that I had family who loved me as I was. Always remember that people love you for being the wonderful person you are.
Stay strong...
Hi Katie!! My name is Vanessa Cariddi, and I am a professional opera singer, and HUGE STAR WARS fan!! Actually, I really like all different kinds of science fiction. My job consists of getting dressed up in fancy dresses, with beautiful jewelry and lots of fancy makeup, and then when I'm done with work, I go home and watch movies about outer space and aliens!! And even though I know it can be hard to feel different ( know, because I got made fun of a lot for liking science when I was a kid), PLEASE BELIEVE ME when I tell you that one day you are going to really value that about yourself. There are a lot of people in the world who are nice, and normal, and... kind of boring!! And good for them. But you know what? Most of THEM wish that they could spend one day of their lives being interesting and DIFFERENT!! Just like you!! My advice is to stay close to your mom, who obviously loves loves loves you, and to CHOOSE your friends - I bet there are other kids who like Star Wars who think it's cool. And I promise you, someday when you actually **like** boys, they will be SO EXCITED to have a girlfriend who thinks Star Wars is cool. Or so says my wonderful husband :) Keep your chin up - it will get better!!
Hey there Katie! I'm a 29 year old girl and I have always been a fan of science fiction and fantasy. I used to watch Star Wars with my dad all the time! I still watch it and love it. And I didn't care when I was little if other kids thought I was weird, because it was what I loved. Today I'm married to a fellow geek who's actually working on a Star Wars game! How cool is that? And by the way... I've never liked pink, hehe. So chin up and let those boys be dumb, because when you're older they will think you're way awesome since they just can't realize it now.
Katie, believe it or not, I am woman and I love, love, love Star Wars (my mother took me to see it when I was a year old back in 1977). We watch all 6 movies on Christmas as part of our tradition. I was friends with some boys when I was your age, we pretended to be the characters from Star Wars, Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi it was the best time we had :) Lots of hugs to you, sweetie. Don't worry about the water bottle; who knows, when you're older it might be a collectible and the boys will wish they had one.
Hi Katie,
I've been a Star Wars fan since I was about 12 years old. I have a huge collection that's even been on display at our local library. In fact, they liked my collection so much, they had me display it twice! I dressed up as Queen Amidala for Halloween in high school, and even at the Colorado renaissance festival. There is absolutely nothing wrong with liking Star Wars. It's awesome! In fact, I think you are pretty awesome for liking it.
Being true to yourself is very important. Don't let anyone get you down for liking what you like.
-Ashley
I'm a big Star Wars fan! I went as Princess Leia for Halloween last year. Everyone kept telling how awesome I looked. I felt like a celebrity for a day!
Hey Katie you rock on with that water bottle! My little girls, ages 5 and 3, carry a Toy Story water bottle.Some boy at the park was all like hey thats a boys water bottle and my girls proceded to tear him up! No way they were not having that! My girls are a little different also. We think of it all as a gift.
Hi Katie! I'm a 24 year old girl and I've loved Star Wars for as long as I can remember. When I was your age, I used to run around and pretend I was Princess Leia (but I always really wanted to be a Jedi with a lightsaber). And all my life, I've continued to love Star Wars and all sorts of other science fiction and fantasy stories - they've made me happy and taught me lessons and helped make me the person I am. Everyone is different - that's what makes us unique and beautiful. There is never going to be anything wrong with you liking a special movie, or book, or song (or toy, or super cool water bottle). All those things make you, you! And who you are in your heart is always good enough, no matter what.
May the Force be with you. :) All of us other geeky girls are sending you tons of love.
Hi Katie,
I'm a 34 year old girl and I've loved Star Wars for as long as I can remember. I used to play with my friends' Star Wars toys. I wanted a lightsaber when I was a little girl, and I got mad when I got a doll for Christmas instead. Now that I'm grown and have my own kids (a boy and a girl), I've introduced Star Wars to them and they love it, too. They really like to play Lego Star Wars, and they both play with Star Wars action figures (who quite often end up shooting innocent Care Bears!). I own all the movies, and my favorite is the Empire Strikes Back. When I was a little girl, my brothers and I took turns playing Darth Vader, the Emperor, and Luke, and we acted out the fight scene in Return of the Jedi using fly swatters as lightsabers, over and over. It's one of my favorite memories. I liked lots of other "boy" things, too - like GI Joe and He-Man. My He-Man toys used to ride My Little Ponies!
When I got glasses as a kid, some kids made fun of me. But now people tell me they like my glasses, and I like them, too. I know sometimes it's hard when people are mean because you are different, but it does get better, I promise.
I think it's awesome when I see *any* kid - boy or girl - who likes Star Wars. I've met a lot of girls of all ages who do. You're not alone. I'm proud of you for being true to yourself. :)
Hey Katie!
I'm a 19 year old girl and I LOVE Star Wars! In fact, I still sleep with my favorite Ewok stuffed animal even though I'm in college!
You sound like such an awesome girl, and I wish that when I was in first grade I was friends with someone like you. It seems hard now, I know. And there's lots of people who think that boys are supposed to like Star Wars or Transformers and girls are only supposed to like Barbies or Disney princesses. But they're wrong! Lots of girls love Star Wars so much that they have all the dialogue memorized! And I know plenty of guys who sing along to all the Disney princess songs!
So don't let those boys tell they you can't love Star Wars! You wear your Star Wars shirt (which I bet looks fabulous on you!) with pride.
And who says that Star Wars is just for boys anyway? I think Princess Leia and Padme Amidala would disagree, don't you think?
Hi Katie!! My name is Vanessa Cariddi, and I am a professional opera singer, and HUGE STAR WARS fan!! Actually, I really like all different kinds of science fiction. My job consists of getting dressed up in fancy dresses, with beautiful jewelry and lots of fancy makeup, and then when I'm done with work, I go home and watch movies about outer space and aliens!! And even though I know it can be hard to feel different ( know, because I got made fun of a lot for liking science when I was a kid), PLEASE BELIEVE ME when I tell you that one day you are going to really value that about yourself. There are a lot of people in the world who are nice, and normal, and... kind of boring!! And good for them. But you know what? Most of THEM wish that they could spend one day of their lives being interesting and DIFFERENT!! Just like you!! My advice is to stay close to your mom, who obviously loves loves loves you, and to CHOOSE your friends - I bet there are other kids who like Star Wars who think it's cool. And I promise you, someday when you actually **like** boys, they will be SO EXCITED to have a girlfriend who thinks Star Wars is cool. Or so says my wonderful husband :) Keep your chin up - it will get better!!
Hi Katie!!
I'm 23 and I'm not the biggest Star Wars fan, but I love comics, superheroes, anime, and tons more stuff like it! I also wear glasses sometimes. I think you are just fine the way you are!! It's totally okay to be different. I wear my Wonder Woman shirt to college and people stare at me sometimes but I don't care. It's better to be happy and be yourself!! You are a super girl and there are plenty more of us out there, just like you!
Take care sweetie! =]
Dearest Katie,
The force is strong with you young padawan and the fact of the matter is that these silly boys are just jealous! I don't know about you, but R2-D2 was always my favorite (...okay maybe C3PO too)
Katie, you are wonderful, amazing, beautiful and intelligent girl. No one can ever take that away from you. Please don't ever forget that.
May the force be with you!
- Ali
Katie, you are a lucky girl. First because you are just a cool little kid. Stay awesome, be brave. Next, you are lucky because you have this great mom who loves you so much and will defend you so strongly. And finally, you are lucky because now you have all these people you don't know, who know what you are going through, and who want to let you know that you are great! I wish I had someone tell me these great things when I was your age and picked on for being different. Stay awesome, you awesome kid you! And mom, stay awesome too!
Dear Katie: Those boys, I think, might be a little jealous that the force is obviously very strong in you. Please do what you can to help them understand that it takes a lot of work to become strong and that their teasing you is just a weakness (without teasing them, of course). Soon enough, Katie, they'll meet other strong women who like Star Wars just as much as you and I do, and I'll bet that they'll appreciate you showing them how strong we girls can be.
I am not as big a Star Wars fan as some of my friends, but I have been often accused of playing with the "boys toys".
In the past couple of years there has been almost a phenomenon of geeky girls showing that they are strong, beautiful, and love the "boys toys" (and in many cases are better then the boys at them). Some even make a career out of being geeky girls.
Do not fear being different, it may be hard now, but when as you grow up people realize how wonderful different is. Different is beautiful, interesting, fun.
If they don't believe that little girls can like Star Wars and still be a little girl, just tell them Princess Leia would disagree.
Hi Katie! My name is Kati too and I am from California. I LOVE Star Wars! My best friend was a boy growing up and we played Star Wars everyday. I am so jealous that you have a water bottle and shirt-that's AWESOME!
Hi Katie--
I'm a Star Wars fan. Wanna know how much? My son's name is Luke. My daughter's name is Leah. It's pronounced LEE-uh, but sometimes in my head I secretly call her Leia.... My son has just started to get into Star Wars. He has some shirts and action figures and he got a light saber for his birthday. Know who likes to play with the light saber? My youngest daughter. She's only 17 months but she knows a good thing when she sees it.
Life is full of bullies. These boys are probably not going to be the last ones you meet. It's sad, but it's true. There will always be people who don't understand, people who feel they have to mock and make fun of you in order to make themselves feel better. Don't let them get the upper hand. Stand tall and strong and proud. And know that you are NOT ALONE. There are other girls who like Star Wars. Other girls who wear glasses (my sister wore glasses and a patch when she was 4). Other girls who are adopted. And you live in a miraculous age--one in which you have instant access to these other girls! See how many comments you have?? You are never alone. The sisterhood of Star Wars fans is strong. May the force be with you!!
Katie,
Reading your story reminded me SO MUCH of an event from my own life. I'm 27 now, but when I was about your age, I was obsessed with Ghostbusters, and I wanted to be one more than anything in the world. When I dressed up as one for Halloween, my classmates made fun of me and told me that I couldn't be a Ghostbuster, because that was "just for boys." I know how you felt when the boys in your class teased you, because I've been there, and I want you to know that those boys have NO IDEA what they're talking about. It took me a lot of years to realize that, and you're so lucky to be able to see, thanks to the wonders of the internet, how many girls are JUST LIKE YOU and share your interests. I didn't have that when I was your age.
Today, I teach college, and one of my favorite jokes is to tell my students on the first day of class that they should call me "Jedi Master."
Ghostbusters and Star Wars (and I'm a HUGE Star Wars fan - I even have a Star Wars tattoo) are NOT just for boys. Girls have every right to enjoy them, too, and lots of girls (like you and me) love them! So stand proud, and don't let those boys tell you who to be or what to like. You are wonderful just the way you are. So, from one geeky, Star Wars loving, glasses-wearing girl to another: You are awesome. Don't ever change.
And by the way, I wrote about that experience of my own that I mentioned and posted it on my own blog not so long ago. If you're interested, you can find it here: http://englishavenger.wordpress.com/2010/11/05/girls-can-be-ghostbusters/
I first started loving Star Wars when I went to see the first movie when I was 5 years old in the 1970s. I remember how there seemed to be "boy things" and "girl things" and how these seemed to be the rules you had to follow to keep kids from making fun of you, which hurts a lot. My best friend was a boy and we stopped being best friends once he started telling me I shouldn't do certain things because I was a girl. He was wrong. I grew up and went to college and graduate school and became a wildlife biologist and now I'm married to a man who also loves Star Wars. The boys who say Star Wars is a boy thing are not remembering that without Queen Amidala there would BE no Star Wars story. There would be no Luke and Leia. It was the loss of his MOTHER that made Anniken become twisted into Darth Vader. Princess Leia herself is one of the coolest characters in the story! There's no way the boys get to claim this one for themselves! No Way! Sorry boys, you're just really really wrong.
You do what you want to do and like what you want to like. Let the boys go on being wrong. You don't have to change their minds. But if you want to, you can tell them there's be no good Star Wars story without all the girls and you are going to like Star Wars all you want no matter what they say.
jb
Hi Katie,
I've loved Star Wars ever since I was a little girl. I remember when I was in second grade, I was the new kid in school and I had thick glasses and was such a nerd. Some of the kids didn't want to be my friend because of that, but that's okay; I still had other friends (including some of the boys) who didn't care and who actually liked to talk about Star Wars and other geeky things. My older brother and all of my sisters all loved Star Wars, too, and that's still something we share as a family. I even dressed up as Leia for one Halloween, although Darth Vader was really always my favorite character. And I remember one of my favorite things I ever won as a prize in school was a red pin-on button with a picture of Darth Vader, Luke, and Leia on it. I was so happy because it had my favorite character on it and I wore it proudly.
When I grew up, I found that there were even more people like me that really loved Star Wars, and a lot of guys that I met were impressed that I knew so much about the movies and the characters. I always have a lot of fun talking to people who share the same interests that I have, so you should never feel like you need to hide your love for Star Wars. There are plenty of people out there who love it just like you do. Just wait until you meet all of them! They're usually awesome.
Oh, and your glasses are much cooler than mine, by the way. When I saw your picture, I didn't even think "that's a girl with glasses" - I thought "that's a girl with style." :)
So keep being yourself, Katie, because you sound like a pretty awesome kid. I wish I'd had a Star Wars backpack and Star Wars water bottle when I was in first grade. You should thank your mom for those. She sounds pretty awesome, too.
-Rachel
(Proud girl geek)
Hey, Katie! I'm a mom, and I'm also an adopted person. :-) I saw Star Wars in the theater when I was 7 years old, back in 1977. I went with my best friend, my sister, and her best friend -- so 4 girls! I still love Star Wars and so do both my son and daughter. Star Wars is for everybody, and those boys are just wrong!
Sweet Katie,
I grew up with Star Wars. It was the first movie I was ever taken too (as a baby!) and some of my first memories are tied to The Empire Strikes Back. My love of Star Wars is deep rooted and I still get teased sometimes about loving a "boy" movie so much, but I don't care and let them get me down. It's okay to be different and like what you like. How boring would we all be if we liked the same thing?
Keep your head up and know a bunch of strangers think you are an awesome girl!
Hey Katie,
My name is Ashley and I am a HUGE Star Wars fan. It has always been a part of me kinda like the Force is with Luke through out the first trilogy. It is also the film that gave me the strength and passion to become a Editor for film... next time a boy or anyone for that matter teases or brings up the fact that you are a girl and you have a love for Star Wars... simply bring up that a GIRL edited the first movie so its just as much a girl movie as it is a boy... plus Leia was pretty awesome, strong and beautiful just like I am sure you are.
I have put up with a lot of bulling myself because I am short, I have glasses am a big nerd when it comes to things and I am also a very VERY big Hockey fan... which boys and some girls even just didn't understand how a girl could like a sport that is considered a Boy Sport... but I held my head high and told myself that it was ok to like the things that i like because that is who i am and NO ONE outside of myself can change that.
Stay strong kid-o and never give up on yourself because you are you, that is truer then true, no one can be quite like you!
Katie! I'm a woman and I love, love, love Star Wars. It's the coolest. I've liked it since I was your age and went to the theater to see the original three movies. My favorite character is Yoda. Keep being who you are; be true to yourself. You're awesome, Miss Katie! :)
Katie, I am a girl and a proud Star Wars fan. I attended all three of the prequels in my Jedi robes and own several Star Wars water bottles and lunch bags to take to college with me. I have at least five female friends I can think of right now who are just as crazy about Star Wars as I am and two of them also take their lunch in Star Wars bags every day to work.
Being different isn't always easy, but being like everyone else isn't always worth it. Just remember that you are special and just right the way you are and if other people can't see that it's their loss.
I hope you continue to keep carrying your Star Wars bottle to school and know that you're not alone.
May the Force be with you, Katie!
<3 Maja
I'm a woman who loves Star Wars - and my daughter loves Star Wars, too! Her favorite thing to wear is her Chewbacca t-shirt :)
Stay strong, Katie!
I'll be 28 in 2 weeks and I LOVE Star Wars! I embrace my inner geek, being different is way more awesome then being just like everybody else. "Normal" or "average" is boring - and besides, no one is really "normal" these days anyways. Being unique is what makes a person special.
I've been on both ends of the spectrum, I've been bullied and I've been the bully. Embracing who you are and not letting them take away the things you love to love is the best way to stand up to a bully.
I'm proud of you Katie! Stay brave, hun!
oh wow - Katie, did you know that actress Alyssa Milano is telling all her friends all over the world about you? Lucky you!
Dear Katie,
I'm a girl, and a I love Star Wars too!
When I was three years old the very first of all the Star Wars movies came out in the movie theaters. It was the first movie I ever saw in a theater. For years and years it was a favorite of mine and my older sister and my older brother.
When I was 24 years old and my brother and sister and I were all visiting with my parents we stayed up late into the night watching Star Wars together. We laughed and said lines from the movie together.
When I was 24 years old the second set of Star Wars movies came out and I went to a premier of The Phantom Menace in New York City. I won a prize for answering questions about Star Wars and even got interviewed for the radio. It was so much fun!
Tonight I was buckling my six year old daughter and 2 and a half year old son into their car seats and my son had his brown coat's hood up and he looked like Obi Wan Kenobi and I said "Help me Obi Wan, you're our only hope." At first my daughter asked me what that was from and I said, "It's from Star Wars, and Star Wars is awesome." My kids giggled and they both said it over an over again on the drive home.
Star Wars isn't just a great movie, it's been a huge part of my life and something that has helped connect me to other important people in my life. That may not make a lot of sense when you are in the first grade, but someday I know you'll understand what I mean.
Katie, you are a hero for me. Being brave enough to be who you are and to stand up to bullies by not letting them change you is amazing. Not only do you help yourself, but you help everyone in the world with what you do. By taking that water bottle to school you are showing the bullies that they can't hurt you. But you are also showing other kids who have been in the past or might be bullied in the future that they can stand up for themselves too. That might be even more important. You are a role model and you will change the world.
Be proud of who you are. I don't know you, but I'm proud of you.
And from one science fiction girl-fan to another, remember, you can like Star Wars and Star Trek at the same time and don't ever let anyone tell you different!
I don't know if you saw any of it yet, but your daughter has a bunch of support coming in from celebrities on twitter! Alyssa Milano, to name one. Here are links to two of them. I'm sure there are more from people I'm not following.
http://twitter.com/#!/allisonscag/status/5429141973245952
http://twitter.com/#!/Alyssa_Milano/status/5432332207005698
Katie, YOU ROCK!!! Keep on carrying that Star Wars water bottle, and wearing your Star Wars t shirts! I love love LOVE Star Wars and I am a 45 year old mom...don't let a group of silly boys make you sad, there are a lot of girls out here who love Star Wars and don't you forget it!
Katie -
First of all, you are ADORABLE!!
Second, your differences are what make you special! You are so young right now, and I think you are SO lucky to have all the support that you are receiving here, because of your awesome mom. Now it is your duty to tell all of your friends and anyone else you see getting picked on that what other people think don't matter.
I wish you all the best!! And remember: Yoda will always be with you.
-Teresa
Would they tell Princess Leia that a girl can't handle a blaster? I don't think so! When you're older, the guys will LOVE that you know and love Star Wars. In the meantime, embrace your uniqueness and be true to yourself. I know that's easier said than done when you're young, but remember... the women in Star Wars are the best! Vader had Leia tortured, but she didn't tell him anything. When Hoth was under attack, she only left at the last minute, and Han practically had to drag her away. She went into Jabba's lair to save Han and all along the way she fights with everyone else.
P.S. Katie's Mom... several years ago there was a Comic-Con exclusive Star Wars action figure called R2-KT, which looked like a pink R2-D2, and which was created as a "Make a Wish" for a little girl named Katie. I have two of them, and I'd love to send one to Katie. Otherwise, there are always people selling them on eBay!
Hey Katie! I remember when my cousin was your age, she LOVED Star Wars. She had the action figures and the school supplies and everything. Don't let boys or girls push you around, if they can't appreciate you, they're not worth your time. When I was six I told my parents I wanted a Tonka dump truck for my birthday. One of my mom's friends said that it was a boys toy, but my parents got it for me anyway, and you know what? The girls at my party played with the dump truck and the boys ended up playing with my pink doll house! Haha! So don't ever let people tell you what to like, they're just being silly. Much love, Jen from New Jersey.
Dear Katie,
I'm sorry to hear about what happened to you at school for something like this.
I have been a fan of Star Wars since I was younger than you and it is nothing to be teased for.
I was in to star trek too and dressed up like that for Halloween-- in a 'boys' costume!
It may be scary to be different at first, but being able to stand out and show the world that
you are an individual is the bravest and most empowering thing you can do for yourself.
I'm sure that those other kids just don't know how to be as cool as you and are envious!
In fact, I wish I had a Star Wars water bottle...
Keep your chin up little jedi we're all in this together and it only gets better, trust me!
Take care Katie and know you're never alone in this!
-Gwendolyn from Los Angeles
I'm not sure if you've seen it yet, but your daughter has a ton of celebrity support on twitter!! Alyssa Milano, to name one.
Katie, I'm a 20 year old college student and I love love love Star Wars :) I'm a total nerd & I'm surrounded by friends who are all nerds in their own way, and we love each other for it. Stay strong, be proud that you love something so much and aren't afraid to show it!
Katie, I dressed up as Darth Vader for Halloween in elementary school and would have replicated his breathing all night if I didn't think I would pass out. As a girl, I was also proud of being a little different and faced a lot of criticism and cruelty because of it. Believe me, though, being yourself is worth it! I was able to handle the bullying and become a happy adult largely because my parents created a warm, loving home where I could be myself. Fortunately it sounds like you have the same kind of home. I know the support will get you through and make you a wonderful, happy adult!
I wish I had seen Star Wars and had merchandise at Katie's age. She's awesome. Just because these silly boys don't know it yet doesn't mean that she isn't and that she shouldn't know it.
Hey Katie!! I know a lot of people have already told you how awesome you are, but I had to say it too!
I have loved Star Wars since I was your age, but they never had really cool water bottles and lunch boxes that I could take to school(we lived in another country and couldn't get them there!). I am very jealous that you have some amazing fannish things to carry around to let people know how much you love it. As an adult I now have a lot of stuff from Star Wars; I really like the Wookies, and have a whole collection of them now! I even have a Wookie water bottle I take with me when I go out!
And I'll let you in on a secret, I like other non-girlie things too! Stuff like comic books and race cars and video games and action movies! Guess what? I get to make silly faces at people that make fun of me for it, you know why? Because they're too afraid to admit they might like it too, or other things they're not 'supposed' to like.
I have another secret, I too had glasses and 'odd things' that made me different. My family lived all over the world, so I often took funny food to school to eat; stuff like Swedish pancakes and home made wantons. You should have seen the looks on the boys faces when I told them I'd eaten raw squid or roasted termites!
But different isn't bad, it's great! Sometimes people make fun of what they don't understand, or don't normally see. You can help them by not letting them get you down and helping them learn, that's right, you're a teacher already! You can teach them that we are all different, and by being different we help others learn about things they might not know about already.
One of the best things you can do is smile and be yourself, after all you're the only one there is of you! Why would you want to be someone else?
Katie don't ever let anyone tell you what you should like because you're a girl. I, like you, love Star Wars! I'm guessing the boys that are teasing you never had a cool girl in their life that enjoyed great sci-fi movies like Star Wars. Keep your head up and keep showing that beatiful smile. Just know when you get older boys are going to think it's so cool you like cool movies. Just remember to be who you are and know that you are special because you have great taste in movies. When you get a chance check out this cool Hello Kitty version of a Darth Vader costume. http://img255.imageshack.us/img255/1658/hellokittydarthvader.jpg Proof sci-fi girls are awesome!
Hi Katie,
my favorite move of all times, Star Wars Episode IV. I think I was 10 years old the first time I saw it, and I have probably lost count but I think I've seen it 30 times since then. We played Star Wars in the lunch break at school and argued about who got to be Princess Leia. It was so much fun.
20 years later I'm still very passionate about Star Wars and Princess Leia is still one of the best female heroes for me. A strong woman fighting for what she believes in.
I wish you many beautiful moments in the world of Sci Fi, Fantasy and anything that makes your world more magical. It's not about being a boy or a girl, it's about imagination, some have it, and some don't. You're lucky!
Vicky
Hi Katie!
I understand how you feel about being different. I have a hard to spell/pronounce name {Marievic}, my mom was the only one in our whole town who spoke a different language, and I liked "boys' toys" & 'Star Wars' too. Right now it may be hard to understand that being "different" can be fun. I mean, look at all these cool women who think you're pretty cool! :D Be true to your heart and keep loving what you love!
Katie,
I'm a 28-year old girl who grew up adoring Star Wars! It's still one of my favorite movies. When I was little, all I wanted to be when I grew up was Luke Skywalker. I think you are pretty awesome for having a Star Wars water bottle and those silly boys are probably just jealous that they don't have as cool a bottle as you do!
Anyway, don't let anyone get you down for being "different". I've been different my whole life. I have been a huge nerd since I was little, I play video games, I love Star Wars and Star Trek, and at the moment I'm wearing an Indiana Jones sweatshirt. :) As much as you might want to be 'normal' now, as you grow up, you'll realize that normal is boring and you'll find that everyone has something about them that is different.
And PS, I wear glasses too! :)
Laura
I remember getting picked on as a child because I had a GI Joe lunchbox and thermos. I was so excited to get it. I really loved the GI Joe cartoon at that age. I got picked on about a lot of things. I was a chubby girl with glasses and as we know, kids can be cruel. At an early age, I really learned not to care what other people thought of me that the most important thing is being happy with myself. Today I'm a well-adjusted, happy woman who has a great life full of people who love me. Learn to be happy with who you are and you'll draw that type of people into your life. By the way, I love sci-fi movies and books. When you get older, you
Hi Katie! Even though we don't know each other, I wanted to let you know that there's a lot about your story that I could relate to.
When I moved to the suburbs of Chicago, I was a seven-year-old immigrant from the Philippines. I spoke English well enough, but I had a thick accent and there weren't many Asian children at my school. I didn't know much about American culture and my family didn't have a lot of money, so I wore a lot of hand-me-downs from my older American step-sister. Needless to say, I didn't fit in well, and I had a hard time making friends with the other girls who didn't want to play with me because I'm Asian. I know what you mean about not wanting to be different.
On a related note, the year I moved to the US was also the same year that Star Wars was shown for the first time on cable. I didn't know anything about Star Wars at that point because it hadn't come to the Philippines yet. A family down the street invited me and my older sister to come over for a slumber party to watch Star Wars on TV. That was the start of my love for Star Wars!
I am fortunate enough to have 2 older step-brothers who love sci-fi, and growing up, I would often watch the same shows as they did. My love of sci-fi grew as I grew up. Now that I'm an adult, I'm definitely not a typical woman by any means, and I revel in my difference! Things will get better and you'll learn that you're awesome just the way you are.
Hey Katie, Katie is my name too! I'm in 11th grade in high school and I think it's awesome that you like Star Wars!
Let me tell you, some people won't like everything you like. But do you know why? They are just not as cool as you! Those boys will stop teasing you, you just have to show them you're proud of your awesome Stars Wars stuff! Their opinions don't matter to you! You should think of what they're saying to you as "blah blah blah".
And one day, when you're older and start to like boys (even though they're icky now!), they will think you're even cooler because of your interests. (Cause their silly little boy brains get as smart as ours) Girls can like "boy" things too, like I love watching dirtbike races and playing video games sometimes.
And as far as being different goes, that's the best quality I think a person can have. Sometimes I wear "weird" shirts or crazy socks, but hey, I know no one else is! I know those boys hurt you, but trust me, school gets A LOT easier if you just don't listen to them and just be yourself!
~Katie
Katie, you are so wonderful! I'm a girl, I loved Star Wars when I was your age, and I still do. I always wanted to be Han Solo and fly the Millennium Falcon. Of course, girls weren't allowed to be Han Solo, so I usually ended up being Chewbacca. I hope you get to be whichever character you want. And I hope you keep carrying your Star Wars lunchbox AND your Star Wars water bottle.
Katie..
I love Star Wars.. I even went to the Star Wars Convention in Orlando this past August. George Lucas, and a ton of the actors were there! Legos had a HUGE display of all the scenes from the movies. You could sit in a life size Tie Fighter! Everybody was in costume. They even had real droids like R2D2 racing in the main room.. I took my best friend, Heather, and we had SO MUCH FUN!!.. We're going to the next one too, as soon as it's announced!
When I was in first grade (a very long time ago), I carried a Dukes Of Hazzard lunch box. There were two types of Dukes of Hazzard lunch boxes. One with the Daisy Duke and her white jeep on it and one with Bo and Luke Duke and their really cool orange Charger on it. OF COURSE, I liked the one with the boys car on it better. All the other girls had Strawberry Shortcake and My Little Pony lunch boxes. Not me. I liked The Dukes!
Just remember why you love the things you love. They make YOU happy.
Nobody else gets to decide what makes you happy.
~Lacee
Dear Katie,
I'm a girl, and I like Star Wars. Princess Leia kicks a lot of butt. (And I like Star Trek, and computers, and I play a lot of video games, too.) The boys are just confused right now. They'll get over it, believe me. Boys in the first grade tend to think that some things "belong" to them, and some things "belong" to girls -- sooner or later they'll figure out that you're not trying to take their Star Wars away, you just think it's cool, too. After that, the smart boys think that girls who like Star Wars are awesome, and want to hang out. Trust me.
Hey Katie!
My name is Aleisha and I live in Australia - I'm 26, female (obviously) and have been a geek for as long as I can remember.
TV(mostly), Video Games, Computer Games, you name it!
Kids can be so cruel! Throughout primary school I was teased about my weight mostly, But I also remember getting teased when I tried to eat healthier lunches, bringing salads and fruit instead of sandwiches. What do they want? Fat me or healthy me? There's no logic to it and it sucks that everyone's in your business when you're a kid and you can't really do anything about it.
You sound like such a strong, awesome little girl, and you know what? when you get out of school you're going to be an awesome woman.
You know that more of the people at conventions (ya know, meeting sci-fi actors and hanging out with famous people) are girls, right? I've been going to conventions since I was 17. I've met most of the stars of my favourite movies and TV shows - ALL SciFi/Fantasy, and you know what? the people who used to tease me at school for being a geek and liking 'that stupid Buffy show' now comment on my photos with famous people on facebook with jealousy and 'oh my god, how did you meet ______! I LOVE HIM IN (insert newer more popular thing here)'
One day you'll meet an amazing Geek and fall in love (and he will be so much nicer to you than any of those jerks) and you'll live happily ever after :)
Be strong, little Padawan, You won't even remember those guys' names in a few years, you'll be too busy hangin' out with all the celebrity friends you've just made on twitter ;)
Leish
xo
Hi Katie! My name's Joey and I'm from England, I signed up to this website especially to leave you this message! When reading this article, you know what my first thought was? How cool you are! I think Star Wars is one of the best movies of all time, and for you to be brave enough to show off your differences at such a young age is inspiring. I'm 23 now, and I do my best not to worry about what other people think, but the truth is, there's always going to be someone who doesn't think the same way you do. But really, that's what makes us all so wonderful, isn't it? If everyone was the same, life would be pretty boring.
I'm in a little band, and I wrote a song called "Heroes"... it's about feeling like you're different. But the moral of the song is that deep down everyone is a hero, and we're all capable of saving each other with our kindness and love. I don't know if this site will let me post a link, but I will try to post it in case you'd like to listen. Today I am dedicating "Heroes" to you, Katie. You're an inspiration :) http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Ventura-Project/93037044728?v=app_2405167945&ref=ts
Hi Katie. I'm a woman who loves Star Wars. Back when I was your age, there was a show called Voltron and the boys used to make fun of me just like they did to you the same reason. Well, guess what? You're cool and so is your Mom. If you want Star Wars stuff, then get Star Wars stuff! Being happy is the important bit - and remind those boys that Leia and Padme kicked bum!
Heya there, Katie.
I heard about this story, and decided to start a hashtag, #MayTheForceBeWithKatie . Let me tell you, you have quite a support system on your hands. Us Geeks stand together, even through the interwebs.
Look up the hashtag on twitter, and stay strong. The force is strong with you, we all can sense it. You're the next jedi master. :D
-Yotobari
Hi Katie and Carrie !
Thank you for sharing you story, and such a right and generous analysis of humain people, I do wish it will help people to learn and change.
Katie remember you are a wonderful and magical little girl, that we are all different in a thousand of different ways, no matter what.
What makes you different is what makes you stronger.
And by the way, star wars rocks, I still what the movies regularly since I first saw them on TV when I was around 10 years old.
Keep on smiling and listenning to you wise Mum.
take care both of you and again , thank you :)
a star wars French fan ( so forgive my grammatical mistakes )
Hi Katie!
I'm also a girl, and I have loved Star Wars since the first time I saw the movies. I'm 20 years old now, but I've been a huge fan of Star Wars since I was about 4 years old and able to pay attention through a whole movie. When I was in elementary school, I had a Star Wars lunch box, Star Wars shoes, and wore Star Wars t-shirts. (I still wear Star Wars shirts now, and use my lunch box!) I'm sure you and your parents have realized how difficult it can be sometimes to find Star Wars stuff made for girls, since for some reason, people just don't understand how many girls out there love Star Wars too!
It's people like you, and all the others who have sent their comments, that are helping to make everyone realize that Star Wars has many many female fans too! And we shouldn't feel uncomfortable letting the world know how much we like it. I've made so many friends (girls and boys) because of my passion for Star Wars. I've even introduced some of my friends to Star Wars because they had never seen any of the movies before (crazy, right?!).
Princess Leia and Padme are great role models for us girls. They have shown that they can just as powerful as the guys out there, and look good doing it! :~)
I'm graduating college this year with a degree in Astrophysics (basically a scientist who studies stars and outer space). Star Wars has influence my whole life, even the career path I chose! But my best friend, Karen, who also loves Star Wars, is going to school to be a math teacher. Star Wars fans come in all shapes and sizes, and we always stick up for each other, no matter what. Hang in there Katie, and don't let those silly boys stop you from showing off your passion for Star Wars. I feel confident in saying that the whole "Star Wars Community" is behind you.
May the Force be with you,
Jedi Knight Wannabe, Marie
Katie, you are the best. I teach sixth graders and I wish they were as cool as you. Some of them don't even like Star Wars! Can you believe it?!
I love Star Wars! Be proud of the things you like! And come one, Ahsoka and Princess Leia are awesome! Be yourself! Being unique is the absolute best thing you can be. How boring would it be if everyone was the same?
Hi Katie!
I have loved Star Wars my whole life, and I have no intention of stopping now! There are so many wonderful things in this world; don't ever let anyone stop you from enjoying them.
May the Force be with you!
Keli
Hi Katie!
You are awesome! I didn't get to see Star Wars all the way through until I was an adult, and I completely missed out. It's so great, and I'm sad I didn't know about it when I was your age. I'm jealous of your Star Wars thermos! I also think glasses are adorable. I used to steal my sister's glasses because I wished I could wear them.
People pick on you because they're jealous or because they're insecure, which sounds like something adults say to make you feel better, but it's true! When I was your age, there was a girl in my class who was always making fun of me and it made me so sad. But you have to get up every morning and go to school and walk in carrying your star wars thermos with pride. There are so many people who love you, Katie. The entire world is supporting you.
May the force be with you, Katie!
My daughter, who is also named Katie, was Padme Amidala for Halloween when she was in first grade a few years ago. She wore her costume proudly, she thinks a Star Wars watter bottle would be cool. She still likes Star Wars, and many other adventure movies and books that are about being true to yourself and good triumphing over bad.
I have been a Star Wars and science fiction fan since I was five, and you'll find as you grow up, many, many good people you meet will say, "Me, too!"
We're both proud of you for deciding to keep bringing your water bottle to school, and we support you!
I am a girl and I LOVE Star Wars. I was just your age when the VERY FIRST Star Wars movie came out. That year for Christmas Santa Claus brought me a Light Saber, a bunch different character figures AND spaceships. If SANTA thinks it is ok to bring a girl Star Wars toys, then it must be true. Santa knows everything! I have 2 girls and my youngest loves Star Wars, too and she plays Star Wars games with all the kids in our neighborhood....boys and girls! Princess Leia is a girl and she is a big deal in Star Wars!!!!! So don't you listen to those boys! You have just as much right to love anything you want and no one is allowed to spoil that for you! And just a small lesson that I always teach my girls when someone hurts their feelings.....remember what it feels like. One day you will see it happen to someone else or you may want to tease someone. If you remember what it feels like, it will stop you from doing it to others. No one should have to feel like you did! You keep strong, Girlie! I am proud of you....and I am all the way in TEXAS!
Geek Girls Rule! Trust me on this one, little sister. I was a total geek kid and I still love Batman and Star Wars and Spiderman and anything remotely SciFi. Some kids will just look for a reason to be mean.
As a kid, I tried very hard to fit in and the more I tried, the more miserable I became. You be yourself and pay no attention to those kids who are just looking for someone to pick on.
Being different is a special gift. Enjoy it and treasure it.
Hi Katie!
I'm in college now, and I assume the reason you wear the patch is that you have lazy eye. I had it too when I was a little girl. I always had my older brother and sister draw pictures on it though. It's lame now but it's worth it when you're older. Believe me! :)
Also, I've been wearing glasses since I was three years old! You should be proud about that, there are people who I know who wear glasses because they look cool.
I was also into Star Wars and still am. My mom always told me "In life, there will be people who like you, and that's wonderful. There will also be those who will try to bring you down, they just simply have poor taste!" Be strong in what you like, don't ever let anyone else tell you what you should like or not like. It's what make us all special! :D
With much love,
Betsy! :3
Hey Katie,
I have always loved ALL science fiction, especially Star Wars. I recently had a chance to meet the writer and forensic anthropologist, Kathy Reichs. I asked her why she became an anthropologist. Her answer was that she loved frogs and worms when she was a little girl. Dolls-not so much! And now she's very happy and successful. Stick to your guns!! Anyway boys can be yucky sometimes. I know because I have two sons and two grandsons.
Susan
Hi Katie,
My name is Erin and I am so sorry to hear you are being bullied for being a fan of one of the greatest things ever; STAR WARS! I too was bullied when I was growing up, but I never noticed. I liked to write and draw a lot. I also loved dinosaurs, dragons, Ninja Turtles, legos, and video games, and didn't like anything "for girls"! Whenever a bully would call me "weird" (and it happened a lot!) I would look at them, smile, and thank them. That's right, to me, being "weird" was a compliment and I didn't have the time for kids who didn't want to be my friend.
Well, it's been a long time since I was a kid, but by staying true to myself (and my "weirdness") I managed to achieve my life-long dream of being a professional artist. I draw for toys, video games, and even children's books (my first book is actually about a boy being bullied because he's adopted, so I know how tough it is for you in that regard as well) And you know what? Even though I'm grown up AND a girl, my apartment is filled with all sorts of STAR WARS toys and posters! I was even Princess Leia for Halloween this year.
Don't worry about what people think about what YOU like, because you can love whatever you want to love. Be proud! STAR WARS is a classic hero's tale and it's meant for everyone to enjoy. Bullies aren't worth your time, focus on what you love and you'll make great friends who love the same things. You're smart, have a loving family, and great taste in movies! You'll be just fine.
Stay strong, and may the force be with you always!
Erin Fusco
www.erinfusco.com
Dear Katie,
If anything, you should be PROUD of who you are because you love Star Wars! Most people my age are only into the latest fads out there, but my stepfather and I have common ground when it comes to Star Wars because he brought me to the place he saw Star Wars when it came out way before you and I were born in 1977!
The place is long gone now, but to hear his story about how he and his brothers would watch the cinema screen in amazement is something that I will keep in my memory for a long time.
Star Wars brought me and my family together, and I'm sure that with a positive outlook, you can make just as many friends.
Throughout my years in school I felt pressured into liking things my friends did and if I didn't, I would get picked on for it. My parents always taught me that the people picking on me were never doing it to be mean, but because they were jealous of who I was as a person and wished to be like me! Star Wars isn't just FOR BOYS, if it were then we wouldn't have seen Princess Leia, Padme Amidala and the female Jedi who fought against Darth Sidous and Darth Vader to keep the universe in balance.
Just remember that YOU are unique and whoever says otherwise you just stand up with a smile on your face and just say you are PROUD of who you are, no matter what they say!
May the force be with you, little padawan!
Allariana from Louisville, Kentucky
Katie,
I was around your age when the first Star Wars movie came out... known to you as Episode IV. I loved it, and went to see it over and over again. When The Empire Strikes Back came out, I stood on a line with my Dad and my brother for an hour to see it, and we did it again for Return of the Jedi. For my eighth birthday party, I had a cake with an X-wing fighter, and a tiny Death Star made out of sugar.
A few weeks ago, I watched Star Wars with my daughter, who is also 6. I still get a thrill when the opening music starts up. And my daughter loved it.
You're very cool. Like what you like. It's the best way to live. xoxoxo
Hey Katie! My 6 year old son (also in first grade) loves pink! It's his favorite color and I tell him (and his friends who try to tell him it's a "girl" color) that it doesn't matter what you like or don't like or if you're a boy or a girl. (I'm a girl and my favorite colors are blue and green. And I play football!). Liking different things is what makes you interesting and fun to be around. :)
Katie, Amidala wasn't a boy -- and she fought for her people. Leia wasn't a boy - and she was the one who got Obi-Wan and Luke involved in the rebel fight. If it wasn't for 2 great strong WOMEN, the Star Wars universe would still be in the hands of the Empire. You tell those boys that.
Hi Katie!
I understand how you feel about being different. I have a hard to spell/pronounce name (Marievic),my mom was the only one in my town who spoke a different language, and I loved to play with "boys' toys" and I like Star Wars too. It's probably hard right now to be different from the kids at your school; hopefully all these comments will help you understand how fun it is to be different. Plus all these girls like 'Star Wars' too so you're not the only one! Be true to your heart & have fun being different...it's less boring. ;)
Hey Katie! I'm a girl and I love Star Wars! I have a ton of cool Star Wars stuff and read a bunch of the books when I was in school. My favorite character is Luke Skywalker even though he is kind of whiny at the beginning :P There are a ton of girls that like star wars, as I'm sure you can see by all the comments! Don't let mean little boys tell you that you shouldn't like this or wear that for ANY reason. You are you and you can like anything you want! Thats what makes you special! May the force be with you!
PS. I bet you knew I liked star wars from my name, hehe!
Hi Katie,
Girls, boys, women and men around the world like Star Wars.
When they are older, the boys who think Star Wars is just for them will learn that. Right now, they do not know a lot about the world.
Don't worry about what they think.
You know what makes you happy. Keep doing that.
Hi Katie!
I'm 21 years old now and I started liking Star Wars a whole lot when I was about your age. I even dressed up as Princess Leia for Halloween! Lots of kids used to tease me for wearing glasses and liking boy stuff too. It made me really sad that I couldn't like what I like and not have people make fun of me. But it's very important to be brave and stand up for what you like- plus Star Wars isn't just for boys!
Now that I'm older most boys (and girls) think that it's really cool that I like Star Wars and "boy things." Pretty soon people will realize that being yourself is the coolest way to be!
You are very brave to stand up for what you like, Katie. A lot of grown-ups can't even do that.
-Annie
Hi Katie - I remember being picked on when I was in 1st grade and it was awful. You are obviously very strong and I am here to tell you it gets better. And I went and saw Star Wars for the first time with a group of girlfriends so there you go - it's for everyone to enjoy because it's a great movie!
Katie! Girls are found all over the Star Wars spectrum, hon. It's cool to be yourself. I'm 31 and I love lots of things that got me called "geeky" in school. But you know what? It's not a bad thing. In fact, a lot of people are embracing the word "geek" and redefining it. We're kind of proud to be "geeks" -- it just means we're good at things.
Always be yourself, Katie. You've got a great mom and first grade may have had a rocky start, but you'll stick it out. You're obviously a very strong girl. Stay strong, stay proud of who you are. Be yourself. And there are others out there just like you. ^_^
Just wanted to add that I'm the sort of geek who likes Star Trek (and a bit of Star Wars, but it wasn't my favourite). I like math and dead languages, I am good at science, but I also love makeup. The thing is: these things are not exclusive and they're not gender-centric. I knit -- and I know boys who do, too! I love action movies -- and so do many other girls! (Seriously: explody movies? They're fun!)
I wear glasses and have since 5th grade. I took some teasing about it, but now I don't know many people who *don't* wear glasses or contacts. Also, I love my funky frames -- and lots of people compliment them. I don't wear them for the compliments, though; I wear them because *I* like them.
You're going to turn out wonderfully, young lady. And whether or not you're a lifelong Star Wars fan, you'll always have things that make you unique. Embrace those, hon. Be yourself. It's what attracts others to you.
My best friend and I have been best friends for more than 15 years now and we became best friends because we were both "different." Smart, redheaded, glasses-wearing, geeky -- different. And we have a great group of friends who are like family who love us for who we are, not what we do or don't like.
You'll have that, too.
Much love, Katie. And kudos to your mom.
Just remember, Katie: don't become a bully to others when they do things you don't understand or like. Remember the way it made you feel and try never to put someone in that position. Sometimes sticking up against a bully can get you bullied, but it's worth it in order not to become like them.
Take care and know that you are loved by so very many people and that many people you've never met are proud of you and support you in being yourself. <3
Hi Katie!
I have loved Star Wars since FOREVER! And the boys will stop teasing you someday, and you'll find some that think it is the most awesome thing ever that you like Star Wars, because they do, too!
I used to make up stories before I went to bed about Star Wars, I had a Star Wars lunch box & I still have a Star Wars water bottle, just like you! I am a teacher and I take it to school with me sometimes. I also got a chance to hike on the Appalachian Trail one summer, and my trail name was Ewok (I'm short, but less furry than an ewok).
Movies and stories are for EVERYONE.
Hi Katie,
Not only am I a girl and a huge Star Wars fan (I had the largest Return of the Jedi trading card collection on our street in 1984!) but I am the proud Mommy of a first grade girl who loves Star Wars! My little girl loves Star Wars so much, she had an R2D2 birthday cake for her 5th birthday. Her favorite toy is our robot R2D2 and her favorite game on the Wii is Lego Star Wars. She brought the robot to school for show and tell. I'm sorry the boys at your school don't realize how cool it is that a girl loves Star Wars. My best friend (who was a boy) thought it was so cool that I liked Star Wars as much as he did, that he asked me to marry him, and I did! So you do what makes you happy, sweetie, and you'll see that there will be friends who think you are the coolest ever! I told my little girl about you and I think you two would probably be best friends. Hang in there! :)
I was 7 when Star Wars opened in theatres- can you imagine I was close to your age and Star Wars was band new! I fell in love with Luke and had a lunch box, backpack, stickers, trading cards a bunch of Star Wars stuff! I wish I still had some of that stuff. Star Wars is about good vs. evil, it's about heroes vs. villains. You Katie are a HERO! The bullies are the villains. I'm so sorry they are picking on you. But you know what? Ever one has some villains in their life, bosses, teachers, other kids, just remember when you defeat a villain you only make yourself a better hero! How do you defeat a villain? Walk away, don't listen, and have a tiny part of your heart be sad for them, because villains never win, and their whole heart is full of sadness. Your heart is full of love, joy, and STAR WARS!
Katie! You are so awesome for loving Star Wars! I remember when I was your age and it felt like others kids picked on me or didn't want to be my friends because of things I liked or because they didn't get my sense of humor. I know it's hard to ignore those boys but they don't know how cool you really are and how many other great girls (and grown up ladies too)also love Star Wars! I know another mommy who has three kids that are 10, 8 and 5 and they all love Star Wars! The girls in Star Wars are brave and strong and did great things and I know you will too! Never be afraid to be who you are and to like what makes you happy.
Dear Katie,
I don't know if this will help, but I'm old enough that I was 9 when Star Wars came out. After that, every day at recess, my girl friends and I would all play Star Wars on the playground! We used to argue over who got to "be" which character, and we girls "played" all the roles -- Leia, but also Luke and Han (I got to be Han) and Chewie and the droids! Nobody thought we were strange, because everybody wanted to play Star Wars!
I had Star Wars action figures as soon as I could get them. I had lightsaber fights with my cousins on the beach, using Wiffle-Ball bats. I grew up to get a lot of gym credits in college doing fencing, and I think that early desire to be a Jedi Knight was a part of that!
I think it's really cool that you made the choice to get a Star Wars bag and water bottle! You know, despite everything, I think I would have been a little too shy to do that (although when I got a little older, I made my own dragon pictures to put on my notebooks because back then they didn't sell any notebooks with dragons on them).
Like a lot of other people have said, the boys may be kind of jerky right now, but that's just because they're young and insecure. As you get older, you'll find that there are a lot of boys who will be really happy to meet a girl who shares the same interests they do -- who doesn't look at *them* funny for liking Star Wars! I'm sorry they're giving you a hard time right now, though.
Sometimes being different just means you have really good taste, and that you're a really strong person. That's something to be proud of.
So I hope you'll still use that Star Wars water bottle, because you should use what YOU want, not what some boys want. And the next time anyone tries to tell you that Star Wars is for boys, you can tell them that you know LOTS of girls who like it, just like you!
cheers,
Holly
Hi Katie, I've loved Star Wars since I was 2yrs old, when my parents first took me to see it at the theater! Thankfully, I was able to play with my Star Wars toys with the boys and they didn't tease me. But the older I got, I started getting embarrassed about liking Star Wars and Star Trek. But then, I realized, "Who cares what other people think?" I love those shows, so I should enjoy them and not feel embarrassed.
And then I started writing about my favorite books and shows, and started a website called SciFiChick.com. And guess what I found? There are a LOT of girls that like Star Wars just like we do! And because I was brave enough to talk about my favorite shows and books, I now get more books and movies in the mail than I could ever read or watch.. for free just to talk about on my website! And I've been able to visit some favorite shows as well!
So be brave, don't be ashamed of things that you love. You never know where your dreams can take you!
And just so you know, when you get older... Boys are going to LOVE that you like the same things that they do! Especially, Star Wars! :)
Hi Katie!
When Star Wars first came out, I was just a little bit older than you are now. I was ten, and my friends and I - a good number of them girls - went to see the movie and loved it. Star Wars is not a boy thing! It's a thing for all kinds of people. And how can anything with a Princess in it be just for boys?
I hope you enjoy Star Wars - and whatever else you choose - for a long, long time - and that the other kids in school realize that's not different, it's just Katie. And you can like whatever you want.
Best to you,
Julie
hi katie!
my daughter is 5 and in preK. her first barbie sized doll was not a barbie at all; she bought a star wars queen amidala doll for her dollhouse. queen amidala has tea with tinkerbell all the time. it is awesome!
also, my big sister who is a high school teacher now STILL has her empire strikes back pillowcase from when she was about your age. she liked to sleep on the yoda side and the next night flip to the chewbacca side the next night so no side was jealous.
on the other side, my son who is in 2nd grade (who adores star wars as well!!) was teased because he wore a pink polo shirt to school. he looks so nice in that shirt! once he chose to ignore all the comments that people make just to make them self feel better, he wore that pink shirt for picture day! take that, meanies!!
honey, there is NOTHING wrong with your awesome water bottle!!!
so much LOVE to you!!
love josie in North Carolina.
Hi Katie,
I'm 34-yrs-old and I have loved Star Wars since I was a little girl. I still have my stuffed R2-D2 from when I was your age! Growing up, I loved a lot of things like Star Wars that were supposed to be "just for boys", and sometimes this made it hard for me to find other girls and friends to play with too. To this day I like lots of things that are geeky, like Star Wars and comic books and science-fiction and video games, and I have made some really good friends that I never would have if I had let the bullies change me.
Now my little boy is 11 and he got bullied by other kids for liking a show called Doctor Who. He was teased for liking something that the other kids didn't watch, and for not liking things that they did, like Pokeman. It was tough on Cam, but he still wore his t-shirts and carried his lunchbox and action figures. Even now he reads comic books and watches movies that maybe the other kids don't, but I'm so proud of him because he refused to let the other kids get him down. And you know what? Some of his friends now watch tv shows just because he does.
Please understand that it will get better, and the most important thing is to be yourself and like what you want. Don't let anyone tell you differently.
Hang in there, and know that there are so many of us girls that like the same things you do. You are a great kid and deserve only the best!
Lindsay from Cincinnati
Hi, Katie-
Just wanted to you to know that I'm proud to be a geek! My daughter and I are also a big Star Wars fan...we have all the movies, and every Star Wars video game for every system (even for ones we don't own! Now, how geeky is THAT?!). My girl has had the same problems with bullies that you have...she's not into frilly dresses, makeup and pop music. She's more comfortable in old jeans, hanging out playing video games and she's really into Japanese anime/culture and science fiction and fantasy art. For the longest time, she got teased for being into "boy stuff"...but she stayed true to herself and kept up with doing the things she enjoys. Know what? All those prissy, pretty-in-pink girls aren't nearly as good in math and science class as she is, and they definitely aren't as artistic as she is. Now they are all coming to her for help with their homework, and they always want her to draw artwork to use to decorate their school lockers and bedrooms. I think being a geek is the BEST thing a girl can be!!! So you rock that water bottle with PRIDE!! Oh and one more thing....where did you get it?? We want one!!!
Dear Katie, you are an awesome, adorable geek girl! Don't let the bullies tell you otherwise.
I've always been more of a Star Trek girl than a Star Wars girl, but if I had discovered Star Trek at your age, I would have begged my parents for a Star Trek lunchbox to bring to school.
And now here I am, 44 years old and working for NASA (though in an administrative position). Geek girls go places, Katie. Just keep being true to yourself and you will too.
Katie, this song is for all geeks, but is especially great for us geek gals.
Katie, don't be afraid to be who you are and like whatever you like! I'm 32, and I've loved Star Wars my whole life. And you know what? Once I got a little older, the boys all LOVED that I knew more about Star Wars than they did! There's nothing cooler than someone who knows what she likes and isn't afraid of anyone knowing it.
Hi, Katie!
I would LOVE to have a Star Wars water bottle like you! I have been a big Star Wars fan since I was five years old and saw the first movie at a drive-in theatre with my mom and dad. Han Solo has always been my favorite character, but I like Chewbacca, too.
Guess what -- Star Wars isn't all we have in common! When I was your age, I had to wear a patch and eyeglasses every day. Sometimes the kids at school teased me about my patch, but that was just because they didn't know yet how cool I was. As I got older, I stopped having to wear the patch, but I still have to wear glasses. Maybe some of the kids at my school then and at your school now just don't understand that being different can be a terrific thing! The world would be very boring if everyone was just like everyone else.
You are a lucky girl to have such a great mom (and such an awesome Star Wars bottle)! I hope that you keep having fun doing the things that YOU like to do and not the things other people think you should do. Stay cool, Katie!
Dear Katie,
I'm a girl who loves Star Wars, who has Star Wars memorabilia, action figures, board games, LEGO sets. I feel as though you and I would've been the closest friends, if we'd been in school together. Geek is cool. We get all the best stuff, the smart stuff, that the kids who teased you will never have or understand. You should carry that water bottle with pride, because you are secure in yourself, in what you like and what you want to do, and those bullies are just ignorant and insecure. And probably, let's face it, jealous of your awesome Star Wars bottle! ( I know I want one now!)
Don't let them get you down. In high-school I was teased because of my sheer love for sci-fi and fantasy, and because I read comic books and played WoW. Now, I'm working in the film industry that sparked that passion in the first place, and the TV show I work on - LEVERAGE - has the coolest tag line for people like us.
AGE OF THE GEEK, BABY. WE RULE THE WORLD.
Because we do. Be yourself, never back down or be afraid, and you will shine.
With love,
A fellow Geek
Hi Katie!
I just wanted you to know that I too love Star Wars. :) I hope that those boys realize that they are just being jealous that they don't have such a cool water bottle.
Good Luck!
Jen
Dear Katie,
I know your mommy could be reading comments to you all week long and you still wouldn't have heard from all the Star Wars-loving girls of the world!
Please, don't be hurt by people who think you're too "different", or criticize you just for something you love. I know that's going to be difficult at your age; Sometimes it's even hard for grown-ups.
Remember - "Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind."
Hi Katie!
I'm a girl and I like boy stuff too! My favorite is Batman. He is so cool. But I like star wars and lots of other geeky "boy" stuff. There are lots of us girls that like "boy" things and lots of boys that like "girl" things. I have a boy cousin who is a hairdresser, and I teach math and science. It's too bad the boys at your school didn't understand that people can like whatever they want - boy stuff or girl stuff. I hope you don't stop loving the things you love because someone else is silly enough to mock you for it, because that is their problem, not yours! Have an awesome day and stay cool!
Ms. Jaime (I even have a boy name, but who cares, right?)
I am a 34 year old female Star Wars Fan! It's ok to like what you like!
That being said, I was once the Different one...being the daughter of liberal flower children in a small, republican, religious farm town I was the only one doing a lot of things (like voting for Mondale in the Mock Election.) It is hard, But it is SO worth it in the end to be yourself...always!
I'm a guy. I grew up on Star Wars. And while it'd be at best irrelevant and at worst inappropriate to say that I think girls who like Star Wars are "hot" when there's a 1st grader in the discussion, let's word it this way: Liking Star Wars is gonna come in handy in a big way when you hit an age where most of the guys are interested in 1. sports, 2. themselves. The ones who actually want to talk about Star Wars with you will probably treat you pretty well!
Additionally, I bring up:
1. Leia.
2. Mon Mothma.
3. Amidala.
4. Ahsoka Tano.
Those four are, to coin a phrase, kick-ass. Remind the guys of that while they're busy giving each other high-fives for thinking Boba Fett is cool. He got eaten by a hole in the ground.
Umm yes, inappropriate... however you do bring up a good point that there are some great strong female characters in Star Wars!
Hey Katie. I'm a girl and I actually get to go all over the world now because I dress up in geeky costumes like Princess Leia. Boys actually think it's really cool to have girls who like the same things as them.
And I'm actually jealous of you, I always wanted glasses! When I was your age I dressed like a boy and only played with "boyish" toys (Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, G.I. Joe, Micro Machine cars) and I wouldn't have had it any other way.
You are so adorable! And remember that being different makes you special. Why would you want to be anyone else when you could be you and be happy doing what you want? Remember that some of the coolest, most creative people like Star Wars. People who make movies, write books, and do all sorts of amazing things. And none of those people let others' opinions get in their way. You are stronger than that!
Much love!
Katie,
I'm not a huge Star Wars fan, but I know what it's like to be picked on as a young lady for being more interested in "boy things" than "girl things". For me it was a Star Trek lunchbox in elementary school, people teased me for carrying it and I could not understand why. They liked My Little Pony and carried that lunchbox, so I like Star Trek and I wanted to carry that lunch box. I was tempted to give in the bullies but I never did and I carried that lunch box until it fell apart! I am now 28 years old and love many, many geeky/boy things and let me tell you, I can 100% for sure say that I am much happier than those people who felt it was ok to tease me. Living your life for the things that makes you happy is the key to be a great human being! Hold your head up hig Katie girl and May The Force Be With You!
Hi Katie!!! Remember that being cool is being yourself! Star Wars and all! I hope you continue to rock your favorite Star Wars accessories with pride and show everyone the "real" you! Sometimes it's not easy (and we've all been there), but staying true to yourself is one of the best ways you can tell the world just how amazing and awesome you really are! Any suggestions on where I could find a super cool Star Wars water bottle like yours!?
xo
Barb
PS...I promise that one day a boy is totally going to dig the fact that you love Star Wars!! <3
Katie, I'm a girl who loves Star Wars too. That's awful some boys don't think girls like Star Wars, but they're just wrong. Can you imagine what Princess Leia would say to them? She would set them straight in no time. :) You keep watching Star Wars and keep carrying your water bottle. I think you're a wonderful girl with a great imagination!
Katie, I'm a 29 year old girl who has loved Star Wars since I was your age and I think that it's totally awesome that you like Star Wars! It's not just for boys at all. And when you get into high school and college, guess what? Boys will think you're even cooler than lots of other girls BECAUSE you like Star Wars. Seriously. I know because I married one of those college boys who shared my love for Star Wars. And guess what? His little sister was adopted too and she likes Star Wars and she's one of the coolest and most awesome kids I know. So don't let bullies get you down. Just be yourself!!!
Dearest Katie.
You're an awesome girl for liking Star Wars. In fact... there are millions of girls like you who are much older and love it also. I'm almost 30 years old and I love it among other things that boys usually think as "theirs" like playing video games.
Boys are silly... I bet they wish they had an awesome water bottle just like you do.
All the best,
Magda
Hi Katie. Not only do I love Star Wars, but I taught all of my nieces to live it as well, as young as yourself. Don't ever let people put you down for the things you love and enjoy. Stand proud of the things you love.
I only wish there were more Star Wars movies, and I wish I had the time and money to buy more of the Star Wars books!
Hi Katie! Be proud that you like Star Wars, and don't let those boys tell you the kind of person you should or should not be. I'm proud to say that my oldest daughter, when she was 9, completed the Jedi Training Academy at Epcot Center in Disneyworld. On top of that, the trainers on the stage told her that she was better than the boys! There are lots of girls just like you who love Star Wars.
Katie,
I'm another girl who loves Star Wars. My nephews love that I can have light saber battles with them, and it means a lot to me that I can share something fun with them. Star Wars is for everyone! So keep your head up and keep rocking that cool water bottle! You are awesome! <3
Hi Katie! I have a daughter in first grade, too, and she thought it was really wrong of those boys to make fun of your water bottle. When I told her about your situation, she said, "Well, I don't really like Star Wars all that much. But I'll carry a Star Wars water bottle around! I'll do it!" Because she agrees that there shouldn't be "girl" things and "boy" things. So maybe this will be a trend. And I'd be happy to get her that water bottle. When I was a kid I saw the Empire Strikes Back in the movie theater 57 times when it came out - THAT is how cool I think Star Wars is, even though I am a girl!
Cool stuff is just cool, it doesn't matter if you're a boy or a girl. And the boys DEFINITELY do not get to have Star Wars all to themselves!
Hi Katie! Please DO NOT listen to those boys that say you can't have Star Wars stuff because you're a girl. I'm a girl too and I like Star Wars! I also like Star Trek, Disney stuff, and pink. You can like whatever you want!
Please, just ignore those bullies. If you show them that you don't care what they say, they will leave you alone.
May the force be with you!
Hi Katie! I'm a 43 year old "girl" and I LOVE STAR WARS!!
I know it is hard to be different than what people think you should be, but you are being brave by being YOU! Don't ever let what people think influence who you are and what you love. How boring the world would be if everyone liked and did the same things!
And you know what? I bet some of those kids that are teasing you wish they had an awesome STAR WARS lunch box and water bottle.
(And BTW, I love your glasses, too! I have some like them and they ROCK!)
Hi Katie! I'm a woman with glasses, that has a BLUE water bottle, and loves Star Wars! My husband is also adopted, wears glasses, and love Star Wars. As a girl I always played with "boy toys" with my sisters. And I could run faster than almost all of the boys. Be glad and celebrate all of the things that make you YOU. Different is GOOD. Can you imagine how school would be if everyone was exactly the same person? You'd all be BORED. It's important for people to stand up for their differences and celebrate them as well as their similarities. Stay strong and awesome!
Hi Katie!
I'm so proud of you for taking your Star Wars water bottle! I'm a 28 year old and have loved Star Wars my entire life. I know it's hard now but, as you get older, all of the things that make you uniquely Katie are the things people will love about you.
Don't worry about being different or liking things that boys like! When my husband proposed to me, he said one of his favorite things about me was that I love all kinds of things that girls aren't supposed to (things like Star Wars and video games!). It's those things that feel so different now that people enjoy the most as we get older.
Star Wars is awesome and you're not the only girl who thinks so!
I'm a woman, loved star wars since I stood in line to see it the first time it was in theaters, some 33 years ago. :D I have a Star Wars poster in my livingroom, framed and right there where everyone can see it when they walk into my house! My husband and I had the Imperial March playing as our wedding theme.
My daughter, who is also in first grade, LOVES star wars. Oddly enough, while it made me a little geeky when I was a kid, she is immensely popular. All the boys love her star wars knowledge and her t-shirts.
Love what you love. Never be ashamed!
Hi Katie!
I love Star Wars, and I think it is great that you take Star Wars water bottle to school. It is very hard to be teased; the boys at my school used to tease me because I was the shortest person in my class. But you shouldn't let the bullies make you change who you are or what you like. Star Wars is for boys AND girls, and you can like anything you want. I promise that when you get older you will find friends (girls and boys) who love Star Wars as much as you do, and they will see you for the wonderful girl you are!
PS: Before too long, there will be other kids in your class who wear glasses. I know this because my brother was the first kid in HIS class with glasses, but he wasn't the only one for very long. Plus, I think glasses are cool!
Katie- I love the Star Wars movies! I am a 33 yr old woman, but I have loved them since I was 6 or 7. Never let anyone tell you you cannot like them because you are a girl. I still love them and always will. They made me who I am today and I wouldn't want it any other way.
Hi Katie, I'm a girl and I like Star Wars (and Star Trek and video games, and all sorts of things girls aren't supposed to like). And I hate the color pink. You are one awesome girl, and don't let anyone tell you otherwise.
Hi Katie! I also used to be a little girl who played with Star Wars toys, and wore glasses since I was four years old. I still have my plush Ewok toy from when Return of the Jedi came out. When I was in middle school and high school I played trading card games and read comics with the boys in school. Being interested in "boy" things will just give you the chance to have more friends. In school girls that were only into "girl" things wouldn't really spend time with boys unless they were dating them. But I had a wider group of friends I could just hang out and have fun with. Now I'm 29 and planning on making Han Solo and Princess Leia costumes for my boyfriend and I next year. If you ever feel down about it just remember how strong and pretty Princess Leia was, and how she was just as important and tough as Luke and Han. Princess Leia was always one of my role models when I was growing up.
Just sending some support from a fellow Katie, who also wears glasses and loves Star Wars! :)
Katie, first of all, you are the cutest girl ever!
When I was little, I was very much into things that other kids would consider not "cool"-- but I didn't quit. Now, I have so many friends who loves Star Wars, and we have so much fun with it!
I know bullying and getting teased is hard. But those kids are not worth changing for. Stay strong and remember that you will meet important people who will not make fun of you... and they will be your friends.
I am proud of you for liking Star Wars! This world needs more little girls like you!
Hi Katie,
First off I love your glasses. Second Star Wars is very cool. I waited in line all day to see the openings of the original 3 when I was kid along with many friends that were girls. Best of all, though is you have a super cool mom! Always let her know if someone is mean to you so she can help you find the best way to get help.
You may want to get another Star Wars water bottle to put away for when you are older - it will be super cool to have one when you get to high school and college.
You may wish to read some of these letters in front of your class at school and let them know that lots of girls like Star Wars. I'll bet some other girls in your class like Star Wars too. If they haven't seen them maybe you could invite a few friends over to watch one of the movies.
Katie - Star Wars is NOT just for boys! When I was a girl and the Star Wars movie was brand new, I played Princess Leia with my brothers and friends. Good for you for choosing the lunchbox YOU wanted. Be true to who YOU are, sweetie! And if you like Star Wars, never mind what anyone else thinks. Star Wars is cool!
Katie -
You are one awesome kid, with great taste in movies - Star Wars rocks! I'm 31 years old, and I love Star Wars, too :-) When I was a kid, I was into "boy" stuff - Transformers, He-Man, those kind of things. I got teased for it, too. But I decided not to let those bullies see how much it bothered me. These were the things I liked, and if they weren't happy with it, well tough for them! And, after a while, they realized that their teasing wasn't going to change me, and they stopped. It was hard, and it took time, but it stopped.
It's so important to be true to who you are, and if that means carrying an AWESOME Star Wars water bottle, then you do it! You show them how brave and smart and cool you are, and in time those boys won't care what water bottle you're carrying.
The Force is strong with you!!! :-)
Hi Katie! You are SO COOL for having a Star Wars water bottle! I wish had that when I was a little girl. Trust me: anyone who says Star Wars isn't for girls is lying to you. MILLIONS of girls love Star Wars all over the world, and you're part of that awesome club! :) Even if a few boys at school don't like it, a bajillion girls and women are right there with ya. <3
Hi Katie.
I too am adopted, and I also wear glasses. My adoptive parents are really great, and nerdy girls with glasses are cute. I really like your little black frames!
When I was little I enjoyed playing with trucks and playing soccer with the boys during recess. I also had lots of dolls and played princess. There is nothing wrong with liking "boy" things if you're a girl or "girl" things if you're a boy. It doesn't make you any less girly or boyish. I've always liked movies with action and adventure, and Star Wars is really cool. There are plenty of female characters in Star Wars, why shouldn't you like it? If you get into the comics, there are even more.
I'm 22 and I still have lots of toys decorating my apartment, though now they are GI Joes, Batman figures, and even girly ones like Monster High dolls. My boyfriend is happy to have a girl who likes things like Star Wars and GI Joe. I know you are too young to care about boys like that, but when you get older, you'll realize boys want to hang out with girls who like the same things they do.
The worst thing you can do is stop doing something you enjoy because other people tease you about it. Just because those people can't find happiness doesn't mean you should have to lose yours. Be strong and hold onto the things that you love. It'll all turn out and you'll be much happier. Best of luck!
hey katie!
star wars will ALWAYS be awesome, and if kids are teasing you...they're just naive (that means they don't know much yet) about how great star wars is. it's easy to pretend to not like something you know nothing about, but to be true to yourself and show you like star wars to the whole world is a great thing!
lots of us like star wars! i have a star wars flash drive for my computer, and a star wars phone. i'm a teacher at a middleschool and i wear star wars t-shirts to work. i even have a star wars tattoo on my foot. so those kids teasing you? they're just too young and too dumb! probably jealous, too. cause i know i'm jealous of your super-cool water bottle!
both girls and boys love star wars, don't let anyone tell you otherwise! princess leia is one of the COOLEST girls in any movie anywhere!!
Hi Katie,
I wanted you to know that when I was in grade one Star Wars was just coming out and I LOVED it! I played with all the action figures (boy word for "dolls") for hours! I think you have really good taste for liking Star Wars. I am jealous you have a Star Wars water bottle. I will have to ask Santa for one for Christmas!
I have two daughters. My 10 year old wears glasses, hearing aids and is also the only child in her class that is adopted. She went through a stage where she didn't want anyone to know she wore hearing aids. Even got the ear part in the colour of her skin so it wouldn't stand out. I was sad as before she always had swirly colours and sparkles in them... I am happy this year she chose her favourite colour again! Sometimes children bug her about being adopted. She tells them she is lucky because she has two moms and dads that love her very much, as I am sure you do too!
My other daughter is 8 and this year she got a BOYS snowsuit because all the girl ones were pink or purple and she wanted her favourite colour GREEN! She likes pokemon too and dinky cars.
All through elementary school my best friend was a boy. We had a great time playing He-man, lego, digging to China in the backyard and lots of other things that were supposed to be "boy" activities. We got teased a lot that we were boyfriend and girlfriend. We didn't care. We were too busy having fun.
Remember to be true to who you are and don't give up the things you love because of something someone else says. Don't let other people decide your happiness. You sound like a fabulous child and I think you will be a fabulous adult too! Congratulations on being great!
Have you ever looked at the toys at www.thinkgeek.com ? Very fun stuff!!!
Keep smiling Katie! We all think you are awesome!
To Everyone else: Why is it that fast food places still ask "Girl" or "Boy" toy? EVERY time I have to say "And what ARE the toys?" and more than half the time my girls pick the "Boy" toy. MAJOR pet peeve! Let's rally about that next!!!! :)
Katie, I just want to add my voice to the other amazing women who also grew up loving Star Wars, and Transformers, and so many other things that we were told were "for boys." I'm so sorry that you're being given a hard time. Someday soon, you'll see that you have the best mom in the world, for showing you that you can like whatever you like, and there's no such thing as "just for boys" or "just for girls." It would be just as okay for a boy to use the pink water bottle as it is for you to use the Star Wars one, if that's the one he liked.
I wish I could gather up all of the great, geeky women I know, so that we could all join for a Star Wars party, because there are definitely enough of us to fill your school's auditorium, at least (and that's just the ones I know personally!)! I also wish I could show you all of the guys I know who think it's really cool when a girl can quote The Empire Strikes Back to him.
Mind what you have learned, young Jedi. The Force (and the geek girls) will be with you always.
It is time that all parents try to avoid forcing gender-role stereotypes on their children. It can be very confusing to them to like something and to be told by their parents that it is not okay. I am very proud of your daughter for having the courage to show that she is not afraid to show that she likes something that other children find "un-girly". I find is surprising that boys are picking on a girl for such things. I always thought that it was just boys who got teased for having "female" interests. I am blessed with a wonderful 8-year-old son who has decided that he wanted to go against all stereotypes and incorporate pink into his everyday life. He has pink everything! He got teased briefly, but once the other kids realized that he didn't care and that boys could wear whatever they wanted, they left him alone and eventually became his friends. It is always okay and wonderful to be different!! Those boys were just jealous because their parents probably wouldn't let them have the cool Star Wars water bottle!! Stay different and everyone LOVES Star Wars, even if some are afraid to admit it!!
Rock on, Katie! Whether you carry a Star Wars bottle or a pink bottle, you're an awesome girl.
Hey Katie! I'm 23 and I love watching Star Wars!! And Batman, and Superman...okay any awesome show really. I have four brothers and a sister. My five year old niece LOVES star wars too! And so does my 13 year old niece! All girls, all different ages. Even my MOM likes star wars, and she's 61 years old! Awesome, right? Remember, it's okay to like whatever you want. Just remember that just because you're a girl doesn't mean you have to like what all girls like. :)
Hi Katie! I'm Kate and I'm an 18 year old girl that loves Star Wars, video games, bugs..you name it! It's hard when people make fun of the things you like, especially if you like them a lot. Just know that those little things that you like that other people find weird, are actually pretty cool, and those things make up parts of you! Be proud of who you are, and if you want to love the things that other people may not understand, well go ahead and love them! :)
Hi Katie!
I'm a girl and I love Star Wars. So does my mom, which is where I got it from. I grew up watching Episodes 4-6. And reading the books. And I had friends when I was in high school I spent hours debating Star Wars with! Star Wars can even provide us with strong female role models, both even royalty! Next time the boys tease just think about what Princess Leia would do and smile because you know and understand cool things that they don't.
Hey Katie!!!
Sweetheart, i am so excited you like Star Wars and science fiction! Doesn't mean you can't carry a pink water bottle too, if YOU want to, but don't do it because the kids in your class say mean things.
When you get older, you will be awesome like you are now. Those kids wont be like they are now, they will WANT a girl who is different as their friend. But you will have all the imagination and hope that Star Wars has given you, and you will be very successful.
Think of your life like a movie. It's interesting! It's exciting! You're the star. What happens to the star of a movie? Sometimes bad things happen to them, but in the end, they are still number 1!
I, personally, don't like movies that are boring, obviously because I love Star Wars! (hehe!) And being just another kid at a school.. where's the fun in that?! Be you! You are amazing! They don't make movies about people who try to fit in. They make movies about people who stand out!
So if those kids pick on you, remember, you have over a hundred friends right here, and we love you just how you are. And your mommy knew we were here, and for her to tell us what's happening, she obviously loves you more than anything in the world!
I just want you to remember one thing. It's the kids who stand out that make all the good in the world. They grow up to be even more amazing and exciting and interesting than they are when they're younger.
You're well on your way doll! And if you ever need us, we are here!
xo
jessica
I am so excited to see that the word about your story got out on twitter tonight, Katie.
Believe it or not Katie, you have united over 780 people by the time I am writing this only about 4 hours later! I don't know ANY first grader who can do that, but you!
How truly amazing you are!
Oh and by the way, STAR WARS even retweeted your story an hour ago! :)
Look! http://twitter.com/#!/starwars
It says "..StarWars is for everyone - including little girls! http://bit.ly/cNT2Pa #MayTheForceBeWithKatie "
You can do ANYTHING!
May the Force be with you! Have fun in school. And remember. It's your story! You're the star! xoxo jessica
Hi Katie! I'm a woman and I LOVED Star Wars as a girl! (I still do...) One of my favorite memories is when I was in Kindergarten and my dad came and he took me out of school so we could see Star Wars (A New Hope) in the movie theater. All my friends (boys AND girls) were so jealous!! I got a Millennium Falcon that year for Christmas, complete with all the action figures, and I played with it all the time. So, keep on loving Star Wars!!!
P.S. My son, who's 4, loves to eat off of his sister's pink plate and he likes to use her pink fork. So, who says pink is a girl's color anyway?
:0)
Heya Katie, I heard about your story all the way from Australia, and wanted to give you some yoda-like advice to be yourself, it's the only thing you can and ever should be.
In primary school (Elementary school for you), I was teased and picked on as a girl for liking star wars, I used to read all the books and do projects on it, and I knew a lot of weird facts too! I also went camping, "helped" fix cars with my father, and did other things girls aren't meant to do.
But you know what, when I went to high school I found a group of girls who loved reading, loved star wars, loved camping, and doing other things I enjoyed, and we are still very good friends, and because I spent a lot of time in the library reading, I'm much smarter than those kids who picked on me.
Remember that kindness given out will always come back to you, and everyone gets exactly what they deserve in the end.
May the force be with you, Katie, and blessed be.
Claire.
Katie,
You sound like the COOLEST KID EVER!!! I'm a grownup, but I've always been a girl who's loved Star Wars. In fact, I even have a Star Wars room in my house today! I've seen all the movies countless times and I watch the Clone Wars every week. I read Star Wars books and listen to podcasts and I was Princess Leia for Halloween (again!) last year.
I know it's hard, Katie, and I'm sorry that the other kids are mean. They were mean to me sometimes, too, because I liked Star Wars and Star Trek and no other girls did. (I had to wear glasses too!) But you know what? Those shows inspired me to become an engineer and work at NASA! Today I work in Mission Control for the Space Shuttle! Did you know that Luke's lightsaber from Return of the Jedi flew on the space shuttle Discovery a few years ago? On that same mission, the commander of the space shuttle and the commander of the space station were both women! (STS-120)
So it may be hard now, but in the end I bet you grow up to be a very special lady who will do some amazing things. Maybe because of your love for Star Wars you'll become a rocket scientist, too, and go to the moon or even Mars. Whatever it is you want to do, NEVER let ANYONE tell you that you can't because you're a girl. Trust me - the Force is strong in you, Katie!!! :)
(Katie/Carrie, if you're ever in the Houston area I would be honored to give you a tour of Johnson Space Center & Mission Control. :)
- Holly
Dearest Katie:
First of all, I am so, so sorry that those boys decided to bully you for being the awesome little youngling you are. It's so hard to be different, I know, because I am, too. But, just because we're different in ways we can't help, doesn't mean we should have to hide the rest of who we are. You are an amazingly brave little girl, and I am so proud of you for staying with your love for Star Wars.
If it helps any, I'm 22 years old, and a girl. I also wear glasses, and I'm in a wheelchair. I've always been drawn to both boy and girl things, and as a kid played with both Barbie and G.I. Joe. Both then and now, I still wear what could be said to be "boy clothes", since they have to do with things like Star Wars, Batman, Spiderman...
You're not weird, darling Katie, remember that. You are awesome, is what you are! And, you know what? If those boys or any others try to tell you that Star Wars is only for boys, you tell them to go tell that to Leia, Padme, Asohka, Asajj Ventress, and any other lady characters you may like! (I also like Aayla Secura and Aurra Sing!) Just like there are both guy and girl Jedi and Sith, so too can there be, and ARE THERE, both guy and girl Star Wars fans!
Take care of yourself, Youngling. The Force is so very strong with you.
Dear Katie,
First let me say that you have someone who LOVES YOU DEEPLY for wanting to get the internet community to let you know how awesome it is to be a geeky girl and a girl who loves Star Wars. No matter what anyone says about you for whoever you are, you should always remember how important and how awesome it is to have someone like that in your life.
Second, Boys are silly but then again so are some girls. You on the other hand are neither because you're being who you want to be! If anything in my book that makes you a pretty awesome role model, many little girls should look up to you for being so strong! Many people are threatened by people like that and the only way they know how to react is to try and knock em down. That just means you're so awesome that they don't know what else to do! You can like the color pink and like Star Wars! You can choose whatever you want because you're cool and confident enough to like what you want.
I'm 23 years old, and I like Stars Wars. I also like Spiderman and Wolverine, and computers. When I was growing up my dad and I used to go to the comic book store, and kids at school used to make fun of me for that. They said I should be playing with barbies instead. It used to hurt my feelings and made me wonder why they didn't like me. But I realized what made me happier than worrying about they said, continuing to read my comic books and watching my cartoons. It's not easy path sometimes, but don't you worry, you're going to be fine as long as you are who you are! Don't be afraid! With someone as wonderful as your Mom there to love you no matter what, you can make it through everything! So hold your head up proud and come join the rank of the awesome Geek girls and Women. We're a big community and we know that anythings possible with our awesomeness!
Ooooodles of Geek Love sent your way,
@lly
Dear Katie,
First let me say that you have someone who LOVES YOU DEEPLY for wanting to get the internet community to let you know how awesome it is to be a geeky girl and a girl who loves Star Wars. No matter what anyone says about you for whoever you are, you should always remember how important and how awesome it is to have someone like that in your life.
Second, Boys are silly but then again so are some girls. You on the other hand are neither because you're being who you want to be! If anything in my book that makes you a pretty awesome role model, many little girls should look up to you for being so strong! Many people are threatened by people like that and the only way they know how to react is to try and knock em down. That just means you're so awesome that they don't know what else to do! You can like the color pink and like Star Wars! You can choose whatever you want because you're cool and confident enough to like what you want.
I'm 23 years old, and I like Stars Wars. I also like Spiderman and Wolverine, and computers. When I was growing up my dad and I used to go to the comic book store, and kids at school used to make fun of me for that. They said I should be playing with barbies instead. It used to hurt my feelings and made me wonder why they didn't like me. But I realized what made me happier than worrying about they said, continuing to read my comic books and watching my cartoons. It's not easy path sometimes, but don't you worry, you're going to be fine as long as you are who you are! Don't be afraid! With someone as wonderful as your Mom there to love you no matter what, you can make it through everything! So hold your head up proud and come join the rank of the awesome Geek girls and Women. We're a big community and we know that anythings possible with our awesomeness!
Ooooodles of Geek Love sent your way,
@lly
Hi Katie,
I'm a 26 year old South African woman and I wish I had a Star Wars water bottle! :) In the end Katie, you're beautiful exactly the way you are. Be proud, chin up and forget what those boys say! There is nothing wrong or bad about being different. *hugs*
Hello Katie!
My name is Akane, and I took a min to create an account and leave you a comment. I'm 20 years old and I'm married to Chewbacca :3
Love star wars baby, there's nothing wrong with standing out in a crowd, believe me when you are my age you'll be so happy to not be apart of the 'Pink Bottle' club
-hugs and kisses-
:]
My dearest Katie,
I was 3 years old when I first saw the Empire Strikes Back. I still remember walking into the theater 30 years ago! It was so exhilerating to watch the space battles and the light saber fights on the big screen! When I started 1st grade, I too had a Return of the Jedi lunch box. I was the ONLY GIRL with one. I too was bullied, but not by the boys. The girls wouldn't play with me. I think out of all the girls I had one friend, but she would play with me as long as the other girls were occupied. I never let this get me down. The boys were very supportive and defended me! I was very surprised that anyone would since I was so different.
I stuck with what I liked and didn't care much for what others said. Eventually, the girls saw that I too liked the same things they liked, but that Star Wars was what made me myself! The funny thing is when we got into middle school, the girls started asking ME about Star Wars so they could talk to the boys! So funny how quickly they turned around!
I have been married for 13 years now to a wonderful man who, yep you guessed it, loves Star Wars as much as I do! I have two beautiful daughters who love Star Wars too. My oldest is 9 years old and was bullied in Kindergarten(sorry, mom, but it starts younger than 1st grade!) because she was different. She's very tall for her age and became overweight because of severe sleep apnea. She was picked on in school by her older cousins for every single difference, including Star Wars. This in turn got the other children of the school to start too. It got so bad that she started telling us she was sick so she wouldn't have to go. It built up until she broke down crying and telling me how ugly she was and that it was stupid to like boy things. I too hugged her tightly and told her that they were jealous that she was more popular than they were and that this was the only way they knew to make her unhappy. She had friends in girl scouts that loved her for her and helped her through this rough time. Unfortunately, everything came back to haunt her in 2nd grade again. This time, she was in a new school and it was a new bully. This time she was prepared. She tried to handle it herself, but when it got to be too much, she told me and we told her teacher. She is now in 3rd grade and has not had any problems. Her friends are stronger than the bully that has now given up. And she's counting down the days to Star Wars in 3D!
My youngest is 5 years old and just started Kindergarten. She has not had any problems yet, but I'm on the look out for the signs. She too is counting down the days to when she can see Star Wars in 3D with her mommy, daddy, and her big sister!
You are not alone, sweetie. We have all been there at one point, be it because we like Star Wars or have a little extra weight on our body. The one thing you need to remember is that Star Wars has a BIG FAMILY. We may not all be related, but we all come together when one of our family members needs us. We are here for you. You ARE in this exspansive family that extends around the world! You are a true fan if, no matter what, you accept a fan for who they are. You have proven that you truly are a Jedi and shall make a fine addition to the family.
I hope these stories have helped you and brought a smile to your beautiful face! Take heart, young one, for I too, still wear Star Wars shirts too work. You have a WONDERFUL day!
Jen from Baltimore, MD
Katie,
Don't ever let anyone tell you that something you like isn't "for girls," if you like it, it's for you! Star Wars is for anyone with an imagination! If you ever needed proof that it is just as much for girls as for boys, just look at Princess Leia, Padme, Ahsoka, and all of the other awesome women in that universe! They are all strong women who fight for what they believe in and are proud to be who they are. I can't think of any better type of role model for a young girl to look up to.
I will always be a little girl at heart, and I will always love Star Wars! I hope you won't let the bullies of the world take something you enjoy away from you!
Just remember, it's okay to be different. Being just like everyone else is boring anyway.
Good luck and keep on just being you!
I have to admit that I wasn't much of a Star Wars fan as a young girl. Star Trek: The Next Generation was always my sci-fi of choice then, and still is 9 times out of 10. Regardless of the specific series, girl geeks are EVERYWHERE and we are loud and proud. There's nothing wrong with being a geek.
There's also nothing wrong with being adopted. I'm adopted too and I always looked at it as meaning that I was special, not different. I've always known that my parents chose me to be in their lives. I could never doubt how much they loved me.
Stay strong, Katie. Know that there are many, many geek girls out there who support you.
Hi Katie! I'm an old lady of 43 and I LOVE Star Wars!!! I have a life size Yoda I won, and I dress my pug up as Darth Vader! You should be happy that you have such a great mom & you should wear your SW things with pride! Be strong like Padme! Be a leader, you know the boys are just jealous. You should do what you want, don't ever let anyone tell you can't do something. Women can achieve great things, we are the stronger, and we are leaders! I own my own business in a male dominated field, and I don't let anyone tell me what to do or make me feel bad for doing what I do. You can do it too! You go girl!!! Erika
Hi Katie!
I'm 25-years-old and your story reminds me a lot of when I just started kindergarten. I LOVED the Ninja Turtles when I was a kid (Leonardo was my favorite. I thought swords were cool). When I started school, all the kids teased me because of that because girls weren't supposed to like the Ninja Turtles. The girls wouldn't play with me because of it and the boys weren't about to let a girl play with them. I thought that I would have to pretend I didn't like the Ninja Turtles so I could have friends at school. But I learned that was not the way to do things. I didn't back down from the things I liked and people respected me more for it. And I ended up with friends who were a lot more loyal to me than if I would have acted like I didn't like Ninja Turtles.
I still love the Ninja Turtles. I also love Star Wars (Yoda is my favorite), Lord of the Rings, Harry Potter and Doctor Who - a lot of these are considered things that boys like. But don't ever let anyone tell you not to love something because the things you love are the things that make your life worthwhile. I love to write stories and these stories I read/watch truly inspire me. I've also had to deal with some hard things in my life and these interests have helped me cope with my troubles. The things I like define me.
If I had to tell you one thing, it's that you should never let anyone tell you that you "have to" like something. You can decide what you like. If "Star Wars" is something that makes you happy, you hold onto that and run with it.
And I have to say that you are one of the coolest first-graders ever! Keep drinking out of that water bottle! And may the force be with you! :)
Best wishes,
Chrissy from Utah
I'm a girl and I like the color pink, unicorns, kittens, babies, college football, hockey, fishing and Star Wars! You are an incredible girl, don't those silly boys bother you, they don't know what they are talking about!
Hey Katie! I'm 24 and I've been a Star Wars fans since I was 9 years old! People even used to call me Melissa Skywalker at school! I still dress up as a Jedi every year for Halloween, and I wear Anakin's costume. I think it is sooo cool that you have a Star Wars backpack and water bottle. I have lots of Star Wars stuff and there's even a video about me and my Star Wars collection online! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=61D3qAdxX6g
Sometimes, people are surprised that I like Star Wars and video games because I'm a girl, but I have lots of friends that are girls and boys that like those things too! So don't ever let anyone tell you that you can't do something or like something because you're a girl! And I wore glasses for many years too. I had super cool glasses and I got a lot of compliments on them. You rock! May the force be with you!
Hey Katie!
Don't let those silly boys tell you what you can and can't like. I'm a girl and I LOVE Star Wars! I camped out for Phantom Menace! Just today, I decided to spend my extra money on new Star Wars toys for my desk instead of getting my nails done! My 2 year old daughter's favorite movie is Toy Story 3. She would rather play with Buzz and Woody than her Disney Princess dolls. Don't ever let someone tell you it's not okay to be different. You can like whatever you want, no one can take that from you.
Hi Katie,
In 1977, I was almost 5 years old, and I went to see the first Star Wars movie. I loved Star Wars and requested to see it many times in the cinema. I even went to the Return of the Jedi premiere in my city.
I didn't collect a lot of the action figures - I was into the comics published by Marvel, and magazines that featured articles on Star Wars. Some people thought I wasn't cool because I liked Star Wars and I was a girl (although back then tons of girls loved it openly - all kids enjoyed it!), but a lot of boys and girls thought it was neat that I knew everything about it.
For every person that may not like something you do, there is another person who will like it. So why spend time pleasing the people who want you to change for no reason, if you don't get to play with the person who already likes you just the way you are?
Good luck in school, learn a lot, and have lots of fun! I can tell your mother loves you very much.
Also, everyone in my family wears glasses. When I was 5, I was sad, because I wanted to wear glasses so I could be like everyone else. In the end, I learned just to be me.
From one 'different' girl to another... you do what you like. Those that understand will like you better and those that make fun of you are just jelouse of your bravery and spunk! Star Wars is enjoyed by lots of people all over the world! Go any where and talk about Luke & Chewie and EVERYONE will know what you say. It's an international language!!! Never let others tell you what is 'cool' or 'normal' that is something only you can decide for yourself! My thoughts go to you and to all of the other girls out there who have gone through the same thing!
Hi Katie!
Some of the best memories I have are of watching Star Trek with my dad when I was a little kid.. that was our special time to hang out together. I'll always be a Trekkie but I love Star Wars too. I just wanted to let you know that YOU ROCK! Maybe those silly boys are just jealous that you have a cooler thermos than they do.
You just keep liking what you like, and carry your Star Wars water bottle proudly! Geek girls forever!
May the force be with you. :)
-Rebecca
Miss katie,
Never be anything you're not!
I'm 27 and I loooove starwars! You are a beautiful young lady. You're obviously well on your way to being one of the coolest people ever, you like starwars! Its not easy to be different, but its always more fun!! If it came too asy it wouldn't be worth all the time that it took.
Be who you are and love what you do. You are the one that has too live with you. These boys are probably only making fun of you because they're jealous of your gear, or they have crushes on your because you're so cool.
Stay true to yourself. Its going to get harder too. Keep your chin up girl!
You don't need pink stuff to be happy!!
Xoxo
Miss kayla
Hi Katie,
I am also a Katie, and I love Star Wars. In fact, I am a little bit jealous of your Star Wars water bottle.
I wanted to take a moment and tell you it's good to be different. Being different means that you are not forgettable, which is really, really cool. It means that people will remember you even when you think they won't, and as you get older the same boys who teased you will be your friends because you can talk to them about Star Wars. You'll find that liking things boys like makes it easier to be friends with them, which is pretty cool!
I was teased a lot in school, but I kept doing what I liked, and it turned out great in the end. Now, I am a girl who wears glasses, likes Star Wars, science, math, science fiction books and all kinds of things that make me proud to be a nerd/geek.
You're not alone. Keep taking your Star Wars water bottle to school, and remember there are a lot of other women out there who will look at for you.
Keep it up, the world needs more people to be different. The different people are some of the most talented, creative people I know!
xo,
Katie
Katie sometimes it's really hard when our friends are mean to us, but you should know you're not the only girl who loves Star Wars. I've loved Star Wars for a long time and my daughter who is 13 loves Star Wars too. We love when cool girls like you discover Star Wars too. Since Star Wars is great. You keep being who you are Katie. May the Force be with you!
Darling Katie!
I am a mother of a 16 month old boy, who I plan on showing Star Wars in all it's glory when he is old enough to understand what it is.
I myself, as well as my husband and countless friends, are big fans of Star Wars. I even dress up for Star Wars! And I'm an adult! I like to dress up as a female Sith (yes, I like the evil characters, and even though some might thing it's different that I like the evil characters, I keep on liking them!) Here's a picture of me in my Sith costume, or as some of my friends call me, Lady Vader: http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a57/Nevlonniel/Costumes/IMG_1141.jpg?1290117391
I am also currently working on a Leia costume and Padme costume, and I have SO many friends, most of them ladies, that dress up in costume for Star Wars events! And I've seen countless of girls your age who go to events where Star Wars is a big thing, and they like Star Wars and even dress up too!
Don't ever let anyone dissuade you from liking Star Wars! Believe it or not, it's a very cool genre, and there are SO many girls and women out there that like it too! And just think, your mom can help you make a costume from Star Wars, and as you get older, the costumes can get more fantastic!
The boys that tease you are just jealous that they don't have cool Star Wars things! Just keep taking your Star Wars backpack and water bottle!
Stay strong and keeping believing! And may the Force always be with you! <3 ~ Anne Marie from California
Katie,
Ever since my dad sat me down to watch the Star Wars movies, I have been in LOVE with them. Over the years I have amassed so much Star Wars memorabilia! What I love most are the Star Wars Lego games! So many cool toys, games, books, you name it, have come out of a love of those movies. Don't ever be afraid to be who you are around your schoolmates, individuality is the beginning of greatness! You're not alone, there are probably hundreds of thousands of girls who love Star Wars just as much as you do, and we aren't afraid to let people know it either! Elementary school, middle school, and high school can be rough on a lot of people. Just know that you are not alone! People pick on other kids because they don't understand, or they're venting their own problems. Just remember it has nothing to do with you. Don't be ashamed of the things you love! And as long as you're true to who you are, your life is guaranteed to be amazing! The fun people will gravitate to your awesomeness!
Stay strong! We're here rooting for you!
Deanna (College aged Star Wars lover)
P.S. Thanks for letting us know about this @nerdist!
Wow!! That costume is fanBAMtastic!!! My daughter and I cosplay all the time and you're the first female Sith we've seen. It's amazing! No one would dare bully you.
Thank you! I'm glad to see other individuals, especially with their little girls, enjoy the world of cosplay!
I hope it encourages little Katie to keep on liking Star Wars, and perhaps some day, join the rest of the thousands of ladies that enjoy dressing up for Star Wars as well! =)
Dear Katie,
I know what it is like to be teased, I used to be a bit chubby when I was a kid and, like you, I also had to wear glasses and an eye patch. I was often teased because of it but I came out stronger in the end. Remember: just hold your head high and let them talk, they just don't know any better ;)
As for 'girls cannot like Star Wars', that's so not true.. I am a guy who loves Star Wars, I am married to a wife who loves Star Wars even more than me (and always buys a lot of Star Wars items) and we have a little baby girl who, we hope, will love Star Wars just like you do!
May the force be with you!
My little daughter has her own STAR WARS Shirt: http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=6602597&l=26ab1fa737&id=576265089
And take a look at her training to be a Jedi, it's cute and hilarious: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5CmmqWbABpw&NR=1
Katie, there is NOTHING, I repeat NOTHING, wrong with a girl liking Star Wars. What is wrong is the boys trying to make fun of you and telling you what you can and can't like.
Don't let other people tell you what you can and can't be. Enjoy what you want to enjoy. Life is a lot better that way.
May the force be with you, Katie. Always.
Tim.
Hi Katie!
I'm a woman and I love all things nerdy. I started reading comic books when I was in third grade and I always felt like I had to hide it from the other girls in order to be cool. But you know what? Not true! There are so many other awesome women out there that love Star Wars and comic books and video games. I wish I had a Star Wars water bottle! I kind of want to go buy one now so that I can be cool like you! Star Wars is the BEST and don't let anyone tell you otherwise.
Don't listen to those boys. Look at all the people that agree with you. Love what you love. Continue to be awesome and maybe some day those boys will catch up to YOU and realize what it takes to be cool.
<3, Stephanie
Wow, Carrie, I just wish we lived a little closer together! Out here in the western 'burbs, I have a first-grade girl who not only loves Star Wars, but also wears glasses and a patch! Fortunately, her class includes a few boys who don't care if a girl wants to play Jedi with them, but it would be nice to find another girl who also wanted to play.
I hope both of our girls find out that their tribe is out there--they might not have any Geek Girls in their classes at the moment, but they will find other girls who like sci-fi and a wide range of other things that don't necessarily involve princesses. I found my Geek Girls eventually, and your Katie and my Megan will too!
Hi Katie! Like many of the other ladies who have left comments for you, I'm a girl, and I love Star Wars and make my living doing "boy" things (writing about science, technology, and video games). Never be ashamed of the things you love. Always be yourself. You probably don't know the meaning of this phrase, but I bet you will eventually:
Nolite te bastardes carborundorum.
Keep being awesome, Katie!! :)
I wore glasses and an eye patch when I was in 1st grade and I loved Star Wars too. I didn't like Barbies or the color pink and I liked to climb trees. All my life I've had friends that were boys and girls. I asked my son (who is also in 1st grade and loves Star Wars) about your story and he was really surprised. I asked him if girls can like Star Wars and he enthusiastically said "Yes!" and I asked him about the water bottle and he said in a matter-of-fact way "I like pink...I like all the colors!" He also said that you don't have to play with Barbies if you don't want to.
I am 25, and a female, and I LOVE STAR WARS. As a matter of fact, my love of Star Wars got me the job I'm in today.
Katie, please don't let these boys get the best of you. Because before you know it, your love of Star Wars may bring you to your best friends (I know my love of Star Wars specifically is a big reason why I am dating my boyfriend), and many other opportunities.
Keep being you!
Hello, Katie! I'm Anna and like you, I'm a girl and I wear glasses and love Star Wars. I wore glasses and loved Star Wars when I was just about your age, too! Those boys might tell you Star Wars is something only boys love, but they're wrong: you're a girl and you love Star Wars, and I'm a girl and I love Star Wars, and all these other girls here love Star Wars, too. I know that when they pick on you, you must feel awfully alone, but please know that you aren't. You are a very courageous and smart young woman, and if you love Star Wars, then it's okay to show it! :)
hey katie! i'm sooo sorry this is happening to you. it's not fun. i was also picked on when i was a little kid (i'm almost 23 now, so i guess u prolly think i'm an old lady lol), but it does get easier. i consider myself pretty quirky and sum people think i'm weird; but i dont care, bc those people don't matter to me.the people r picking on u and giving u a hard time because they r jealous of u, and how unique u r, and how u r not scared to show it. don't change who u r love; there was a singer in the 60's named janis joplin who said "don't compromise urself; ur all u've got," meaning that u shouldn't change who u r just to fit in. when u got a little older, u will realize that hey, it's fun to b quirky and unusual; when i had to do a project 4 a psychology class, we had to ask our friends why they r drawn to us as people, and a lot of my friends said they r drawn to me bc im just so different. people who matter really do like people who r unique. the kids who r giving u a hard time r just jealous that u have the courage to be urself, and they don't. i promise, it will get better. just keep ur head up:)
Tell Katie that I said all of the cool girls like Star Wars.
Katie, I'm a 26-year-old girl and I've been a major Star Wars fan for most of my life. I have books, videos, games, and a collection of toys. It's okay to like something that's not "girly." Show your colors and be proud to stand up for yourself!
Hey Katie! I have an older brother who showed me Star Wars when I was about 8, and I loved it right away. I've always been into science fiction and other things that might be considered 'just for boys.' The truth is that you get to like WHATEVER YOU WANT. Don't listen to anyone who tries to tell you any different.
If it makes any difference, I'm 24 now, I still love Star Wars, and I've made a lot of friends (guys AND girls) based on a shared love of that and other 'geeky' things. It's something to be proud of!
It's a whole lot easier just to go along with everybody else when you're young (believe me, I know!), but you'll be happier in the end if you embrace who you are and the things you love. And if anybody doesn't like it, then their opinion isn't important anyway. :)
Hi Katie! I was four years old when I got to see Return of the Jedi in movie theatres and I became an instant fan -- and I still am, 28+ years later. I love Star Wars, as well as Star Trek, Doctor Who, and Lord of the Rings -- and lots of things that boys might tell you "aren't for girls," but I promise you, whatever YOU like is "for girls"!!
Just like Princess Leia and Queen Amidala could be senators and lead their nations, girls can do, be, and like, anything we want. I'm a writer and editor; I've taught math and Latin; and I also work with doctors to write scientific documents.
To make you smile, here's a picture of me wearing my favorite t-shirt, and another of me with a cool Lego Jawa I saw in Paris when I traveled there.
Star Wars is wonderful, and you are a smart, funny, adorable girl -- no matter what other people say. Always remember that, and may the Force be with you.
Katie,
Don't change who you are for boys who are confused about who they are. Maybe this won't make sense to you right now, but, some day, boys will think it is really cool that you like Star Wars. Trust me. :)
Hi Katie!
I'm a woman and I love Star Wars. I'm not ashamed of it, but I can quote most of the first 3 movies. And guess what: you're mom is great! When I was your age and wanted Star Wars action figures, my mom told me that "they weren't girl toys" and I couldn't have them. So I went next door and played with my neighbors toys. When I grew up, I met and married a boy who was dressed up a Jedi for Halloween. He now has 4 Star Wars costumes and marches in parades with groups of other cool people who love Star Wars, and I bring our young son, (who is usually in a Star Wars Onsie) to watch and cheer him on. Don't listen to the little boys who can't find something cool that they really love. Deep down they wish they were as cool as you. (And your mom is pretty cool too!)
P.S. I was adopted too!
Katie -- I'm a 21-year-old girl, and I love Star Wars probably just as much as you do (except I can't say that I have all the accessories you do... Jealous, by the way.) But I do have a poster in my bedroom at college. And you know what? One day, all of those boys who were/are teasing you will have their eyes opened and realize that you're probably the coolest girl they know.
I know it's super hard to be different. But, really, you liking Star Wars doesn't make you "different," per se... It just makes you really really awesome. Keep using the Force, girlfriend. And someday, you'll notice a lot of girls pretending to like Star Wars; I'll tell you why they'll do it right here, right now.
Because all guys really want in the world is to hang out with girls who know what the Millenium Falcon is.
I promise you, it gets better. Boys are kind of silly, anyway. ;)
Hi Katie! I know it's tough to stick to your guns when you are being picked on at school; I used to get picked on too! But, as you can see from the hundreds of women who have spoken out so far, you are way ahead of your time and you will realize later that it is much cooler to be yourself. As for me, I'm 25, have dinosaurs tattooed on my arm and play drums in a rock band (which is a male dominated field and I'm often not taken seriously until men see me play!) I love Star Wars and recently bought a Star Wars tshirt from the boys section at a store. You know what? I get compliments on it from boys all of the time! And even if I didn't, I love it so I would wear it anyway. There is not right or wrong thing for girls to like, so follow your heart and when you grow older you'll be glad you did.
Audrey, age 4, loves Star Wars too!
Katie,
Star Wars is for all people, no matter who they are or what they look like. Just look at all the amazing and different characters in the series! There's boys, girls, humans, wookies, and an old green guy. The best thing about Star Wars is the variety of characters and the unity it brings for fans throughout the world.
While there are lots of grown up ladies that love Star Wars there are also lots of little girls too. My daughter is 4 years old. She wears glasses, just like you, and proudly wears her Star Wars shirt to school and her daddy's Stormtrooper helmet on special occasions too.
You can be a girl, or a boy, or the color green, or tall fuzzball, and Star Wars will still be for you!
May the Force be with You!
Katie,
I was bullied as a young girl for many years because I looked different. Now that which they bullied me for is the one thing people first notice and compliment me on. They even tell me they wish they had it! I'm also a loyal Star Wars fan. I was always encouraged by my mother to be strong, believe in yourself, and never melt into the background. Everyone is different no matter what they say. It takes more courage to be strong than it does to bully. Be stronger than them.
Hey, Katie! Just wanted to let you know that I'm a 27 year old FEMALE Star Wars. I first saw A New Hope when I was five, and I used to act out parts of the movie with my friends at recess. I was always Luke Skywalker :D and I even dressed up as Luke for Halloween one year.
My junior year of high school, we had to record a video monologue for a media portfolio in my English class. I chose the Emperor's speech from Return of the Jedi, where he was trying to talk Luke into joining the Dark Side. The ibonek in my username is Kenobi spelled backwards. I own all six films and have watched them countless times, and I proudly display a Yoda pin on my suitcase.
You're not alone in your love of Star Wars, and there's absolutely nothing wrong with showing off that love. You should be proud to enjoy good quality sci fi movies! Don't let those kids get you down. If you want to carry a Star Wars bottle to school, go for it. :D
May the Force be with you!
Hi Katie,
I'm not a Star Wars fan myself, but I think understand what you are going through. I've always been interested in air and space travel, and that is not considered very "girly." I was an airplane mechanic, and then a space shuttle technician because that was what *I* wanted to do, even though there are very few women in these jobs. It wasn't easy but I did it, and you can too! Please don't let other kids teasing you keep you from being yourself or doing what you love!
Jen
Hi Katie! Guess what? I am another woman who grew up watching Star Wars. I think it's really cool, too! Guess what else? I think you are very cool and a whole lot of people here think so too!
Hey Katie!
I was named after a character from a fantasy book series (now movies) called Lord of the Rings. Imagine how geeky that made me growing up.
All you life there will be people trying to keep you down because of your differences. But our differences are what make us awesome and I have never regretted not giving into the pressure to be like the "cool kids". It can be a little hard at times, but with the internet and all the different ways to find and connect with people who are just like you, it's a bright new world out there. I hope this experience has at least shown you that you are in good, loving company with us geek girls.
Be proud and happy of the things, people, and places you like - it's what makes life worthwhile - don't let anyone take that away from you!
Hey Katie,
I've loved Star Wars ever since the first movie came out. I saw it in the theatre when I was 7. I collected the toys for years and had a Darth Vader cake for my 8th birthday. I love Star Wars so much that I even had a Star Wars wedding 2 years ago. After the wedding, the photos were on lots of websites and people commented and said mean things, but I didn't care because it was the best wedding ever! Here is a link to the photos. I was Mon Mothma and my husband was Admiral Ackbar!
http://www.flickr.com/photos/jwinokur/sets/72157605939800686/
I think your Star Wars water bottle is super-cool and I bet a lot of other kids do too, even if they don't say it. May the force be with you!
Hi Katie,
I've loved Star Wars for as long as I can remember. I played with the action figures when I was a little girl, and built my own "droids" out of legos. When I was seven I had to have surgery, and when I woke up the first thing I saw was a Barbie-sized Princess Leia doll next to me--a present from my parents. Best. Gift. Ever.
I have sons now, and I love watching Star Wars with them. "The Empire Strikes Back" is my favorite, but they like "Return of the Jedi" best. Probably because of the Ewoks.
Part of the reason I wanted to comment is that my seven-year-old boy told me today that he doesn't want me to buy anything purple for him anymore, because a girl in his class is teasing him (apparently, purple is a "girl thing"). He doesn't want to be different, or to be teased, and it's simpler just to stop wearing purple than to stand up to a friend who's not being nice. I understand feeling that way, but I think it's sad. Purple is too nice a color for only half the people in the world to get to wear it. And Star Wars is way too cool to just be a "boy thing".
Katie is one smart girl. I'd like to remind all those boys that the Star Wars universe has some of the coolest, smartest, toughest princesses around. I'd rather hang out with Leia or Padme than Jasmine or Ariel any day, and I bet those boys would, too.
We are all "different." I bet every grownup who has commented on this blog felt different when they were growing up. In fact, I'll bet those boys feel different, too. A lot of the time, when kids pick on other kids, it's because those "mean kids" feel different somehow, and want to cover it up by throwing the attention on someone else.
But Katie, even though it's hard when people pick on you -- and I got picked on a lot, so I know it is -- the important thing to remember is that you get to like whatever you want. You get pick what makes you happy, and you can share that with people however you want, and nobody can take that away from you. There is not a single thing that any other kid can do to make Star Wars less fun for you. That's yours to keep forever.
As for being adopted making you different, all being adopten means is that someone loved you so much that they sought you out, of all the other kids in the whole world, to be theirs. If that's different, it's a very good kind of different.
Keep on being exactly the girl you are, Katie. You're smart & brave and you have great taste in movies. And you have a great mom who is on your side no matter what. You can't lose!
I'm a 27 year old woman and I love Star Wars. I've loved it since I can remember. I like a lot of other boy-ish things, too, especially things that are sci-fi and fantasy related.
I used to get made fun of, because I didn't always dress like a girl. I even still get look snow. A shirt of my husband's (which I get more use out of than he does) is very computer geeky, making a joke about binary (the language of computers), and people always make comments about it.
It took me a while but I finally learned not to worry about it so much. Katie, be proud of what you like. Be proud that you're a little different. I know it isn't always easy, but those differences are what make you, you! There's nothing better than that.
Hello Katie,
I'm a 22-year old female graduate student up in Canada, and I love science fiction. I love watching Star Wars, Star Trek, and a bunch of other TV shows and movies with the same kinds of action, adventure, and special effects. I also love reading science fiction and fantasy; they're my favourite kinds of books!
I was really sorry to hear that some boys at your school were making fun of your water bottle. A lot of kids, especially when they are around their friends, will make fun of others to try to fit in or make themselves look good. The same sort of thing used to happen to me. I got picked on a lot in school. I was never brave enough to admit to anyone, even my mom and dad, that it happened until much, much later. I wish I had been as brave as you - that must have been really tough.
It's sometimes hard to be different, but it can be a lot more fun. I hope you realize that you aren't alone, and that there are a lot of girls and women who enjoy Star Wars, and a bunch of other "boy-only" stuff (which is, of course, silly - Star Wars is for everyone). I hope you have a better time at school after this, and remember how many people think you're amazing. Because you are. :)
Chelsea from Canada
P.S. - That sounds like an awesome water bottle. And a pretty cool lunch kit, too!
Katie:
I am a 33 yr old woman who LOVES Star Wars! I have loved it since I was 3 years old! I even dress up as the characters for charity events...and so do a lot of other girls and women. There are several in my local fan club.
There is even a website called "Her Universe" that makes products just for female fans.
Never let anyone change who you are or what you like to fit in. You are important and great just as you are.
Hi Katie! My name is Jenn Green and I'm 25. I LOVE Star Wars AND Star Trek! In fact, I write stories about Amidala and Anakin, because I love their lives so much. I wish there had been Star Wars lunch boxes when I was your age.
Don't let people get you down. A lot of people poke fun at me because I like a lot of things that others think I'm too "old" to like, like cartoons and Harry Potter and Twilight. In fact, I have a Kermit the Frog tattoo, and a lot of people think that's really silly, but I'm very proud of it.
I don't know if you've heard it, but Kermit has a song called "It's Not Easy Being Green." He talks about how it'd be neat to be something else, or someone else, and how others just seem to be cooler than he is, because he's green. But by the end of the song, he realizes, hey, it's fine being who you are - because who you are is really neat, too!
If you love what you love, other people will see it, and maybe they'll learn to love what you love, too, and accept that you can love it, no matter if you're a boy or a girl or young or old. Just keep a smile on your face, and kindness in your heart, and anything is possible.
Katie,
I am a man who has loved Star Wars since I was a boy. I know many women and girls who love Star Wars. There is nothing that is "boys-only," or "girls-only." Girls and boys, women and men, can do anything, and like anything, they want. Don't let the bullies stop you from doing what you love.
Princess Leia was a woman who didn't give in to bullies. Even Han Solo needed Leia to save his butt a couple of times. So, when you aren't sure what to do, be true to yourself and ask yourself "what would Leia do?"
Rock on, Katie!
As a boy in college you might like to know that all of the coolest girls around here love Star Wars! You just keep on being yourself and before you know it all of those bratty boys will be kicking themselves for not making friends with you. I've got an adopted sister a few years older than you and she will tell you that there is nothing wrong with being different! I hope you have the best time growing up and being just the person you want to be, I am sure that you will!
Dear Katie
I am 47, yeah that makes me oooold. Star Wars is kewl. And trust me - boys can be really dumb. One day, those boys will be ashamed of how they picked on you. When I grew older, I was very ashamed of how I treated people who were different when I was young. My best friend is a young woman who is just so beautiful and she LOVES Star Wars. So it is quite alright for you to like it too. And how many of those boys have all these people from around the world writing to them?
I wear glasses too and yours look really cool.
Ross (from Australia)
I'm a 24 year old girl, and I still use my Star Wars lunch box :D It got me a bit of teasing in school, but mostly it made me some great friends!
(And when you get older, you'll find that guys kinda like girls who are into Star Wars and it's awesome!)
Katie,
I am sorry to hear those boys are teasing you about loving Star Wars. They don't know what they're talking about. I know because I'm 39 year old girl, and I have loved Star Wars (and a lot of other Science Fiction) since I was your age. In fact, I had a Star Wars lunch box too! Just so you know, I'm sitting here with my 5 year old nephew and he happens to think it's cool for girls to like Star Wars.
It's not easy, but it really is best to ignore the meanies in life. I know you'll be just fine.
Tell Katie to stick it out. As a girl who loves Star Wars and other geeky (re:boy) things, and endured lots of crap and teasing from fellow classmates, she will find people who are like her, and there are even girls who are like her! Tell her that people are small minded individuals more concerned with trying to pretend that their lives aren't boring so they have to tear down people who have worthwhile interests and are strong enough to not care what they say.
You should check out An Anomaly podcast, it's a podcast all about Girls and Geeky things.
Katie,
I love that you are a Star Wars fan. I have always loved the Star Wars films. I love them so much that I can even talk like Yoda (he's my fave). Also, my husband and I watch the movies regularly. He's so happy to be married to a girl who has similar interests. Those movies always entertain us and remind us of our childhood. He's a teacher and I work in the Media Center at an Elementary school. I also have to do lunch duty everyday. What have you taught me, Katie? You have shown me that while I'm in the cafeteria for lunch duty I will have to make sure that no hurtful teasing is going on. I will also be on the lookout for any harmful teasing in the Media Center. I hope you will always love Star Wars like I have all of my life.
Thank you for helping me realize that I, too, can help with my students at school.
Take Care (may the force be with you :))
Lucy
Hi Katie!
Star Wars is awesome. I love it, too. I got teased a great deal growing up, especially in grade school. It was tough, but I hung in there. I got good grades and went on to a great college -- and in college... OH WOW! Turns out, Katie, that us "nerds"? We sort of run the coolist parts of the world. I currently work at Microsoft for Xbox 360. I play video games and help make video games for a living!
If you're ever in the Seattle area and you'd like a tour, or just to learn more about how great it is to be a nerdy girl in the game industry -- please don't hesitate to email me! There are LOTS of us here and we love it.
Be strong, keep using that amazing Star Wars thermos and keep being awesome.
Much love,
~kathleen sanders
kasander at Microsoft.com
Dear Katie,
My name is Amy, and I am a 20 year old Star Wars fan. Ever since I was your age, I loved things that are commonly referred to as being "only for boys." I love Star Wars, video games, and nerf guns. I know what it's like when people make you feel sad for being different. I used to get teased a lot, but the teasings stopped as I got older. I used to feel like I was weird for liking "boys" things, but I have made so many friends that have shown me that I'm not weird- I'm unique, and it's something to be proud of. I proudly wear my R2-D2 shirt around my college, and it's actually helped me to meet people who like the same things I do!
Boys may tease you now for liking Star Wars, but when you get older, boys will love the fact that you like Star Wars! They will love that you have things in common, and more importantly,they will love that you are unique and not afraid to be yourself. Do not let anyone make you feel bad for who you are, because your personality is what makes you special. You are a special girl, Katie-- people who make fun of you are probably just jealous that they aren't as unique as you are!
I know it can be hard to be happy when people make fun of you, but remember that as you get older, the boys won't tease you as much. And also remember that so many girls around the world love "boys" things, because those things are really for everyone-- you're just one of the special girls who is cool enough to appreciate those things. Be proud of who you are! Everyone who commented on here is so proud of you, and you should be, too.
Hello Katie,
I'm 37 years old and a mother. I saw my first Star Wars movie when I was about 7 years old and walked around with honey buns held up to my ears so I could look like Princess Leia. When my children were little, 2 sons and 1 daughter, they would pretend they were the characters from the movie, and in my daughter's case, I had to go get those honey buns :) When I was a kid, all the girls wanted to be Leia and the boys were ok with that... after all Leia was good at fighting too. I'm sorry to see times have changed. Just remind those boys that without Leia or Amidala, there wouldn't have been much of a movie plot.
Be yourself honey, like what you want to like and don't worry about what they say or think. They might be jealous that they don't have cool Star Wars stuff like you do. It doesn't matter what they say... and here's something else for you from this geek, I had 2 younger brothers growing up... we played both cars and Barbies together and when our sister came along, she did too. I hope this helps
Hi Katie!
I'm a 35 year old woman from Mexico City and I've been in love with everything Star Wars since I was 8. I think it' so cool that you have a Star Wars water bottle, I would love to have one at the office! I have an Episode III poster in my room, a Darth Vader hamper and a Chewbacca ringtone in my phone.
Trust me, you are not alone, there are a bunch of girls and women all over the world who love Star Wars like us. And there is no such thing as "girl things" and "boy things", so don't let anybody tell you otherwise.
Silly kids might not understand until much later (or even never) but I recommend that you do not pay any attention to them. Being different is cool and interesting.
It will get better, and bullies eventually go away. However, I have discovered that love for Star Wars is forever, and you are taking your first steps into a larger world.
Enjoy it all then, and be proud of who you are and what you like!
May the Force be with you!
Frida, in Mexico
Hi Katie!
My name's Patricia. I'm in college right now, I wear glasses and I've loved Star Wars since I was your age! When I was a little girl, I loved "girl" and "boy" stuff. I still do. You know what? I have lots of friends, that are girls, that love Star Wars, too.
In fact, in middle school, a bunch of my friends and I acted a Star Wars song for the talent show. There were 7 girls in our group. I was Obi Wan Kenobi, my friend (also a girl) was Qui-Gon Jinn, the other girls were Queen Amidala and her hand maidens. It was so much fun. The entire school loved it, and the audience gave us huge applause and cheers! I put it up on YouTube recently.
Growing up, and even today, I wear the clothes I like, I carry the backpack I like, and if someone doesn't like it, that's tough. There is no such thing as "boy" stuff or "girl" stuff, there is only stuff that you like or don't like.
As you get older, you will make friends that like the same cool stuff that you do. You sound like such a cool little girl! You keep rocking the Star Wars stuff, and whatever other stuff you like. Wear it with pride, Katie. You are an awesome kid, and don't listen to what those meanies at school say. They'll never be as cool as you!
Katie, I'm a woman, and LOVE Star Wars (and Star Trek, and so on) - and so do my daughters! And did you know - I have a daughter in first grade who has worn glasses since she turned four, and wore a patch for several months on her left eye because of her amblyopia! She's an awesome girl, and I bet you are too! Enjoy your water bottle, and be proud of who you are!
Dear Katie,
I'm Dani and in college and I've loved Star Wars my *whole* life. When I was your age, I would play with my big brother and pretend we were Jedi's saving the world. We had lightsabers and everything, it was awesome. Star Wars is not only for boys. Most of my friends that are girls love Star Wars also! (I even have a friend named Leia!)
Don't be ashamed to be who you are and love what you love, ever.
I really hope you use your water bottle and bookbag proudly!
Dear Katie,
I'm a 19 year old girl in college. All throughout my childhood, I LOOOOVED nerdy or "boy" things like Pokemon or dinosaurs or video games. I still do to this day; those interests are what make me "me". And guess what? Boys go CRAZY over the fact that I can relate to them and hang out. A boyfriend once told me that I am "every [nerdy :P] guy's dream girl". Also, I have worn glasses since your age. It's really not that big of a deal; though I got contacts in high school, people like me in my glasses too. It's just a different "look". My point is, don't you ever stop liking what you want to like, and don't you ever let people make those decisions for you. You are a beautiful and awesome young lady, and you are very special for standing up for what you like and not being afraid to express that. May the Force be with you, Katie! :) And Kudos to Mom, too, for encouraging your daughter's individuality. I know when I become a mom, I will do just the same.
I looooooove Star Wars and I'm a total girl. I'm differnt, too. I love being differnt. Different people have the most fun. I know how hard it can be when people make fun of you for who you are or what you like. Just remember, they're not living your life. You are.
No one is youer than you. You're the best person for the job to be you. So be proud of who you are. Everyone is differnt and that's ok. Things would get pretty boring pretty fast if everyone was the same.
Never apologize for who you are and never be ashamed of it.
Tell your little lady that I also have a first grade niece named Katie. She has glasses and a patch too, she doesn't need pink things to be cool either. She is the smartest, coolest, funniest girl I know and I bet that your Katie is the same way.
All of the coolest girls later in life love star wars.
Katie,
I have loved Star Wars for as long as I can remember and was always enthusiastic about sharing my love of it with my friends, but when I was about your age, I got teased a lot about it at school by my classmates and even by a teacher. I let the teasing get to me and no longer felt comfortable sharing the things that I loved with other people.
It took me years (I am now 28) to be able to embrace loving Star Wars and all things nerdy out in the open again. Once I began to proclaim my Geek Girl Pride, I realized that I'd missed out on a lot of fun with people who I could've been really great friends with because of our shared interests that I was too embarrassed to talk about much.
Don't let the words of other people get in the way of the things you love. There's no need for you to miss out on the fun experience of being a really cool person. Besides, they're probably just jealous of how great a kid you are anyway. ;)
May the Force Be With You!
Hi Katie! I was 10 years old when I first watched Star Wars, and there was no going back for me. I LOVED it. I used to pretend that I was Luke Skywalker having adventures with my friends. My sister and our friends and I would build forts out of couch cushions and sheets and pretend that they were the Millennium Falcon, or an X-wing, or even a Star Destroyer. I'm 23 now, and I still love Star Wars! Never stop doing the things you enjoy just because other people think it's weird. All that means is that you've made them think about their prejudices. Congratulations, Katie, you're making the world a better, happier place for everyone. May the Force be with you!
Hi Katie! I have two daughters - they are ages 6 and 10 & they both LOVE Star Wars :) My youngest daughter even has a Star Wars backpack that she carries to school everyday, so you're not alone in liking Star Wars - I even like it too :)
Hi Katie!
You are awesome, and have great taste! Never let any boys tell you what girls can and cannot do! I first watched Star Wars in first grade with my dad, and I loved it too! I'm also currently in college, studying to be an engineer, something also seen as "something boys do" (In my class, there is 1 girl for every 10 boys). If you start letting other people's opinions make your decisions, you will miss out on so much fun stuff!
Star Wars is awesome, and trust me, as you get older, more and more boys will think it's awesome that you think so too.
Katie,
I started watching Star Wars when I was about 4 (30 years ago). My sisters were 1 and 7 at the time. We had the x-wing fighters, the different figurines, light sabers, outfits, and many other Star Wars toys. Now that I'm 34, I STILL love Star Wars. I will always love Star Wars, and you should too. Keep up your great work, making it safe for kids to be themselves. Great job, Katie!
Hi Katie!
I'm so sorry to hear about the boys being mean to you about the Star Wars water bottle. That sucks. When I was your age, Star Wars was just coming out in the theaters and I LOVED to run around as Princess Leia.. and I still love doing my hair like her! It's fun to be different, but I understand how scary it can be, especially when it comes to being different because you were adopted. I was adopted twice! And it was scary and hard when I was younger too, but the neat part is, you were chosen to be apart of the family you are in now, and that is something entirely awesome all by itself. So keep being yourself, and love Star Wars, and don't let any silly boy tell you what is right for girls to play with!
You are awesome!
Oh, Katie! Star Wars is so awesome and so are you! I am a 37 year old woman, and I have grooved on Star Wars since it very first came out in the 1970's. When I was your age, I wanted R2D2 to be my little brother! :) I was Princess Leia for Halloween when I was little. Even when I was a teenager, I had a stuffed animal Wicket the Ewok on my bed. I still really, really like Star Wars a lot! And, R2D2 is still my favorite!
I wish I had a Star Wars water bottle to carry to work everyday. You are so lucky you have one to take to school. Please don't let those stinky, mean boys stop you from enjoying something that makes you happy.
My son is 12 years old. He is a HUGE Star Wars fan. He would NOT make fun of you for having Star Wars things at school. He would think you are a very cool little girl! I wish you lived nearby. We'd invite you and your mom over for a visit.
My son has trouble with bullies, too. He is different in some ways, too. A few weeks ago, a mean bully stabbed a pencil into his arm, and there was blood! It was horrible!
If you are in the first grade, I hope you are enjoying learning to read. Did you know there are Star Wars books? :)
Katie, you are not alone. You are treasured. You are loved. Be true to yourself. Don't let the bullies steal your joy. I know that seems unbearable hard to do, but please, please, please don't let those bratmonsters steal your happiness.
I'll tell you a very important secret: I was bullied really bad growing up. I never fit in. I got hit and kicked and made fun of. People stole my stuff and tore my clothes. My stomach hurt so bad every morning because I was so scared to go to school. Sometimes, I threw up. But, I got good grades and got a scholarship to college. When I got to university, I found people just like me. They became my tribe. We are still very close friends all these years later. You will find your tribe. You will find people who appreciate you for the wonderful, bright, quirky young woman you are. It just may take a while. OK? Hang in there, sweet Katie. All the women commenting here have your back!
Katie, the Force is strong with you.
Love,
Rigel in Arkansas
Katie, you're not alone! I've been a Star Wars fan since the very first movie was released in 1977! I got teased a little because I liked Luke Skywalker and other kids thought Darth Vader was the coolest. Now, I really want an R2D2 of my own, actually next month when I get a new cell phone, I'm going to get a text tone that is Artoo beeping! Remember, Star Wars wouldn't be anywhere without the girls. If there was no Shmi we wouldn't have Anakin/Darth Vader. If there was no Padme Amadala we wouldn't have Luke and Leia.
Hi Katie,
First things first, YOU ROCK!
I am a 34 year old sci-fi fan and I LOVED playing with my brother's Star Wars toys and lego when we were kids even though my mum kept buying me Barbies all the time!
You're so lucky you got a Star Wars water bottle, I wish I had one when I was in first grade!
Boys will be boys, that is a fact of life but girls, and especially girls who love science fiction grow up to be super cool and super smart!
Those boys are probably just jealous that your water bottle is cooler than theirs!
Stay true to yourself and keep watching the stars!!
Lisa
XOXO
Hi Katie!!! I too was considered "different" when I was your age, because I *LOVED* Star Wars (and still do!), action comics and things that "the boys" were suppose to like. I was even teased for it, and it hurt!
But when I got a little bit older, I was able to realize that being "different" is just about the coolest thing ever. I also realized that I wasn't that "different" as I thought I was, because I met plenty more girls my age who liked the same things and weren't afraid to show it. Best part of all? The guys who had teased me, grew up and realized "Hey, this is for boys AND girls!" and that teasing is not a great way to make somebody feel nice. I'm 27 years old now, and I'm GLAD I showed off my Star Wars love with pride! Guess what though? I *STILL* love all things fantasy and sci-fi and have a great group of friends who love it just as much as I do. I got those amazing friends because I wasn't afraid to show off who I really am!
One of the most important lessons to learn, is don't EVER be afraid to be YOU and show off what you love or who you are. You are LIGHTYEARS ahead of those boys already, because you're learning this and have such a great mom to remind you of it.
May the force be with you! :)
Dear Katie, I was (and still am)a H U G E Star Wars girl. Never let them tell you it's weird or not for girls! I know more about Star Wars than any man my age, and any little boy. I've worn all my Star Wars tee-shirts that are supposed to be for men/boys proudly. Never let them tell you you can't because you CAN! YOU ARE AWESOME AND I WISH THERE WERE MORE GIRLS LIKE YOU!! You Make this R2D2 loving girl proud!! Love, kisses, and May the Force Be With You~ Because I sure am!!
Stevie Marie
Hi Katie!
When I was a little girl, about your age, I was very much excited about Star Wars. I had the action figures and toys to play with and I dressed up at Halloween as Princess Leia. Even now as I'm much older at age 38, I still love a lot of different things that might be considered "boys" stuff, including Star Wars!
Liking the things you do makes you who you are! And I think you're really cool!
I hope you are encouraged by all the wonderful messages here and know that there's lots of other girls who love Star Wars too!
Hi Katie!!! I too was considered "different" when I was your age, because I *LOVED* Star Wars (and still do!), action comics and things that "the boys" were suppose to like. I was even teased for it, and it hurt!
But when I got a little bit older, I was able to realize that being "different" is just about the coolest thing ever. I also realized that I wasn't that "different" as I thought I was, because I met plenty more girls my age who liked the same things and weren't afraid to show it. Best part of all? The guys who had teased me, grew up and realized "Hey, this is for boys AND girls!" and that teasing is not a great way to make somebody feel nice. I'm 27 years old now, and I'm GLAD I showed off my Star Wars love with pride! Guess what though? I *STILL* love all things fantasy and sci-fi and have a great group of friends who love it just as much as I do. I got those amazing friends because I wasn't afraid to show off who I really am!
One of the most important lessons to learn, is don't EVER be afraid to be YOU and show off what you love or who you are. You are LIGHTYEARS ahead of those boys already, because you're learning this and have such a great mom to remind you of it.
May the force be with you! :)
Hi Katie,
My name is Mina and I'm in first grade too. I like Star Wars alot too. When I was in kindergarten other kids teased me cause I had a Mater from Cars jacket. They said that it was only for boys. When they teased me I felt bad but I didn't care. I still wore the jacket because I don't care what other people think of me. It doesn't matter what they like it matters what you like and your real friends will like you no matter what. So keep using your Star Wars stuff. It is super cool!
Katie,
Don't let those boys ruin what you love. The people that can't accept you for who you are don't matter.
I've loved Star Wars since I was your age (I'm 23 now) and it was a big part of my childhood. I love other "nerdy" things as well and I'm proud of it, because those are things that make me happy.
Keeping loving the things you love and doing the things you like, even if it's what makes you different, because that's what makes you special. If you keeping being yourself and liking things that make you happy, I promise you you will find people that love the same things you do and love YOU for being different.
I used to be shy about being a nerd, especially in high school and college. But when I finally started being myself, I met people who loved Star Wars and other "geeky" things too. And then I met a boy who also loved Star Wars and loved me because I knew more about Star Wars then he did!
When those boys grow up, they'll wish they could meet a girl you. So keep being who you are and don't let people tell you otherwise.
May The Force be with you.
Hi, Katie! Star Wars came out when I was about your age, and I loved everything about it from the first minute of the movie. I've seen all six of the movies many, many times since then. I used to play Star Wars with my cousin Tim (I got to be Princess Leia, of course)...but I loved to play with Barbies and baby dolls, too. Don't let the people who pick on you get you down! There's nothing wrong with being different. Just be yourself--there will always be plenty of people who love you exactly the way you are. (By the way, I think your glasses are really cute!)
Hi Katie! I was 10 years old when I first saw Star Wars, and there was no going back for me. I LOVED it. I used to pretend to be Luke Skywalker, having adventures with my friends. My sister and our friends and I would build forts out of couch cushions and pretend that they were the Millennium Falcon, or an X-wing, or a Star Destroyer. I'm 23 now, and I still love Star Wars! Don't let anyone stop you from doing the things you enjoy just because they think it's "weird" - all that means is that you've made them think about their prejudices. You're making the world a better place for everybody, Katie. May the Force be with you!
My dear Katie...don't let them harass you! Star Wars is AWESOME.
Why, I just got married in April, and guess what...I had LIGHTSABERS at my wedding. See? Awesome!!
Oops, looks like my link didn't work. Here it is again: http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee412/javaughan7/39623_415976411341_501196341_4808667_6801869_n.jpg
Read more: http://www.chicagonow.com/blogs/portrait_of_an_adoption/2010/11/anti-bullying-starts-in-first-grade.html#ixzz15kYpRLb1
Hi Katie!
I'm a girl and a Mom who loves Star Wars! Seeing those movies in the theater, are family outings that I will always remember!! AND my 2 daughters (now all grown up - 18 and 21) love Star Wars too!!
You are very brave to share your story and to continue to be true to yourself!! Your courage might give other girls and boys the confidence to be themselves!!
Your Mom is right, boys and girls say mean things when they are afraid OR have never been taught to respect others feelings (maybe they are around adults that say hurtful mean things often)
Unfortunately most of these boys and girls grow up to be adults that are afraid or disrespectful of others' feelings.
Boys would love to think that Star Wars is a boy thing but what on earth would all the boys in Star Wars do without Queen Amidala, Princess Leia and all the other girls???
May the Force ALWAYS be with you!!
Jedi Mom from Massachusetts!!
Hi Katie!
I'm a girl and a Mom who loves Star Wars! Seeing those movies in the theater, are family outings that I will always remember!! AND my 2 daughters (now all grown up - 18 and 21) love Star Wars too!!
You are very brave to share your story and to continue to be true to yourself!! Your courage might give other girls and boys the confidence to be themselves!!
Your Mom is right, boys and girls say mean things when they are afraid OR have never been taught to respect others feelings (maybe they are around adults that say hurtful mean things often)
Unfortunately most of these boys and girls grow up to be adults that are afraid or disrespectful of others' feelings.
Boys would love to think that Star Wars is a boy thing but what on earth would all the boys in Star Wars do without Queen Amidala, Princess Leia and all the other girls???
May the Force ALWAYS be with you!!
Jedi Mom from Massachusetts!!
Katie,
I'm a 36-year-old girl who loves Star Wars. When I was a kid, I used to play with Star Wars action figures along with Barbies and Transformers. In fact, I still have some of my old Star Wars playsets that my son ended up playing with when he was your age. One of my favorite pictures is of me and my husband with Chewbacca. :)
Never feel like you have to hide who you are just to fit in. There are far too many adults who still do the same thing. It's the people who are genuine who are the happiest in the long run.
Hi Katie!
I'm a girl and a Mom who loves Star Wars! Seeing those movies in the theater, are family outings that I will always remember!! AND my 2 daughters (now all grown up - 18 and 21) love Star Wars too!!
You are very brave to share your story and to continue to be true to yourself!! Your courage might give other girls and boys the confidence to be themselves!!
Your Mom is right, boys and girls say mean things when they are afraid OR have never been taught to respect others feelings (maybe they are around adults that say hurtful mean things often)
Unfortunately most of these boys and girls grow up to be adults that are afraid or disrespectful of others' feelings.
Boys would love to think that Star Wars is a boy thing but what on earth would all the boys in Star Wars do without Queen Amidala, Princess Leia and all the other girls???
May the Force ALWAYS be with you!!
Jedi Mom from Massachusetts!!
Hi Katie!
I'm a girl and a Mom who loves Star Wars! Seeing those movies in the theater, are family outings that I will always remember!! AND my 2 daughters (now all grown up - 18 and 21) love Star Wars too!!
You are very brave to share your story and to continue to be true to yourself!! Your courage might give other girls and boys the confidence to be themselves!!
Your Mom is right, boys and girls say mean things when they are afraid OR have never been taught to respect others feelings (maybe they are around adults that say hurtful mean things often)
Unfortunately most of these boys and girls grow up to be adults that are afraid or disrespectful of others' feelings.
Boys would love to think that Star Wars is a boy thing but what on earth would all the boys in Star Wars do without Queen Amidala, Princess Leia and all the other girls???
May the Force ALWAYS be with you!!
Jedi Mom from Massachusetts!!
Hi Katie!
I'm a girl and a Mom who loves Star Wars! Seeing those movies in the theater, are family outings that I will always remember!! AND my 2 daughters (now all grown up - 18 and 21) love Star Wars too!!
You are very brave to share your story and to continue to be true to yourself!! Your courage might give other girls and boys the confidence to be themselves!!
Your Mom is right, boys and girls say mean things when they are afraid OR have never been taught to respect others feelings (maybe they are around adults that say hurtful mean things often)
Unfortunately most of these boys and girls grow up to be adults that are afraid or disrespectful of others' feelings.
Boys would love to think that Star Wars is a boy thing but what on earth would all the boys in Star Wars do without Queen Amidala, Princess Leia and all the other girls???
May the Force ALWAYS be with you!!
Jedi Mom from Massachusetts!!
Hi Katie! I'm 18 and a nerd girl too :)
I think you should carry your Star Wars water bottle no matter what, because I wish I had been as cool as you when I was your age :)
Just stay strong and be yourself! I'm in college now, and being a nerd isn't a bad thing at all!
I'm very late in reading this fantastic yet heartbreaking article, but I wanted to say this...I grew up in the early 80s with two older brothers who LOVED Star Wars. All throughout elementary school, most of my toys were Star Wars action figures. I loved those toys dearly, and kept them all together in a large Darth Vader head/action figure holder. I am now a 35 year old woman, and I still LOVE Star Wars.
I hope that you are still carrying your Star Wars water bottle to school every, and doing it proudly :)
Hi Katie! I just want to let you know that I am a girl and I LOVE Star Wars. I grew up on the movies and all the toys, and like you, I was teased for liking Star Wars. But I kept on liking it, and when I turned 18, I got a Darth Vader and Padme tattoo on my arm. My room is also filled with Star Wars posters, and I still have my toys. So please don't let the mean boys bother you. You are very cool for liking Star Wars and being different; I hope you always remember that being different is a good thing. Maybe one day you will be flying a ship like the ones in the movies and all those boys will be so jealous! Also, I am very happy that you proudly wore your Star Wars shirt to school. :)
Hey Katie! -
This blog and the story surrounding it really hit me in a soft spot. I grew up as a tomboy, and as a big fan of Star Wars, which I still am today! Don't let anybody ever tell you who you have to be - only you can decide who you are, and an awesome girl who loves Star Wars from a young age sounds like a mighty great start! Look at the Princess Leias, the Ahsoka Tanos, the Aayla Securas out there - there are many a powerful woman in the Star Wars universe, whether a Jedi warrior or an influential politician. I started watching the Star Wars films when I was five years old - I am now twenty one, attending college, and still squeal like a child on Christmas morning whenever I see a new episode of "The Clone Wars" or hear about a sequel in the "Force Unleashed" franchise of video games. Be very proud of who you are and never change; and of course, may the Force always be with you!
Hey Katie,
I hope you don't think you're alone anymore! I suppose all these comments should make that obvious, but I still wanted to add my own voice. I'm a girl and I love Star Wars!! I also love action movies, in general, my favorite color is blue, and I wear glasses even though I'm not legally required to wear them...because they make me feel smart and I think they look cool. My frames are similar to yours, except they aren't blue (so I'm jealous!). Keep the faith!!
Meghan
Katie hang in there. Bullying happens to us all. Nothing wrong with being a fan been one since my parents when I was your age took me to see Star Wars. Us geeks need to always stick together. Good luck and may the force be with ya.
-Tordo
hi katie!
I'm a 13 year old girl and I love star wars. So do my sisters (one has a cp30 stress ball). I have been princess leia for the past 3 years on halloween too!I think it is great to like star wars and most of my friends like it too.
-smileyfacegirl
It may be a late comment, but I was just having a geeky Star Wars moment on Twitter today and came across this article.
I would like to proudly tell Katie that I am an 18-year-old girl that loves Star Wars. I also wear glasses. I'd love to talk Star Wars with you, anytime! I know quite a few facts...
As you grow older, you'll realize that being a fan of Star Wars is cool and wearing glasses is beautiful. I, myself, am very jealous that you have a Star Wars backpack and could name many people that feel the same.
Glasses? Pretty soon, you're going to see many other kids in your class wearing them. You'll compare and compliment on each other's frames. You'll see that it's normal. Just take your glasses off and compare your vision to wearing glasses. A pretty great invention, eh?
You are an adorable, beautiful girl; don't let those boys(or any other girls, for that matter) tell you otherwise. If they ever say anything bad, you just smile and think about all these people that are just like you. Keep your head up!
Katie, I'm afraid I can't help you with Star Wars, because I'm not really a Star Wars fan (although I did love the three original movies, and I saw the first prequel at midnight the night it came out. Okay, maybe I'm sort of a fan). At your age, my thing was Transformers, and I had a Transformers lunchbox and a Transformers thermos and they were awesome. And I got teased like you. Unfortunately, unlike you, I wasn't strong enough to stand up for myself, and I ended up getting all this My Little Pony stuff instead, even though I never cared about My Little Ponies.
It's taken me about 20 years to figure out what you're already learning: that the stuff we like is the stuff we like, and that's great. So if I saw the new Star Trek movie twice, and if I want to see Tron again (this time in IMAX 3D, because the regular 3D isn't great), and if I love zombie movies, and if I go to Dragon*Con for the third year in a row, that's great, because it's what I like. And if I gave in to people who teased me for liking things like that, I'd never get to do them. You're kind of my hero.
When I was a kid, the worst thing you could be called was a geek. Now, I call myself a geek. We geeks have taken it back--if being a geek means getting to like the stuff you like instead of what everyone else is telling you to like, then I'm proud to be one.
Good luck, and keep doing what you're doing. Maybe you can be an inspiration to other girls in your class, like you are to me.
(Love the glasses, by the way. I have the exact same pair.)
Hello Katy, I
Dear Katie, I want to assure you that women and girls can love Star Wars and Star Trek. I did both as a girl and as an adult. When I was little I would go to my Dad's workshop and make replicas of props to carry with costumes I made for both. I carried a Star Trek lunch box and for years carried Star Wars bubblegum cards in my wallet in college. When my daughter was little we would watch Star Wars and Star Trek together. Today my daughter, because of ST and SW, loves science. She graduated HS with honors and had earned for 13 credits for college through her HS courses. She was offered a competative scholarship because of all this. Today at college, she is surrounded by pink sheets, a Star Trek snuggie and the Staw Wars lightsabre she bought with her Christmas money. Don't let the boys get to you, Star Wars is not just "for boys". Be the person you are and stay true to your dreams. Work hard and practice and you will soar.
Hi Katie:
My name is Carolina and I'm from Colombia. I just got to know your story today and wanted to tell you that I am a girl and I also looove Star Wars. Especially Yoda, he's my favorite. I also wanted to tell you that it's alright to be different, to have your own likes, dislikes and loves. So you should not pay that much attention to what others think or say to you about what they think is right or wrong about yourself, because in the end the only person who knows what is right or wrong for you is you. So next time you put on your patch or your eyeglasses think about all you can see because of them, and how they give you a super sight. And if you feel different because you are adopted, then think about how lucky you are to have found a mom and a dad who love you more than anything and that family is not the group of people you are born into, but the group of people who surround you with joy, company, a home and most of all, love. And that you have a beautiful, save and warm home. So here I send you a big big hug from Colombia, so you know your story has traveled thousands and thousands of miles, and that there are Star Wars loving guurrllss like us all over the world.
hello Katie. I'm Andres and I'm from Colombia. I'm a STAR WARS fan too. I just want to say you that you are a pretty girl and I loved your story. i have a small collection of star wars actios figures and try to collect more. My favorite characters are Darth Maul and yoda. In this moment I'm playing "the force unleashed 2" in my PC I love this game. !!!!
a big greeting from Colombia little padawan.! The force is strong in you.
Be happy.
Hi Katie. I'm from Brazil, I loved your story, you're a lovely, pretty and smart girl! I don't know much about Star Wars, but when I was your age, I didn't think I had to use and wear girly things only. Blue has always been my favorite color, I used to have lots of blue dresses, and even now that I am a grown-up, the walls of my bedroom are blue and I just love it. So don't care about what boys think, use what makes you happy! Good luck!
Katie, look at all of the comments you have received! See how many people think you are just fantastic? And so brave to keep bringing your Star Wars bottle to school. My oldest daughter, who is eight, loves Star Wars too, just like her brothers. She even gets into battle with them with the light sabers we have at home. She likes to be Padme, one of those strong women from the Star Wars story.
So you just keep on liking whatever you want and don't let anyone tell you that you can't. You are so very special and beautiful and may the force be with you! :)
-A Mom from Canada
Hi Katie...I think you are a beautiful, strong, young lady. My name is Frankie..and I'm a girl!! I too wear glasses. I don't have a patch but I wear a headscarf..and that makes me VERY different than all the people I work with. At first people tried to make fun of me but I liked my scarves so much (I decorate them with flowers and pins)and had so much fun with them that they stopped. I have a 6 year old son who likes lots of girls toys especially zoobles and littlest pet shop. When ever the other boys try to tease him about it he says only the coolest boy can play with girls toys. When the girls tease him about it he asks them why they should get to have all the fun. I can't wait to tell him about you!!! You Rock!!!!
Hi Katie! I'm now 19, but when I was in first grade, I was made fun of for my Power Rangers lunchbox and Star Wars water bottle. I know exactly how you feel, honey. I'm adopted too, and when I was little my mom and dad would always read me books about when the dogs adopted the sheep and Are You My Mother and ALL those books. The boys in my class would always make fun of me for my glasses and eye patch because I was born with left eye strabismus (thats just a fancy name for my left eye looking at my nose instead of straight ahead). I used to always come home and ask my mom why I was being made fun of, and she told me something I still repeat to myself in my head when I get down. She told me, "Hannah, those boys aren't making fun of you. They're jealous of you and your cool life. You have 2 sets of parents who love you very much, and those boys don't realize that you are amazing for who you are, not what you have." Katie, you are an amazing girl whose parents love you very much. You're also loved by thousands of people around the world who read your mom's blog, and you have another fan and friend, me. Don't worry about playing with "boys" toys or "girls" toys, play with the toys you like. Watch the movies you want to watch, eat the foods you want to eat and pack them in the lunchbox YOU want, not what those boys think you should have.
Hi Katie! First of all: I'm a soon to be 22-year old girl, and I love Star Wars- it's a timeless story that appeals to anyone, regardless of age or gender.
In junior high I got teased quite a bit by my classmates because I liked to read so much- I was a big fan of Harry Potter and Stephen King's Dark Tower series, among other things (still am, as a matter of fact), and spent a lot of my free time drawing pictures inspired by my favourite books and movies. Then I went to university, and suddenly it seemed that all of my classmates had some kind of "geeky" interest- japanese pop music, superhero comics, and animation, just to mention a few. Many of them have heard your story, and more than just a few have a similar one to tell about their first years in school.
Katie, we think you're brave for standing up for what you like, and thanks to you, many more will be encouraged to do the same. Keep bringing your Star Wars bottle with you to school, and don't let anyone keep you from doing so for as long as you want to.
Hey Katie. I'm a 28 year old man all the way from the UK and just saw on youtube your story. You really rock! The first film I ever saw and really enjoyed was A New Hope and ever since that point I was hooked. It is my favourite film saga of all time.
Having seen your story, I just want to say that you are awesome! Who cares what other people think! Do you think that they will get the same level of enjoyment from a story as you do from Star Wars? I don't think so. I really hope you are doing ok now and continue to be strong like Leia. Take care and may the force be with you. xxx
Hi Katie
I'm a 19 year old university student and my best friend and I watch the Star Wars movies together. Some of my male friends found out.. and guess what!?! They thought it was fantastic!
Even though I'm called a geek for loving Star Wars and Doctor Who I don't mind, because my best friends love them too.
I hope one day I'll have a little girl who loves Star Wars.
May the force be with you.
Shell xo
Dr.Who is so awesome!
Katie, in 1968 when I was 9 years old I wanted to go trick or treating as Spock. I got teased, and I did not care. I was so happy to be Spock that I put the costume back in it's box and I still have it to this day! I took my love of Star Trek all the way through school, and on into college. I hope you never feel you have to not be who you are!!
Live long and prosper.
Hi Katie!
I'm not sure if you are still reading these comments, but this article had me in tears!
Not because I have many friends - both boys and girls - who like Star Wars (and I have many who don't - the best part about having friends, is everyone enjoying different things, and that exposes you to new ideas, art, music, and movies you might never have known about). Not because my wife and I met with a conversation about BSG (a sci-fi show you might like when you are a little older). Not because I was teased when I was a boy - I came to North America when I was eight, with big red curly hair, big glasses, and a funny South African accent, I suddenly discovered what 'being different' meant!
I cried because it makes me so sad that these boys - who are probably very nice people most of the time - would ever make you feel uncomfortable with what you like and who you want to be. And, please, if you ever see someone else being teased or bullied, even if it puts you in the bully's line of fire, stand up for them. Be proud of yourself, supportive of others, and always, always choose Star Wars over Star Trek (totally joking with that last point!!!!)
And I hope my wife and I will have a daughter one day soon who is nearly as cool and awesome as you! You have set the bar high though!!!
Hi Katie!
My name is Caroline and I'm 16 years old. I know exactly what you are going through. All through elementary school I would get teased for expressing my love for Pokemon. It eventually got to the point where I suppressed my love for everything that "only boys should like"-- Pokemon, video games, Star Wars... It made me really unhappy that I had to keep such a large part of who I am hidden away just so that I could be like everyone else. But now, more and more every day, I'm becoming more open about my interests. I decided that I didn't want to suppress certain parts of who I am just because of a few stupid boys. Your story has inspired me to continue to be who I am, and ignore anyone who objects to that. Thank you for sharing your story Katie!
Hello Katie,
My name is Beatriz, and I am 18 years old. Not only do I love the Star Wars sega, but I also love pretty much anything usually associated with a nerd, including video games, fantasy books, mangas/anime (like Pokemon, Bleach, Naruto, ect.), dressing-up as characters, comic books, among many other things. I have never really had that moment where I felt I had to hide this nerdy part of me because that is who I am. I mean, I am currently using a copy of the one ring (from Lord of the Rings) around my neck, a keyblade ring (from Kingdom Hearts), and my backpack is filled with Pokemon, Star Wars, and anime key-chains up to this day. I also dressed up as a Jedi Knight last Halloween.
When I was younger, I remember some people attempted to make fun of my interests because I am a girl. However, whenever someone attempted to ridicule me for my likes I just told them I was not going to change for them and moved on. I was different from those guys and if they didn't want to accept me, then it was their problem. Remember, nerds will take over the world someday!
With time, I met many people, both male and female, who share my interests and are my friends not because I was like everyone else, but because I was different. Trust me, it is not worth changing who you are just because some seven year old boys make fun of you. Just be yourself and use that Star Wars water bottle!
dear katie,
i was right where you were in first grade i loved starwars and dragon ball z and comic books. but i would never show that to my friends at school because i thought they would make fun of me. when i came home me and my brothers would play with action figures and talk about the latest thing on syfy. it wasn't untill even my senior year in highschool when i thought i could let my nerd out. but you know what now i am almost 20 years old and i am proud to be a starwars fan, even though i may get a few jokes now and then, idon't mind. i have a pretty good looking boyfriend who loves that i love starwars and was jealouse that i got to go to celibration V with my family and my best friend. you'll soon find that people (espechally boys)will eventually Love the fact that you Love starwars i know i do. be strong with the force katie dont let the dark side bring you down.
Hi, Katie!
I'm a 17 year old boy, I'm a college student and I still play Pokemon games. So does my roommate! Plus, I love plenty of things that people say boys aren't supposed to like. I love flowers and gardening, Broadway Musicals, and I love watching Project Runway. My favorite author is Tamora Pierce, who is a fantasy author known for writing books for girls.
People are mean when they see others being different because they want to be different too, but don't think that they're allowed. They see someone "breaking the rules", and they get jealous because they thought everybody had to follow those rules. I bet you that at least one of the girls at your school wished she could bring a Star Wars water bottle to school too.
I'm a boy and I wear a rainbow-colored wristband every day. I have a girlfriend and lots of friends, and all of us play Dungeons and Dragons. I'm white and I love my adopted older brother, who is African-American. Last year, I helped teach a 1st grade class once a week. I made table tents with my student's names on them, and I drew each of them a picture. When I asked one girl what she wanted me to draw, she immediately said, "Obi-Wan Kenobi!" I worked harder on her drawing than anybody else's. She loved her picture, and all the other students loved it too. Including the girls.
Remember: Love is a gift you give yourself, then share with others. If YOU aren't on your side, nobody else can be.
Your friend,
Malcolm
Hey Katie! I LOVE Star Wars! Everything to do with it! In fact, without my love of Star Wars my fiance and I would not have met! Im moving to England in June to marry him in September. We share a great love of all things "geeky" and that most definitely includes Star Wars! We talk about how we would like to dress up as different Star Wars characters for parties and Halloween. Right now boys will make fun of you for it but later on, when all the other girls have conformed to "fit in", your love of something they can relate to will make you shine out amongst the girls who all look the same. Your awesome to be different!
P.S. I created an account on here just to let you know how awesome you are!
Hi Katie! I'm 21 and I've loved Star Wars since I was at least your age. I also grew up a huge Star Trek fan, so I was twice as geeky! Just trust in what you like, and others will follow. Most of my friends now are fans of sci-fi and comic books like I am, and you wouldn't believe how many guys think it's awesome to meet a girl who's into Star Wars. I now go to Comic-Con every year with my fellow nerds and I wear my nerd badge proudly! In fact, I now work in TV & film, and one of my first conversations with my new boss was about our favorite Star Wars films.
And most importantly, I'll bet you're not the only girl at your school who loves Star Wars - but you're the only one who's brave enough to say it! You're ahead of the game here, give everyone else a chance to catch up and before you know it you'll have lots of friends (girls and boys) who like the same things you do.
Good luck!
Hey Katie! I have a first grader named Katie, too! And she LOVES Star Wars. She was Princess Leia for Halloween this year. At first she was nervous about her costume -- she told the other kids she was going to be a princess for Halloween but she didn't want to say which one. She was brave like you, though, and wore her costume to school and marched in the parade -- she looked awesome! And when a little boy told her that "Star Wars is for BOYS!" She said "Well, Leia is a GIRL and Luke would have died if it wasn't for her!" Rock on, Katie -- always be proud of who you are. Don't change for anyone, ever. Love and friendship from New Hampshire, Katie and Jackie
When I was eleven, I sent away for a Green Day necklace from Hit Parader magazine. I waited for months for it to arrive. It was a silver pendant on a black leather cord, and I wore it all the time. Kids started to tease me about it -- that wasn't a band girls were supposed to like. They called me a "freak". On the first day of junior high I wore it to my new school, and a girl complimented it.
She and I have been best friends for 15 years. We both became musicians and performed music together for many years. I don't remember most of those kids' names.
The things that make us different when we're kids are the things that make us unique and interesting as adults. All those kids who want to be just like everyone else eventually fade into the background.
Besides, Star Wars is awesome!
Hi Katie,
Let me say that YOU ROCK!
I LOVED playing with my brother's Star Wars figurines and lego when we were kids even though my mum kept buying me Barbies!
Don't worry about those boys, they're probably jealous that your water bottle is cooler than any of theirs!
Girls who love science fiction grow up to be super cool and super smart so you have better keep watching Star Wars! Just wait until you start watching Star Trek!
Stay true to yourself : D
Lisa XOXO
Oops, looks like my link didn't work. Here it is again: http://i1226.photobucket.com/albums/ee412/javaughan7/39623_415976411341_501196341_4808667_6801869_n.jpg
Hi Katie!
I'm 21 years old, and I'm a SUPER NERDY GIRL. And you know what? That's okay. I wear glasses, and I dress up like people from cartoons for fun, and I'm the vice-president of my school's anime club. I'm super geeky, and you are on the right path because it's so much more fun liking things like Star Wars and Pokemon and telling everyone to Live Long and Prosper than it is to like Jersey Shore and care only about football.
When I learned how to work the VCR (I'm old, this was the early 90s), the first tapes I put in were my dad's Star Wars movies. I'm actually really jealous of you because when I was your age, I didn't have any Star Wars water bottles or backpacks to choose from. I didn't get Star Wars until I was in fourth grade, and that year after Phantom Menace came out I dressed up like Queen Amidala for Halloween because she kicked everyone's butt and that was awesome. I've dressed up like a Jedi several times since. My friends and I had a lightsaber battle in the middle of a blocked-off street in my city this Fourth of July because we could, and because we were having fun, and we didn't care that people stared at us.
I know it really hurts right now, but boys can be kind of dumb. But they get better. They make fun of you, but you just have to laugh them off because YOU know better. You know that Star Wars is for boys AND girls, and they're the ones who are missing out of a really awesome friend because they don't understand that girls and boys can like the same things.
Keep being awesome, Katie!!
Hi there! My daughter is in 3rd grade and has 3 star wars shirts that we bought in the boys dept. at Target. She regularly wears them to school. Some boys have made comments, but she shrugs them off, because she likes them. She often tells me the boys dept. has better shirts than the girls dept. She has a large collection of Lego Star Wars that she puts together and displays proudly in a glass case. Also, she was Darth Vader for halloween this year!(wish I could post pictures for you!!!) Katie, you are much cooler than the other kids, because you are interested in things that not everyone else is. Let all the other girls be pink and princess-y. You stand tall sweet one!
Hi Katie -
I wanted to leave you a comment for 2 reasons. One - I was bullied in school from the time I was about your age all the way through high school, and two - I'm a big Star Wars fan and I'm proud of it!
I know it's hard to imagine now, but being different is much better than being JUST like everyone else. Being the same as all the rest is boring! But believe me, I remember what it was like to be in school and have people teasing and bullying me because I was too fat, too smart, and read too much. I wish I could say that it will get easier, but it takes a long time for maturity to set in for most kids. Just try to remember that being you - and being true to what YOU like and what YOU believe - is way more important than being just like anyone else.
I don't need to tell you why Star Wars is cool, do I? You're a fan! Princess Leia is a girl like us, and she kicks butts in the movies, so how can those silly boys say it's not for girls?! Princess Leia is the BOSS of most of the men in the movies, too - don't forget that. Being into Star Wars or Star Trek or any other geeky, science fiction/adventure movie or book or game is a GOOD thing, and you know what else? It makes you smarter! This is the sort of thing that made me want to learn more about science and computers, and now I have a Masters degree in Computer Information Systems and I am a professional geek girl.
If you're really lucky, you get to learn about cool stuff like this and turn it into a life-long passion - and that is what I hope for you, Katie. Don't let anyone put you into a pre-conceived box of what a girl should be or like or do - because every girl is different, but even so... there are an awful lot of girls who are at least a little bit like you.
Dear Katie,
I am a girl and I LOVE Star Wars, and many other "nerdy" things that might be considered boy stuff. I grew up with two brothers and we watched Star Wars all the time. When they re-released the original 3 movies in the theaters I went to see them dressed as Princess Leia (buns on the sides of my head and all)
Don't let those boys take away your happiness over your water bottle and backpack, it's not worth it. You might feel like the answer is to give into their teasing, but when you're older you'll be proud to love Star Wars! My guy loves me for many reasons, but I know that at least one of them is because I can rattle off Star Wars facts better then anyone he knows.
Be proud to be a girl AND a Star Wars fan!!! There are SO many more of us on your side!!!! The girl force is with you! :)
Hi Katie!! Your mom is so right! It does not matter if you are a boy or a girl, Star Wars is AWESOME! I have seen it so many times since I was your age. It's my favorite movie of all time! I love Star Wars and sports and now that I'm older, boys think it's really cool that I like these things.
Don't let other people tell you who you should be or what you can or can not like. I know it's hard for you to understand right now but being different is what makes you special. There's no such things as boy things or girl things. Be a leader for others and stand up for yourself. Maybe you can show the other girls how to be brave. Please be yourself because we need more awesome girls like you in this world.
Katie, you are truly a special and lucky girl to realize so early what a wonderful thing independence and individuality are--and what unlucky boys to think that girls can't also love such a great series of movies! When I was about your age, the boys wouldn't let me play with their Star Wars toys or play soccer, but that didn't stop me from enjoying the movies--with family, and with my other friends who also liked them.
As I got into high school, I tried harder to do what was expected of me--went out for cheerleading and tried to hide my grades. But you know what? I didn't really enjoy it--or the person I became. And as I went back to the things I really did love, like Star Wars, I discovered a joy and passion reminded me of why I loved them so much as a kid--and better yet, I made some truly spectacular friends that I would've never made if I'd not been honest about who I was.
So good for you Katie--and may the force always be strong in you.
Katie -
You are SO COOL! I'm a 29 year old girl that likes Star Wars. There used to be a rap band called Public Enemy, and when I was in 4th grade I bought a Public Enemy hat - the boys in my class & on my bus made fun of it, saying it was for boys. And guess what? The SAME boy that started making fun of it went out and bought THE SAME HAT and wore it to school later that week! So sometimes boys are just jealous - that the girls are actually WAY COOLER than they are! Keep being awesome, Katie!!!
<3 Vicky in Hollywood
I'm a woman, I got to see Star Wars at the movies when I was a little girl and I loved it. I had a Return of the Jedi lunch box and thermos. I know it is hard to be different and sometimes people are mean about it. But, when you are yourself you will find friends who like the same things you do and they are worth putting up with the people who are mean.
Hey Katie!
I'm pretty proud to say that like you, I'm pretty different. I had glasses and braces when I was in elementary school, and I've liked Star Wars since I was about 4 years old! The Disney princesses the other girls liked were okay, but my favorite princess has always been Leia. She might not be like other girls, either, but I know I'd rather have someone like her on my side.
I have a little brother who was close to my age, so I grew up liking a lot of other "boy" things, too. I'm actually pretty happy about that, because I went to school with a lot of boys, and I work with a lot of guys now, and it gives us more to talk about. In fact, I would probably get teased a little bit now if I didn't like Star Wars.
The teasing may continue as you go through school (it certainly did for me) but I think you'll be happier going through it if you can be yourself. As you can see, there are lots of us who have similar interests, and how would we ever find each other if we don't wear our colors proudly? I wish you the best. And I'm jealous of your water bottle. :)
-ali
Hi Kate, one more thing - my goddaughter just turned nine. For her birthday party, she wanted to have a pirate theme. Her mom and dad found all kinds of pirate-related items - including pirate girl decorations and games!
She had a moment like you did with your mom. She turned to her mom and said, "Will my friends think I'm weird because I picked pirates?" She, too, thought it was going to be seen as a boy thing.
Guess what? All the girls LOVED the party. They had a great time! I think one of the girls even left saying she was going to ask for a pirate birthday party for HER birthday, too.
If you enjoy it, if it's fun, it doesn't matter if it's mainly a boy thing or a girl thing. Just concentrate on the fun.
Best to you once again,
Julie
Hi Katie, my name is Katelyn and I'm a 23 year old college graduate (and I'm a young woman!). You sound like a very sweet and intelligent girl. You remind me of my nieces, who are the funniest, coolest girls I know. Growing up is really hard sometimes, because kids are very nervous about being cool and fitting in. Sometimes, kids will tease others because they are scared. What are they scared of and why does it make them mean to other kids? They are scared of being picked on, so they decide to pick on someone else first in order to fit in. This is not right. As you grow up, I hope you stand up for yourself, and maybe even other kids who are "different." After all, it is our differences that make us cool and interesting. And, honestly, everyone is different. No one person is the same. When you're young, it's hard to have different opinions. But as you get older, people will want to be your friend because you like Star Wars and Star Wars is awesome. People love to be friends with interesting people who are confident about themselves and what they like. Katie, I really hope you continue to take your Star Wars bottle to school. Tell those boys that Star Wars is for girls, too! After all, Princess Leia is a girl and she's also a very strong, smart, and very beautiful princess! Good luck, Katie! :)
Dear Katie,
Hi! Do what makes you happy - and treat others how you'd want to be treated - the 2 best rules of life, I think.
Be proud of yourself always - and enjoy your Star Wars water bottle!
I grew up watching pro wrestling, listening to Elvis Presley and listening to country music, and always felt different and was pretty shy growing up. You got this! Growing up is complicated, especially in school, but I have faith you are going to grow up to do amazing things in this world.
Your 29-year old fan,
Bambi
OutImpact.com
Audrey, age 4, loves Star Wars too!
Katie,
Star Wars is for all people, no matter who they are or what they look like. Just look at all the amazing and different characters in the series! There's boys, girls, humans, wookies, and an old green guy. The best thing about Star Wars is the variety of characters and the unity it brings for fans throughout the world.
While there are lots of grown up ladies that love Star Wars there are also lots of little girls too. My daughter is 4 years old. She wears glasses, just like you, and proudly wears her Star Wars shirt to school and her daddy's Stormtrooper helmet on special occasions too.
You can be a girl, or a boy, or the color green, or tall fuzzball, and Star Wars will still be for you!
May the Force be with You!
Yeah, be kind to people so they'll kick you even harder.
The boys are just jealous of her awesome water bottle. Lots of very fashionable star wars girls here to show her how cool it is http://www.tumblr.com/tumblelog/hotchicksinstarwarsshirts
http://hotchicksinstarwarsshirts.tumblr.com/ even
Hi Katie! I am like you, a girl who loves Star Wars. It's not just okay it is GREAT for girls and boys to like whatever they like, just naturally!
If some boys are mean to you it is because they are scared or freaked out for some reason of their own, it is nothing to do with GIRLS or STAR WARS! Which both RULE!
So next time anybody, boy or girl, tells you that you shouldn't like this or that thing, just say, "You can like whatever you like, and I can like whatever I like!" Nobody can really argue with that.
Lots of love and big hugs,
Maria.
Oh darlin, you are beautiful and independent and strong. Just wait til you rock Leia's costume one year for Halloween - no one will hold a candle to you. As you grow up, remember that there will ALWAYS be people in your life that love EVERY SINGLE BIT of who you are. May the force be with you, my little jedi!
Hi, Katie! You are a brave and AWESOME little girl that has excellent taste in movies :) Those boys were probably jealous that their parents didn't get THEM a rad Star Wars water bottle and took it out on you :( I'm sorry that happened to you, but I hope you continue to be brave and remember: Everyone has something different about them! Differences are what make the world awesome, I mean, if everyone was the same... you'd live in a world full of C-3POs!
I was ALWAYS getting picked on when I was in school for one reason or another. I was picked on for being the new kid all the time, being Asian, for having big teeth, for being smart, liking video games (people told me only BOYS played video games!), having funny looking hair, etc. It got me down, but I refused to change for anyone. I can honestly tell you that it gets better, Katie :) Without having to switch to a pink water bottle! You are awesome, and so is your Mom.
Love from Canada!
XOXOXO
- Tea
Dear Katie,
As a young girl, I was picked on an awful lot because I was different (red hair). Now that I'm older, the thing I hated and was picked on about (red hair) is my most prized attribute and what people notice first, and compliment me on. I am also a very loyal Star Wars fan. My mother introduced me to it. She also encouraged me to be okay with who I was, and that not everyone was the same. To celebrate who I was. Don't let others control your happiness. It takes more courage to know yourself and be happy than to put down others. Be strong.
Hi Katie!
I am a 31 year old girl, and I liked Star Wars when I was your age. I had a Stormtrooper action figure that I would have ride my My Little Pony toys. My favorite has always been Boba Fett. I still like Star Wars, and now 30 year old boys who meet me like me even more as I like something that they enjoy.
Please don't let the kids who bully you get to you. I was bullied as well, for wearing glasses, for being smart, for not having cool enough clothes.. It wasn't fun and it hurt. So, it makes me sad to hear that you are going through that, too. But, I learned that people teased me because they were jealous or because they wanted me to be the focus of bad things, to save themselves from being picked on. My mom told me to be myself, and to try hard to be strong, and I did. Later on, I met new girls and boys who really liked me for who I am, and what made me special. They didn't care about those things anymore. Now, I have lots of friends who love me and celebrate the things that make me unique. You are unique, Katie, and that can be so rare nowadays. Please stay true to yourself.
When people picked on me, I would read a book, or go volunteer to help a teacher, so they couldn't bother me anymore. Eventually, they would give up and go find someone else to pick on. I sometimes volunteered to help kindergarten teachers at my school during my recess. This might help you. My mom got me involved in dance classes, sports, craft classes and I made friends there who were nice to me, and I didn't rely on the school kids so much after that.
I also always remember not to pick on other people, as I know how bad it hurt me, I would never want to inflict that hurt on anyone else. This is a good lesson, as you can always be kind to others, even if kids are not kind to them.
So, don't worry Katie. If I was at school with you, we'd have matching Star Wars waterbottles!
Hello Katie!
I'm Black and female and when I was younger I thought people would think I was weird because of all the stuff I liked: Video games, fantasy books, Star Trek, and of course, Star Wars! (Lando is my favorite.) So I didn't tell anyone about what I liked. When I was about 12, though, I realized that if anyone was going to make fun of me for liking what I liked, then I didn't want to be their friend anyway.
I know it's easier said than done, especially when people are saying mean things, but ignore those boys. You are way too valuable, special, and beautiful to waste your time worrying about what other people think. Embrace what makes you YOU!
<3, Ashley
Katie, I have a daughter who is 9 years old. She LOVES Star Wars. I just want you to know that there is nothing wrong with being different. In fact I teach my daughter every day to accept people no matter what. One day these boys will learn that lesson as well.
When I was in school I was picked on a lot. Not so much when I was your age, but when I was in middle school and high school. At first I was bothered by it like you were. I wanted so much just to be able to fit in. To not have to worry about someone picking on me because I was like them. As I got older I realized it wasn't worth getting all worked up about. Chances are these boys are just jealous of how awesome you are!
I'll tell you a little secret. I just met this boy (my daughter's dad and I are divorced) and when he found out I like Star Wars he got so excited.
Katie, I think you will go very far in life. You have a big heart and a loving family. Keep your chin up and remember who you are is OK.
Hi Katie,
My name is Angela, I am 29 and I come from England. I have for the very longest of times (since I was 3) loved science fiction. I have seen all the Star Wars movies, I have watch and enjoyed watching countless hours of science fiction on television. I have spent even more time with other women talking about the stories on the television shows.
Science fiction isn't for just the boys. I too have been picked on. First it was for being the new kid, then it was for having glasses - I was proud of them too. I got along with the boys at my school because I watched science fiction (at the time it was teenage mutant turtles who lived ina sewer and who had some funny muck that made them 6 ft tall and they had a love of pizza)
I think the reason the boys are picking on you, is because they are afraid of having to share something they originally thought of as just theirs. As they get older they will want to share it with you, and by the time you are your mommy's age, it will be the 1 thing they will look for in a wife.
If they tell you it is just boys that like science fiction, tell there there is a family of women out there who love science fiction too, and you can tell them too, that as young as you are, you too are a part of it. This group of science fiction, Star Wars loving women don't care about the differences, we celebrrate them, because it makes us a better and more creative group of women. Be proud, and tell them one day they will get it too.
Welocme to the science fiction, Star Wars loving family.
Angela
Katie, I registered here just so I can tell you how awesome it is to be a female who loves Star Wars. Stay true to your passions, and you will be rewarded with great happiness. As for the bullying, it will get better. Just know that you will be stronger because you have persevered through this.
Hi Katie! I am a woman who loves Star Wars. I used to watch them with my dad and put bagels on my ears to pretend I was Princess Leia. Now I watch the movies with my husband and our daughter, who is a little too young to understand them (she is a year and a half old) but she likes to watch them anyway. We are totally raising a little Star Wars geek and I am excited for the day she asks for a Star Wars backpack and water bottle to bring to school.
I think you are very brave to go to school with your Star Wars water bottle, even if those boys are teasing you. People are afraid of others who are different, but they shouldn't be. Like others have said before me, in a few years those boys are going to be thrilled that you can talk to them about Star Wars and other stuff like that. Too bad you can't use the Force to sweep your hand over the boys and say, "Katie is very cool. Teasing = not cool."
Hang in there, OK? I promise it gets better. I think you are awesome!
Hi Katie! I'm a girl and I love Star Wars, too! I just want to pass on something I've learned. The people that I think are the coolest are the people who are really passionate about something. I have friends who are really into music or comics or sports or crafts or lots of other things. I may not love all the same things as much as they do, but those differences just makes life so much more fun!
So you keep on loving Star Wars-and anything else you want! Be true to yourself - you're the only "you" there is!
Hi Katie!
First of all you're totally awesome just the way you are, don't let anyone EVER tell you any different. I've been a dorky, awkward girl for my entire life and now it's what I love best about myself! I never liked wearing dresses, I loved playing sports, and spent a lot of time watching movies and tv shows that other kids never would have watched (but I secretly think they were). A lot of the other girls thought I was weird and it used to bother me. It took me a long time to realize that it was okay to be the way I am. Lucky for me I have a mom that was always there for me and supported me no matter what, just like your mom.
One day I decided that if someone didn't like me because I liked something different than them then that was their problem, not mine. I don't want to be like everyone else. If we were all exactly the same then we'd be just like the Storm Troopers! They're the bad guys, why do we want to be like them? Now I have friends that are all different and totally cool in their own way. The best part is that they like me just the way I am!
I promise that one day you will find people who will like you just the way you are and will be so happy to have you around. They may even like Star Wars just as much as you do!
Show off that Star Wars pride, Katie!
P.S. Where did you get the water bottle? I want one!
P.P.S. I wanted glasses my whole life because I thought the kids that wore them were the coolest. Now that I have them I wear them every day!
Katie,
My Dad took me to see all the original Star Wars movies when I was little - when they first came out! He even took me to see Return of the Jedi on opening day, when I was 10 years old.
Now, I am 37, a successful professional mom with two kids of her own - and I STILL love Star Wars. I'm even a member of the 501st, a costume group for Star Wars that does charity work across the world. I'm a girl, and I LOVE Star Wars, just like you.
Star Wars is awesome. You are awesome. I'm sorry you have to go through a terrible time of it with people not respecting your right to like what you want, but trust me - don't give it up for other people!
Sweet Katie :)
You are the best YOU just as you are. There's not a thing wrong with a girl liking Star Wars. I'm a 35 year old mom of 3 and I have always been a huge fan. As a young girl, right about your age, I had all the figures and ships and used to spend hours playing with them. It's some of my happiest memories of being a child. As I've grown older my love for Star Wars hasn't changed. I just took my son to see Star Wars in concert and it was an amazing time for us both.
Please don't think there's anything "Weird" or "Wrong" about you being a Star Wars fan. Never apologize for being yourself. There are plenty of people out here who think you're pretty darn cool just for being you!
Hi Carrie and Katie,
I'm almost 27, have been married for 3 1/2 years, have 4 brothers, my youngest sibling is my 12 year old sister, and I'm a girl.
I absolutely adore Science Fiction and Fantasy, and have loved Star Wars since my Dad showed me the fourth movie when I was 5. Since then, I've seen the other five movies, played the Star Wars Roleplaying game (I play a Droid and a Wookie), and read books about what happens to Han Solo and Leia after Return of the Jedi.
Katie, I know how it feels to feel different and to be bullied. I was overweight as a kid, I had a silly sounding last name, I wore braces, I loved reading, I wore glasses, and since my favorite thing was and still is dragons, I wore a lot of boys clothes.
I've ran into one of the boys that used to tease me in middle school and high school two years ago, and he told me that he had a huge crush on me, but he didn't know how to tell me. But the thing he liked most about me was that I was who I was, and I didn't let any teasing change that. He really seemed to regret that he never mustered up the courage to tell me that when we were younger, but it made all those years of wearing Dragon T-Shirts that much more worth it. I thought about dressing more girly, but luckily I had parents like your Mom who was willing to stand up for my personal tastes.
Wishing You The Very Best and May the Gorce Be With You!
Erin Prindiville
Ballwin, MO
Hi Katie!
My name is Susan and I am a HUGE Star Wars fan. I've loved Star Wars since I was a little girl, too. Don't worry about what those boys said to you, you should always be true to yourself and what you like. If you like Star Wars then you shouldn't have to hide it! Now that I'm grown up Star Wars is still one of my favorite movies and I've met a lot of other boys AND girls who love it just as much as I do. In fact, they even think it's really cool that I know what an X-Wing is, that the ice planet is called Hoth, and they laugh when I say things like "These aren't the droids you're looking for." I bet you know a lot of awesome stuff about Star Wars, too. :)
Remember, there are a lot of us Star Wars girls out here rooting for you! Stay happy and keep being you, because you are awesome!
Susan
Hey there Katie!!!
I am 28 years old, and let me tell you: being different is something to be celebrated! I was adopted when I was 9 days old, and I always thought it was the coolest thing because everyone else's parents didn't get the pick who their kid was, but my parents CHOSE me! I wore glasses, and had braces, and was known for being really loud and hyper. And ever since I was little I LOVED sci fi and fantasy, especially Star Wars! Wanna know a little secret I've learned over the years? The people who love Star Wars and other Sci Fi usually end up being the coolest, smartest, most talented people around. So you wear your Star Wars backpack, and you take your Star Wars water bottle to school, and when those idiot boys say something ugly to you, just realize this 1 important thing: they'll never be as cool as you are!
Katie, hon, I've gotta tellya, Star Wars came out the summer before I went into fourth grade (a loooong time ago!) and I thought it was the best movie I'd ever seen. I wanted to BE Luke Skywalker and Princess Leia, all rolled up into one. Lots of girls at my school loved it, too.
Now, as a grown up, I STILL love Star Wars. I don't want to be Luke anymore, or Leia either, BUT I see them for the heroes they are and the courage they have and I try to borrow a little of that for myself when I feel sad or scared or when things are hard in my life.
Boys are lunkheads sometimes. Anyone who puts you down to make themselves feel big isn't someone you need to worry about very much. Really really! You just borrow some of Luke and Leia's courage and know that no one gets to ever take that away from you. And know you have lots of nerdy girls out here in the wide world who welcome you into the tribe. Your momma can explain that to you.
Lots of love, sweetheart.
Your friend, gena
Katie - I was so surprised to read that your love of Star Wars was leading to you being teased! My Katie, who is also in first grade, has always been popular with boys because she is willing and able to play Star Wars games with them. Maybe those boys are intimidated because you know more about something they thought they has all to themselves. I also love Star Wars and so do many of my friends. It's always hard to have different opinions, but that is what makes you, you.
Star Wars is awesome, Katie, be proud of who you are and what you like. I wish I'd had a Star Wars water bottle when I was your age.
Dear Katie,
I'm 21 now, but when I was younger, I too used to get made fun of for liking "boy" things. I played sports, liked Star Wars, pretending to be a knight to destroy the monsters, and being a power ranger that wasn't pink or yellow. Even still, I like playing video games and fantasy games, things that are still considered "boy" things. But you know what? I enjoy these things and I have wonderful friends who are glad that I enjoy them too. Don't worry about those who make fun of you because you will find those who love you for you and who like the same things.
PS. I kind of wish I had a Star Wars Bottle now. ;)
YAY Katie! I'm a girl, and I go to Gaming Conventions, which are filled with Star-Wars Loving girls of all ages! (and with boys who love them!) I am SOO proud of you for standing up to bullies!! I hope your Mom can bring you to DragonCon in Atlanta this year and meet all these awesome women I'm talking about! (In years past, they've had Mark Hamil and Chewbaca there!)
Stand Strong for girls everywhere!
I love Star Wars. I have been a fan for most of my life (36 years old now!) and still love the movies now. I raised my daughter to love them as well! There is absolutely nothing wrong with enjoying any movie you want and carrying any thermos you want. Being different is hard when you are a child and gets harder as you get to be a teenager. But, it is worth it. It is good to be WHO YOU ARE. It is not necessary to be just like everyone else. Many times those girls who are just alike are not happy inside.
Be happy. Be yourself. Be different if you choose. Be proud of those differences. And if you choose to carry that pink thermos? That is okay too.
HUGS to you and may the force be with you!
Katie, I was 10 when I first saw Star Wars and I've loved that movie ever since. You are awesome and cool for loving Star Wars!
Being different isn't easy, but being who you really are is MUCH better than pretending to be someone you're not. You have a lot of friends out there who think you are awesome.
Katie, please don't let these boys bother you. My son is also in 1st grade and he thinks that girls who like Star Wars are cool. My daughter loves Star Wars and even had a Star Wars themed birthday party when she was your age and last year she was Princess Leia for Halloween.
I know a thing or two about being the different kid in class. It isn't easy. I'm sorry that these kids have been mean to you. I promise that it does get easier. In fact, even though I didn't know very many girls who liked Star Wars when I was in school, now that I am grown up, almost all of my friends love it as much as I do. Maybe that means that loving Star Wars when you are a girl is a very grown up thing to do. Carry your water bottle proudly!
Katie-
I was born in 1975 and I remember going to some of the original movies in the theatre. I ALSO remember playing with the boy down the street a lot because he had ALL of the State Wars action figures. We played Star Wars on the playground, too.What a great bunch of memories!
As I got older, I realized that some people didn't like Star Wars (I know! Hard for me to understand too!), but I liked it even more. The characters are wonderful and the story, well, how much better can you get? A lot of boys I know and get along with now like Star Wars and other science fiction stuff, too. I think guys get kind of excited when girls like something kind of boyish because they can relate more easily to you.
Please try to hold on to what you love and enjoy! I know it can be hard, but just think, if you let them tell you what kind of water bottle to bring, maybe they'll start picking on something else that you do. Remember that there are a whole bunch of girl Star Wars fans out here and that those boys are just plain wrong.
PS I've worn glasses since I was 5. I had to wear an eye patch for about a month in 1st grade and I remember pretending that I was a pirate. I kind of wish I could do it again. ;)
Dear Katie,
Please don't listen to those boys. If you like Star Wars, then don't let them change your mind. I'm a girl, and I like Star Wars. In fact, I recently took my son to see a Star Wars concert, and there were LOTS of girls there. I even wore my hair in Princess Leia buns!! (Here's a link to my picture...you can sort of make out the buns. :) http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c367/trystann/DSC02989.jpg) Star Wars is really awesome, and both boys and girls like it, even grown up girls!
You did a good thing by talking to your mom about this. It's NOT ok for people to tease others, and it is not ok for them to make you want to stop carrying your Star Wars water bottle. You are a very strong and awesome girl. Big hugs for you and your mom.
-Sarah from Oklahoma
Katie, you are getting so much love from all kinds of girls who love Star Wars!! This must make you feel so good! I'll add myself to the list as someone who loved Star Wars for as I long as I can remember. I was born the year the very first movie came out, so it was a part of growing up for me. I remember playing Star Wars with the boys in my neighborhood, on the playground at school, and even by myself. I dressed up as Princess Leia A LOT for Halloween. :)
When I was in grade school, I had a Return of the Jedi lunchbox with a thermos that had an Ewok on it, and I took that to school everyday. I was so proud of that lunchbox (in fact, I still have it). The boys made fun of me too, Katie, not just because of the Star Wars stuff, but because I looked different, too. They said all sorts of awful things to me, and it did hurt my feelings, but it never made me stop loving Star Wars. Honestly, it was really hard to learn to not care about them, but I worked hard at it (even cried about it at home), and eventually, when I got a bit older, I made friends with the boys who teased me...because we all loved Star Wars. You can even say to those boys who tease you that Star Wars is for EVERYONE, not just the boys.
Today, I'm 32 years old, I have a job, and I have some stuff from my Star Wars collection proudly displayed at my desk. It's a part of my life, just as it's a part of yours. Have fun with it!! Let others see you having fun, and pretty soon...they'll want to join you.
Much love to you!!
Star Wars is so cool. I'm shocked that those boys are picking on you. They're just scared of what they really think: that you are awesome!!!
I watched the first Star Wars at the drive-in, and about 15 years later I was Leia for Halloween along with my boyfriend "Luke" and his buddy "Han Solo."
Usually when people pick on other people they do it because they are intimidated by something that they don't understand. In other words, they are scared of how cool you are for having unique interests and an independent mind. Sometimes it can feel lonely liking something that all the other kids make fun of, but chances are that half of those kids actually DO like it and they're just too scared to say anything. This is what makes you a leader. This is what makes you a pioneer. This is what makes you a rockstar. This is what makes you the kind of person who is able to create a film like Star Wars! Following the crowd doesn't make you anything but boring: sitting on the couch and watching all the cool things that other people do on TV.
Rock on little pioneer!!!
Hi Katie:
I'm all grown up now,but as a little girl I used to play with my brother's toys. I loved watching "boy shows" like Batman. When I was older I loved movies like Star Wars, Raiders of the Lost Ark, and Star Trek. I'm grown up but I still have my Data and Jon Luc Pecard action figures. Hang in there Katie, and don't ever stop loving the toys you love.
Katie, I'm a girl and I like Star Wars, too! In fact, Darth Vader is my favorite character! :) It's okay if you like something different than other girls because that's what makes you YOU! And you are a beautiful young lady who has really good taste in movies :)
I have a little girl who loves Woody and Buzz from Toy Story and sometimes we have to buy her t-shirts in the boys section so she have Woody and Buzz on her shirt. She loves her Toy Story shirts! No one can tell you what to like... only you can decide that, Katie!
Hi Katie and Katie's mom!
My name is Catherine Taber and I am actress who has the great honor of being Padme Amidala
on Star Wars: the Clone Wars! I just wanted to tell Katie that she is in VERY good company being a female Star Wars fans ! I get to meet the coolest girls from all over the WORLD who love Star Wars - and they are the smartest, most creative, beautiful and nicest people you will ever meet!
Not to mention I am a big Star Wars fan myself and have quite a nice collection - including 2 water bottles that I proudly carry!
I am so sorry you had a bad experience with some of the boys at school ( they are truthfully probably jealous of your cool water bottle, but there is no excuse for not being kind and it is not a good representation of a Star Wars fan!!)
I know that Padme would tell you to be proud of who YOU are and know that you are not ALONE!
Please have you mom get in touch with me (catherine@catherinetaber.com) so I can send you something for YOUR Star Wars collection!
Much Love and Admiration - and THE FORCE is with you Katie!
Catherine, Padme (:
This is the coolest thing I have seen all day.
I disagree. The coolest thing is the wonderful and amazing show support for Katie, a totally awesome little girl!
Dearest Katie,
I also grew up loving star wars, and I too, was teased for it. I wanted to be just like princess leia because she was beautifuland brave. I begged my mom to give me princess leia's hair buns but the kids at school made fun of me. It hurt a lot and I remember I pulled my hair down
(Sorry my phone died so I had to go inside to the computer). But then I met other girls who loved star wars a wars and other "boys only cartoons" and as I got older I met even more! Now I'm 28 and I still watch "boys only cartoons" only now I get to sharee them with my niece! She asks me to give her 'water bender hair' whenever we watch avatar and even wants to learn water bending! I'm proud to be different now and even more so when I see brave girls like you.
If you ever feel hurt because your different, just remember that luke and leia were different too, but they weren't afraid to stand out and do what's right. The greatest people are often VERY different and accomplish great things because of it. Also remember that bthluke and leia were adopted...just like you!
PS- I still have my action figures! ^_^
Katie! You're AWESOME for liking Star Wars! I'm a lady, and I love Star Wars. I also really like playing video games and electronics and science. Sometimes those are considered "boy" things, but the real truth is that they are neither boy or girl things, they are just things that different people enjoy.
My husband really loves "girl" things, too! He likes to sew and he's really good at it. He also really likes decorating the house. So, you see, they're not really "girly" things to do, are they, because my husband does them.
By the way, when you grow up, boys will stop teasing you for liking Star Wars; in fact, they will think you are WAY more interesting, because you have a lot more in common with them than girls who only like pink and fairies and ponies. :P
Rock on, little sister! May the force be with you!
Ari
Hi Katie -
Your note has gone viral and been taken up as a rallying cry on Twitter. I'm another fan girl from an early age - my father took me to go see Star Trek II: The Wrath of Kahn, then my oldest sister took me to go see Empire Strikes Back - after that, I was totally hooked. :)
Stand up and be proud to be a fan girl - don't let a bunch of boys who let themselves be led by one hive mind tell you it's "wrong" to like Star Wars because you're a girl.
It's young girls (and boys) like yourself who will shape the world, so you carry on with your Star Wars thermos and don't ever let anyone tell you it's wrong.
You are a very sweet and bright young lady who has a lot of people cheering for her now! So, don't ever be afraid to let your geek colors shine. :)
(Sorry my phone died so I had to go inside to the computer). But then I met other girls who loved star wars a wars and other "boys only cartoons" and as I got older I met even more! Now I'm 28 and I still watch "boys only cartoons" only now I get to sharee them with my niece! She asks me to give her 'water bender hair' whenever we watch avatar and even wants to learn water bending! I'm proud to be different now and even more so when I see brave girls like you.
If you ever feel hurt because your different, just remember that luke and leia were different too, but they weren't afraid to stand out and do what's right. The greatest people are often VERY different and accomplish great things because of it. Also remember that bthluke and leia were adopted...just like you!
PS- I still have my action figures! ^_^
Hi Katie! Be brave and strong and proud. My daughter likes Star Wars, dinosaurs, cars, and other things that some people say are the provenance of boys. She's 3, so she needs smart young ladies like you to look up to when she gets to first grade in a few years. Don't let the other kids take away your individuality. You are a gift that only you can give to the world; not for others in the world to take. You have my best wishes and warmest regards.
Here is a list of girls that also believe Star Wars isn't just for boys (you might recognize a few):
Stass Allie, Xiaan Amersu, Darsha Assant, Bene, Depa Billaba, Shaak Ti, Olana Chion, Adi Gallia, Sarrissa Jeng, Star Labooda, Barriss Offee, Leia Organa Solo, Saba Sabtyne, Mara Jade, Jaina Solo, Alema Rar, Tahiri Veila, Luminara Unduli, Aayla Secura, Siri Tachi, Bastila Shan, Vergere, Jocasta Nu, Asajj Ventress, Cilghal, Numa Rar, Tresina Lobi, Tenel Ka, Tionne Solusar, Ahsoka Tano
And who are these girls? They are Jedi Knights, that's who, they're girls AND they're Jedis! Is someone calling a JEDI a sissy? I don't think so! And Princess Leia was the leader of a whole planet and she led the rebellion to defeat the Empire! Everyone answered to Leia because she was the boss. I'm a boy, but, to me, it sounds like Star Wars was more about girls than boys.
Believe in yourself, no matter what anyone says. Bullies have no power if you believe in yourself. And, if the bullies comments start to make you feel bad, remember all the good comments from all the good people you see here. Hatred, anger, fear, and aggression are the ways of the dark side. Have no fear, you are never alone, you have all of us.
Carie, It's heart-breaking that bullying starts this young, but it really does. I have been overweight my whole life, I wore glasses, I was a smart kid, kinda nerdy...boy did I get made fun of. It got even worse in about the 6th grade when the girls got really vicious. One of my former teachers was just commenting on this issue. We were discussing how we all need to try to create a culture of kindness. If we could some how make it "cool" to be kind and use that peer pressure against bullying, perhaps it would stop. You really touched on something; that this is a learned behavior. As adults we have to role model kindness, especially in our interactions with our kids. Punishing bullies doesn't really seem to be affective. As a society, we have to tackle this issue, and learn to be kind to one another. Thank you for bringing us Katie's story. Maybe it will make some of the bullies' parents think too.
Hi Katie! I am a girl and I LOVE Star Wars. My sister also loves Star Wars, and we loved it so much that we dressed up like Jedi for Halloween this year, and we went to a comic book convention and we won a prize for our costumes because everyone loved them so much! See? http://fav.me/d31zwoc That's us! :D
Don't let those silly boys get you down. What they don't realize now is that when they're older, they're gonna love it when they find girls who like the same movies as them. I have lots of fun conversations with boys my age (I'm 24!) about my favourite movies, which most girls can't say because they just watch so-called "girl movies".
You should ask your Mom to look for information on when the next Comic Con happens in your city. Maybe she can take you, and you can see that Jedi and Superheroes are definitely not just for boys. You might not find another girl in your class who likes Star Wars right now, but you will find lots of girls at Comic Con who do!
You keep liking whatever you like and being proud of it! :)
Sarah
When those boys get to be my age (almost 30!) they'll be wishing they could spend time with a girl who loves Star Wars. Keep fighting the good fight, may the force be with you.
Katie:
I was nine years old when Star Wars was first released. Princess Leia became my role-model before I even saw the movie. In my day, people made fun of me and bullied me, too. I am also vision-impaired and wore thick glasses. I was bullied for being smart, for wearing glasses and for liking Star Wars. It didn't stop me at all. I kept using my Star Wars lunchbox, and quoting Princess Leia (loved her sharp wit) with the bullies. I stuck by what I liked and remembered who I wanted to be. I am now a mom, and I go to conventions of science-fiction fans - there are **millions** of us out there! Don't let the "turkeys" who surround you get you down - you are NOT ALONE!!! I have won awards for my Princess Leia costume that I helped make. Now my 4 year old daughter wears costumes along with me. We even found an "official" Princess Leia costume for her at a store! Our whole family recently did an appearance together for a friend's Star Wars themed birthday party. She and I were *both* Princess Leia, my husband was Obi Wan Kenobi (from Revenge of the Sith) and the baby was "Jedi-Pooh-Bear".
Princess Leia would be *proud* of you for being brave enough to carry your Star Wars water bottle to school. Boys do NOT get to hog all the cool things! Remind your bullies that one of the coolest characters in the whole story is - oh my! - A GIRL!!!
In this day-and-age, girls can play with dolls AND trucks AND lightsabers. Women can have just about any job a man can have, and sometimes they do better at it. Your schoolmates are behaving like the "Male Chauvinist Pigs" stuck in the 1950s. You can even tell them "this is the 21st Century, guys! I can use whatever water bottle I want to!"
As I said, Princess Leia herself would be proud of you for not knuckling under, and so am I.
Go get 'em!
Hi Katie & Katie's Mom!
I saw a link to this post in my Twitter feed and, after reading it, felt I had to add my support to the hundreds of others who already have.
My name is Tobie. A lot of people who have never seen me before automatically assume I'm a guy because of that; but I am, in fact, a girl. And, like you, I am also a Star Wars fan. When I was around your age, I had a Yoda backpack. It was more like a stuffed toy than an actual backpack and when I put it on, it looked like Yoda was giving me a hug (or like I was giving Yoda a piggyback ride as my friends loved to point out). It was a lot like your water bottle, because some people thought that it was only for boys and they made fun of me for it. But I didn't care, because I knew that even though I was different from most of the girls in my class, it was nobody's business but my own if I liked Star Wars or not. I also read comic books, played soccer and t-ball, and had a pet cricket I named Jiminy after the cricket in Pinocchio. My love of Star Wars is actually helping me right now in college. I'm studying screenwriting (writing TV shows and movies), and Star Wars is something one of my teachers talks about all the time in class.
Those same friends who liked my backpack also gave me a pretty cool nickname: Tobie-Wan Kenobi (if my username isn't showing, that's what it is). Not all of them like Star Wars, but they don't care that I do because they're my friends and they're supportive of me no matter what I do. I wouldn't worry too much about boys teasing you right now. When you get a little older, they'll realize how cool it is that a girl knows so much about Star Wars.
And, also like you, I had to wear a patch when I was a kid. I hated it at first, but after awhile, I realized how important it was. And it gave me the perfect excuse to pretend I was a pirate :) I'm glad I wore it, because now I only need my glasses for reading and driving, rather than all the time.
I hope the boys and anyone else teasing you realize how silly they're being and see you for the wonderful, awesome person you are. I also hope you have a great time in the first grade this year!
Your friend and fellow Star Wars fan,
Tobie
Hi Katie,
I
Hi Katie!
We are so much alike it's almost creepy! When I was your age, I went by the name of Katie, my real name being Katherine (which I've never liked). I also had glasses, but not cute ones like yours. My huge lenses I had to wear because my eyesight is so bad could not fit into small frames so I had huge coke bottles. I loved Star Wars, Zelda, and Nintendo and all those boyish things! I will also tell you a secret that only my friends know. I was adopted by my mom's new husband when I was six years old, but everyone believes he's my real dad because we're so close!
I did not fit well into the school I went to at all. I got teased constantly for lots of things. My glasses, my race (I'm very white, and I was in a school that was mostly minorities), my interests, and I even got teased for being in the gifted and talented class! I had one friend. We weren't even close; she just felt sorry for me because everyone teased me. I spent my 2nd and 3rd grade days with my dad and the neighborhood kids, playing video games and watching Star Wars.
I never told my parents I was teased. I think they suspected, but I was such a happy child. When I told my mom, she asked me why I didn't tell her. I told her it wouldn't have mattered anyway. The people who can't accept me for who I am don't deserve to be my friends anyway!
(By the way, I love your glasses. My current pair are almost exactly the same, only dark red!)
Hi, Katie!
When I was a 3 year old little girl, my parents took me to see Star Wars Episode IV on it's opening day. That's my earliest childhood memory. Like you, I had Star Wars clothes, toys...I even had a Empire Strikes Back lunchbox! It's what began my path to being able to create my own adventuresome stories as a science fiction author today! The story, the action, the ability for that to capture my attention and carry me away to other worlds were VERY important in steering the woman I'd grow into. The sense of "what if" in your imagination is one of the most important things that I hope you hold close and dear to you. It will carry you farther in your life and give you more joy than I can even guess.
Growing up for me a unique experience, one that also had it's bullies. I wish I could give you a simple answer for those sorts of things, but I hope you know (and remember) that the person you are and the good you do isn't something that mean people can change. Know that you've got a huge list of people around the world that may never meet you but are sending you their best hopes and strength for what trials you face.
Stay true to yourself. Stay honest with yourself and others, and as your grow in life, go with grace and happiness.
You're stronger than you may know.
Dana
hi katie i read your story and i love star wars, i am adult and i still enjoy watching star wars. There is nothing wrong with you having a star war bottle or liking star wars.
There is alot females that love star wars, so you are not the only one:) I know w hat it like to be single out, when i went to school i had glasses and braces, i was call the ugliest girl at school and i was always made fun of.
So don't let the boys or anyone else tell you that as female you cant like star wars star wars is for everyone!
May the force be with you and i hope my reply to your story helps you and dont worry your not alone out there:)
Hi Katie! I'm a girl and I LOVE Star Wars. There are lots and LOTS of comment here, but I hope you get to see this one someday, too. Here's a little tip: The boys who are teasing you now will be fighting for a girl like you someday. I love lots of "boy" things and although I did get teased when I was younger, it's now a huge perk! The most important things is this: Your mom is right. Like what YOU like! Even if you like pink and sparkles and "girly" things - embrace it! If you like dinosaurs, outer space, and "boy" things - be proud of it! Being confident in what you like because it makes you happy will bring you a special kind of happiness some people never find. I can tell that you're a lovely young lady (bc Star Wars lovers are always AWESOME!) and you will absolutely go places and be a happy girl if you keep your mom's words in mind.
Katie, let me start out by giving you a small piece of advice: the next time one of those boys starts to tease you, ask them who killed Jabba the Hutt and helped destroy the second Death Star, because I know for a fact, that Princess Leia is a girl ;)
I'm a seventeen year-old girl now, but I started liking Star Wars when I was in the first grade too, because that's when I saw Episode I in the cinema, so believe me, I know exactly how you feel! :) Star Wars is about bravery being found in the most unexpected places, I mean, its heroes were farmboys from desert planets! Because of this, I think most of the fans have learned courage themselves, even in the smallest problems, and I hope this helps you stay strong! These days, people think being different or unique is a bad thing, but I'm here to tell you that it's not. If everyone was the same, if all girls just loved pink and fairies and princesses, the world would be such a boring place!! Being different will help you in life later on, in the same way Luke chose to be a pilot and a Jedi instead of staying on Tatooine as a farmer, like his other friends. If Luke had chosen NOT to be different, then MY GOSH Alderaan wouldn't be the only planet blown to bits, and that would've been horrible! D: I hope you know that there are millions of female Star Wars fans out there who are here to support you, and tell you that NOBODY can tell you what to like and what not to like!
Padme Amidala, Princess Leia, Ahsoka Tano, etc etc, tell those boys that in Star Wars, there are probably twice as many female characters than males! And if they were real fans, they'd know that. We're all here for you, Katie, stay strong and maybe the Jedi will come to help! ;) May the Force be with you!
Katie:
When Star Wars was first released I was 9 years old. Before I even saw the movie, I saw clips of Princess Leia and chose her as my role model. I was bullied in school for wearing glasses, being smart, and of course for my great love of Star Wars and all things science-fiction. It didn't stop me, and it shouldn't stop you.
In this day and age, girls can play with dolls AND trucks AND lightsabers. Men do not get to hog all the good jobs any more. This is not the 1950s. Boys do not get to hog all the cool toys and gear any more, either. The words that describe the behavior of your schoolmates are "Male Chauvinist Pig." You can even say to them "This is the twenty-first century, guys! I can use whatever water bottle I want! Maybe next year I'll use a Transformers one!"
I am now a mom, and my children, my husband and I go to conventions of science-fiction fans. There are *millions* of us out there! You are NOT ALONE!!! We even wear costumes. I have won awards for my Princess Leia costume I helped make. Actually when those boys get older, they will think you are *extra-cool* for liking things like Star Wars. But for now you just have to stick up for what you like and "don't let the turkeys get you down". My 4 year old daughter and I *both* dressed up as Princess Leia for a friend's Star Wars themed birthday party, and everyone *loved* it!
Princess Leia herself would be proud of you for being brave enough to continue to use your Star Wars water bottle, and so am I.
Katie,
I'm a guy, but I can tell you growing up liking Star Wars was just as hard for me, too. The rest of the boys in my classes were all into sports, and I just wanted to play with my Star Wars action figures. I had a few friends that would play with me, including the girl next door. I was jealous of her because she had the big AT-AT walker toy that I always wanted but my mom and dad couldn't afford to buy. She would always let me play with it whenever I came over, and we had so much fun acting out scenes from Star Wars. Sometimes the kids in the neighborhood would all get together and bring all the Star Wars toys they could carry, and we would have these huge battles in the backyard. Yes, we had girls playing right alongside the boys. Sometimes there would be a few Barbie dolls fighting against the Empire, but that was okay. :)
School was always hard, though, because the rest of the boys would want to play sports. I wasn't very good at sports, so I didn't want to play. The boys would tease me and take my toys and throw them on top of the roof of the school! Those were tough days.
It does get better, though. These boys who tease you because you like Star Wars... I don't know why they are doing it, but you shouldn't change who you are because someone else doesn't like it. You are the only you in the entire galaxy!
I like to think about Yoda when he was teaching Luke on Dagobah. "Size matters not. Look at me. Judge me by my size, do you?" Yoda was this tiny, wrinkled, little green dude with crazy white hair and funny looking ears. Yet he was a Jedi Master, probably the strongest that ever lived, and he looked way different than anyone else. He knew who he was inside, and it didn't matter to him what other people thought.
If you haven't already, you should check out HerUniverse.com and see all the cool Star Wars stuff for girls that is there. Be proud to be a girl who likes Star Wars. Trust me, when you get older there will be plenty of boys who will think you're really cool because you like Star Wars and aren't afraid to say so.
Remember Yoda's teachings: Anger, fear, aggression. The Dark Side are they. These boys are using the Dark Side to make themselves feel better around their friends. It won't last. Don't give into fear or anger. That way leads to the Dark Side. Be proud, show off your Star Wars stuff, and someday the boys will say, "It's so awesome that you like Star Wars!"
All the best,
Mike
Hey katie,
Dont be scared to be different and stray away from the mainstream. I also know how it is to be peskered by bullies back when I was your age...and even know unfortunatly. The best way to throw them off, make eye contact and smile. They wont know what to do next. Wish i would of known that when I was your age. So yeah, I get picked on here and there still. Im what you call a goth, but I am also in the US Air Force. I was the only one who had what we call Tripp Pants, really baggy pants with funky colors and lots of shiny bits. I had my supervisors and mentors looks of disgust, one even made a snide remark and tried to hide it as a complement. She said "Nice pants" and I said back to her "Thank you ma'am". She was kind of lost after that, and I had a big ol' toothy grin. Just remember, there will always be someone out there who will pick on those who are different than themselfs. Learn to tune them out and know that there are a lot more people who are just like you...and appently there is an Order of the Jedi somewhere in Australia...Im going to leave out on this note, different is good for it makes life just a little more interesting. Keep smiling hun ^_^
Oh honey, I'm so sorry to hear that your classmates are being mean! My girl (we call her Miss Ma'am online) is in third grade and she's having similar trouble at her school. We've told her that if her classmates laugh or tease her, it makes THEM look ugly and to just say "Wow. You're being a BULLY about a CARTOON. Knock it off." Friends don't have to like the exact same things. She likes Star Wars, Legos, Harry Potter, Batman, Justice League, Disney, Polly Pocket, and all sorts of Medieval and Rennaisance stuff! She's learning how to fight in the Society for Creative Anachronism too. Sword, shield, armor, and all of it! ^_~
I'm 27 and I've been a HUGE Star Wars fan all my life. :) I told my mom she can't complain--they couldn't get a babysitter when they went to see Return of the Jedi, so they took me with when I was a baby. I started early! When I was a kid, I'd play Luke Skywalker, because there weren't any girl Jedi in the stories when I was little. I've done my own style Jedi costumes, and one year did Luke Skywalker from the beginning of Return of the Jedi. I kept my hood on and pulled low so nobody would see my long hair. :) I did the same trick when I dressed up as Darth Maul when I was 17. It took over two hours to get the paint make-up right, but it was a lot of fun. My high school had all the girls wear long white dresses for graduation, so guess what dress I wore? Leia's! :)
I hope they put Ahsoka in more of the Clone Wars stuff they're making to sell. It drives me nuts that she's missing from so much of it! I've had the chance to do face painting for kids at most of the huge Star Wars Celebrations that Lucasfilm has been doing for last ten years, and this year we did a TON of girls up as Ahsoka, and some boys too! I love doing it, and I get to travel to neat places. What's REALLY fun is talking about Star Wars with my god-daughter and my little brother--they're both in third grade, and he stomps me at Lego Star Wars on Wii. I got to introduce him to Ray Park (he plays Darth Maul!) a few years ago and it was a lot of fun. ^_^ Mr. Park is VERY nice.
I hope nobody picks on you for having glasses, either. Mine are almost exactly like yours! Same shape, but mine are dark purple. I use a wheelchair, but I swapped the front wheels out for ones that light up when I roll. :) I went to pass your story on to Ashley at Her Universe, but saw that she's already heard and is making up a special package for you! That's awesome. :) I'm really glad to see that you're still using things that you like. You're standing up just like Leia and Padme, and setting an example for other kids who may have been too nervous to stand up for what THEY like without another example. Way to go!
~Rin
South Bend, Indiana
The year Star Wars came out, I saw it 26 times...in the theater. Be proud that you chose some good role models for yourself. And Mike is right. Someday the boys will think it's really cool that you like Star Wars.
Dear Katie,
There's not much else that I can say after all of these incredible comments! I'm happy to see so many amazing people coming here to support you.
Always remember that other people do not define you. This situation reminds me of a wonderful quote from Haruki Murakami:
'No matter what they wish for, no matter how far they go, people can never be anything but themselves. That's all.'
Being true to yourself is the most important thing that you can do in this life.
Stay strong! And of course, may the force be with you :)
- Janna
Dear Katie, I also would like to share my experiences with you: I am a mum with a 11-year-old daughter from Hungary and read your sad story. I must say, just be yourself! We had the same issue with my girl, she was bullying by boys and other girls sometimes, because she was different. Kids can always find something on you why to do that. They do it because they are bored or scared of being mocked, who knows. But you have to be proud of who you are, what you like, just care about yourself. If they see you are always nice, don't care about them, they will stop bullying you. I know it is not so easy sometimes, but you are a beautiful, smart girl, you can do it! :-)
Hi Katie,
I know your mom asked for girls who loved Star Wars to write, and I'm a guy, but I just wanted to tell you to never quit loving what you love! Being who you are and loving what you love makes you who you are! I think all guys should be telling you that loving Star Wars is awesome too! Guys find girls that love Star Wars amazing! I married one of those girls! haha So I know first hand just how awesome girls that love Star Wars are!
Never let anyone tell you that you shouldn't enjoy something just because THEY think you shouldn't! There is only one of you in this big, huge world...and you should just be as unique and individual as you think you should be!
Just remember Katie, there are boys out there that think girls like you are amazing and we are standing behind you!
All my best wishes,
Chuck
Dear Katie, I also would like to share my experiences with you: I am a mum with a 11-year-old daughter from Hungary and read your sad story. I must say, just be yourself! We had the same issue with my girl, she was bullying by boys and other girls sometimes, because she was different. Kids can always find something on you why to do that. They do it because they are bored or scared of being mocked, who knows. But you have to be proud of who you are, what you like, just care about yourself. If they see you are always nice, don't care about them, they will stop bullying you. I know it is not so easy sometimes, but you are a beautiful, smart girl, you can do it! :-)
Dear Katie, I also would like to share my experiences with you: I am a mum with a 11-year-old daughter from Hungary and read your sad story. I must say, just be yourself! We had the same issue with my girl, she was bullying by boys and other girls sometimes, because she was different. Kids can always find something on you why to do that. They do it because they are bored or scared of being mocked, who knows. But you have to be proud of who you are, what you like, just care about yourself. If they see you are always nice, don't care about them, they will stop bullying you. I know it is not so easy sometimes, but you are a beautiful, smart girl, you can do it! :-)
Katie, I'd like to share a video with you, full of awesome Geek and Gamer girl power! Embrace the inner Geek and never let any of those silly boys tell you it's wrong! <3 http://www.break.com/break-originals/other-funny-stuff/geek-and-gamer-girls-anthem
Love Team Unicorn! But not sure their video is totally appropriate for a 1st grader. I would suggest the mom watching it before showing her. If it were my kid, sure. But since they are almost naked in parts someone might take offence.
I've talked with the Team Unicorn girls before, they are definitely great geek girls, so this comment is absolutely nothing against them. Just a nice general warning to mom. :)
Hi Katie, I'm a 27 year old girl and I love Star Wars! I love Star Trek, videogames, computers, robots, spaceships, lightsabers, timetravel and science-fiction. I love a lot of things that are supposed to be 'things for boys' and I think the idea that boys and girls should like different things is nonsense.
When I was 8 years old, I had a Commodore 64 - that's a really old sort of computer - and I used it to make my own programs. I climbed trees and played soldier with the boy next door. My Barbies were superheroes in space that had to save poor Ken. I once told my friends I couldn't come play outside because I wanted to watch Star Trek!
Now that I'm older, I still watch Star Wars and Star Trek. I make websites and I also make apps for smartphones. I build my own computer. I play videogames. I wear pants. But sometimes, I also wear skirts, and make-up, and wear heels.
It doesn't matter whether you're a boy or a girl - do what you love, wear what you like. There are lots of geek girls out there. People who think boys should be boys and girls should be girls... they should go back to the 1950s. The 21st century belongs to girls like you!
Hello, Katie! Like many of the other people who have commented on this story, I am a young woman and I LOVE Star Wars. I have been a Star Wars fan ever since I was your age, and I once asked my parents if I could have an Ewok as a pet. One of my older brothers was adopted like you were (I love him like crazy!), and like you, I have also worn glasses almost all my life--since I was four years old. Other kids made fun of me, too. When they did that, I felt very lonely--but then I found other kids who liked Star Wars, too. The ways we were alike were more important than the ways we were different. We played together every day and helped each other in school, and soon we were the smartest kids in our class, and the best friends. We knew that it doesn't matter whether you look like Princess Leia or you look like Yoda--it's what's inside you that counts.
We're grown up now, and we all still like Star Wars. We have met thousands of other men, women, boys, and girls who love those stories. And we remember how Star Wars helped us meet and become friends. (One of my friends helped me to build a lightsaber that lights up, and another recently gave me a stuffed Ewok for my birthday!)
I think you are a strong and beautiful young girl for sticking to what you love, and I would be proud to call myself your friend! I hope I'll see you out with the other fans someday. Until then, may the Force be with you!
Hey Katie!
I just wanted to write to you and let you know that it is totally awesome that you like Star Wars! I didn't see Star Wars until I was in 3rd grade, but I loved it when I first saw it and still do love it. I don't want you to ever feel bad for liking anything, no matter what it is. I like a lot of the same things that boys do and when I was a kid, I got made fun of too. But that should never force you to give up the things you love. Just remember that you're totally rad and don't listen to anyone who tries to tell you that you're not.
Also, my favorite character is Han Solo. Who is your favorite character? :)
<3 Miranda
Hi, Katie! I'm a girl (well, okay, a woman, since I'm 46) and I love Star Wars too. It's one of my favorite movies! I've always liked movies that were full of action and adventures, and strange far-off places, and smart, tough girl characters. I've always wished I could travel to different planets like Luke did, so writing stories (which I also love to do)is the next best thing. I used to like to buy action figures of girl characters with swords, the sort of toys I could make up adventures with-- I still like toys like that, even at my age! Don't be ashamed of being different; most of my closest friends are what people would call 'different,' and I think that makes them more interesting and cool and fun to be around. Be proud of being the smart, beautiful and different person you are-- remember, in the whole big universe there's only one person like you, and that's pretty special! (And if you haven't seen it, look for DVDs of a series called Farscape that used to be on the SciFi Channel; if you love Star Wars, I bet you'd love it too!) Hang in there, Katie-- stay strong, a lot of other Star Wars-loving girls are thinking of you!
Katie,
Katie here.. I wish you could see the amount of people throughout the internet that have your back and will stand up to those bully's along side of you. Today I saw at least 20 different people tweet, talk and bring the story of how we should never back down from the things we like.They make us who we are, we like things because we identify with them. So don't be afraid to tell the world who you are and what you like cause there is never going to be another you.
I proudly carried my Return of the Jedi lunchbox from first grade through third grade. The handle broke off and we put a home-made strap on it. I got teased too. Mostly from the girls, not the boys. I didn't have the right designer jeans and t-shirts either.
Katie, don't let other people define who you are. You are the only you, be proud.
I still have a Yoda and an Ewok on my desk at work. No one teases me now.
Hi Katie.
just so you know, the first movie I can remember watching is Star Wars: A New Hope when I was four - I wanted to be just like Leia when I grew up - and it's still one of my favourite movies! I would of loved to have a Star Wars water bottle and backpack when I was your age, and I think that it's both terrific that you have one and that you're proud to be a Star Wars fan!
Don't let those boys that teased you bother you too much - yes, you may be a bit different from the other girls, but that's actually what makes you special and wonderful - everyone is unique on some level and you are smart enough to realize that and embrace it!
And keep in mind that it's super cool to be a girl that loves Star Wars and a 'girl geek' - there's lots of us out here and we're proud of what we are, that we are smart and like technology and science fiction, that we are independent, outspoken and beautiful, and have lots of friends that both boys and girls. We are also super-proud to have you join our ranks of beautiful girls and women who are happy to be themselves and are strong enough to admit to what they like! Stay true to yourself and you will always come through everything fine, I promise you that the older you get, the more girls you will find that love Star Wars and think it is not just for boys, and the more boys you will encounter that think Star Wars is for everyone and that it's awesome you love it!
I even have an example for you: A girl 'geek' friend of mine loves Star Wars so much that she became a science fiction writer, married another Star Wars fan, and had a lightsabre battle at her wedding! They just had a baby girl six months ago, and now we are going to have a 'introduction to Star Wars' movie day so that their daughter can grow up knowing what her Mom and Dad and all their friends are always talking about, and everyone who knows them thinks that's a terrific idea!
Congratulations on being such a fan and being proud of it and keep enjoying Star Wars, did you know there's lots of wonderful Star Wars kids books available at the library and bookstore as well as the movies? You should check them out, they're great!
Lots of love from snowy Alberta,Canada, and May the Force be With You - Always!
Hi Katie!
Just so you know, I thought Star Wars was SO COOL that I'm writing a whole research paper just about R2D2 and how he's so important to the Star Wars movies. And I'm a girl. And it's for college credit! How cool is that? Not only do I get to watch the Star Wars movies for school but I also get to write about something I love that is very dear to me. Don't let people bully you for the things you love. Be proud of who you are! Besides, you don't want to be like everyone else. That's boring. Life is fun because of how different everyone is.
May the Force be with you, Katie!
Hi Katie!!!!!!!!! I am a 21 female and I love Star Wars!!!! My dad let me watch it when I was real young and I fell in love!!!!! Not only do I love Star Wars though, I love gaming. If you looked up nerd in the dictionary my picture would be right there! So please keep loving Star Wars I don't want to be the only one in the dictionary!!!!!! Just tell those boys next time that only cool kids like Star Wars and you're one of them!
Dear Katie,
I'm a 29 year old geek girl from Germany. I've been where you are - growing up I always liked computer and role playing games far more than playing house or dressing up and using make up.
It may be tough at first (because people frown at things they are not used to) but it does get better. Eventually the same boys that are making fun of you now will ask you over to watch the Star Wars Marathon and you will develop wonderful friendships with other people who love the movies just as much as you do. Just hang in there and be brave. It takes courage to be yourself but in the end it is worth it.
You are beautiful and strong - don't let anyone change that! :)
Carolin
Hi Katie!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I am 21 and female and I <3 Star Wars!!!! It's so awesome that you do too!!!!! Don't let those boys get you down, they're just probably jealous you have a cool Star Wars water bottle! Actually so am I....... :) Just next time they say anything tell them only COOL kids like Star Wars and you're Queen of Cool. Stay strong sweetie, us girls need more kids like you!!!!!!
Hi Katie. I'm a 33-year old girl with my own 6-month old daughter now. I grew up wanting to be luke skywalker, james bond, and macgyver. I didn't dream of having them as boyfriends as other girls did, I wanted to be them! So you can just imagine how thrilled I was for somebody like Lara Croft! Finally! Growing up, I got bad vibes even from my own mother who was freaking out thinking I was a tomboy. Keep on thanking God that you have a cool mom. And never be concerned about being different. When I got to college, I was considered a "heartthrob" because a lot of boys had a crush on me for being "cool". hahaha. just be yourself. It all works out.
Hi Katie!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I am 21 and female and I <3 Star Wars!!!! It's so awesome that you do too!!!!! Don't let those boys get you down, they're just probably jealous you have a cool Star Wars water bottle! Actually so am I....... :) Just next time they say anything tell them only COOL kids like Star Wars and you're Queen of Cool. Stay strong sweetie, us girls need more kids like you!!!!!! P.S. I have no idea what's going with my computer but it won't let me post my comment all the way. Sorry Cathy!!!!
Hey Katie,
I am 22 years old and I still love peanut butter and jam sandwiches. Some of my friends tease me, but no matter how many people tell me I should eat more like a grown-up, the sandwich still tastes good.
Don't ever let what other people say take something you like away from you. It's none of their business.
Dear Katie!
The boys at your school couldn't be more wrong. My guess would be that they're either jealous because their mums didn't buy them a cool Star Wars water bottle or they think Star Wars is too cool for girls. But they're wrong. Did Yoda say the force can be only strong in boys? are there no girls in Star Wars? what about princess Leia or Ashoka? Aren't they girls? ;D
Star wars is not a boys or girlsclub. It's for Star Wars fans. Fanboys and fangirls. There is nothing better than talking aobut Star Wars with fellow Star Wars fans and it doesn't matter if they're girls or boys. If you're fan, you're a fan. Other things simply don't matter because you already share something really important, something that makes you all the same, something that helps you find new friends, something that connects you, something that makes you special and normal at the same time, your love for Star Wars or any other comic/movie/Tv show. If you're together in a room with fellow fans, you're completey normal, because you all love the same thing, Star wars.
So if you love your Star Wars watter bottle, take it with you! And if these boys bother you again, have pity on them, since they don't seem to know anything about Star Wars! Maybe you could watch it with them and then they would understand Star Wars better! ;D
May the force be with you fellow Star Wars fan Katie!
Hi Katie! I am a HUGE Star Wars fan, so much so that I took "Leia" as a nickname when I first got online and managed to get PrincessLeia.com as my website :) When I was in school I was interested in computers which made me kinda weird for a girl, but now I work in the highly rewarding tech industry doing what I love every day. Hang in there, you rock!
Hang in there, kiddo. Those aren't the boys you're looking for.
HI Katie.
My name is Jamie and I'm a Star Wars fan. I'm not a girl, and I'm not a kid. I'm all grown up, but I still love Star Wars to this day. Reading about a little girl who gets so much happiness from something I love made me smile. As I read on, my heart sank. I remember what it was like when I was growing up, being made fun of for the things I loved. I got really sad seeing that you didn't want to bring your Star Wars water bottle to school anymore because of what the boys said. As I read on and saw that you were not only bringing your bottle to school, but wearing your Star Wars t-shirt, my heart lifted again, and my smile returned. I just wanted to write to you and tell you that no matter what anybody says or thinks, don't ever ever ever let anyone take away the things you love. If any of those boys make fun of you for liking Star Wars, you stand up proud and look them in the eye and say, "Absolutely. I love Star Wars, and I don't care what you say." When you grow up, you'll see just how wonderful it is for you to like anything you want. :)
By the way, I wear glasses too and I think they're cool. :)
Hang in there, Katie, and always cherish the things you love.
Your Star Wars friend,
Jamie
Dear Katie,
I am 22 years old and I still love peanut butter and jam sandwiches. Some of my friends tease me, but no matter how many people tell me I should eat like a grown-up, the sandwich still tastes good. Don't ever let what other people say take something you like away from you. It's none of their business, anyway.
Katie, I grew up knowing about Star Wars but don't remember actually seeing the movies all together until the end of my Senior year in high school. I never had a boyfriend but then I went to college. I hosted a Star Wars movie night in my dorm lobby and met my first ever boyfriend. That was in 1997 when the original trillogy was rereleased, and on our six month anniversary of our first date, we went and saw Return of the Jedi in the theaters and on the way home, he proposed. We were married three months latter. We celebrated our thirteenth wedding anniversary this year. My husband always claimed that one of the reasons he came to that first movie night was because even if he didn't meet anyone there it was always good to see the movies. If it had been any other movie he wouldn't have come. So not only are there guys out there that like girls who like Star Wars, sometimes they marry them. =)
Hi Katie! I'm all grown up with kids of my own, and I just want to tell you to stay strong and be true to yourself! It is sad that kids find ways to be mean and hurtful. Don't let them get you down! I remember things like that happening to me. Just keep being who you are and don't hide! We are all on your side!
By the way, I loved Star Wars as a kid, and I still do! It is an awesome story! :)
Katie, (and Carrie), I am 32 years old and have been a Star Wars fan from the beginning. I was teased for being me all throughout elementary school. After I figured out that I could either change who I was to please others, or truly be myself and live my life the best way I could, I found a place of peace and serenity that has kept me going through some very hard times in my life. I hope that you can find that same strength and peace in yourself. My two kids, (a boy and a girl) both love Star Wars and fight over who gets to play with the stuffed R2-D2(that plays sound effects). And this year for Christmas my mom is getting them(and me) LEGO Star Wars pens that I found. Stay true to who you are and keep your chin up. I wish you all the best Katie-May The Force Be With You.
Hey Katie!
I am a 21 year old girl and I have liked Star Wars since I saw it with my mother and uncles when I was little! I always played Star Wars video games and read Star Wars books. I still have many of my Star Wars toys!
Throughout my life I have always liked "boy things" too. I grew up around by male cousin, so I would always play with action figures and video games. Before I had pet frogs, I would catch bugs and put them in my "bug box". I loved bugs and still do. I never thought anything was wrong with liking "boy things" until I was made fun of for bringing a Sonic the Hedgehog stuffed animal to school for my 1st grade self-portrait. All the girls and boys told me things like, "Video games are for boys!" and would constantly tease me about it. Girls also made fun of me because I would only hang out with boys too.
But you know what happened?
When we reached middle school, guess who all those boys liked? Me. And guess who all those girls were coming to for boy advice? Me!
One time in high school, I also brought a Star Wars lightsaber to school. I wore it around school and I met so many people who liked Star Wars too! Also met some guys who asked me if I had a boyfriend, lol.
But don't worry Katie! When you're little, kids try to make fun of you if you're different, but when you're older they like you for the things that make you different! ESPECIALLY if you're a girl. Sooo many guys want a girl who likes things like Star Wars, video games, or comic books. When you get older, those guys won't be making fun of you - they're going to try and make you their girlfriend! Believe me - I cannot wear a video game or Star Wars t-shirt without some guy flirting with me. :P
Be yourself! Don't try and change to be accepted - people will like you for who you are. Those boys probably have crushes on you anyway. ;P (watch out mom and dad, lol!)
As you can see, there are so many guys and girls here who support you. Please NEVER be scared of being yourself! Do what you love.
p.s. - I also had to wear an eye patch. :)
Katie,
I'm a 23 year old girl and have always loved Star Wars! Like many others here, I grew up preferring to do "boyish" things like play with car toys or build forts. You may not think it right now, but it is better to be yourself and love who you are than sacrifice yourself to "fit in". Stay strong and love who you are because it gets better!
Hi Katie!
I'm a teacher in Australia, and I remember going to see Star Wars at the cinema when i was 9....for the next 10 years my brother, sister and I would play Star Wars in our pool, with me as Han Solo, my sister as Chewbacca and my brother as Darth Vader :) Sometimes we got Mum to be Princess Leia. I also still have the whole set of original Star Wars bubble gum cards....I have to say, the boys in my class are very jealous of my card collection!
In fact, the boys in my class, who are all aged between 11 and 13, always say that their teacher, a woman, knows more about most science fiction/fantasy movies than their Dads!!
You keep liking what you like, and eventually it will stop being about girl and boy things....and just be human being things :)
Hey Katie!
I'm in college now, but when I was a little girl all I ever played, watched and read was Star Wars! Me and my big brother would always play with his army men and pretend they were stormtroopers, and to this day I still love Star Wars! Don't let anyone get you down or tell you, you can't like something just because you're a girl. Girls can like anything boys can and I bet they're just jealous that you have such awesome taste in clothes and accessories too. ;) Always remember, you're you--not them. Be who you want to be, like what you want to like. Personally, I'm a total geek and I have soo many friends that are girls and geeks too! Don't listen to those silly boys! You are one awesome little girl and Princess Leia would be proud! :)
Hi Katie
The first film I remember my mum taking me to see was Star Wars. When Return of the Jedi came out,our local cinema showed all three of the original films. I was 6. They have been my favourite films since then and I am now 32 and they still give me an amazing feeling now when I watch them.
Be proud to be you because you are special.
Hey Katie!
I'm in college now but when I was a little girl, all I played watched and read was Star Wars! And I still love it! My big brother and I would always take his army men out and build huge space stations and pretend that storm troopers were raiding a rebel base, and one Halloween I even went as Queen Amidala! Just rememer-- you're you, not them. Don't let anyone tell you that you can't like something just because you're a girl, and you know what? I bet those silly boys were also jealous of your cool gear. ;) Girls can like anything they want, and I myself am a huge geek and have many friends that are, and are girls too! My best friend is a girl and she loves Star Wars almost as much as I do! Never let someone get you down because of something you like. You can like what you want, and that makes you you! Which is one awesome little girl! ;) Princess Leia would be proud!
Hi Katie,
A long, long time ago, in a place far far away (Hollywood) when I was about your age, a very different movie came out. It was called Star Wars. It was the coolest thing I had ever seen. We didn't have DVDs back then, so if you wanted to see a movie you had to go to the movie theater.
In Los Angeles where I grew up and still live, *the* place to see it was Mann's Chinese theater. There were lines around the block for every showing. I made my mom take me every month if not every week. The movie was so popular that it played at the Chinese theater for a year and the lines remained just as long. I was there in line a little 7 year old girl and her mommy at least 20 times.
Little girls loved Star Wars, now that it's been around for 33 years, big girls love it too. How can we not? It was one of the first movies that showed a woman holding her own. Leia, didn't need to be rescued. Sometimes she rescued the boys. She was strong and independent like you are. Like every girl wants to be.
Let me tell you a recent story. I have an iPhone and you can create your own ringtones for it. I chose Darth Vader's Theme for mine so I could be "different". When it first went off in my office, a guy I hadn't met before said "Oh my God! A girl with the Imperial March as her ringtone. That's cool! I *like* her!" He is one of my closest guy friends.
Sometimes, children don't know how to express themselves. They don't know how to tell a girl she is cool so they do it the wrong way. Stay strong Katie and May The Force Be With You Always! Rachel
Katie, I'm a 28 year old woman and I went through the same bullying you did when I was your age. Boys thought I was weird because I liked Star Wars (and other "boy" tv shows) and had more friends that were boys than girls. It was hard, but in the end I loved Star Wars and it made me happy. When you're older boys will think that it's cool that you like Star Wars! Love what ever you like, being different is the best! Being different is what made Luke, Leia and Han so awesome. They were all very different than their friends, and, well, you know how the story goes! (Anakin tried to be like everyone else, first like a Jedi, then like Palpatine... and look what happened to him!)
Hi Katie - like you, I'm a girl who loves Star Wars and wears glasses! When I was not a lot older than you, my girl friends and I used to have sleepovers where we would watch Star Wars (and other movies and TV shows that some people think are just for boys) as well as Disney movies and other 'girl' things.
Anybody who thinks that something is 'just for girls' or 'just for boys' is missing out on lots of cool things.
Keep being brave and awesome!
To Katie-
I'm 22, just graduated college, and I read your story a few minutes ago. I'm sorry to hear that you were getting picked on because of your lunchbox and water thing. I honestly think you'll be much stronger if you learn early on that most of the mean things people will say to you simply come from them being bored, having nothing better to do, and looking to start a ruckus over the silliest thing.
I'm honestly grateful that you like Star Wars. When I was young the only people I knew who appreciated were boys like me, and it made me sad when it seemed to me like there were no girls who liked it. When my girlfriend went with me to see Star Wars Episode 3 I was worried that she was just doing it as a favor to me- so when I kept asking her throughout the movie if she was ok with it she finally told me to shut up because she was trying to watch it and she liked the movie. Imagine how shocked I was. I bet lots of your young male friends will be equally shocked and pleased that someone from the other gender appreciates Star Wars too.
I think it's really cool that you like Star Wars- I think these bullies are really digging through the bottom of the barrel for something to pick on you about, and even if they were picking on you over something else, I don't think you should let it matter.
All the best.
Hi Katie!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I am 21 and female and I <3 Star Wars!!!! It's so awesome that you do too!!!!! Don't let those boys get you down, they're just probably jealous you have a cool Star Wars water bottle! Actually so am I....... :) Just next time they say anything tell them only COOL kids like Star Wars and you're Queen of Cool. Stay strong sweetie, us girls need more kids like you!!!!!!
Hey Katie! I'm also girl who loves Star Wars, and I wore glasses and was adopted, too! You know who first introduced me to the Star Wars? Another girl! I was six years old when my older cousin Karen took me to see The Empire Strikes Back, and afterwards she took me to an arcade to play video games. Karen was the coolest girl I knew, and that was the best day of the entire summer! Three years later my aunt took me to see Return of the Jedi. I probably wouldn't have seen the movies if not for these two awesome women.
For my birthday this year (I'm 36 now!) I had a Star Wars themed party, and at least 20 women were there. All great friends, all fantastic people, and all girls who had loved Star Wars ever since they were kids!
Star Wars fangirls are everywhere, and they're some of the smartest, most interesting, and most fun people I've ever known. You're awesome, don't let anyone make you feel like you're not!
katie, carry that bottle with pride if thats what you wanna do! i became a star wars girl at age 5 and have never stopped loving it or buying the toys, games, movies, etc.. there are LOTS of us out there, you arent different, you just belong to another group who is very proud we are who we are! both my daughter and my son loved the movies and carried all the gear.
may the force be with you!
Dearest Katie,
I also grew up loving star wars, and I too, was teased for it. I wanted to be just like princess leia because she was beautifuland brave. I begged my mom to give me princess leia's hair buns but the kids at school made fun of me. It hurt a lot and I remember I pulled my hair down
Hello Katie!=D
I grew up watching ALL of the old Star Wars movies, and I wouldn't have it any other way! I LOVE Star Wars! I grew up with Star Wars on one hand, and Barbie on the other. I was told a lot that I liked "boy things". I heard it all the time, "that's for boys!". NOT TRUE! I'll bet you love Star Wars just as much as these other Star Wars loving ladies=). KEEP YOUR CHIN UP SWEETIE..Don't let the boys tell you can't like, love, play with anything you want to. If you love Star Wars, know that you aren't the only girl; ) Much love to a fellow Star Wars fan,
Kellie
p.s. My favorite side is the dark side; ), and my favorite character is Darth Maul=D. But, don't get me wrong I LOVE THE JEDI TOO! What's your favorite character?=)
Oh Katie... how lucky you are!! You see the wonderful world of Star wars like the rest of us!! Cool, huh? And better than that... you are adopted. How precious is that gift!! You were chosen... no guessing or trying, you were chosen ... my best friend is adopted and both of my cousins are adopted and WOW, how lucky am I that they were!! Because I get to love them for the amazing, beautiful, DIFFERENT people they are!! And yes, it is amazing to be different!! You are like no one else in the world and that is something you should always be proud of... for the rest of your life. And even though I don't know you, I'm as proud as your mommy is that you are such a brave little girl... remember... being brave isn't not being afraid... it's knowing you're afraid, but doing what you need to do even though you are afraid... that's why people are so impressed. : ) I've always been different and it's great!! And as you get older, you'll find that there are people who don't' like it, but... there are people who do, and those people will be your friends... probably the best you'll ever know, because they will love you for you you are!!
So, My Little Star Wars Buddy, all I can say in closing is... MAY THE FORCE BE WITH YOU!! and I wish I had a Star Wars water bottle too!!
Katie!
First, I would like to say that I'm pretty jealous of your cool Star Wars thermos, and might go on a shopping trip to buy one of my own soon. You've inspired me!
I'm 22, and I have four piercings in my ears--I like to wear four different earrings every day. I think you sound like a rad little lady. You've got great taste if you're already into Star Wars! I think other people have already made some similar suggestions, but you should definitely check out the great worlds of Star Trek and Doctor Who as well. One of my best friends (and one of the coolest people I know) just got a Doctor Who lunchbox to take her lunch to college with her.
Sometimes it's tough to be different--I know. I really wish that someone (or several someones, or the whole internet) had joined together to tell me how great being different was when I was your age and getting teased at school. It might be tough for a while, but eventually, people will come to realize that your confidence and unique interests are what make you special and cool.
Star Wars is awesome, but being brave enough to stick up for the things that you love is even more awesome. Stay brave, stay unique, and stay hydrated!
Katie,
My daughter is only 3 but I hope that she has the courage you have when she gets to your age to stand up for what she likes. You are an inspiration! Keep it up!
Hi Katie,
I'm a girl who has loved Star Wars since I was six years old when I saw Star Wars: A New Hope in the theater with my uncle and boy cousin. I always wanted to be Princess Leia. She is a strong, independent woman. She never let the boys tell her what to do, and neither should you. May the Force be with you, Always. :)
Katie, I am also a girl and I love Star Wars. Princess Leia is the coolest character. You have good taste in water bottles. Don't let the other kids get to you, you can like whatever you want.
Hello there, Katie! You are a beautiful and very special young woman! I am a mom who has been a big Star Wars fan since I was your age, and my daughter Hannah loves Star Wars too! In fact, she and her brother often have some pretty epic Light Saber fights! :D
Katie, you keep following your dreams, and never forget that you are wonderful and have lots of Star Wars loving women and girls on your side! :D
Katie... You are too adorable of a young lady to allow some selfish bullies to pick on you. I am 24-years-old, and I am MADLY in love with Star Wars; I tape the Clone Wars every Friday so I can watch it when I get home from work. Do not let these mean people change what you like: Stand tall, stand proud and May The Force be with You always! Those rotten boys were probably just jealous of the fact you had an awesome water bottle... I know I was.
Say it with pride that you are a Star Wars geek. There is nothing wrong with it. There are hundreds of thousands of people who are Star Wars Geeks, just like you. One day, maybe you can join us all at a Celebration; this year's truly felt as though I was home, surrounded by people who love Star Wars just as I do. Maybe your mom can take you next year...
May The Force Be With You, Katie.
Hi Katie! I'm a girl, and I grew up watching Star Wars, too! I bet you I could recite all three of the original movies start to finish. Who wouldn't want to be as cool as Han Solo or Princess Leia? Don't ever get down on yourself for liking things that other people don't think are cool. If everybody liked all the same stuff, the world would be a pretty boring place, wouldn't it? Besides, most of the coolest girls I know like things that a lot of people consider "geeky"-- but we wear our Geek Girl names with a smile, because we're proud to be intelligent and unique, just like you!
Hi Katie! I'm so glad to see that you're getting replies from so many people, and I'm glad to be one of them. You and I have two things in common: the first is, that I was just your age, about 8, and in first grade, when the very first Star Wars movie came out. I loved it more than anything ever, and my little brother and I wanted every Star Wars toy and poster and action figure and everything that came out. I'm 40 now, and I still love Star Wars, and so do my friends, the boys AND the girls!
The second thing that you and I have in common is that you and I were both adopted. I know that that can feel weird, like, you're somehow different from the rest of your family. But here's the important thing: your family loves you *just as much,* if not *more*, than kids who aren't adopted.
I was very very young when my mom told me - she says, she told me that other mothers don't get to choose their kids, but she got to pick me, and even when I was still a baby in the hospital, she knew I was hers. And your mom picked you, and that makes you extra special to her too. (I can tell, just from reading this column, that she loves you a LOT.)
Be proud of liking what you like, and make sure that includes yourself. Being different is pretty awesome! And you'll have a lot more fun with life if you spend it doing things you think are awesome, than if you let what other people think keep you from doing anything at ALL.
Hi, Katie!
My name is Genevieve, I'm currently twenty-five, and I've been a humongous Star Wars fan since I was three years old! The Empire Strikes Back is my favorite movie in the world and I can beat most boys at Star Wars trivia. I know the difference between a Trandoshan and a Ssi-Ruuk, and a Y-wing and an A-wing type fighter craft.
I'm a girly girl who likes to wear makeup, dresses, and high heels and I LOVE STAR WARS! When I was a kid I used to play Star Wars with my little sisters (who are also big Star Wars fans) and I always played the role of Luke Skywalker.
I think you should ask those boys some Star Wars trivia questions and laugh at them when they don't know the answers. Then we'll see who's really a Star Wars fan and who isn't!
When you grow up you'll find out that boys REALLY like girls who are Star Wars fans. Most grown-up women are only interested in clothes and shoes and getting their nails done. A woman who likes Star Wars and other things that boys like (comics, video games, and cars to name only a few) is going to have men following her around like love-sick puppies!
My boyfriend and I love to watch Star Wars together and he tells me all the time that I'm a one-in-a-million girl because I like all the things that he likes. A girl liking Star Wars is a VERY GOOD THING and don't ever let anybody tell you otherwise!
May the Force be with you, padawan Katie.
From Genevieve
Long Beach, CA
Hi Katie! I think it is so awesome that you love Star Wars! When I was your age, I was really into Star Trek, and I had some trouble with boys in my class about it, one of them even tried to steal some of my Star Trek trading cards! I know it can be hard when your classmates think you are different but that has nothing to do with you, there is nothing wrong with being different! If we were all the same, the world would be really boring but instead, we each bring something special and wonderful to the world, and you make the world better just by being in it and by being yourself :) I am 28 now and I am still as different as I ever was when I was your age, probably even more strange now! Ha ha! But I am happy with who I am and you will be too, just remember that your mom loves you and your friends love you and you keep doing what makes you happy :) Sometimes Star Wars fans and Star Trek fans like to pretend to fight about who is "better" but I know Star Wars is actually pretty cool and so are you :)
Hi, Katie! I've been a Star Wars fan for as long as I can remember. Growing up with three older brothers and being the only girl made me quite the tom boy. I don't regret a single moment of my life, either. I am so proud of who I am, and how my brothers helped raise me. All through high school I was known as the 'Star Wars nerd' and I stuck to it! Loud and proud, and for that, my teachers and peers respected me for just that. There is NOTHING wrong with being yourself, and once you get older, you'll have so much respect for yourself for standing by the things you loved, no matter how 'different' it may be. You are young and BEAUTIFUL. Don't EVER let anyone tell you anything else. Be strong, and be who YOU want to be. You have so many people standing beside you and making sure you stand for what is right and are holing you up so you are strong! Be confident and stay true to who you are; beautiful and your own person.
I hope this will some how help you; and guide you in any way possible.
I pray that God will bless you through-out your whole life, sweet girl.
May the force be with you. ;]
-Megan
Genevieve again!
I forgot to add that I work at Disneyland and I know the REAL Darth Vader and Darth Maul. They fight again girl padawans at the Jedi Training Academy in Disneyland all the time! There are just as many girl padawans as there are boys. Do you think that Darth Vader himself would fight a girl padawan if Star Wars was just for boys? I think not!
Hey Katie,
I'm old enough to be your mom and I have been a Star Wars fan almost since I was your age. That's a LONG time! In my world, Star Wars is for everybody, boys and girls!
You know what? Kids used to be mean to me at school too. I know what it's like. But there are thousands of people from all over the world who are on your side. You even managed to get the Clone Wars crew on your team. How awesome is that?
Don't be hide your love for Star Wars just because some boys don't understand. Be yourself always!
Katie,
I had a Star Wars lunchbox and thermos when I was seven years old (the movie had just come out). Some kids teased me that I had a "boy's lunchbox" but I simply replied, "no, I have a cool lunchbox." If you wonder what happens to little girls with Star Wars lunchboxes, I grew up to be a university professor and go on archaeological digs (just like Indiana Jones! Another great set of movies). Listen to your heart and follow the things you love. Confidence in what you love will make other people follow you.
Katie, I'm adopted and I love Star Wars, and I got teased for being different too. I always liked "boy things" and I always got teased for being a "tomboy". But I'll tell you what, now that I'm bigger, all the boys love that I can hang out with them and play the same stuff they do. Girls who like the same things as boys are a rare and special type of girl, and you will make friends who value your specialness. And those are the friends worth having.
I even dressed up as Princess Leia for the movie (that's right, not for Halloween, but to go see the movie wearing the costume!) I make lots of costumes now (http://www.theinnbetween.net/visions/costumes/necro/leia_01.jpg - that's me, and http://www.theinnbetween.net/visions/events/07-09-01_dragoncon/slaveleia.jpg - that's me down in front, just to the left of the guy in black. See? there's lots of us girl Star Wars fans!), and Star Wars has one of the best leading ladies of any movie! It's absolutely for girls too! She's strong, she's independent, and she sometimes has to rescue herself and the boys who mess up trying to rescue her!
You might be different, but so is everybody else. There are so many different kinds of people, that everyone can find others like them. Trust me, you're not alone, as I'm sure you can tell now by all the wonderful comments.
When I was your age and got teased for being adopted, I used to tell them that at least my parents had me on purpose. Bullies don't like it when you're smarter than they are and can make fun of them right back - but never start it! Making everyone else around who is listening laugh at the bully instead of you tends to make the bullies stop picking on you because it's too dangerous for them. Beat them with wit, smarts, and humor, and being nice to others!
Take heart the next time you get teased. It may feel bad, but there really are lots of girls like you, and you'll find people who value you for who you are soon!
Hi Katie, I'm Joreth's boyfriend (comment above). I've been a Star Wars fan since I was 7, and today I LOVE having a girlfriend who shares my love for Star Wars! It's one more thing that we can talk about and have a lot of fun with.
Any boy who picks on you for liking Star Wars is crazy, especially if they like it themselves. Someday they'll want girlfriends, and they'll WISH they had a girlfriend cool enough to be into Star Wars and other things that they think of as "boy stuff".
Star Wars is awesome, and people who like Star Wars are awesome, whether they're boys or girls. Be proud to be you!
Katie...I paint my son's toenails with pretty fingernail polish because he likes it. He wears pinks snow boots in the winter. He's only 3 years old and he LOVES all things "girl" and you know what? We don't care! You carry that water bottle PROUDLY! I love Star Wars, too!!! I've seen it I don't know how many times...there's always something new to catch my attention!
Hi Katie!
I'm a 26 year old art teacher from New York. I was picked on a lot when I was a kid. I found Star Wars when I was eleven years old. I watched the movies and read all the books. I was lucky enough to make friends who also liked Star Wars. Once I had good friends, it didn't matter if anyone teased me.
I still really like Star Wars. When I got married two years ago, my church organist played the ending theme from A New Hope when we walked out of the church. :-)
Hi Katie,
I'm 44 yrs old and I LOVE Star Wars!!! The original came out when I was in High School. Then came the sequels. Then came the next 3 sequels, anyway...every year they play them here where I live around Christmas and Fourth of July, and every year, you can bet I'll be glued to the Flatscreen watching all 3 original movies. I have them on Video and DVD and watch them all the time. It's ok to be different and it's ok to stand up for yourself and the things that you like even if they are different from everyone else. That's what makes you YOU! And that's what makes you unique and special from everyone else. Especially boys. Boys are not the only species on this planet. We are Girls and we are strong and we want to be ourselves no matter what anyone else thinks. Be proud to be yourself and what you like. Keep your head up high and eyes ahead and you will see all that lies ahead for you. My dad once told me that when people make fun of other people it's because they are insecure and afraid to be themselves. They only feel like "big stuff" when they are around a bunch of other kids. That's the only time they think they're cool. Katie, you are the cool one, any girl that knows and loves Star Wars the way you do is Super Cool in my book. Stay strong and be the person you want to be.
Dear Katie, Star Wars was the very first movie I ever saw in a theater. My Dad took me. We had to sneak out of the house because my Mom thought SW was for boys. She changed her mind later, when she saw how much I loved it. Now, I am a computer programmer, and I still love Star Wars. Nothing is boys-only or girls-only. You just have to be you and hope other people can figure things out eventually.
Dear Katie,
I was teased for liking He-Man when I was little, so I feel for you! Now I get to read comics and watch action movies and I don;t worry about what people think of it. :) And my little girl is ten and she likes Star Wars (She dressed as Asohka Tano for Halloween last year and I made her costume!) and Indiana Jones and lots of other super heroes.. They aren't "just for boys" they are awesome stories for everyone! So you wear your Star Wars shirt with pride, and maybe you can show other little girls that its ok for them to show interest in whatever they want, and the little boys that girls ROCK! *hugs*
From my 6 year old son who is a 1st grader too: Hi Katie I understand what you said. Some kids at my school bully too like Avery. And when I get bullied I tell the teacher and you should do that too Katie. Cause the teachers will solve the problem at my school. That's my message. Brendan
Hi Katie!
My sisters, brother, and parents all love Star Wars. I have enjoyed them for as long as I can remember. We grew up with the movies, and my older sister and I still read the books! In high school I dressed up as Darth Vader for Halloween. I know what it's like to grow up wearing glasses and a patch! I promise that you will be able to do so much with your life, no matter what other people say. Please don't be afraid to be different, be confident in who you are and what you like. Those boys that are teasing you now may just grow up to realize they drove the girls of their dreams away by being silly....
Katie,
You are an awesome little girl, and there are a lot of people who are really proud of you.
When I was a little girl, I was made fun of all the time by kids who didn't understand me, partly because I was smart, and partly because I liked things that they didn't. It hurt me a lot. I wanted to have friends, but it seemed like all the boys and girls thought I was too different to be their friend.
But guess what? When I got bigger, some of them caught up with me and they were finally sorry that they took so long to understand me. They told me they were sorry. (It still hurt, but I decided to forgive them.)
Sometimes it takes other kids a while to learn things that you already know, Katie. Just make sure that you keep on being who you are, because you are very, very special.
We all love you,
Chase
PS: All those kids from my grade school are pretty surprised now because when I grew up, I became an actress. One show I was on is Star Trek, which is like Star Wars, and I am very proud of that. Lots of actors are reading about you right now, and we all think you're very cool.
Hi Katie, I loved Star Wars as a kid and I still love it as an adult. Do you remember the very last scene of the first Star Wars movie, where Luke Skywalker, Han Solo, and Chewbacca make a grand entrance and Princess Leia gives them medals? That's the song I played when I walked down the aisle at my wedding. Some people told me that it would be silly to do that for a wedding and that I should do something more traditional. However, I did it anyway and the guests at my wedding--my friends and family--all cheered and told me later how excited they were to hear that song playing because they knew how much I loved Star Wars.
Hey Katie!
I'm a girl and I LOVE Star Wars! When I was your age, I loved all the "boy" cartoons. I even had a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle watch! I had short hair and wasn't very girly. Many kids made fun of me for what i liked and what i wore. But I realized that I liked those cartoons because they made me happy. Don't take out what makes you happy to make someone else happy. You will always have you.
Be true to you!
Hi Katie,
I see you have gotten a lot of responses but I thought I would tell you of a summer when I was probably about ten years old, maybe younger, I watched and re-watched all three of the original Star Wars. I knew every line and every gesture. I would re-enact scenes with my brother and I wasn't always Princess Leia. I absolutely love Star Wars even to this day. When I met my now husband he also had the same exact Star Wars VHSs and while it is silly to keep both copies we have.
While you may be different with your glasses, adoption, and even your geekiness over your Star Wars, that is not a bad thing. We all have to have something that says this is who we are and be proud of it. While girls being geeks seems to still be a strange thing in the media it is actually really regular. Just wait till you get old enough and can go to a convention and you can dress up as any single one of the Star Wars characters and have them down to the greatest detail because you knew them so well. You may be a geek but you will be praised by those who are also geeks.
I am proud of you, even though I do not know you, for wishing to enjoy something because you are interested in it. Don't EVER let anyone tell you you can't do something because you are a girl or because it is weird. Who cares! People are all different and that is why this world is such a wonderful place to grow-up in.
Take care! {{{{HUGS}}}}
Hi Katie :)
As a Star Wars fan, I imagine you have a vast interest in space, yes? I wanted to tell you about a program called SCIVIS, or Space Camp for Interested Visually Impaired Students. It happens every year at the US Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville, AL. SCIVIS brings young people from all backgrounds and ages with varying degrees of visual impairment to Space Camp for one week a year. You will be surrounded by TONS of young people just as awesome as YOU and just as excited about Star Wars and space exploration.
As a space nerd myself (and camp counselor) I know you would absolutely love it here. :D
If you'd like more information, it would be my pleasure to help you.
-Shep-
Hi Katie. I am a girl and I love Star Wars. I was only a couple years older than you when the very first Star Wars movie came out and my daddy took me to see it. It started a life long love of science fiction (and a crush on Han Solo - I even have a Han Solo bear from Build a Bear). Those boys are just afraid of you and show it badly. You are clearly a smart girl and a beautiful one. You are better than they are.
It isn
Katie, I have a daughter Katie (but she likes to spell it Kaedee now) who is 15 and a lot like you. She wears glasses, is into all kinds of things people think are weird or nerdy, and she's very smart. She also has an unusual sense of fashion, and likes Japanese and Korean boy-band music and French rap. She has a nice group of friends, lots of admirers and is a happy kid. But the most important thing about her is she is unapologetic about who she is. She's always just liked what she likes, and if other people think she's weird, and tease her or talk about her, she knows that they're just not very interesting. But the most important thing is that all these things about her have gotten her a long way. She was one of only 10 girls across the country chosen for the Barbie I Can Be... mentor program. She was invited to NYC to meet a lot of celebrities and powerful women, and she even stood out among that group of girls. All because she chose to be exactly who she was, with no apologies. You can see her here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8SHsbbLFI50 You could do worse to grow up to be weird like her!
Hi, Katie! My name is Natalie, and while I don't have as much love for Star Wars as you, I do love a LOT of geeky things that got me teased when I was your age and even older. My boyfriend, his mom and all our friends love Star Wars so much that they even get together on weekends sometimes, dress up and play games based on it! And don't even get me started on the Legos! :D
Even though it might seem tough now, there are lots of other girls and women out there who like Star Wars and understand how bad it feels to be teased and bullied because you like something different. Just remember that if it makes you happy and feel good, then it doesn't matter what other people think. Being different is much more fun and interesting than being part of a crowd! Besides, as awesome as you are I'm sure you'll have your own "crowd" soon enough that will love the same things and appreciate your interests. :D
We're all supporting you and love you, Katie!
Hey Katie!
I'm 24, a girl, and have been in love with Star Wars my ENTIRE LIFE. And you know what? My brothers were the ones who got me into it! Whenever they came home from college or traveling, THOSE were the movies we put in the VCR (DVD player later!) and spent hours geeking out together to. Even my sisters, who are WAY into girly-girl stuff, like Star Wars! Cool, right?
I was always teased in school for reading too much, or for liking superhero comics and anime, or for not having the "right" backpack or lunchbox, but I learned pretty quickly to ignore those people. Never be afraid to be yourself! The people who put you down for that don't deserve your attention!
Stay cool, Katie - The Force (and every Star Wars fan that ever lived) is always with you!
High fives and hugs,
Margaret
Hey there, Katie! I know you've probably been reading for a long time to get to my comment but I wanted to be sure to chime in.
When I was your age I was too scared to even watch Star Wars. But once I finally sat down and watched episodes 4,5 and 6 (this was before 1-3 were even in the works) I was totally blown away. I started reading the books. I started trying to convert my friends to fandom. I got a shirt with Yoda on it that I wore every Friday.
All was well and good until I finished eighth grade at my little safe private school and had to go to the big public high school. People there didn't understand my obsession, and they sometimes weren't very nice about it.
But when I was at home, Star Wars was all I thought about! I even started dyeing my hair red-- which I haven't stopped doing in the 12 years since then-- because of my favorite character in the books (Mara Jade-- the one whose name still shows up in my usernames to this day!) I didn't wear my Yoda shirt as much, but I still occasionally braided my hair into two buns and had a couple comic book pages on the front of my binder. And most importantly, I found a small group of friends who didn't think I was acting wrong.
And then a funny thing happened-- Episode 1 came out when I was in 11th grade, and suddenly people in my science class were asking me questions about the Star Wars universe and trying to stage lightsaber battles with yardsticks. It turned out that they felt better about letting their geekiness show because they saw that I was comfortable with MY geekiness!
I'm sure you've gotten the idea by now, that you're definitely in good company among us lady geeks! So stay strong and be yourself. It can be hard sometimes, but you'll be glad in the long run, I promise. If nothing else, it's far more interesting to be different, and you meet much more interesting people!
Dear Katie,
When I was a kid, I was teased at school sometimes too. I had to get glasses when I was just a little bit older than you are and I felt pretty goofy in them. But years later, I still love wearing glasses and they are part of who I am. But even more importantly than be a proud glasses wearer, I am a girl who LOVES star wars! I was a little kid when Return of the Jedi came out and that has always been my favorite star wars movie. in school some of the other kids and I would play star wars at recess and I was the only girl. but the cool part about that was that meant that I got to be super cool princess leia. you know, I think you are lucky because nowadays there's even a star wars cartoon! I wish I had a star wars backpack to take to work, because I think that would look really cool. I do have a R2D2 cell phone, though, and I love it. I'm 30 years old and I love my R2D2 phone, even when people tease me about it. The most important thing in life is that you are happy and if star wars makes you happy, then you wear star wars stuff every day if you want to! You sound like you're a pretty cool girl. Keep your chin up and may the force be with you, always. :)
Hi Katie,
I was a little girl when the first Star Wars movie came out and I loved it, I still do. If you like something it doesn
Hi Katie! I have been a HUGE Star Wars fan ever since I was about four years old. My Dad and I built Star Wars models together, and I went on the Star Tours ride at Disneyland so many times I knew all the words. When I was a kid, people teased me at school, too. Some kids were mean to me because I wore glasses. Now I am 25 years old. I still have glasses, but nobody teases me, and I don't ever think about those silly mean kids at school anymore. In fact, I have a whole bunch of friends now who love Star Wars too (and a lot of them are girls)! Katie, being different is AWESOME. It's what makes you the special, unique, super cool girl that you are. I totally would have wanted to be your friend when I was in the first grade, and I'm sure you're going to grow up to be a fabulous Star Wars-loving woman one day. May the Force be with you!
Katie, as you can see from all of these comments, you are not alone, and here's one more female Star Wars fan who thinks you are super-cool! I am a veterinarian and 38 years old and have loved Star Wars for most of my life.
My sister and I were 5 and 4 years old when our parents took us to see the first Star Wars movie in the theater, and we were hooked! We collected all of the small figures and anything else we could get our hands on (cards, glasses, lunch boxes, stuffed animals, etc.)...the larger dolls became our Barbie dolls' friends (Han Solo was cuter than Ken!) - we were obsessed. I still love Star Wars, and my husband and I love to play the Lego Star Wars video game. I can't wait to introduce my 5 month old son to Star Wars when he's older.
Those boys are just silly and probably jealous, and boys are not always going to be like that. My husband loves the fact that I know so much about Star Wars, and he even thinks it's cool that I know way more about Star Trek than he does.
There's nothing you shouldn't like or can't do just because you're a girl, and as you get older, you will find more and more people who understand that.
Star Wars was one of my favorite movies when I was a little girl (who started wearing glasses in elementary school)! Be proud of yourself! You have nothing to be ashamed of!
Hi Katie,
I have a daughter who is in 1st grade and loves star wars. She watches the clone wars and LOVES Ashoka.She has the lunch bag,bottle, toys, and clothes. One day some older boys told her "you don't know star wars your a girl"She turned around and told them who every character is and much more.Turned out SHE knew more than them and now they want to play with her. Check out heruniverse.com or on facebook.This site is all girls...all star wars.Lots of fun clothes.My family and friends love it. There are lots of strong girls in star wars...princess, jedis! You too will be great. Lots of prayers and love.
May the force be with you...always!
Hi Katie! I wanted to first tell you that I think you are very brave and awesome for being your own person. Please do not let boys ruin something as great as Star Wars for you. I am a 32 year old woman, I also wear glasses, and when I was a little girl I wore a patch too. I also LOVE Star Wars, and boys always told me that Star Wars was for girls. Well guess what? If that's true then why do women hold some of the highest political positions in Star Wars? Princess Leia and Queen Amidala are VERY powerful and influential women. Also, the ENTIRE REBELLION was under a female leader named Mon Mothma. (She's that lady in Return of the Jedi who says, "Many Bothans died to bring us this information.") See? Star Wars is for everyone, not just boys, and even shows you that women can grow up to be anything they want.
Dear Katie,
I am a girl, and I have LOVED Star Wars since I was 9 years old. I used to get made fun of by the boys at my elementary school for liking Star Wars, and in particular, for making Star Wars finger puppets and putting on a puppet show with them. It wasn't fun, but I endured it and kept going. I kept reading Star Wars books and doing creative things, because those were the things that made me happy. I'm really glad I kept doing those things. I still love reading, and now I write books of my own. (They aren't published, but someday.)
Stay strong. Don't let pressure from other people stop you from being who you really are. Who you really are is beautiful and amazing.
May the Force be with you,
Amy
Hi Katie! I am a Star Wars fan, and I'm a girl. Those boys sure are silly if they think it's weird for a girl to have Star Wars stuff. I *always* wanted Star Wars toys instead of Barbie dolls! The boys who lived next door to me always wanted to play Star Wars, too, and every year we asked our parents for different toys so we would have a complete set when we put all of our stuff together. I had a Millenium Falcon. They had the Imperial Starship set, complete with trash compactor and bridge. I had tie fighters. They had an Ewok Village. We sure had a lot of fun playing together when we combined all of our toys! No one ever told me that I shouldn't have Star Wars stuff because I was a girl.
Hi Katie, can you believe how many girls and women have written you to tell you they are Star Wars fans? Well, it's pretty amazing. The first Star Wars movie came out when I was ten years old and I saw it in the theater ten times that year. When the second movie came out I remember that I got the soundtrack and listened to it all the time. Before Star Wars, I liked Star Trek and Godzilla movies. Boys teased me back then, but I think they just didn't want to admit that they wanted to be friends with me. When you get older, the boys will like that you can enjoy movies like Star Wars, and aren't afraid of things like worms. When I met my husband he said "I'm Luke Skywalker, and I'm here to rescue you!" because he knew I had a crush on Luke! And guess what? We have been to two Star Wars conventions since then, and at the last one I got to meet Luke Skywalker!
So don't think you are alone! It's great to be a girl Star Wars fan!
Hi Katie,
My name is Dave, and as you've probably guessed, I'm actually a boy. I'm a grown boy, but actually used to be a little one, so I can tell you from experience that sometimes, little boys can be stupid. And maybe you've heard this before already, but we can sometimes take a little but longer to grow up than girls.
This is probably why you are smart enough to love Star Wars, and they just don't get it. Now remember when I said that sometimes as little boys, we can be stupid? Sometimes, when we're not smart enough to understand something, we tease and make fun. That sounds so silly, right? Yes, I know.
Anyway, you don't know it now, but one day, those same little boys are going to grow up and think it's SO COOL to meet a girl who likes "boy stuff" like Star Wars, or football...or...beer pong (Don't worry about it. You can ask your mom or dad about that in about 15 years or so).
I happen to think that it's great that you love Star Wars, and trust me, all the other smart people do too! Take care, enjoy the rest of your school year, and may the force be with you!
-Dave
Hi Katie! I'm from Seattle and 36 years old and I love Star Wars! I remember staying up when the second movie came out on Cablevision, for one night only, a really big deal then because they didnt have DVD players and very few people had VCRs. I was allowed to have a couple of friends over and it was a whole slumber party, just so we could watch Empire Strikes Back.
It's ok to like different things, just remember, be your own girl, do what you enjoy and share with others, That plus the awesome mom you have, you'll be a-ok.
Hi Katie,
Don't worry about those mean boys or anybody else who tries to tell you what you should or shouldn't like. Star Wars is for everybody and there are a lot of good lessons to be learned from those movies. I've been a fan since I was 12 years old and even though I'm a lot older now, I still collect the toys and watch Clone Wars every week. I only WISH I had a Star Wars water bottle... that sounds really cool! Those boys are probably just jealous because they don't have one. Take care, and may the force be with you.
Hi Katie! I have to say I'm not a girl like you are...but my little daughter Sam is! My Sam is 4-years-old and she loves Star Wars just like you do. She wears her pink "I'd just as soon kiss a wookiee!" shirt proudly and loves the Clone Wars movie and TV shoe. R2-D2 is her favorite!
Some people will always say that this or that is only for boys or girls to like...but it's important to remember that fun things are for everyone and if it makes you happy then it is of course for *you*!
Hi Katie!
My name is Heather, and I am a 35 year old girl who grew up loving Star Wars. I didn't have action figures of my own, so I had to go to the neighbor boy's house to play. I would have loved a Star Wars lunchbox! (I ended up with Annie which was great but no Star Wars. I think my mom was worried that I would get picked on. How awesome that your mom knows you well enough to know that you can handle whatever the world's goofballs throw your way. I didn't figure out that I was strong like you until I was in 5th grade. You are ahead of the game!
My daughter will start 1st grade in January, after her cancer treatment has slowed down a bit. She does not have any hair, and I am pretty sure that some of the kids who don't already know how cool she is will pick on her. If you have time to compile your favorite bully-busting tactics, we would love to benefit from your experience and wisdom!
Hi Katie! My friend Christine loves Star Wars - enough to wear a Han Solo shirt and have a bunch of R2D2 toys and collectibles. Anyone can like Star Wars - doesn't matter if they're a boy or girl. I'm a guy but I know plenty of girls who like it! I hope you continue to enjoy it!
This breaks my heart. I'm a 34 year old female scientist, and I love Star Wars. My dog's name is even Wicket, because I think she looks like an Ewok (although some people think she looks more like Chewbacca). I used to play with light sabers when I was a kid--and I had glasses, too! Now I still love to read all kinds of fantasy and science fiction, even comic books. You'll miss out on a lot of fun stuff if you only do the things that are supposed to be for girls.
My daughter is 10 (and has glasses too!) and we watch Star Wars together. She also loves the 2 Ewok movies. My son loves them all too, and you know what, he also does gymnastics. Sometimes he gets teased for that too because people say that's a "girl's thing," but he has a lot of fun with it and I'm proud of him for standing up to the bullies even though I know that's a hard thing to do.
Hi Katie! I know you already have a ton of comments, but I wanted to let you know that I've been a Star Wars fan since I was 4 years old. We used to play Star Wars in preschool (at recess) all the time, and I had a tin/metal (I don't what, it was the 80s) Star Wars lunchbox and thermos when I was little. To this day the original three movies are among my favorites and I have a sweet vintage looking Star Wars shirt. Do not EVER let anyone tell you Star Wars a) isn't cool and b) is just for boys. If that were the case, Princess Leia and Queen Amidala wouldn't have been so awesome. Keep your chin up and don't let those boys get to you. Being bullied often has little to do with you, and more to do with something the bully feels bad about regarding himself or herself. Remember: Do or do not, there is no try.
Katie, I'm female, in my early 40s and have loved science fiction since I was very young. I remember collecting the original Star Wars character glasses from Burger King. I remember watching the Star Wars movies dozens of times in the theatre with my girlfriends. More than that though, I was very different from other kids for many reasons.
I won't lie to you. It's not easy being different. I didn't have many friends. But the friends I made were true and accepted me for who I was. Kids teased me, but I learned to ignore them because they didn't matter. I mattered. My real friends mattered.
People can be cruel and mean -- it never stops. But you learn to ignore it and focus on what's important.
YOU are important. Always remember that. People come and go in your life but YOU are always there. No matter what you believe in, love, support and enjoy.
Be true to YOURSELF, and the world will follow. Good luck.
Hi Katie! I know you've already gotten over 600 comments to read! That's pretty cool right? But I thought it couldn't hurt to add one more.
My name is Taylor, and I am a 20 year college student. Ever since I was little I have always liked "boy things." I love super heroes, comic books, action and sci-fi movies, skateboarding, sports, you name it!
I have been a Star Wars fan ever since I was your age, and it is still one of my all time favorite things. I know that being different can be uncomfortable, especially when other people start picking on you for it. But what you always need to remember, is that you are allowed to be whoever you want to be, no matter what they think. The important thing is that you are always happy. Don't ever let anyone get in the way of that.
Hey Katie! Me (19) and my best friend Sarah (20) are both female college students and we LOVE Star Wars. We actually just held a movie night to watch Star Wars last week. Sarah is even playing Yoda in a school play we have next month! It's ok to like things like Star Wars even though you're a girl. The things that make you different is what makes you unique. :)
To Katie -
I have loved Star Wars since the movie first came out (yes, that was a loooong time ago, in a galaxy right here!).
I also always felt very different from my classmates: I had glasses from a young age, I liked reading and studying, and I think the way I dressed was not so 'cool". But my mom and dad always made me feel I was smart and that I was destined for great things!
I don't know about those great things, but I have had a very fun life so far now (I'm even older than your mom!) and a lot of it came from believing that, Yes! I was different!
When I graduated from high school in a small town, I moved to Philadelphia and then New York, then San Francisco, and now I live in Australia! Wow! I have friends all over the world and it's been very fun.
When you are different you can do anything you want - you're not stuck doing what the crowd does. You have the power. You are, in fact, truly connected to the Force!
Feel the Force, Katie! And best wishes to you, from Ann in Australia!
Katie, Women LOVE Star Wars. I know, becuase I have loved it since the first movie came out in 1977 and I STILL love it! I saw te first movie at least 30 times in the theater, and saw "Empire" and "Jedi" almost as many times. I had Star Wars lunchboxes, towels and even underwear. Use your thermos and backback proudly. It's not just for boys - girls like spaceships and Jedi Knights as much as they do; Princess Leia is the ultimate hero and there were lots of female Jedi Knights. Don't let the boys get you down; they want to make Star Wars just for them!
Hey Katie,
I'm a girl and I loved Star Wars when I was your age and I had a Star Wars water bottle too!
Don't let the boys or anyone else tell you what you should and shouldn't like, not now and not ever. It's just dumb to tell people they can't like something, especially when it's something so cool!
I proudly go to class in my Star Wars t-shirt even now I'm twenty and the boys think I'm cool because I like the same stuff they do. They'll probably feel silly for telling a girl not to like something "for boys" by the time you guys are my age because it's great having people liking stuff you like.
Oh and I have glasses too, mine are only for reading though, but I love my glasses.
Go forth in your Star Wars gear and ignore the meanies, may the force be with you, young padawan!
Hi Katie. On behalf of all boys/guys, I apologize for what those boys said/did to you. They had no right to do that. You're great the way you are. Personally, if I was a little kid again and I saw that you had a Star Wars bottle and backpack, I would think you were awesome and would want to hangout with you. Don't let being different bring you down!
Sincerely,
Josh F.
Hey Katie, I'm a 28 year old woman and have ALWAYS loved Star Wars, X-Men, GI Joe, etc. It's okay! There is NOTHING wrong with liking what you like for whatever reason you like it - wouldn't life be boring if we were all the same? Plus, boys like it when you can talk to them about stuff they like (maybe not yet, but one day).
Also, there is a 5 year old girl I babysit who LOVES Mario Brothers, Star Wars and Batman! She is the coolest kid I babysit for because she does what makes her happy, we always have a ton of fun playing together! You are definitely not alone :)
Hi Katie!
You are so strong (and beautiful might I add!) I wish I was as cool as you when I was younger. I didn't watch Star Wars until I was older but I loved it and I've gone as far as buying the Christmas Special and am very proud to say I have a Yoda stuffed animal on my bed. You have such good taste in movies at such a young age too! Stay strong, you have so many people supporting you.
Ps- I was very happy to read you wore your t-shirt to school! Don't let those silly boys get you down, they don't know what they're talking about :)
I could never marry a girl who didn't like Star Wars.
Hey, Katie!
I just wanted to tell you that I admire your courage for taking your Star Wars thermos back to school. When I was your age, I was bullied because I was too smart, I lived on a farm, and I wore big red glasses. If I had been picked on for using a Star Wars thermos, I'm not sure I would have had the courage to take it back to school.
So many awesome people have left you so many kind words, that I can't find any new ones to say. I can, however, leave you with this:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z_Rfjl6tGW4
Believe in yourself, be true to yourself, and amazing things will happen!
Katie, my best friend is a girl that is a huge Star Wars fan, even a bigger Star Wars fan then me. I think she's the most amazing person in the world because she's not afraid to be herself.
Don't let those boys tell you how to live your life, because there are people out there like me that love you for being yourself
May the Force be with you, Katie
Katie
I'm a 37 year old guy, with 2 adorable daughters ages 5 and 9. The 5 year old is in Kindergarten and the 9 year old is in 3rd grade. They both LOVE Star Wars, and aren't afraid to show it. We all play with Star Wars LEGOs too.
My 5 year old also likes Hot Wheels cars, Bakugan, Iron Man, and SpiderMan. She also likes Disney Princess things as well. She takes a SpiderMan backpack to school.
The real point is to enjoy the things you like, and not listen to any mean kids that make fun of you. Be proud of who you are. Dress how you like, listen to what you like, read what you like, and watch what you like...and NEVER listen to anyone that tells you that "girls aren't supposed to do that".
Trust me, those boys that make fun of you now will be wanting to be your friend when they get older. It sometimes takes boys awhile to realize that girls like you are the coolest kinds of girls.
May The Force Be With You!
Hi Katie!!I'm from Brazil, I was very glad to see you like star wars, every girl ought to like something so good, dont mind what others think, the important thing is to be yourself. know that here in Brazil you have a friend who likes star wars as much as you. Pity that when I was a child I never had a bottle of star wars ... bye!
First off I am a mom of three: 11 year old daughter, 9 year old son and a 3 year old daughter. You are talking about 6 and 7 year old boys and all current Star Wars is geared toward boys 5 years old to about 12 years old. They're not bullying Katie, they honestly believe that Star Wars is meant for boys, not girls. I bet if you and other adult females talked to anyone one of the boys about how you like Star Wars, they'd be shocked. Maybe if Katie talked Star Wars with the boys, they'd realize she's a fan like them. (trust me I've gone through this with my son at about that age- he couldn't believe that I am a Star Wars fan at first)
Hi Katie,
Enjoy Star Wars. As a very young girl I enjoyed playing with small racing cars and a lot of so called boys toys. Katie you are helping other kids grow into confident adults. Let's Rock It Across America and change the culture of bullying as it does start young. Katie you have the love, strength and support.
Katie! I was 8 years old in New Zealand when the first Star Wars movie came out in 1977... and my life changed :) I used to eat and sleep Star Wars.. I couldn't think about anything else. All my friends - girls and boys, were HUGE fans, and no one cared, just as long as we loved Star Wars! We waited and waited for the Empire Strikes Back to come out.. and it was even better than the first one. It seemed too good to be true... it was just amazing and we all collected every magazine or book that said anything about the movies.
It took years and years, but eventually I got to live the dream that I had so many years before. I always wanted to work in movies - doing special effects - after seeing Star Wars. That magic moment at the beginning of the movie when the ship goes over the top of the screen and your stomach leaps out of your throat... there was nothing like it. I studied computer animation in Canada and went to work in Hollywood for 10 years doing visual effects on all sorts of amazing movies. It was all because of Star Wars. Don't let any stupid boys say anything to you... they just are repeating whatever they think is 'cool' .. but YOU are the one that is cool. You have the power to do whatever you want to do... you have passion and excitement and love for something, and that will take you wherever you want to go. If they keep saying those things, just keep in mind that they might not ever have the chance to do the things that you will do... and one day, it WILL get better. There is life after school... much more exciting and wonderful life. Just be proud, hold your head up and smile and tell them that only the coolest girls like Star Wars, and if they had any smarts, they would want to be friends with those girls! Good luck... be strong... have a wonderful life :)
Hi Katie! I'm a 24-year-old girl and I've loved Star Wars for as long as I can remember. Han Solo was my first crush when I was a little girl. I've got so many Star Wars things that I've bought over the years. In fact, I'm wearing my Chewbacca socks today; they don't match the rest of my outfit, but I like them and they make me happy. I went to go see the last movie at midnight when it was released. I went with a bunch of my female friends and we had a blast. Keep doing what makes you happy. Show off your awesome Star Wars water bottle. Those boys are probably just jealous that they don't have one like that.
Hey! Well I'm not a girl...and my grammar isn't the greatest so I apologize if you try to read this out loud and comes out badly. but! I don't think you have to be a boy or a girl to love star wars, I am glad to see that you are willing embrace your love for star wars. Don't let anyone tell you that you are not awesome, because you are most definitely are.
These people that put you down and pick on you are jealous of how amazing you are. I always keep that in mind when I got picked on. I am so glad you are finding the courage to stand up for yourself. That is important thing to have.
Keep it up, remember these boys that pick on you are just temporary in life. There is always more life to come and the only way to live it is by embracing what you love. Those around you will notice how happy you are and soon you will have people around you that appreciate Star Wars just as much as you do. Trust me...I go to conventions and there are thousands upon thousands upon millions of us Star Wars geeks out there. (boys and girls alike).
I hope you continue to wear Star Wars shirts and what not....I wear pink shirts on occasion just because...not because I want to be a girl or anything just because its a color big deal right?
Well anyways stay awesome
Andy
Hi Katie!
I don't have a story to tell, but I wanted to let you know that I think you are awesome and brave and wonderful! Don't be afraid to be yourself. Just think it would have been easy for Princess Leia to just go along and keep her head down and let the Empire stay in power, but instead she stood up for herself and what she believed in. You do the same.
Cheers,
Dave from Richmond, CA
Hi Katie!! I was a third grade teacher, and last year I was a Stormtrooper for Halloween. The costume shop didn't want to rent it to me, because they said it was for boys only. I said, "I wanted to be a Stormtrooper since I was nine years old". They said, "It won't fit".. I said, "I will make it fit". I was a great Stormtrooper and I would be happy to email you a picture if it is OK with your mom. (rngrgirl593@hotmail.com) Even boys thought I looked cool. Never think you can't like something because it is a boy or a girl thing. Girls have "the force" like yoda too!
I even joined the Army, which was mostly boys, but I wanted to be a soldier. Cool girls don't try to be like everyone else. Cool girls are unique like you! :) RangerGirl
Hi Katie,
One of my earliest (and best) memories is watching Return of the Jedi in the movie theater when I was five. It completely blew my mind and rocked my world.
Star Wars is so much bigger than a girl thing or a boy thing. Always remember that Leia bailed out Han and Luke when they needed help (just like they helped save her when she needed help) and that Amidala ruled an entire planet.
I can't promise that boys will stop teasing you (people can be pretty dumb sometimes) but I can tell you that there is absolutely nothing wrong with a girl liking Star Wars. I'm a girl and I've been a Star Wars fan for twenty-seven years.
Hi Katie!
When I was a young girl, I was different because I had REALLY long hair and always wore dresses and read books and didn't like to go outside to play. The boys AND girls at school all made fun of me and called me a witch and didn't want to be my friends. But then new kids started going to the school in the middle of the year, and they were different and didn't have friends at school too- and so the kids that everyone made fun of became friends.
Something that really helped me was to join an after-school club. I participated in CampFire kids (my family couldn't afford Girl Scouts) and when I was a little older, I joined band in school. That introduced me to people that I had things in common with and it was outside of school, so there was no pressure from other kids. We could all just be ourselves and have a great time learning and playing together!
Maybe you will be able to help the other kids know that it's okay to be different. I'm sure that as you (and all the other kids!) grow up, everyone will realize that all of you are different in lots of ways, and that it's a good thing.
You're a very brave young lady, and I really admire your courage.
Hi Katie! It's hard to be bullied. I had glasses from when I was really small and I like lots of things that others weren't interested in. But I hope you won't let other people decide what you should be. That's a decision you should make for yourself. (With advice from people you trust.) Star Wars is a really fun movie. Frankly, I'll bet some of those kids were jealous of your water bottle. Don't laugh, but I have some Star Wars toys still and I'm 43. :D You're a special girl. Don't let other people make you feel bad because of it. It can be hard, but I know you can do it. Just remember there are tons of people who think that you are a great person. Way more than were picking on you, I bet. It's okay for girls to like Star Wars or for boys to like Barbie and pink. Enjoy what makes you and others different. It makes the world a lot more fun.
Hi Katie!!! You are the best because you are a Star Wars fan! I have been picked on for many different things over the years. For my parents being divorced for looking different for liking different things. Just always follow your heart. If you do that everything will be okay. Don't let any boys tell you that Star Wars is for boys its for girls too. We make awesome Princesses and Jedi not to mention Senators.
Hi Katie,
While I wouldn't classify myself as a Star Wars fan, I do love science fiction. I'll be honest with you, sometimes certain people think that I'm a little bit weird, but I have determined that I don't care what they think. We can still be friends, even if we have different interests. It's actually more fun to be around people who like different things because then you can learn things from them.
My little sister is also named Katie. Like you she has problems with her eyes and has to wear a patch. I noticed your blue glasses and my sister has almost the same exact ones! Blue is her favorite color. I wanted to tell you about Katie because she is five years old and she likes a lot of "boy" things such as tools, video games and getting dirty. But to her they're not "boy" activities, they're just things she likes to do in addition to drawing, dressing up and playing restaurant. I hope that both of you are able to pursue whatever activities and interests that you like, and that people will realize that you are cool just the way you are.
Have fun in school!
Hi Katie,
My name is Zoe and I live in Dubai which is almost on the other side of the world from you. I grew up in England and I LOVE Star Wars too! I came here from Twitter where lots of very famous and respected women are telling us all about you and those stupid bullies who upset you.
You sound like a really cool girl and I think those boys are probably just jealous that you've got an awesome cup and theirs is rubbish in comparison.
Cool stuff is for everyone! There is no reason at all that boys should get all the fun and cool stuff.
I think you are so lucky to have so many amazing friends all over the world who want to tell you how awesome you are...that's possibly the coolest thing EVER! Also, you are really lucky that your mummy loves you so much that she writes about you and asked all of us to come and tell you how cool you are.
Someone told me when I was younger that; 'those who matter don't mind and those who mind don't matter'. I'm 35 now and I still like to remind myself of that from time to time...I hope you will too.
Keep being you Cool Girl, you are amazing!
Lots of love,
Zoe xo
Hi! Katie. I'm kristie and I like Star Wars. I have a daughter, Katy, and though she's only 4, she's starting to like Star Wars - and she loves spiderman and wolverine and The thing and other super heroes. She is taunted at her pre-K for liking and wearing supposed boy-things. I think your confidence in bringing your star wars bottle back to lunch may help her at her school. Keep it up.
Hi Katie! I am a 38 year old female and I remember my parents taking me to the drive in to see the first movie way long ago. I used to have Star Wars bed sheets and action figures and t-shirts! I wanted to be Princess Leia when I grew up. Well, I am sort of grown up and I was just Princess Leia for Halloween! I still love the movies, in fact, I was making my dog watch the original with me earlier tonight! Don't ever let anyone tell you what to like or push you around! You are awesome and the boys are just jealous!
Stay true to what you believe in and you will always come out ahead!
Hi Katie,
When I heard about this I could not get to the comments section fast enough. My dear, do not...NOT ever think that a girl cannot like Star Wars!
I've loved Star Wars since I was a little girl. In fact, I have pretty much every single line memorized (from eps.IV,V,VI of course) I am not kidding.
I am now 36 years old and I wear my pink vintage Japanese Star Wars movie poster tee-shirt with pride and get tons of compliments on it. It's like a badge that says to the world I AM A CHICK AND I LOVE STAR WARS!
And just to prove it, here's a recent pic I took of me wearing it.
http://d.imagehost.org/0611/DSC00212.jpg
(I'd be happy to help you get one of your own to wear just as proudly.)
You are adorable and obviously very smart. Boys say stupid things because they are not very bright. This will become abundantly clear to you later in life.
Good luck, Katie. Mwah!
Lila
Dear Katie,
I was your age when the first Star Wars movie came out in 1977, and I still remember how amazing it was to see it in the theatre. I fell completely in love with the story, and acted out scenes from the movies with my friends at school, and played with action figures, and even decorated my room with everything I could find with Star Wars on it -- posters, pictures I drew myself, even the sheets on my bed.
As I got older, I also loved a lot of other "boy" things, like Lego and computers and video games; and a lot of "girl" things too, like horses and cooking and sewing. I'm incredibly proud of you for deciding to take your Star Wars bottle to school, because what's really important is that you really care about the things you love -- it doesn't matter AT ALL that somebody else said that something is only for girls or for boys. As an adult, I know both men and women who still love ALL of those things I loved as a kid. What matters is that you stuck up for who you are and what you care about, not what anybody else thought about it.
It's really hard when you're a kid and you don't know anyone else who seems different -- but believe me, you can grow up proud of being a Star Wars fan or whatever else you decide you want to be.
All the best,
Amy (who also wears glasses)
I would say that boys are just intimidated by how cool you are. When you get older, boys tend to stop being immature. Most guys will think you're pretty cool for liking star wars. I totally like all sorts of geekery, star wars included. Here's a picture of me in a Chewy shirt. http://i53.tinypic.com/30lnexg.jpg
Not to mention I'm at a convention, posing with the guy from pure pwnage (geeky little gamer show).
Hi Katie! I saw a link to this article your mom wrote on Her Universe Facebook page. If you don't know what that is, it's a fan page for a company that makes clothing, make-up, jewelery and many other things only for girls who love Star Wars and other movies or shows like it. I'm a big fan because ever since I was a little girl I loved Star Wars and could never find Star Wars clothes that weren't made for boys. Star Wars my favorite movie till this very day. I even still collect the toys. I'm turning 27 years old next month, and after all this time I haven't let anyone tell me I'm wrong for what I like. Never let anyone get you down. You sound like an amazing kid and no matter what always be true to yourself. You're special because you are different. Different is good, otherwise everyone would be the same. Just look at Ashoka Tano from the Clone Wars on Cartoon Network. The odds are against her but she always stands up for what she believes in. I hope you continue to do what you love, and feel comfortable being who you are. One day, those who voice out against you, will wish they had your courage to be unique, to have the strength to go against the odds. Be strong little one and may the force be with you =) Always!
Hi, Katie. I'm a 41 year old woman and I *love* Star Wars. And Star Trek and Babylon 5 and Battlestar Galactica and all kinds of science fiction shows. Boys don't own any of those shows. I had plenty of Star Wars toys when I was a kid, and I would've loved to have a Star Wars thermos. Use yours with pride! Keep your head up. You're awesome, Katie!
Hi Katie! I'm a 23-year-old girl about to graduate college, and I've loved Star Wars since I saw it when I was ten years old.
I was bullied, too. When I was your age, I liked the shows Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and Power Rangers, and people told me that those were shows for boys. I remember being upset because my mother wouldn't buy me a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles shirt because she'd been told that it was "just for boys." When I got older, I was still bullied for wearing black shirts instead of pink ones like the other girls in my grade.
Now, I'm in college and I've met so many people who like me the way I am -- even the guys who would have made fun of me back then. The trick is to just keep being who you are and liking what you like. Nobody's worth giving up what you love!
Hey, there, Katie!
I loved reading your story and wanted to chime in with a comment: hang in there! It can be hard, and even scary sometimes, to like things and do things that people think are only for boys, but if those are the things you like, you should enjoy them without reservation!
Being different can be hard, but it gets easier as you get older. People my age (30) like people who are different. If all of the people we knew, and all of the people we met were exactly the same, things would be very boring, indeed!
You have a lot to look forward to because those people who choose to be who they are inspire others to do so, as well. When people see you being strong and wearing your Star Wars t-shirt, or drinking from your Star Wars water bottle, I bet you will find out that lots of girls like Star Wars as much as you do!
Hi Katie! I am a third grade teacher and last year for Halloween I was a Stormtrooper. The costume shop didn't want to rent it to me because they said it was a boy's costume and I am a girl. I refused to take no for an answer, and I rented the costume and I was a great Stormtrooper and had a lot of fun. Even the boys thought my costume was cool! Cool girls are unique like you! :)
(I also was a soldier in the Army which was mostly boys). You can like whatever you want to like!
Hi Katie!
My name is Emily and I love star wars, it is by far my favorite movie ever! I actually became obsessed with it when I was your age and I'm now 20 and in college. I used to be afraid to tell people I liked star wars because I thought they would make fun of me but when my friends finally found out they didn't make fun of me at all. True friends will accept you for who you are and love you no matter what, and the best part is that I showed all my friends star wars and now THEY LOVE IT TOO! Remember to always stay strong and know that all these girls here are thinking of you. May the force be with you... always :)
Dear Katie,
My name is Ashley Eckstein and I am the voice of Ahsoka Tano on Star Wars The Clone Wars. Did you know that close to half of all Star Wars fans are girls? You are not alone :o) I have been a Star Wars fan ever since I was your age, however, I never realized how many female Star Wars fans were out there until I started working on the show. I started going to Star Wars events and conventions and I met so many other girls that shared my passion for Star Wars. I then noticed that they did not make any Star Wars t-shirts for girls, just for boys. I decided to change that and started a company called Her Universe. Lucasfilm let me make the first Star Wars merchandise line JUST for girls, just like you :o) Maybe now that we have Star Wars stuff for girls, the boys will realize that Star Wars is for everyone. I want to applaud you for your bravery. It can be scary to stand up and be different, and I am sure that your story has now inspired many other girls to carry their Star Wars water bottles with pride! I sense the Force is Strong with you young one! Look for some fun Star Wars stuff coming your way soon!
May The Force Be With You,
Ashley
I love the Clone Wars and have to admit that Ahsoka has become my favorite Star Wars character. She is such a great role model for young girls.
Katie,
The first Star Wars movie I saw was Return of the Jedi, I am also the same age as The Empire Strikes Back (which means I'm 30). I've been a Star Wars fan for as long as I can remember. I really got into Star Wars in the 4th grade when Zahn wrote books about it. Star Wars also started me on my love of reading. I was a little nervous telling people that I was a Star Wars fan, but I decided that I really loved the movies and the characters, I mean come on a Princess who gets to fly around in a spaceship, lead a whole group of people and doesn't really need to be rescued all the time, what's not to love :) I loved and still love Star Wars it didn't and still doesn't matter to me what anyone else said about it. If they were going to give me a hard time then I didn't really need them as friends and most of the people I've told may look at me odd for a couple of seconds and then they get over it and start asking me why I love it. I still buy some of the toys and almost every time I buy an action figure the teller will say something like "some boy is going to be very happy" and I look at them and say nope those are for me:) All my pumpkins for Halloween are Star Wars characters and I display them proudly. I've also attended 3 of the 6 Star Wars Celebrations, where for 3-4 days Star Wars fans from all over the country and the world get together and celebrate their love of Star Wars. Can you imagine a bunch of people your Mom and Dad's age and some even older dressing up as Leia, Han, Luke, Vader, Chewie, Anakin, and even Yoda? I promise you they do and we have a blast. Do worry about being different, enjoy it and know that there are a lot of girls who love Star Wars! May the Force Be With You!
When I was your age, I had a Luke Skywalker poster hanging right above my bed. I kissed it goodnight every night. And in high school, I wore a black cloak - my friends would do the Darth Vader theme and the scary breathing when I walked in the door. We had so much fun! I've always loved Star Wars, sometimes more than even the boys did! I think the boys were teasing you because they were just jealous - your Star Wars stuff is awesome.
There will be a lot of times in your life when people expect you to fit in or do something just because it's cool, but you know what? The best thing is just to be yourself. Even if people laugh. If you don't let them get to you, a lot of the time, they'll respect you a lot more for doing what you love. Sometimes, they'll even start to copy you!
Oh, and Katie, just to tell you how big of a tomboy and Star Wars geek I am? I actually have a scar from a light-saber battle! Really! I was dressed in my Princess Leia costume, and we were waiting in line for the movie to start, when one of my friends, dressed as an Imperial Guard, pulled out his lightsaber. Well, I had to pull out mine, and we dueled right there in the parking lot! We got on TV and everything. Well, he whacked my knuckle with his lightsaber and cut my finger. It was only a small cut, but it left a scar that I still have.
And I'm the only one out of all my guy friends who can show off a scar from a lightsaber duel! They all give me extra bonus cool points for that.
Hi Katie. I'm a very grown woman, I'm afraid. I like Star Wars too. I still want my own light saber. But, you know when I was your age I had to wear glasses too. I know it's not always fun. Sometimes people are mean. I don't know why either. Maybe they don't understand everyone's a little different and we all like different things. I wish I had a child your age so you could maybe play together even if you didn't both like exactly the same things. I'm glad you wore your t-shirt & brought your water bottle. Having to pretend you don't like Star Wars doesn't make any sense to me. Here's a hug for you and Mom from North Carolina.
Hi, Katie! I'm so sorry to hear about the boys teasing you about your Star Wars water bottle. You're so brave--I'm a law student and was thinking about getting an Iron Man backpack for school but I chickened out at the beginning of the year. Now that the semester is almost over... I'm really wishing I had been as brave as you. I was Iron Man for Halloween, though! Star Wars is the best, whether you're a boy, a girl, or my pet dog Jasper. Who can't love watching Luke Skywalker go to town with that lightsaber? Keep your chin up, those boys are just jealous of your awesome school supplies. You're my hero!
Hi Katie!
I have been there, let me tell you! When I was in elementary school, I loved video games. So, I wanted to study computers. Even teachers told me computers were for boys and computer science would be too hard for me because girls are bad at math.... Whatever! I'm finishing my Masters in Computer Science in two weeks.
There's no such thing as "for boys" or "for girls". You get to like what you like!! I love Star Wars, too! I even had a Star Wars lunch box and thermos set in 1st grade. :) Boys who tease you for liking something that they like are just silly. They're the same boys who'll complain that they can't find a girlfriend with similar interests ...
Besides, if Star Wars were just for boys, why is Princess Leia so awesome? And the leader of the Rebel Alliance was a woman, too. I agree that Lucas didn't make Star Wars for boys. He made it for everyone. :)
Elizabeth
Los Angeles, California
Dearest Katie,
Not only do I like Star Wars, but when I was in school I had Star Wars Pencils, scissors, erasers, pencil sharpener and folders. I'm 27 years old and I still play with my Star Wars toys. I'm very glad that you aren't letting those silly boys keep you from showing that you like Star Wars too. I hope that you always stay as brave as you are right now.
-Angela
i wasn't always a star wars fan. my husband is the one who introduced me to the amazing story and answered all my questions (there were alot...lol). we have recently had a baby boy, and it was my idea to decorate his room in star wars. some people think i am different because it was my idea (we even painted a lego star wars mural on his wall!), but it was what i wanted. now, my husbands friends will ask me questions about the movie, and i am thrilled that i can answer them. don't let boys, or anyone for that matter, dictate to you what you should or shouldn't like. follow your heart and be true to yourself!
Hi Katie. I'm 55 years old and I love Star Wars. My son was born right after the first movie came out. He was born a fan! My son and daughter are both Geeks. I am a proud Geek Mom! When my kids were growing up they were picked on sometimes but now that they are all grown up they are doing the things they have always enjoyed. My son designs video games. No way a non-Geek could do that! Carry whatever water bottle you want to sweetie. I know it's hard now but when you're older it will be easier. I promise. Oh yeah, guess my son's name... LUKE!!
Hi Katie,
When the first Star Wars movie came out I was a little girl. I saw it at the theater and it was the most amazing thing I had ever seen. I still love it and I own lots of Star Wars stuff. There is nothing wrong with you liking Star Wars, Sci-fi, westerns, horror or anything else that is boy stuff. If you like it then it becomes Katie stuff and you should play with what makes you happy, don't worry about what other people think. There will always be people in the world who will try to tell you to be normal. Honey, ther
Hi Katie! I never got into Star Wars when I was little. You know why? Because I didn't think I was supposed to like stuff like that, because I was a girl.
When I first started school, I liked climbing trees or building forts or pretending that I was fighting bad guys. Then one day a boy (who was a friend of mine) told me that I couldn't help him build a fort in his yard because I was a girl. I've never forgotten how confused and disappointed I felt. But it seemed like he was right, because other kids would kind of sneer at me a lot, and I realised that they thought I was too different.
So I used to try really hard to be like other girls- I pretended I liked pink, I pretended that I liked dolls, and I pretended a lot of other things. But I was always really unhappy and nervous and shy, because I thought there was something wrong with me that I had to hide from all the other kids. I thought they were right and I was wrong. It was like tHey understood that girls can't do "boy's" stuff, and I didn't. I thought that I must be really stupid for not understanding.
Well, now I'm a grown-up, and now I know that the reason I didn't understand wasn't because I was stupid, it was because what they were saying didn't make any sense. They were wrong. I know they were wrong, because I've noticed that some of the most successful and interesting and fun people in the world are people who say they always felt 'different' as a kid.
So I don't try to pretend anymore. I started to let myself decide what movies and books I like, or what clothes I like to wear, and it's made the world a lot more fun and exciting. And now, I love being myself and sharing what I like with other people - and I LOVE Star Wars!
I only wish I had allowed myself to be myself when I was a kid. I wish I'd watched Star Wars then and got myself a Star Wars water bottle and t-shirt like you. I'm proud of you for having the courage to be different.
May the Force be with you.
Hi Katie! I never got into Star Wars when I was little. You know why? Because I didn't think I was supposed to like stuff like that, because I was a girl.
When I first started school, I liked climbing trees or building forts or pretending that I was fighting bad guys. Then one day a boy (who was a friend of mine) told me that I couldn't help him build a fort in his yard because I was a girl. I've never forgotten how confused and disappointed I felt. But it seemed like he was right, because other kids would kind of sneer at me a lot, and I realised that they thought I was too different.
So I used to try really hard to be like other girls- I pretended I liked pink, I pretended that I liked dolls, and I pretended a lot of other things. But I was always really unhappy and nervous and shy, because I thought there was something wrong with me that I had to hide from all the other kids. I thought they were right and I was wrong. It was like tHey understood that girls can't do "boy's" stuff, and I didn't. I thought that I must be really stupid for not understanding.
Well, now I'm a grown-up, and now I know that the reason I didn't understand wasn't because I was stupid, it was because what they were saying didn't make any sense. They were wrong. I know they were wrong, because I've noticed that some of the most successful and interesting and fun people in the world are people who say they always felt 'different' as a kid.
So I don't try to pretend anymore. I started to let myself decide what movies and books I like, or what clothes I like to wear, and it's made the world a lot more fun and exciting. And now, I love being myself and sharing what I like with other people - and I LOVE Star Wars!
I only wish I had allowed myself to be myself when I was a kid. I wish I'd watched Star Wars then and got myself a Star Wars water bottle and t-shirt like you. I'm proud of you for having the courage to be different.
May the Force be with you.
Hi, Katie -
I hope you see now that your mom was right: there are so many women and girls out here who are different in very many ways. We all want you to know that so you won't feel sad or alone.
When I was a little girl, I liked to do a lot of "boy" things as well as a lot of "girl" things. My mom taught me that I could be whatever I wanted to be and do whatever I wanted to do, so I knew it was okay to be different...even if it wasn't always easy and even if I got teased. What mattered most was that the person who loved me the most, my mom, always stuck up for my right to be myself, just like your mom does for you.
When I grew up and had children of my own, I taught them that there are not "boy" things and "girl" things, just things. They learned well. For example: my older son wore his favorite color, pink, as often as he could, my younger son carried around a baby doll that he cuddled and nurtured, and my daughter liked to work on cars and with wood. Now that they're grown, all three of them do laundry, cook and bake, are strong, kind and gentle, and all three of them embrace and fight for diversity and individuality.
What's important in life is to be a good person, not just a good girl or boy. The more you learn about as many things as possible, the more interesting and wise you become as a person and the more you contribute to a better world.
As you grow up, I hope you are able to remember all the people who wrote to you, telling you that being different is okay. When you're little, you don't always get to choose your school or your neighborhood or your town. The older you get, the more freedom you have to find the places and people that make you happiest. Know always that there are people out there who are like you and who will like you because you are who you are.
Star Wars is really fun! I think you've made a good choice. My favorite is To Kill A Mockingbird. Maybe some day you'll like that story of people who are different...and amazing...just like you!
Hello Katie!
One day those boys are going to wake up and realize that they are being completely silly over teasing you about your Star Wars water bottle. So you just do your best to ignore those bullies and hold your head high!
Star Wars isn't just for boys. It's for everyone!
And as for being adopted? I know it can be hard, but here is something I finally realized when I got older. -- Don't think of being adopted as being different. Think of it as being extra special. Out of all the kids that were looking for families in this big world we live in, your parents picked you. They chose you over everyone else because they knew they loved you the moment they saw you.
Hey Katie. I am a 34 year old mom and I love Star Wars. I love Star Wars so much that when episode 3 premiered I dressed up as Jedi Master Aayla Secora and waited in line all day. My daughter is 3 and she loves Star Wars too. This year for Halloween she dressed up as Princess Leia and I dressed up as Han Solo. You should visit http://www.501st.com/ The 501st Legion is the largest Star Wars fab club in the world and there are LOTS of girls in it. And every year in San Diego they have a huge Comic Book Convention called San Diego Comic Con. It's the biggest comic book convention in the world and there are so many girl Star Wars fans who attend that they every year they have a parade of Leias -- A whole bunch of people dressed up as Princess Leia.
One of the things that Star Wars is about is that everyone doesn't have to be the same. One of the terrible things that the Emperor did when he took over the Galaxy is that he made all of the other species in the galaxy into slaves. Wookiees like Chewbaaka weren't even allowed to travel through space. Only humans were allowed to be in government or have any kind of freedom (though they didn't have much) The reason is that the Emperor was afraid of anyone who was different than him, because they might be stronger than him, or they might be able to resist his force powers. But the great thing about the Star Wars universe is all of the very different characters. They all have different thoughts and ideas, they all look different from each other, many of them don't even speak the same language, but they find a way to get along.
You can like what ever you want to like. And as you get older you will find that people like you better because you make your own choices and you don't just follow the crowd.
When boys give you a hard time for liking Star Wars you tell them that without Padme Amidala and Princess Leia there wouldn't be any Star Wars.
Stay cool and May the Force Be with You.
Hello Katie!
One day those boys are going to wake up and realize that they are being completely silly over teasing you about your Star Wars water bottle. So you just do your best to ignore those bullies and hold your head high!
Star Wars isn't just for boys. It's for everyone!
And as for being adopted? I know it can be hard, but here is something I finally realized when I got older. -- Don't think of being adopted as being different. Think of it as being extra special. Out of all the kids that were looking for families in this big world we live in, your parents picked you. They chose you over everyone else because they knew they loved you the moment they saw you.
Hi Katie!
I read your story as I was listening to the music from Star Wars (The Imperial March) and so I just had to leave you a comment. You should know, lots of cool, smart, pretty, fun, and nice girls like Star Wars!!!
When my daughters get a little older, I plan on showing them how cool it is. Should we watch the movies 1-6, or 4-6 and then 1-3, I wonder...
I hope you take your water bottle to school with pride!! It's WAY COOL to be different.
--Lisa
Hey Katie! I love Star Wars. I absolutely love it. I love everything from the six movies to the books and even to the Clone Wars series! I watch the Clone Wars everyweek with my boyfriend. I even went to the Star Wars convention in August this year. You should have seen how many women were dressed up in costumes of male characters! My favorite character is Boba Fett and I loved the females that were in Boba costumes. You should never be ashamed of being a Star Wars fan, sweetheart. Think of all the female characters in Star Wars and tell those boys that without the females they wouldn't have Star Wars! Be proud to be a fan and show it off.
it is ok to be a female and to love star wars the world needs stong women and not to forget that princess leia was a female who cried for help when she needed it but was not afraid to face darth vader and the loss of her world and still stand strong
Dear Katie,
My name is Meredith. I'm 43 years old mom, and I got to see the original Star Wars film when I was only 10 years old. I loved it!! I got to see The Empire Strikes Back on opening night, too -- I was right in the middle of the very front row. It was so cool!
Not only do I love Star Wars, but I also read comic books -- something that not many girls my age do. I even managed a comic book store for 5 years. That's how I met my husband who -- get this! -- writes Star Wars comic books for a living!!! His name is John Jackson Miller, and his current Star Wars series is called 'Knight Errant.' It takes place 1,000 years before the movies and is about an incredible female Jedi named Kerra Holt who gets stranded all alone in Sith space. But don't worry about Kerra. She's quite a fighter and is ready to take on every Sith Lord she meets! Your parents can find out more about Kerra at John's website: farawaypress.com.
Because John writes Star Wars, we got to go to a great Star Wars convention this summer. Over 34,000 people attended this convention and lots of them were girls, from babies on up to grandmom ages! Lots of them were dressed up in costumes, and not just as Princess Leia and Padme Amidala. There were lots of girls dressed as Jedi, Sith, even Mandalorians and Stormtroopers!!
Embrace your love of Star Wars, Katie. You are part of a community of people young and old, male and female, and from all over the world. May the Force be with you!
(Personally, I think those boys were just jealous that you had such a cool water bottle!)
;)
Katie,
I was bullied for a good portion of my life. I'm 24, graduated college a couple of years ago, and I have to say, even in college there were people who liked to make fun of the things I enjoyed. I'm a Star Wars fan, among other things, and some people couldn't understand that I suppose. However, there are many people out there that you will meet that will share your interests; more than the bullies that tear you down. It may be harder to find them at times, but they're there. For example, I met my wife at a fencing class (which I joined partially due to the fact that I liked Star Wars) and our first discussion was about Lord of the Rings. You never know what life will give you, so stay true to who you are.
My sister, who is 12, loves her fandoms, whether they are Star Wars, Pokemon, Pirates of the Carribean, or Nintendo. She's joined me in going to Disney World and dressing up as Jedi to walk around and converse with the hired hands who dress up as the "official" characters. It's safe to say that she's comfortable in who she is, and as I've stressed to her, it is more than alright to enjoy those things in life. It's our own interests, our own hobbies, our own likes and dislikes that make us who we are. If God wanted us to be clones (Star Wars pun not intended), then we wouldn't have hardly anything to experience in life. How boring would it be if we were all the same? No amount of bullying is going to change the fact that we're all different.
Stay strong, Katie. The Force is with you, as well as millions of people around the world who share the love of Star Wars. It's people like you that give me that glimmer of hope in humanity.
Katie,
When I was in first grade, I was
a) taller than all of the other kids,
b) taken out of classes for speech therapy,
c) picked on for having a pointed ear.
One thing though I was proud of was that I LOVED "Star Wars". I grew up with two brothers, so I got into a lot of the "boy" stuff. I was teased for tons of things that I started to not like about myself, but I knew that I would always be a fan of "Star Wars", and I still am! I actually reference those movies more than most of the boys I know, and my landlord will proudly admit that she is also a huge "Star Wars" fan. Chin up, Katie!
Hi, Katie!
I'm a woman and I love Star Wars. I also love Star Trek, but that's another story. I just got a new R2-D2 phone that beeps like R2 when it rings. I love when it rings! I don't think I have any t-shirts though. I'll have to get one and wear it to work.
Please don't let anyone tell you what you should or should not like. If you like Star Wars, show it off. If you want to wear pink, go ahead and wear pink. It's your life!
I have a 5 month old daughter. I hope she turns out to be a Star Wars fan like you, but if she prefers princesses that will be fine, too. You are both beautiful girls, no matter what.
I have the same phone!!! It's so awesome.
PS, my screen name was the name of my character in a Star Wars role-playing game. & I hope my husband & I have a little girl just like you.
Hi Katie,
First of all, loving star wars, shows you have awesome taste and that you are a smart kid. It has amazing heroes, both boys and girls.
I am woman who LOVES star wars. I also love computers and science. I also wear glasses. Keep up with loving the sci-fi. You fill find the best friends who also share these passions with you. Plus, guys love girls who know how to rock it geek style.
Please don't allow other people to stop you from enjoying yourself. You will never make everyone happy. I have learned that people who pick on others for being different do it because they are unhappy themselves. But if you let these make you unhappy, then there will be two unhappy people.
I wish you lots of luck.
Christine
Hi Katie! I am a girl and I like a lot of boy things! I like Star Trek, Comic Books, and wrestling! You know what the boys say about me? They think I am the coolest girl out there! I know you are young, but keep loving what you love! When you get a bit older, all the boys that teased are going to want to be your friends and they will think you are the best out there! Much love from San Diego. ^_^
Katie, I'm 36, and have been a Star Wars fan my whole life. I didn't have a Star Wars lunch box, but I did take my action figures to school so I could show them off and play with the other kids. We run a pretty gender-neutral house. My son has a pink bedside lamp, and likes to buy socks from the girl's section, because they have fun designs. People have asked him about it, and usually when he shows that they aren't going to be able to make him change his mind, they drop it. The main thing is to be confident in yourself. Being true to yourself and having the confidence to back it up will make all the difference in the world.
Enjoy that Star Wars lunch box. =D
Dear Katie - I was bullied for ten years-and I know how difficult it is. You are a very brave little girl, especially for telling your mum!
You should be able to enjoy Star Wars just as much as anyone else. You're a tough little girl, and I admire you. I know it's hard to want to blend in, and wanting to stand up for what you like in the same time. But; your mum and dad loves you for who you are, and that's the people that matter.
I'm a girl, and I have loved Star Wars for twelve years. (I'm 25.) I hope school goes well for you. Ps; my favourite is Yoda.Love from Norway. May the force be with you.
Katie I've loved Star Wars since I was a little girl. I also disliked the color pink for a long time, and I still like other Sci-Fi and action related genres. So what? I have good friends, a fiance with the same interests, a job I (usually) like and a really nice apartment in a beautiful area of California.
I also remember that I was picked on for other things. Like that I had a better vocabulary and that I had much poorer clothes). I also remember that occasionally I stood up for myself. And you know what? When I showed that I was proud of who I was and just didn't care they backed down sooner then when I showed it hurt me. If you aren't angry and you aren't bothered they might stop trying and if they don't then it still won't matter if you've truly stopped caring.
I also thought you might like to go to this link: http://gov.ca.gov/press-release/16394/ It's a press release from Governor of California Arnold Schwartzenegger talking about bullies. Maybe you can even get a teacher to show the brief video in class.
Hi Katie,
I'm 44 yrs old and I LOVE Star Wars!!! The original came out when I was in High School. Then came the sequels. Then came the next 3 sequels, anyway...every year they play them here where I live around Christmas and Fourth of July, and every year, you can bet I'll be glued to the Flatscreen watching all 3 original movies. I have them on Video and DVD and watch them all the time. It's ok to be different and it's ok to stand up for yourself and the things that you like even if they are different from everyone else. That's what makes you YOU! And that's what makes you unique and special from everyone else. Especially boys. Boys are not the only species on this planet. We are Girls and we are strong and we want to be ourselves no matter what anyone else thinks. Be proud to be yourself and what you like. Keep your head up high and eyes ahead and you will see all that lies ahead for you. My dad once told me that when people make fun of other people it's because they are insecure and afraid to be themselves. They only feel like "big stuff" when they are around a bunch of other kids. That's the only time they think they're cool. Katie, you are the cool one, any girl that knows and loves Star Wars the way you do is Super Cool in my book. Stay strong and be the person you want to be.
Hi Kate! I'm a female college student and i'm nearly Star Wars and comic book obsessed. When I first saw the original trilogy, it was the ONLY thing i could talk about. i kept mentioning Star Wars or creating references from Star Wars in my conversation. It might sound a little weird, and many people thought I was weird. But i didn't let that get to me. If you love something, you shouldn't try to hide it from anyone no matter what they say. When i was a kid i was Wolverine (x-men) for Halloween. I thought i was the coolest kid and didn't let people's words get to me. People will always talk, people will always hate, i just want you to know that you are NEVER alone. In class, i'm the only one who takes out my Star Wars and Marvel folders out. I even take some comic books with me to school for me to read during break. I am constantly buying Star Wars figurines, shirts, pez, rings, etc. I even love to show off my Darth Vader helmet to people. Being different is beautiful, being different isn't boring. Keep rocking your Star Wars bottle and may the force ALWAYS be with you!!!
*Squee!* You are so wickedly awesome! Padme is such a beautiful, strong, smart woman, I would think it'd be such a pleasure being her voice.
Hi Katie,
I know how hard it can be to be different. I'm adopted too and when I was your age I LOVED Princess Leia. I used to wear my hair like her everyday at school :) Just remember that our differences make us special. Being adopted is actually very cool, you where chosen and are in a family that loves YOU, and whatever water bottle you choose, a whole lot!!! Best of luck, take a deep breathe and be you!!!
Katie! :D This is all so b-e-a-YOU-tiful :D
Firstly, I just want to say that Star Wars is AWESOME! You have great taste in movies :)
Secondly, as someone who was also teased for liking 'boy' things as a child, I know how scary it is to go to school when you feel so different. But, I have learned that being different isn't a bad thing, it's an amazing thing! Because I chose to do what made me happy instead of doing what everyone else did, I now really love who I am & I am living my life to the fullest!
And the fact that you have already started standing up for what you believe in & that you aren't afraid to be yourself means your whole life is going to be so much more fun from now on! It's amazing how much joy you can feel once you are brave enough to do what makes you happy. Good on you for creating your own path in life instead of following everyone elses. You are an inspiration! In fact, I know quite a few adults who could learn a lot from you & your bravery :)
By the way, how awesome is your Mum? What a great job she has done raising such a beautiful & courageous girl! And she is so proud of you that she has told the whole world how amazing you are :) When I have a daughter one day, I hope she is as strong & smart as you are.
Before I go, one thing you should always do if you ever feel worried about being yourself, just go to a mirror, look yourself in the eyes & smile :D Then tell yourself how awesome you are!
Wear that Star Wars tshirt with pride, knowing that all these people are right behind you, cheering you on :D
You rock!
Jen xoxo
Hiyya Katie!
I was Four when my Mom took me to see Star Wars in the theater. I was a fan ever since. She also encouraged my love of Dr. Who, Star Trek (the first run, as well as all the others), Transformers, GoBots, and a whole host of other things that back 30 years ago were deemed "boy things". She encouraged me as a fan of these shows and books because they taught me how to think, how to dream, and how to problem solve. I had my share of teasing by both guys and gals in school, but after awhile I found others, boys and girls who were also into the same shows and books. I am still friends with them to this day by and large, and a more creative, caring, and great group of people, I haven't met yet. Don't let anyone else tell you what is "girl" or "boy". If you like it, then great! besides as my Grandmother used to tell me, "they are just jealous of you, that's all." The boys were probably wishing they had a cool star wars water bottle like yours! Be who you are, and like what you like, and don't let other kids tell you otherwise. You're perfectly perfect with your Water bottle of Jedi-ness!!!
Dear Katie,
I am a dude, and I completely and totally support your love of Star Wars. I wish more girls had liked the stuff I liked in elementary school - we would have had more things to talk about!
Boys that make fun of girls for liking things that are "for boys" are making a big mistake. Later on, chances are those same boys are going to wish more girls liked the stuff they liked... but it'll be too late, since they made fun of girls for doing exactly that when they were younger. Too bad for them!
Keep on being awesome, and keep on liking whatever you want to like!
-Matt
Katie, you are awesome! When I was a little girl, I trick or treated as Princess Leia one year, and as Obi-Wan Kenobi another year! My mom even helped me make the beard. It's great that you have such supportive parents--you're very lucky.
Star Wars is something that anyone can enjoy--young or old, female or male. It's fantasy, it's fun, and one of the great things about science fiction is that there are no limits to what you can do. Never let someone else's expectations stop you from doing or enjoying something that you love.
oh Katie, sweet girl...don't let the things those boys are saying change you! I am 32 and love star wars, I would be proud to carry a star wars water bottle! I did so many things that were "different" growing up and I remember letting the things other kids said affect me, but as a grown-up and mama I can say that I am proud to be different and proud of my daughters and proud of you! You are awesome and stay yourself!
Katie,
I'm 28 years old and I proudly wear my Star Wars T-shirt everywhere. I'm supposed to be an adult and the best part about being an adult is being who you want to be. So if you want to be the girl that wears a Star Wars shirt and drinks out of a Star Wars bottle, then you be that girl. You are being more grown up than the rest of them.
And if they say anything again, remind them that the dark side of the Force is powered by human weakness.
Katie,
I'm 28 years old and I proudly wear my Star Wars T-shirt everywhere. I'm supposed to be an adult and the best part about being an adult is being who you want to be. So if you want to be the girl that wears a Star Wars shirt and drinks out of a Star Wars bottle, then you be that girl. You are being more grown up than the rest of them.
And if they say anything again, remind them that the dark side of the Force is powered by human weakness.
One of the greatest Star Wars fans of all time was another little girl named Katie. In her brief time on Earth, she inspired and united thousands of fans all over the world, and the droid R2-KT was named in her honor.
http://www.katie.albinjohnson.com/
http://starwars.wikia.com/wiki/R2-KT
Katie,
When I was about your age, a few boys in my class made fun of my Scooby Doo shoes. I loved those shoes. I loved that cartoon. (Don't know if you know Scooby Doo....ask your mom.) Anyway - the boys would laugh and sing the show's theme song to me and call out, "Hey, Scooby Doo shoes."
It really bothered me and I was embarrassed. So, I begged my Mom to buy me new shoes. So, she did. The first day back at school with my new shoes, one of the boys asked, "Where are your Scooby Doo shoes?" I explained that I bought new ones since they laughed at my others. Do you know what he said? "OH, I really liked those shoes."
So, I think it's like what your mom said, boys don't know how to communicate very well. It's just how it is sometimes. I immediately regretted getting rid of my Scooby Doo shoes. I changed who I was to make others happy....but guess who ended up sad? (me.)
I hope you continue to be who you are, and ignore those who say mean things. Oh, and Star Wars rocks! It just does. :)
Also, here are a few things that bugged me when I was your age:
I used to wear glasses too. First person in my school to get them - in the first grade.
I have a big birth mark on my right knee that I used to try to cover up with make-up. I learned quickly that it's no big deal.
I have asthma.
And the different list goes on and on......
In short - everyone is different - usually in lots of ways. The trick is loving those differences and not letting others tell you when it's OK to be yourself and when it's not. That's up to you! Isn't that pretty cool?
Good luck! Sounds like you have a wonderful family and lots of friends.
Carrie
When I was ten, I wanted to be a Jedi.
But I didn't tell anyone because I was a girly girl! I wore pink frilly dresses and played with Barbies (though granted, my Barbies tended to have rather exciting lives instead of just sitting down for tea! They explored jungles and defeated evil Ken dolls to save their babies). When Attack of the Clones came out I sneakily hid Star Wars things in my room so no one would know I secretly really liked Star Wars, because after all, I was a girl!
I realized about a year later that it wasn't very fun hiding who I was: a big Star Wars fan! Now I'm 21 and I have my Star Wars teeshirts and action figures and movies and tons of books, and posters plastered all over the wall, and I write Star Wars fanfiction, and like a whole bunch of other sci-fi and fantasy things too. And you know what? It was a really good thing, because Star Wars got me to start writing and sewing and I did a lot of creative things and made friends I never would have if I'd have kept pretending I only liked pink things!
I still want to be a Jedi.
So you know what? Don't let other kids tell you what you have to like! Decide for yourself if you're going to be a rocking Star Wars fan just like us thousands of other gals! Look at how many thousands of people have been here to tell you we all like Star Wars too! That's more people than live in my town. WOW. If only I'd known that so many other girls loved Star Wars when I was ten, I'd have got a Star Wars water bottle too. ;)
Where's the "like" button when you need it? =)
Thank you for supporting Katie, Catherine! I'm sure she is just beside herself with delight in knowing you came by with such beautiful words of encouragement.
Being a mom, I know I'd be tearing up right now... but that's just me.
(Us Sith sometimes have a soft side too. ;) )
Hi Katie,
i'm a 21 year old girl who loves star wars! and when i was in grade 6 and 7 i was bullied too (because i was shy and quiet which made me 'different') and so i just wanted you to know that i know how it feels. BUT never forget that your mom and dad and other people in your life LOVE you SO MUCH and that matters so much more than what those kids at school have to say to you.
Leigh-Ann from Canada
Yes, Katie, there are girls who love Star Wars *just like you*. Don't you dare let anyone tell you differently! Love, a fellow geek gal. PS: Your mom rocks for blogging this & sharing it with the world.
Hi Katie!
I'm a lady old enough that I got to see the original Star Wars when it first came out into theaters. I liked science fiction and fantasy stories even before that, I read The Hobbit in 3rd grade (my teacher called my mother in and told her she thought something was wrong with me, my mother told her so long as I was reading and learning, it didn't matter what I read, that I was enjoying doing those things is what's important!And look how famous the Lord of The Rings movies got to be!) I had to stand in line to see that first Star Wars movie for NINE hours. That's a long time, but it was worth it, and I tell you now, I certainly wasn't the only girl standing in that line, there were A LOT of girls!
I also liked playing with Hot Wheels cars, and I did a lot of other stuff that was supposed to be BOY stuff, but you know what? No one ever doubted I was a girl, or that I was my OWN person and who I wanted to be, and not what everyone else thought I should be, and there is NOTHING wrong with that.
I'm considered a very pretty woman and I don't own a single thing that is PINK. I do have a lot of cool shirts with dragons and stuff on them though!
It's a known fact that boys mature (get smarter and more grown up) a lot slower than girls. You are more mature than those boys, because you know what you like. It's people who aren't very grown up or smart who feel like they have to make fun of people who seem different. Being different is part of being grown up, the world would be horribly horribly boring if we were all the same!
Be yourself honey, and like all the things you want to. water bottles and toys and clothes are just water bottles toys and clothes, they don't know or care if they are supposed to belong to a boy or a girl! They just want people to like them.
Frankly, I'm envious of your star wars bottle, I want one! (mine has a big dragon it with a big smile staring down at a knight in full armour. it says "I bet you are tasty with ketchup.")
Hi Katie!
I'm a lady old enough that I got to see the original Star Wars when it first came out into theaters. I liked science fiction and fantasy stories even before that, I read The Hobbit in 3rd grade (my teacher called my mother in and told her she thought something was wrong with me, my mother told her so long as I was reading and learning, it didn't matter what I read, that I was enjoying doing those things is what's important!And look how famous the Lord of The Rings movies got to be!) I had to stand in line to see that first Star Wars movie for NINE hours. That's a long time, but it was worth it, and I tell you now, I certainly wasn't the only girl standing in that line, there were A LOT of girls!
I also liked playing with Hot Wheels cars, and I did a lot of other stuff that was supposed to be BOY stuff, but you know what? No one ever doubted I was a girl, or that I was my OWN person and who I wanted to be, and not what everyone else thought I should be, and there is NOTHING wrong with that.
I'm considered a very pretty woman and I don't own a single thing that is PINK. I do have a lot of cool shirts with dragons and stuff on them though!
It's a known fact that boys mature (get smarter and more grown up) a lot slower than girls. You are more mature than those boys, because you know what you like. It's people who aren't very grown up or smart who feel like they have to make fun of people who seem different. Being different is part of being grown up, the world would be horribly horribly boring if we were all the same!
Be yourself honey, and like all the things you want to. water bottles and toys and clothes are just water bottles toys and clothes, they don't know or care if they are supposed to belong to a boy or a girl! They just want people to like them.
Frankly, I'm envious of your star wars bottle, I want one! (mine has a big dragon it with a big smile staring down at a knight in full armour. it says "I bet you are tasty with ketchup.")
Katie,
I also know what it is like to be teased when I was your age. I was teased for liking boy things and for being over weight. I am now 25 and I still love boy things and I love Star Wars and all sorts of other science fiction and fantasy movies, shows and games. Don't change who you are or what you like just because some boys say something mean. There are so many more people out there just like you and we all think you are awesome!
May the force be with you,
Aimee
Katie, be strong! I was bullied when I was a young girl too. Partially, I think, because I liked boy stuff too. INCLUDING Star Wars. I still love Star Wars today, and so does my mother and my best friend. You sound like such a nice, good kid, and I would hate it if you changed just because of some meanies. Keep it up with your passion about Star Wars. It doesn't matter what others think, it only matters what YOU think!
Katie, be strong! I was bullied when I was a young girl too. Partially, I think, because I liked boy stuff too. INCLUDING Star Wars. I still love Star Wars today, and so does my mother and my best friend. You sound like such a nice, good kid, and I would hate it if you changed just because of some meanies. Keep it up with your passion about Star Wars. It doesn't matter what others think, it only matters what YOU think!
Hi Katie! I'm a woman, and I love all sorts of 'boy' things, including Star Wars! I've loved Star Wars from the very beginning, when I saw in the theater at four years old! Don't you listen to those silly boys. Girls can like Star Wars too. :D And one day, they'll realize that the fact that you like Star Wars makes you totally cool!
Hi Katie. I'm female and loooooove Star Wars. I have sense I was about 10 years old and I am almost 26 years old now. I have the movies, read the books, collect the toys and dress in a star wars costume for charity events. There is nothing wrong with being different and carrying a cool star wars water bottle to school. When I was in school, I was picked on and had mean boys make fun of me. Star Wars was always there for me as well as my parents. Loving something and enjoying it is not something to be ashamed of. Those boys are being silly and probably envy you for having a cool water bottle like that!
Don't let the other kids tell you what is cool and what you should or shouldn't enjoy. If you let them do that, you are only making yourself unhappy and you are such a sweet little girl! You deserve to be happy and enjoy star wars and anything else that is a good influence for you.
Katie,
My daughter is in the 1st grade too. She wears glasses (had patches for a while), AND loves Star Wars. Actually, she loves lots of "boy" things. For Halloween (at school) she was thinking of being a Ninja, then Darth Vader, but ended up choosing Bumble Bee the Transformer. I was worried that she would get teased by the other boys AND girls. Sadly, she did get teased a little, but she wore her costume proudly and marched in the "parade". I'm so proud of how she handled the other kids. She didn't care what they thought and you shouldn't either. Be proud of who YOU are and what YOU like! AND when we went Trick or Treating, she got so many positive comments from so many people handing out candy or walking around, like, "That's so cool, it's a girl Bumble Bee!" "You rock!" "Awesome, it's a girl!" Men and women praised her for wearing what she wanted to wear.
She wears her Lego Star Wars PJs to bed (when it's warm). She likes to play "light saber" all the time. She found MY Light Saber app on my iPhone and plays with it all the time. She really likes MY Star Wars t-shirt and asks about all the characters, constantly.
Like Mother, like daughter, I suppose. I have been a Star Wars fan most of my life. I like gadgets and Science Fiction. I used to try and hide my passion for "different" things and try to be like everyone else. But you know what? It's so much better and cooler to be who you are.
Katie, you rock! Don't listen to the teasing and don't ever be ashamed or afraid of being a little different. Everybody is different.
Hi Katie!
My name is Jackie. I'm a geeky woman in my mid-20s, and couldn't be prouder. I've loved sci-fi [Star Trek, most of all] all my life. Now, I even contribute to a blog specifically for nerdy girls called Nerds in Babeland. I have pink hair, work on websites for a living, and am very proud to be different. Blending in with the rest of the world is boring.
I can absolutely promise you that in a couple of years, those same boys that are teasing you now are going to be telling you just how awesome you are for loving Star Wars. And believe me, you are. It takes a huge amount of intelligence and imagination to really appreciate that genre, and you should be very proud to have both qualities.
Keep being who you are, Katie! If people want to tease you for that, remember that they're only jealous because they're not interesting enough to have their own things to focus on.
Dear Katie,
I'm a 19 year old college student, and I LOVE Star Wars as well as other science fiction & fantasy books and movies. I own & regularly wear my 3 star wars t-shirts, and am getting the Princess Leia Adidas sneakers. I used to think that I was a nerd, and that I should hide my love of Star Wars and things like it, but lately I've realized that there's nothing wrong with being myself.
Now that I'm in college, I get to study scifi. At my older sister's college, they even offer a class on Star Wars. I'm jealous that she gets credit for watching the movies. She wears her Battlestar Galactica hoodie every week (watch it when you're older, it's an amazing show!). And a girl in one of my history classes brings her Star Wars coffee mug to class every lecture.
There have always been people who said that some things are for boys, and others are for girls, but it's more important to be happy and do what you want.
You're awesome and you're far from being alone.
Hi Katie -
Your story really affected me. When I was your age, I was made fun of, too - for being about a foot taller than everyone else, for wearing my favorite cow-print leggings, for looking for fairies during recess, and, yes, for loving Star Wars. I'm 20 years old now, and I'm still way taller than everyone, I still believe in fairies, and my Star Wars fandom has only grown. I out-grew the leggings, unfortunately.
In the words of Eleanor Roosevelt, another strong woman (just like you!): "No one can make you feel inferior without your permission." Embrace all of your passions, and you will find more and more people who share those interests and who love you just the way you are - nobody else matters. We're all behind you, so keep on keepin' on, kiddo, you are one AWESOME chick.
May the force be with you
Roxanne
Greetings Katie...
Bullies will become cry-babies when Mr. Lucas gives you a tour of Skywalker Ranch, and Natalie Portman (Padme) shows up your school with a few dozen stormtroopers. I know it's hard kiddo, but don't give in to the bullies... I sense much fear in them.
I think your life is about to get alot more interesting ;-)
Sincerely,
Scott (Darklighter) Milburn, former bullying victim and practicing Jedi Knight.
Hi Katie! My name is Marissa, but my nickname on the internet is "jedifreac." Sometimes people see that nickname and they think I'm a boy. Imagine their surprise when they find out I am a girl and I like Star Wars, too.
Even though Princess Leia is an important character in Star Wars, sometimes I think people forget because everyone is talking about Han and Luke. It's up to girls like us to remind everyone that although Han and Luke are also cool, Princess Leia was awesome, too--and that Star Wars isn't just for boys.
I think when some people find something they really like, sometimes they're afraid to share it with others. They don't realize that sharing something you like with someone else, whether it's Star Wars, or your favorite book or toy, doesn't always mean you lose it, or that you are missing out! Usually, when you share with others, you learn something new and often times it makes that thing that you like more interesting and fun!
I am a 22 year old college student, female, and I can tell you I grew up loving star wars too! There is still a girl scout photo of me, in a black x-wing shirt in the middle of all the other girls wearing bright colors. My mom even let me hang up star wars posters, and a star wars bed set, all with the spaceship battles, my favorite part.
At the time I was very self conscious, but looking back now I am proud to say I was a bit weird, a bit of a geek. (I'm really into Doctor Who now, space AND time travel!) I was a loner for a time, and I won't lie to you, it was really hard and lonely, and for a while I wondered if anyone would ever be my friend, talk to me, or even some day love me, but in high school and college I met and connected with others, made friends, some of whom where a bit weird themselves, but it only makes them more interesting, and fun! My first boyfriend and I played Pokemon together, and I still can play a mean game of Halo.
Don't let anyone scare you into being something you are not, because there are so many people in the world, and when you love yourself, and are strong in who you are and what you love, you will find so many wonderful people and be able to connect with them over things you have in common, and have great times, friendships, loves..
Good luck, I bet those boys are just jealous of your awesome water bottle, I know I am!
Katie,
You are AMAZING!
When I was your age I was into everything from Star Trek to Star wars to My Little Pony to Barbie to Legos to Hotwheels. I dug in the dirt, I tried to play basketball, I "borrowed" my mother's makeup, and I watched I Love Lucy. You probably don't even know what I Love Lucy is!
School was hard. It was hard to find friends and hard to know which friends were good and which weren't. It was hard to know if they meant to make me feel bad or if I was supposed to feel bad because that's what friends did. I learned a lot when I was your age. What I learned the most was that pretending to be something just because someone wanted me to never turned out well.
It's hard to be teased. But you'll find your place. You've reminded me to keep being who I am.
Thank you, Katie.
Green
Hi Katie,
G'day from Australia.
When I was 4, my father took me to the movies to see a show that fast became, and still is, my favourite movie ever. I'm now 37, and Star Wars has been a part of my life ever since that day.
I now own books, toys, bags, shirts, and of course, the dvd's and videos of all the movies and the tv shows. I even have a lot of the Hallmark Star Wars Christmas ornaments. (I don't have a lunch box, or drink bottle, but I would love to own these, it's just harder to buy things like that in Australia)
Yes, even at 37 I still have people who call me a geek, or a nerd because of my love of Star Wars (and, in fact, most things scifi), but you know what? I don't care.... I'm not going to let these people stop me from watching something that I love so much.
You know what else? None of my best friends like Star Wars, & though the pretend to pick on me because I do, they still keep buying me Star Wars gifts for Christmas and birthdays (& who can complain about that?)
Finally, no matter what the people at school say, you can tell them that you have hundreds of girl friends who love Star Wars (everyone who's left a comment here and posted about you on FaceBook & twitter) and that they say that you are WAY COOL for having a Star Wars water bottle.
(and, by the way, your glasses don't stop us from seeing your beautiful eyes, and never let anyone stop you sharing that pretty smile)
Hello, Katie! Wow! Look at the Star Wars girl revolution you have started! Turns out a lot of us girls love Star Wars! I am a 28-year-old girl, and I have loved Star Wars since I was your age. R2D2 is my favorite. :) I met my husband in college, and he told me that one of the things that he loved about me was that I like "cool" things like Star Wars. When boys get older, they stop making fun of you for liking "boy" things and start thinking it's cool!
But just remember that it is okay to like absolutely anything (even if you are the only one who likes it!) as long as it doesn't hurt anyone. What you like is part of who you are, and being yourself is always cool in my book!
Dear Katie,
Other people can be really bossy. They will tell you that something is not for girls, and only for boys. Other times, they may tell you that something is for older kids, and not for little kids. The truth is, you know yourself better than anyone out there, and only you can decide whether or not something is for you, or not. You are not different, you are unique!
There will be times in your life when people may be mean to you. Most people who act mean, deep down inside, are mean because they are scared. A boy might be too scared to bring a pink bottle to school if people will make fun of him, so he might make fun of you for having a Star Wars bottle because he doesn't understand why you aren't scared! To him, maybe if Katie becomes too scared to bring a Star Wars bottle, then I don't have to worry about being scared of "girl stuff." But Katie, you can show him, and everyone in your school, that it's okay to bring whatever color or type of bottle you want to school, that nobody should have to worry about being made fun of over a bottle!
As you grow older, you'll have a lot of fun being a Star Wars fan! You may even get to meet Darth Vader, like me! (Pic: http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-ash1/v73/96/51/2506140/n2506140_35252823_609.jpg)
- Marissa
Dear Katie, I got made fun of in school too, and so did a lot of my friends. But you know what? All of those people that used to make fun of me and my friends, they didn't do very much with their lives and they grew up to be unhappy people. You just keep doing what makes you feel happy, and don't worry about anyone who makes fun of you because of your water bottle, or your glasses, or anything else. Those are the things that make you unique and you'll find out that being unique is really cool!
Sarah
Hi Katie!
I just wanted to write and let you know that I'm a 26 year old woman -- and I love Star Wars. Star Trek. Anything sci-fi. Anything Japanese. I've worn glasses since I was about your age. And I used to get teased about all of it in school--but don't let those mean boys stop you. Stay true to yourself, because you are awesome just the way you are. And you will find plenty of girls who love Star Wars, and plenty of boys who think girls who love Star Wars are awesome, as you get older.
It used to hurt so much when I was teased for being me, but I love me, and if others don't love me for who I am, that is their problem, not mine. That shows that they are narrow minded and aren't worth my time or energy. I look back now and I realize that those people teasing me were probably jealous that I was happy with who I was, and they weren't.
So wear your Star Wars tshirts and carry your water bottles proudly. All that matters is if it makes you happy.
This is one of the most rockingly cool replies that I have ever read. Way to go Catherine & Katie.
Carrie and Katie!!
I am so happy to read that our comments are making you feel better and helping you to stand strong. You always remember that you like what you like and no one can or should tell you it's wrong!
Your mother sounds like a very wise woman and you are very lucky to have her :)
I am almost 40 and I remember seeing the original Star Wars movies in the 1970s. Everyone liked them then and there was no distinguishing them as being for boys! How silly!!
It IS hard to listen to teasing, but if you remember how great whatever you like is (like Star Wars!) it will help you hold your head up and ignore it.
I'm a high school science teacher now and a total geek. But my students think that is cool because I am NOT nervous or shy about it. Today I am wearing my really BIG Gryffindor scarf in honor of Harry Potter... and getting high-fives in the hallway.
Good luck! And may the Force be with you. :)
Hi Katie,
Don
I am a Male elementary school teacher. I bet you don't see a lot of boys doing that. I work really hard at taking down these walls between what is considered boys and girls in my classrooms. I celebrate when boys wear pink shirts and girls wear Star Wars shirts. I will wear a pink shirt and as soon as someone comments on it, we discuss. Keep breaking down those walls by wearing what you want and drinking from the cup of your choice. It's hard to go against peer pressure but it sounds like you have a great support team.
May The Force Be With You.
Hi, Katie! Don't be embarrassed about enjoying STAR WARS. It makes you happy, and that's the important thing. And no matter what they say now, those very same boys are going to think it's really cool for a girl to be a fan in just a few short years. My girlfriend and I actually met because of STAR WARS; this is her wearing her R2-D2 shirt (and her glasses!). She grew up watching the movies with her dad. I have a niece your age who is also a big fan. Her name is Alicia, and we have a big Clone Wars Christmas planned for her. You are absolutely not alone as a young female fan, and it's no reason to be ashamed. You should be very proud of just being yourself, because that's the best thing you can be.
Katie --
I am a grown women who loves Star Wars, and I have an 8-year-old son who says that he wishes you were in his class so you could talk about Star Wars together! (He also says "There are girl Jedi, so what's the problem?")
I am so sorry your classmates are being mean. I hope all of these comments help you see that jerky people are not necessarily right.
Good luck! Stay strong!
Hi Katie & Mom!
I'm 23, and a huge Star Wars and comic book fan, have been since I was little. I always loved action figures way more than barbies.
I go to conventions every year, where I meet lot's of girls and boys dressed up like all our favorite characters.
Your story really hit home, I have a little sister whose 10, and she's adopted too! She also loves Star Wars, especially The Clone Wars. We lost our Mom this year, so it always makes me so happy to hear of an awesome Mom out there like your Mom.
Be proud of who you are Miss. Katie, boys just take a lot longer to mature, but you print out my message and show those boys, from someone who has met Chewbacca, (I have the pictures, with my 10 year old sister dressed like an X-Men to prove it) that only those afraid of how they feel themselves make fun of and bully other people. The force isn't with them, but it's definitely with you sweet child!
Katie,
I have loved Star Wars my entire life. Don't be ashamed. I'm a 27 year old woman who is trying to slowly build a lifesized R2-D2. If you want to see something cool, check out this. http://www.r2kt.com/ Its a story about another girl named Katie who wanted a pink R2-D2, and the people who build the droids made it for her. Good luck with the bullying. And just remember one day those boys will be begging you to date them.
Katie,
I'm a boy, and I'm 21 years old. I love Star Wars. I have loved it since I was 5 years old when I watched my first Star Wars movie. Since then I have collected books, music, games, and all of the movies. Do you know what my favorite thing is? I really like knowing girls that like Star Wars too! Girls that like Star Wars are so cool.
Star Wars is a story for everyone, especially girls like you who are unique in so many ways. It shows you that there are NO limits on what you can do!
That being said, have fun! I would have loved to have a Star Wars back pack and water bottle when I was your age. As for the boys, just don't ever let them know what they say bothers you. They will leave you alone eventually. I know its hard sometimes, but you have a very loving mother, and you know what? As you can see from the 900+ responses out here that Star Wars fans are all around and very supportive! From all of the Star Wars fans and Jedi out here in Seattle, Washington - May the Force be with you Katie!
From,
David F.
Hi Katie, I remember wen I was your age and was too afraid to tell people that I like "boy" stuff too. The truth is, I still do like boy stuff, but the difference now is that I know that it's ok to love the things that make me happy, no matter what anyone else thinks. I still love Star Wars and have learned many valuable lessons from it. So hold your head up and be proud of who you are. I know that all these girls who are leaving comments, myself included, are all very proud of you!
And Mom, if you're reading this, thank you so much for being such a wonderful mother. You set a fine example for others out there
I have loved Star Wars since I was a little girl. It was my favorite movie and I had all the toys. Now I'm happy to share Star Wars with my little girl. Everyone likes different things, and there's nothing wrong with that at all.
Hi, Katie!
My dad took me to see Star Wars when I was your age and I loved it! I played with my action figures every day - even though that was something that most boys did and most girls didn't.
I think it's great that you love Star Wars. It got me interested in science and traveling and it's just plain fun. I think it's really cool that you like it.
Sometimes kids get scared about silly things - they think it's better to be safe and pretend to like only what other people say they should than to enjoy what really makes them happy. The dumb thing is it makes them feel even safer if they can bully other kids into copying them.
The good news is that as you grow up, almost everyone realizes how silly that is. You're going to find more and more friends who think you're terrific because you know what you like and you're willing to try new things and be a little different.
And a lot of those boys who teased you about your water bottle will wish they could be brave like you.
You sound like a terrific kid (with a good mom), and you're going to grow up to be an amazing woman who speaks her own mind.
In the meantime, tell anyone who teases you that LOTS of girls like Star Wars, from all over the galaxy.
May The Force be with you!
Ali from Los Angeles
Katie Katie KATIE!!!!!
You are awesome. Totally. Those cootie boys are just jealous that your water bottle is better than theirs. It's so not okay for them to tease you. It's good for you to talk to your mom about this! I'm 44. (SO SO old right???) But you know what. I LOVE LOVE LOVE Star Wars. I was 10 when the very first Star Wars came out, and I fell in love with it. (Darth Vader is my favorite but don't tell Luke) I still love it, and when the Revenge of the Sith came out I *CRIED* in the movie theatre because I was so excited about it. (My husband thought I was crazy but what does he know??? :-) :-) :-) ) My son is 12 and he knows how much I love Star Wars too.
And guess what. I like Star Trek too. :) AND I like hockey. Fights and everything! I guess that's a "boy" thing too but who cares. It's what I *like*. And you know what. That's the important thing. Everyone likes different stuff. It's what makes us "us". Where we came from, what we wear (I wear glasses too!), what we like, how we like our hair...It's what we do that makes us the cool people we are.
Keep on rockin' that Star Wars water bottle. Maybe you can get a Star Wars headband too. :) :) (and it doesn't even hafta be a Princess Leia headband. :-) )
Jackie
Heya Katie!
When I was little, I was into "boy things" too. In addition to Star Wars, I loved reading X-Men comic books, video games, and drawing superheroes. Boys in class used to tease me every day for this, and it was really hard for me too... until I found friends that didn't care about stuff as silly as that, and liked me for who I was. We're still great friends to this day. :) I'm now living my dream and working for an animation studio, and I've worked on comics and video games. :)
As you grow older, you'll find that these things you love-- these same things that make you different-- will be the very same things that make you special.
Don't change who you are. Enjoy what brings you happiness, and the world will change around you. Star Wars is awesome, whether you're a girl or boy.
P.S. In the future, boys will like you a lot more than other girls for liking Star Wars. Trust me. ;)
-Tammy from California
Hi Katie!
I'm a 26-year-old woman, and I've been a huge Star Wars and sci-fi fan for most of my life. When you're in school, it can be hard having interests that are different from everyone else's, but trust me, don't give them up! Your imagination and enthusiasm are important. Life would be boring without them, right? With them, your life will be an adventure. As you get older and your social circles expand, you'll find tons of people who love the same stuff as you, and you'll have a great time geeking out together.
There's one other thing to remember - the boys are not the boss of you! They don't get to tell you what to do, and they definitely don't get to keep all the fun stuff to themselves. Just ask Leia about that!
For every boy who gives you trouble, know that there are many more people, including all of us here in internet-land, who think you're AWESOME just the way you are!
P.S.: Your glasses are almost the same as mine :) You have great taste!
I just wanted to say that unfortunately through life some kids will tease you about something. It might be a drink bottle, it might be which band you like, or because you like popcorn or something... The important thing is to try not to let it hurt you, and to know you're certainly not alone. Don't ever change to be what you think someone else wants you to be. Be yourself. If other people don't like that, they they don't deserve the honour of your company.
You are a beautiful person, and it would be boring if everyone was the same. But we're not all the same. You might be different because of some things... other people will be different for other reasons. We are all different... and that's a wonderful thing!
As a mother, and as someone who was teased at school too, your story nearly made me cry. Huge hugs to you! ... I got teased mostly because my name, Kelly rhymes with "smelly", so despite the fact I wasn't smelly - you know I got teased! - until, crying to my mother about it, she said they were only doing because it upset me... and suggested I pretended to like the names they called me. So then I went around calling myself "Kell Smell"... and you know what - they stopped teasing me... they couldn't - I'd taken away their tease :D Don't forget to talk about things that are bothering you!! It really helps.
Do you know I always wanted to wear glasses :D I went out and bought some clear sunglasses that looked like normal glasses so I could wear them! haha true!
And as for Star Wars being a boys thing - pfft... Sitting here at the computer I have 2 full size purple lightsabers sitting across the top shelf of my desk... with a set of Mace's lightsaber chopsticks (which I bought to wear in my hair) beside them... Also a birthday card from April that plays Chewy's growl when it opens.... on my monitor I have little figurines of R2, Chewy and Han.... To my right is a spoonrack type thing that houses my Star Wars Lego MiniFig collection (I have 32 if you include the tile of Han Solo in carbonite and my Tauntaun)... on my PC tower I have 4 Stormtrooper figures (one of which is a woman!).... So as many more women have shown, you're definitely not alone in your Starwars love, there are lots of us around :D
But do you know what I don't have ...a cool Star Wars drink bottle.... so you know what - I envy you! :D I think you're totally cool - Rock on girl!
Hi Katie! I'm 1 of 4 girls in my family (no brothers!) and we all LOVE Star Wars. I have my spanish Star Wars t-shirt (Estar Guars!), my younger sister has two light sabers, we own all the movies! I wish I had your Star Wars bottle water! I am 32 and have always been a huge fan of Star Wars.. I also love Marvin the Martian, Wallace & Gromit, Doctor Who, Calvin & Hobbes.. all cool! Hey, I even went to the see Star Wars in Concert!
I think you are cool! Oh and my sister and I both wear glasses too! I like yours.. very nice.
Just remember there are thousands of girls out in the world that LOVE Star Wars, wear glasses and are SUPER cool! I think those boys were jealous they didn't have a water bottle like yours... ;)
See this little girl is off to a great start!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EBM854BTGL0
Hi Katie!
I'm 28 years old and I've loved Star Wars all my life! In fact, this year I traveled to Disney World for Star Wars Weekends and had the time of my life!! There is absolutely nothing wrong with being a girl who loves Star Wars! Don't let those little boys tell you any differently, you are awesome!!! May the force be with you! :)
Hi Katie,
Not only am I a girl who loves Star Wars and Star Trek and all kinds of 'boy' stuff, but I'm adopted, just like you. :) So I got teased a lot as a kid -- still do sometimes, as an adult -- but I also have a lot of friends who have the same interests as me, and who don't mind standing in line for ten hours for the next Lord of the Rings movie. I can't wait for the Hobbit in two years!
Don't worry about liking 'boys' stuff.' And don't worry if you don't like 'girls' stuff.' Real friends are the ones who love you and share your interests. I hope you find friends, boys and girls, who love Star Wars as much as you do. And I hope you discover other great stories to love (I really recommend Lord of the Rings in about six years!). Be who you want to be, and don't be afraid of people making fun of you. Those people are just jealous that they aren't as confident as you are. You sound like an awesome person, just as strong as Padme or Princess Leia are. So, keep your head held high, and remember that girls kick major butt, and that adoptee girls are even cooler! (Especially if they like Star Wars.)
Hi Katie!
We share a lot in common- I'm also a Katie and I love Star Wars! My fourth grade Halloween costume of choice was Queen Amidala. I had giant cardboard cutouts of R2D2 and C-3PO in my room and I even convinced the people at Wal-Mart to let me have the display for Episode I when they were finished with it! Silly kids in my class might have said stuff about how much I liked Star Wars but the movies and stories made me happy. You should never, ever, feel bad about something that makes you happy! We all like different things and that's what makes the world great. I'm in college now and I still enjoy watching the movies and wearing my purple Princess Leia Adidas sneakers. So don't fret. There are a ton of other kids (and grown ups!) out there that like what you like :).
-Katie in NY
Katie, you are an awesome girl, you take what ever water bottle you want to school!
Katie, Star Wars rocks, and YOU rock! You can like whatever you want, and Star Wars is way more interesting than Cinderella or Hannah Montana. My little girl got bullied in kindergarten too because she likes to wear t-shirts and not dresses. Here's what I taught her to say: "Does it make you feel good to make other people feel bad?" Standing up for yourself and staying with what you like no matter what people say makes you smart as Obi Wan, brave as Luke, and cool as R2D2.
Hi Katie!
I'm 34 years old and was also picked on in school for liking things that weren't typically "girly" - I loved Matchbox cars, Batman, computers and all sorts of nerdy things. And I still do! Right now I'm going for my Master's Degree in Biology, and I wear glasses and love all things geeky. And you know what? All those people that used to pick on me? They don't matter anymore. Because I have friends- boys and girls - that love me for all my geeky habits, and you will too. Promise!
Be who you are, and don't let them get to you. You sound like a very awesome young lady, and you will grow up and find that the people that pick on you are sometimes just jealous that you have the guts to like the things you like. Keep taking your Star Wars bottle to school, and know that there are lots of people out there who think that you're pretty cool for doing so. :)
Being different is what makes this world interesting!
Katie you rock! I love love love Star Wars! I was 12 years old when the very first Star Wars movie came out. I remember seeing it at the theater and loved it. Since then I think I've seen it about a million times, but I still love it!
And I am a kindergarten teacher and I know a first grader in our school who also loves Star Wars. Her name is Mackenzie and she's exactly the same age you are. She has not only a Star Wars water bottle, but a Star Wars Lunch Box! She is so proud of them.
Stay Stronk Girl Friend...and may The Force be with you!
:)
Lisa
Hi Katie!!
I'm 22, I love Star Wars, and one of the most important things I've learned so far in my life is to just be yourself no matter who cares! I'll admit there have been some times in my life where other people made fun of me so I changed myself so that I wouldn't get made fun of. And no looking back, I regret it EVERY SINGLE time!!
I've also learned that "weird" people are the best kind of people!! So don't be afraid to be weird!! My friends tell me I'm weird all the time, but guess what I have a LOT of friends and THAT is what they like about me! Kids may not appreciate it now, but that's because there aren't enough kids to be role models for them! If you decide you're not going to care what other kids think, other girls that are too scared to show who they really are may start joining in with you!! And think of how good that will feel for them to be able to be who they want to be too!
Girls that know what they like and want in life are the strongest type of girls and we need to stick together! So NEVER doubt yourself!
MAY THE FORCE BE WITH YOU KATIE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Hi Katie,
I
yat, if you see this; where did you get your "Estar Guars" shirt. I would love to get one for me and some of my friends!
Stay strong, little one. From what I can see, you have already become more powerful than they could possibly imagine.
Dear Katie,
My name is Jo and I
Okay, so I actually signed up JUST to make a comment on this, so I hope Katie reads this!
This blog post hit me pretty hard, as I'm adopted, and strange beyond belief. I've struggled with it all my life, because I've never fit in, anywhere. To this day, I still feel outcasted, just because I'm kind of strange.
I'm gonna talk from the opposite perspective, as I'm a 23 year old guy, and recently, I started to love the color pink.
I wear pink converse shoes, they're my favorite, pink button up shirt, another favorite, and I play Star Wars: The Force Unleashed on my Playstation 3... with a pink controller.
For a while, I felt uncomfortable, because I knew people would look at me weird. And trust me, I get all kind of made fun of because of it, even my own friends. My mom thinks something is wrong with me because I like pink, and honestly... I can never understand why, it's just a color. I like it, it gives me a little bit of joy, and it's a cool, odd color on a guy, depending on what you mix it with.
I guess what I try to follow is my own punk code, a sort of "live and let live" mentality. If it suits you, and doesn't hurt me, do it! And I think if Star Wars suits you, and you love it, then do it!
And remember that, one of those boys making fun of you about this Star Wars thing, might just love the color pink...
Hi Katie,
I'm 34 years old and I've always loved Star Wars. When I was little I wanted to be Princess Leia! Like many other people leaving you messages here, I was bullied in primary school for things I couldn't control - I'm very short (4 foot 11 inches now), we didn't have much money and at the time I was very quiet and shy. I wasn't interested in girly things, and I'm still not. My Mum made me have really short hair, so everyone thought that I was a boy - that didn't help! I know what it's like to be different. One of my friends gave me a "Top 10" list of why I'm weird, and he was right in every one!
The thing about being different is that everyone is different - no one thinks in exactly the same way, and everyone deals with situations differently. That's ok. My little girl is 5 and she *loves* Spiderman. I wish I could get her into Star Wars too!
Don't ever let anyone tell you what to like or who to be. Those things you need to figure out for yourself. The coolest people are those who accept what and who they are and don't care what anyone else thinks.
Big hugs wee woman, and I'll leave you with the advice my Mum gave me when I was getting picked on : "Be yourself, and don't let anyone try to change who you are. If they don't like you for who you are let them go and kiss your butt".
Okay, so I actually signed up JUST to make a comment on this, so I hope Katie reads this!
This blog post hit me pretty hard, as I'm adopted, and strange beyond belief. I've struggled with it all my life, because I've never fit in, anywhere. To this day, I still feel outcasted, just because I'm kind of strange.
I'm gonna talk from the opposite perspective, as I'm a 23 year old guy, and recently, I started to love the color pink.
I wear pink converse shoes, they're my favorite, pink button up shirt, another favorite, and I play Star Wars: The Force Unleashed on my Playstation 3... with a pink controller.
For a while, I felt uncomfortable, because I knew people would look at me weird. And trust me, I get all kind of made fun of because of it, even my own friends. My mom thinks something is wrong with me because I like pink, and honestly... I can never understand why, it's just a color. I like it, it gives me a little bit of joy, and it's a cool, odd color on a guy, depending on what you mix it with.
I guess what I try to follow is my own punk code, a sort of "live and let live" mentality. If it suits you, and doesn't hurt me, do it! And I think if Star Wars suits you, and you love it, then do it!
And remember that, one of those boys making fun of you about this Star Wars thing, might just love the color pink...
And sorry for the double post, odd thing this interwebz is.
Hi, Katie.
Cheers to you for being a Star Wars fan! I am too. (Also, a Star Trek/Stargate/Babylon 5/Farscape/Firefly ... well the list is almost endless - fan.)
You have a terrific mom. And you are terrific too. Don't deny yourself something you love.
Best wishes and may the force be with you. Nanu nanu. Live long and prosper. Happy Gating!
Hi Katie,
I'm a big girl (23) from Australia and I love Star Wars and wear glasses and am a little different. When I was younger people would make mean comments about me wearing glasses and liking "boy-ish" things and reading. When I got to university I was one of the most popular people there because I was "interesting". I used to feel self conscious about my glasses and things but people that say mean things to you will always find something to be mean about so don't give up something that you love just because someone is being silly and nasty. One day soon the boys will realise what a cool confident chick you are with excellent taste that is fun to play with. Until then you drink from your awesome star wars drink bottle with pride and think that Princess Leia wouldn't care if someone thought she was boyish for fighting the Empire!
Lots of love
Jasmin (a big girl who wished she had spent less time worrying about what other people thought when she was your age!)
I was reading your story and I am saddened to hear of Katie's trouble, but I think it is important to recognize that it is an American cultural phenomenon and not a gender specific issue. My son is six and since he was a toddler we have been subject to gender specification and pigeonholing of every variety. From the "girl toy/color" vs. "boy toy/color" to organized ostracization by groups of girls against boys in his kindergarten. It is important to promote open-mindedness and acceptance of all rather than to perpetuate this situation along gender lines.
Hi Katie!
I'm a girl and I LOVE LOVE LOVE Star Wars! I even turned my little girl, who is 12 now, on to the greatest movie ever.
You be strong and don't worry about those silly boys. Liking Star Wars is WAY cool and being different is even cooler. Different rocks. Different is what makes this world go around.
I'm proud of you for being brave and doing what is right for you. And I'm proud of your mom for teaching you these things. Keep listening to her... you guys are awesome!
Hugs from Georgia!
Hi Katie!
I am a dad with 3 great kids! They are 16, 7, and 3 years old. They are all Star Wars fans. But my daughters (7 and 3) also still love princesses, Tinkerbell, and all the fun girly stuff too!
I don't know if people have talked about this yet but did you know that there are lots and lots of girls who love Star Wars so much they actually wear Star Wars costumes? These ladies are in a group called the 501st Legion.
There is also a community just for Star Wars kids. Check it out http://www.galactic-academy.com/
You'll be ok kiddo! Never lose hope!
Hey Katie! I just want to let you know that you are not alone, there are lots of little boys who get picked on for being Star Wars fans, too. I myself was teased at times when I was your age (I am now 35) for being a lover of Star Wars and other things considered "geeky". It was hurtful, but I tried to never let it break my spirit, or my passion for that which I loved so much. To this day, I remain a Star Wars fan, I am married with a lovely wife and two beautiful children: my daughter is a year and a half old, and my son is all of seven weeks old. I plan on introducing them both to Star Wars early in life; in fact, I enrolled them both in the Star Wars Fan Club this year (unfortunately I believe this is the last year the Club will exist). I especially want to encourage my daughter to appreciate it, now in light of reading your story. I know my wife was quite taken with Star Wars, as well, when she was younger and she still enjoys the movie with me to this day.
God Bless you, Katie, best of luck, and lots of love to you from the Hill Family :)
My 10 year old daughter and I both love Star Wars, princess Leia rocks.
Those boys ought to be feed to the wookies.
take care, user your awesome Star Wars gear and smile.
Katie, I grew up being teased as well for liking what people call 'boy' things, being a tomboy, and wearing glasses, and liking random things that nobody else seems to like. But you know what? I wouldn't trade any of those things for anybody. They make me who I am, and I learned that I'm no good at being anybody else. And people like me better for being me.
So don't you let those boys tell you what to do! Star Wars is awesome! And glasses are awesome. I love when I get a cool new pair, I can't wait to show them off! Your eyepatch is temporary. You'll be rid of it before you know it, and your eyes will be better for it, too. Go have fun, and keep being brave!
I teach children myself, a little younger than you. I always tell them that there's no such thing as a 'boy toy' or a 'girl toy', even though lots of children or adults might say so. You like what you like, and nobody can change that. I look at you, and I see an absolutely beautiful little girl. And as a fellow Star Wars fan, I believe you could pass for Princess Leia. ;)
Hi Katie!
My name is Katey too (although I spell it a little differently) and I love Star Wars! I was bullied at school from 1st grade until 4th grade. It was in 4th grade that I realised I was a good person and I didn't need the approval of those bullies. In high school I was quite popular and I still am! At 31 years old, I moved to a new city where I didn't know anyone and made wonderful friends within the first week here. I'm sure that you will grow up to be an amazing woman who can achieve anything she wants, because you have learned to be yourself and be proud of who you are at such a young age.
I take care of two children as their nanny, a boy and a girl, and they both love Star Wars too. I am always teaching them that there are no such thing as "girls' toys" and "boys' toys". The 6-year-old boy I take care of plays Barbies with his 9-year-old sister and she plays Star Wars with him.
The idea that boys and girls are so different is an old fashioned one that seems to persist. The more people there are like you, the more this idea will be defeated! If we can defeat the gender bias, then the world will be a better place. Less bullying, more confidence, more open-mindedness.
Katie, your are a very strong, brave and inspiring girl. I hope other children in your school take a leaf out of your book and start to show their individuality without fear of being different. Being different is what makes each person so special.
I wish you a lot of happiness.
Katey
Hey Katie!
I'm 27 now, but I was picked on for liking Star Wars when I was young too. Trust me, as you get older people will see just how awesome you are. There's no such thing as something being "just for boys," so never believe anyone if they tell you something isn't for a girl. Girls are just as capable as guys are, and you're free to love whatever you want! Keep being true to yourself, Katie, and people will learn to love you for who you are. Always be proud of who you are and never let anyone make you feel ashamed of yourself. Remember, you're an awesome person and if someone else can't see that, it's their loss :) Keep fighting the good fight Katie!
Best Wishes,
M.K.
Hi Katie!
I'm female, 41 years old, from Germany, an airliner, a mother and - a Star Wars fan! YES, Star Wars is for females aswell as for males, of course! I know lots of female Star Wars fans! I talk to them daily via Facebook. They are all over the world and they are as "crazy" about SW as the male fans. They wear costumes and go to conventions, they write fanfiction stories and draw pics and they collect SW items. I'd love to have a SW bottle! Look, I'm running around with a big SW watch on my arm, even at work! No one can tell me it's only for males. No one ever tried to tell me - and it's better for them! I'm a Sith! :-D A few people tried to tell me that SW was only for kids. No, it isn't! I'm a grown-up fan and I know lots and lots of them, male and female.
A story is for everyone who hears or reads or watches it, no matter what gender or age. And SW is a very good story. So it's yours. Enjoy it!
Love, mean ol' Mrs Palpatine from good ol' Europe ;-)
Dear, Katie-
Not only am I a woman who loves Star Wars, but I loved it when I was your age, too! When the original movie first came out I fell in love with it. I had Star Wars EVERYTHING. I had even gotten my ears pierced recently and had Darth Vader earrings. Perhaps the oddest thing was that I was Darth Vader not Leia that Halloween. (I was Leia a few years later though.)
People who criticize what you like probably don't like much themselves. The smart ones among us know that people having unexpected interest is what makes them worth knowing. If you can tell from looking at someone what they like there isn't much point in getting to know them further.
Keep loving Star Wars and anything else you like. It is what makes you extraordinary.
-Kim Z
(The really funny thing is that once they get older boys will think it's cool that you like Star Wars. It will make you much cooler than girls with pink water bottles.)
Hi Katie!
My little girl is 4 years old and she is a HUGE Star Wars fan, just like her Daddy. She loves the toys, and she has a wardrobe FULL of Star Wars t-shirts which she loves to wear daily.
Her 4th birthday was a Star Wars theme, and I made a silly R2D2 cake for her and Yoda-colored ice cream. We even had a Darth Vader Pinata.
For Halloween, she thought it would be fun if our whole family dressed up. Since she wanted to be Yoda, we went with a theme: Her Daddy dressed up like Han Solo, her little sister was R2D2 and I went as Princess Leia. It was a lot of fun and everyone really enjoyed our costumes!
Please don't let anyone tell you something is too "boyish" for you to like. Star Wars has a lot of really awesome girl characters who don't need anyone to save them! That is the kind of woman I hope my daughters grow up to be: Strong, independent and able to save themselves. If that means they like something "boyish", I'm okay with that.
Stay strong and keep your Star Wars thermos!
Dear Katie,
I am a lady now, but I remember seeing Star Wars when it first came out in the theater! I was teased a lot when I was in school because my two front teeth were brown. It was tough but I had to remember that sometimes kids don't like when someone says, "I am different and I am happy!" There are lots of things in the grown-up world that tell ladies and men to not be happy about who they are and what they like. Don't listen to them! You are perfect JUST THE WAY YOU ARE!
I taught my kids (I have 3 girls and five boys, and six grandsons) to BE WHO THEY WANT but you have to treat others nicely! The only person who can make you happy is you! If you like Star Wars don't let someone change your mind! I really like Doctor Who and Star Wars and Star Trek! I have found there are other people who like those things, too, and even other things I like - like crocheting and playing piano and making fun things! Even though it might seem hard sometimes, always remember to be nice to other people, even if they are sometimes mean to you. When you get older you'll always remember the people who were nice when you were younger and the people who weren't so nice will change and want to have you as a friend.
Sometimes being different can be scary, but the more you show others how you like to be different, those other people will start to leave you alone. It might be hard to think things will change, but they do - I PROMISE. And always know there are no BOY things or GIRL things, just things people like! There are other girls who like Star Wars, too, but they might not feel brave enough to say how much they like it! Look at all the girls and ladies who are writing you! It's because we want you (and all kids and adults) to understand it's okay to like what you want and be who you are!
My 25-year-old daughter really LOVES Star Wars! She has a cool light sword and she helps put together conventions where people who like Anime and comics and science fiction (like Star Wars) get together, wear costumes, talk about the shows and movies, share toys and things they have made, and have MEGA-FUN! She lives in Phoenix but if she were near you, she'd show you how much fun she has! There are SO MANY GIRLS who go to these conventions! There are many in and near Chicago, like C2E2. Your mom can look at a web page here http://www.c2e2.com/ to find pictures you can look at. The REAL Princess Leia was there in April!
Like other girls have said, you did a really good thing telling your mom about this. Encourage your friends to tell their parents or teachers about times they feel hurt or scared. You'll find out you aren't alone - other kids feel this way sometimes, too.
You are a really amazing young lady and I am proud you can show others your differences! Sometimes it seems scary but as you do it more and more, it's not so scary. You have a great mom and I know you'll grow to be an awesome woman who will enjoy sharing the things you like with others!
May the force be with you, Katie!
Dawn from Montana
Hang in there Katie- Some day those boys will grow up and realize what fun sharing ideas are! Stories are not meant just for on type of person. Enjoy your Star Wars, or any SciFi or Fantasy item you want. I became a fan of Star Wars WAAAAAAY back when it first came out in 1977, and I still read Star Wars Books- there are a lot of them. I also like many other SciFi books too. So do my four grownup kids! Adventures are for anybody brave enough to start on one. YOU ARE BRAVE - consider this the beginning of your adventure! Good Luck and stay strong, you are such a special young lady.
It's okay Katie! I am also a female who loves Star Wars. I also work in a tech field that is made up mostly of men and I like doing things that are supposed to be only for the boys. We need more girls like you! Just keep being you. One day those boys who teased you are going to like you for the same reasons they are teasing you now. :)
Chin up!
-Crys
Dear Katie,
I am a woman who really likes Star Wars, computers and other supposedly "boyish" things. I am also adopted! Boys don't own all the fun things in this world. They are for everyone to enjoy! Don't let anyone tell you how to be or what to like. As long as you are happy and not hurting others, it shouldn't matter to them. Being adopted is a wonderful thing and means that you were truly wanted and chosen! Be proud of who you are and value the opinions of those who love you, over those who are not true friends.
katie,
as a girl who was always a little different, and the mom of a girl who tried so hard not to be different, i can tell you that kids (and even adults) will always find something to pick on and tease you for. always. it is hard, but in the end, being true to yourself is the thing that will bring you happiness.
no, i didn't like star wars, especially when it first came out in 1977, and people made fun of me for not liking it! the one time i pretended that i liked it, just to fit in, i didn't like myself very much.
now, i do like star wars, but because i grew to like it, not because anybody else thought i should. i especially like the star wars lego game :)
you be yourself, and love yourself, and don't let those boys - or anybody else - tell you that you aren't awesome.
tori from portland, oregon
Heya Katie! I have 2 boys. 1 of those boys is 7 and would prefer to be in the girls club than the boys. The other boy is 5 and pink is his favorite color. They both have star wars thermoses.
I enjoy Star Wars right along side my 2 sons =) My 1 year old daughter also loves to watch Star Wars!
You are super cool because you like what you like not because other girls like it but because YOU like it!
My 5 year old wants to give you his light saber when I told him about how you were picked on =) he wants you to feel better and have the courage to tell the other kids to leave you alone.
May the force be with you Katie!
Hi Katie,
I am an almost 30 year old woman that LOVES Star Wars. I have tons of Star Wars comics and action figures, and I've even dressed up like Han Solo. I know lots of other fantastic girls and ladies who also think that Star Wars rocks. Star Wars has several strong women characters too.
I've always been into sci-fi and fantasy, and I got a hard time in junior high and high school for being different. Don't let other kids get you down or affect you or make you change your ways. Those kids that made fun of me? I haven't talked to them since graduation, and I've found so many friends that think it is awesome that I love Star Wars.
Hang in there,
Amy
Hi Katie! Those boys are very silly. My husband loves that I love Star Wars! When we were dating, he gave me all the Star Wars movies for my birthday, and a light saber for Christmas. Now that we're married, we want to adopt a little girl someday, and we hope she's as cool as you!
Love,
Sarah and Simon
Hey Katie,
I found out about you from Epbot and just had to tell you something... All the cool kids are geeks!
It may seem tough at the moment but be true to who you are and don't be someone you're not just to fit in. Just remember that lots of people like Star Wars and you're not alone :)
Sending love from England,
Emma
PS. I am totally jealous of your water bottle :)
Dear Katie,
My name is Natali and my oldest daughter is the same age as you and LOVES Star Wars. In fact, I had to bake a life size Yoda cake for her birthday last year. In fact, we're just up in Milwaukee and when I told her what you were going through, she said she would be proud to go to school with you and hold your hand. In fact her little sister and I would be proud to do the same. Our entire family is all about two things: love and star wars. :)
Boys are weird. I'm sure they'll tell you girls are too. And we can be. But loving Star Wars is definitely not one of the ways. If they were smart, they would realize when they are playing Star Wars at recess, it would be so much more fun if they had a Leia or a Padme or any of the other amazing strong females in the Star Wars movies, books, Clone Wars - you name it.
Chin up young Jedi, the force is strong with you and you have an army of female Star Wars lovers behind you!
Fondly,
Natali :)
Hey Katie,
When my sister was five, she watched Star Wars: A New Hope every day, do you know why? Because it's an awesome movie. Just because you're a girl doesn't mean you shouldn't be able to enjoy something cool. Girls can like Star Wars, or kickball, or anything else that boys can like, there's no rule saying we can't.
The fact that you like Star Wars, believe it or not, may help you make friends with other people, boys and girls who like Star Wars, because you can all have fun talking about how cool it is when Leia dresses up like a bounty hunter to save Han.
One of the most amazing girls I have ever met was a huge fan of Star Wars, Battle Star Galactica (it's a tv show about a bunch of people in space ships, it's really cool) and Star Trek. She was different than some of the other girls, but she was also someone I looked up to because she was so special and fantastic.
The entire class made fun of me when I was in elementary school because I was different. It hurt a lot, and some days it felt like it would never get any better. Trust me, it gets better. In a few years, the kids at school will grow up, and they'll realize how awesome you are. Until then, keep fighting, because really, who wants to let the dark side win?
Hey Katie!
So... I've never been a bit Star Wars fan, but you know what I do love? GI Joes! Yup. A girl with camo. Don't let them get to you. I learned that those same boys who pick on you now will LOVE the fact that you're into what they claim is "cool stuff" later on.
And by the way, learn to love those glasses! I think they're completely cute on you!
Dear Katie,
Greetings from Canada! I am a woman and I love Star Wars and lots of other similar things. And I want you to know that "dwsoda" is right - I have a wonderful boyfriend who loves sharing these interests with me.
Be strong, be proud of what you are. They're just jealous that they can't rock a pink water bottle like you can rock a Star Wars one!!! ;)
Silly comment link isn't working. I have a Katie too, she's 7 and she's also different since she has a feeding tube. I told her about your Katie and she said "I like Star Wars too, and Katie can like whatever she wants and wear whatever she wants and she will still be awesome." Happy Thanksgiving from one awesome Katie to another.
Sounds like you have a really awesome little girl!
Hey Katie! Just wanted to let you know that there are plenty of guys out there who think girls who like Star Wars are cool - my girlfriend and I both love Star Wars (in fact she just got me a Star Wars gift for my birthday), and I think it's really great that you like it too!
Keep on enjoying yourself and being a cool kid, and don't let anybody tell you otherwise! Enjoy your Star Wars t-shirt and thermos!
Katie! Your life holds nothing but promise. You are beautiful, amazing, and clearly brilliant. First, all the most amazing girls wear glasses - see Tina Fey and myself as perfect examples. Second, be proud of being adopted; your mom PICKED you! She could have had any kid in the world, and you were the absolute best, most perfect kid she could possibly imagine. Finally, embrace your love for Star Wars. Greatest movies out there, hands down. And one day, you
Hi Katie,
Another nerd girl speaking up to tell you that you are awesome just the way you are. It can seem really scary and sad when so many people tell you that you need to change who you are in order to be cool. It's not true! You rock just how you are. When I was a kid I was always told that I was weird because I didn't like the same things that everyone else did. Today I work in science education, I'm surrounded by other nerds, and I couldn't imagine being happier. Hang in there!
XO
T
Hi Katie,
Another nerd girl speaking up to tell you that you are awesome just the way you are. It can seem really scary and sad when so many people tell you that you need to change who you are in order to be cool. It's not true! You rock just how you are. When I was a kid I was always told that I was weird because I didn't like the same things that everyone else did. Today I work in science education, I'm surrounded by other nerds, and I couldn't imagine being happier. Hang in there!
XO
T
Hi Katie,
Another nerd girl speaking up to tell you that you are awesome just the way you are. It can seem really scary and sad when so many people tell you that you need to change who you are in order to be cool. It's not true! You rock just how you are. When I was a kid I was always told that I was weird because I didn't like the same things that everyone else did. Today I work in science education, I'm surrounded by other nerds, and I couldn't imagine being happier. Hang in there!
XO
T
Katie,
I'm a boy (29 years old) Star Wars fan. So, I'm already not following your mom's rules. Nonetheless, I just wanted to confirm what many girls have already said.
Many boys, myself included, grow-up to think that cute girls with glasses and a passion for Star Wars (and other "boy" things) are totally awesome.
I think you're awesome.
I don't think that because you wear glasses, or even because you like Star Wars. I think you're awesome because you are brave enough to like what you like, no matter what anyone else thinks.
Being true to yourself is more powerful than The Force.
Hi Katie,
Another nerd girl speaking up to tell you that you are awesome just the way you are. It can seem really scary and sad when so many people tell you that you need to change who you are in order to be cool. It's not true! You rock just how you are. When I was a kid I was always told that I was weird because I didn't like the same things that everyone else did. Today I work in science education, I'm surrounded by other nerds, and I couldn't imagine being happier. Hang in there!
XO
T
From one Catie to another--
Never give up, sweetheart. Never surrender. (That's from another totally great movie, Galaxy Quest. :))
Hi Katie-
I know you keep getting a lot of support, but I just wanted to add mine. When I was a little girl I played with my brother's Star Wars toys instead of my dolls. I have always loved Star Wars. In fact, the first movie I ever saw in a theater was "The Empire Strikes Back". My co-worker's 5-year-old daughter was Darth Vader for Halloween last year.
Good for you for breaking the mold, being strong, and standing up for yourself! Don't ever let anyone bully you or convince you that you're wrong. As you can see, there are plenty of women and girls who enjoy Star Wars just as much as you do, and it will never be just for boys.
May the Force be with you!
Hi Katie!
I'm a girl and a Mom who loves Star Wars! Seeing those movies in the theater, are family outings that I will always remember!! AND my 2 daughters (now all grown up - 18 and 21) love Star Wars too!!
You are very brave to share your story and to continue to be true to yourself!! Your courage might give other girls and boys the confidence to be themselves!!
Your Mom is right, boys and girls say mean things when they are afraid OR have never been taught to respect others feelings (maybe they are around adults that say hurtful mean things often)
Unfortunately most of these boys and girls grow up to be adults that are afraid or disrespectful of others' feelings.
Boys would love to think that Star Wars is a boy thing but what on earth would all the boys in Star Wars do without Queen Amidala, Princess Leia and all the other girls???
May the Force ALWAYS be with you!!
Jedi Mom from Massachusetts!!
Dearest Katie,
I love Star Wars so much that I got married at Star Wars Episode 1 in 1999 at the Seattle Cinerama theatre. I named my oldest son (almost 12), Anakin. My youngest son is Kal-El. I don't know what I would name a girl, but regardless of the name I choose, she'd probably still love Star Wars as much as we do. Ourtradition is to call each other dork, geek or nerd and then reply with a confident "Thank You!"
Recently Anakin got his first bully on the bus picking on his name. It bugged him at first but as it turns out, more people stood up for him against bullying and he has plenty of friends who get him and his "geekiness
Hi Katie, my name is Megan and I love Star Wars too, along with all sorts of other nerdy things.
Don't worry about what those boys say. I'm sure they're just jealous that you got an awesome Star Wars water bottle and they didn't.
Don't let any bullies tell you what you can and can't like. Do what makes you happy and ignore anyone who tells you you're not supposed to be happy. They're probably just unhappy themselves and want to pull you down to their level.
Here's a secret: Nerds rule the world. It takes a very smart person to become a leader these days, and smart people tend to be nerdy and like things like Star Wars. Keep working hard in school and being yourself and I bet you'll go far. Maybe you'll be President. Maybe you'll be a great filmmaker and make a movie as awesome as Star Wars. I wish you all the luck in the world.
Heya Katie! You and I have a lot in common! I have always loved Star Wars and I was adopted too! :)
In fact, I like Star Wars so much that when I play roller derby, I only answer to Anacringe Skywalker. Don't let anyone tell you that you can't like something just because you are a girl! There no law that says girl can't like Star Wars, or comic books, or the SyFy channel, or action figures! Besides, those things are FUN!
May the force by with you, young Jedi! :)
Hi, Katie!
My daughter is in first grade and she says "Star Wars is the bestest movie and the king of all movies!" She has a Clone Wars water bottle and a Hello Kitty water bottle and she likes the Clone Wars bottle the best. She dressed as Darth Vader for Halloween this year, and guess what? So did a couple other girls in her class!
Hey Katie! I just wanna tell you that, as others have already told you, you aren't alone. I grew up loving Star Wars and doing a lot of things that are "for boys". Of course I got picked on a lot for it, but, in the end, being who you are is worth a little back talk. I'm sure you're an amazing and strong girl, never lose that because of what the boys would rather see of you. Star Wars is great, and it's not just for the boys. Good luck, sweetie!
Hi Katie! I am another girl fan of Star Wars! I saw the original movies when they came out in the theaters way back when I was a child, and have loved them ever since. I count myself very lucky to have had the opportunity to have met many of the wonderful people who are fans, and some of the very lucky people who actually earn a living imagining the Star Wars universe, and no one has ever suggested to me that Star Wars is for boys only. Remind them that one of the best and smartest characters in Star Wars is a girl -- Princess Leia! You rock your water bottle, and you're always welcome at my lunch table.
Hi,
I'm the father of a first grade girl and I keep three toy Light Sabers in the trunk of my car for when my daughter and I want to battle. And then there is my old roommate Nate, whose love of Star Wars is exceeded only by that of his wife and his 5 year old daughter.
Katie, I am a woman who likes all sorts of science fiction and fantasy. I play role playing games (D&D style) the old fashioned way - on a table with paper and pencil and dice, not a computer. I was brought up on Star Trek and Star Wars and a whole lot of cheesy as well as good sci-fi movies. At your age I played with Lego and matchbox cars as well as Barbies, and was always teased. My love of sci-fi took me into a computer career, and I also now help run a large convention dedicated to sci-fi and fantasy.
My niece (who is five) is totally into Star Wars (every stuffed animal she owns has a Star Wars costume on it), Superhero cartoons (she dressed as Ironman last Halloween, and as Batman for Christmas) and movies, and all the things the boys like. They tease her too, but she has decided that this is who she is and what she likes and she's going to just keep going on doing what she does, because it makes her happy. Her parents explained to her something similar to what your mum has said.
If you enjoy it, if it's something that makes you happy, don't let anyone tell you it's "wrong". It isn't.
I know that as a Star Wars fan I should say May the Force Be With You, but I'm a huge Star Trek fan as well, so Live Long and Prosper Katie!
Hi Katie!
I love all the star wars movies and I wish I watched them when I was your age! Those boys are just jealous of your stuff and want to make you feel bad because they dont have it. Be proud of your likes and passions, you never know, maybe you will grow up to make movies just like Star wars one day. You are special and lovely and I wish I had a star wars water bottle!
Keep your head up little lady!
-Becca
Hi Katie! Your story made it all the way to The Netherlands. I even asked some really cool people on Twitter to re-tweet your story and some of them did!
I'm a girl (actually a woman, I'm 32 years old). I am not a Star Wars fan (sorry) but I'm a HUGE Star Trek fan. And I know a lot of other women that love Strar Trek (and Star Wars) as well! Please, stay true to yourself and your passions in life and never let anybody put you down or steal your dreams. I am very proud of you that you started bringing your Star Wars bottle to school again! You go girl!
And remember, later in life, the boys that are really into Star Trek and Star Wars (or other sci-fi shows/movies) usually get a better paid job when they are older... ;)
Use The Force Katie!
Katie,
I have always been a huge Star Wars fan! Watching Star Wars for the first time with my daughter was a great moment for me, especially since she loved it! Rowan even dressed up as Darth Vader for Halloween in kindergarten! I was worried that some kids might make fun of her but by halloween they had all accepted that Rowan was not a pink or disney princess kind of girl. She had trouble when kindergarten first began because some of the boys told her she was supposed to like girl stuff not boy stuff, I told her Star Wars is for everyone and there is no boy stuff or girl stuff, its all just stuff. People can like whatever they want, this year for her birthday Rowan wanted spy gear and science kits, no pink stuff at all! And you know what she has a giant Star Wars poster hanging in her room that I bought years ago, and everyone who sees it thinks Rowan is lucky. So hang in there, like what you want and be who you are, because there are many of us Star Wars gilrs out there!
Hi Katie!
I'm yet another Katie that loves Star Wars. I was picked on occasionally by other kids when I was younger for loving boy toys. Sure, I had barbies and my little ponies to play with my sisters, but I would always steal my brother's GI Joes or Legos. I was lucky enough that my brother encouraged this and we'd always watch "boy" cartoons together. At 23 I still have my girly side, but I love all the "boy" stuff. The great thing is... Nobody makes fun of me now. I play all the guy focused video games and now boys think it is cool.
I hope you're still sporting your Star Wars with pride. Embrace who you are. The moment you conform to what other people want you to be is the moment you lose who you are.
Hi, Katie!
When I was your age I had a patch and glasses too, and I HATED them. But I got used to them, and now I don't need a patch anymore. (I still need glasses but now that I am grown I can pick really cool lenses.)
When I was little there wasn't any Star Wars yet, but I had an astronaut doll and lots of toy cars that could race on a track. My big brother had a baby doll with a pink bonnet and a bottle.
Please keep your Star Wars water bottle! (If you want to have the pink one just for a change, that's ok, too, but not if it's because boys tease).
Katie, I have to write you a comment here...
I'm a little like you. I'm adopted, too! My name is Jeni, but my little sister is named Caitlin. And I got made fun of a lot when I was in school, too. Now, I didn't know about Star Wars until I was older, probably about 12, but, when I was your age, I was all about science. The other girls made fun of me for not wanting to dress like them or for not liking New Kids On the Block (ask your mom, they were a HUGE deal), and it hurt my feelings a lot. I spent a lot of time alone, and only had a few friends. But, I always had my mom. My mom always encouraged me to do the things I liked to do, even if it meant she had to comfort me every day.
Those boys who made fun of your water bottle? They might be jealous, sure, but, one day, they're going to wish they were nicer to you. You're going to grow up to be an amazing woman, with a killer sense of humor, a huge heart, and the coolest memorabilia collection ever. You're going to make friends that are more like you than you can ever imagine, and you're going to do some amazing things. Your mom obviously loves you TONS, and we all think you're pretty awesome with your love of Star Wars.
I'm 30 now, and I am still a big fan of everything science. I watch Star Wars with my sons, and we also watch other Science Fiction movies. I was a big fan of Indiana Jones as a kid, and always wanted to be an archaeologist. And that's what I'm going to college to be right now. :D
You're awesome, Katie, and May The Force Be With You!
Hey Katie! I just wanna tell you that, as others have already told you, you aren't alone. I grew up loving Star Wars and doing a lot of things that are "for boys". Of course I got picked on a lot for it, but, in the end, being who you are is worth a little back talk. I'm sure you're an amazing and strong girl, never lose that because of what the boys would rather see of you. Star Wars is great, and it's not just for the boys. Good luck, sweetie!
Hey, Katie!
I'm Jennifer, and I'm 22, and I have LOVED Star Wars since I was 4 years old. Even being that little I can still remember watching it for the first time with my dad, and I thought it was just the most amazing thing I'd ever seen. For me, Han Solo was the absolute most awesome character in the entire world and I wanted to be just like him, as much as I could.
I had all kinds of Star Wars toys, the Falcon and all kinds of figures and I can remember sitting at my desk on a break at school one day in 4th grade and drawing an AT-AT for my dad to put in his office. I've been one of 'those' sci-fi fantasy geeks all my life, and you know what? I'm so proud of it. Us sci-fi/fantasy girls, we're awesome people. We're creative and we enjoy celebrating the things we love and, Katie, I promise you there is nothing wrong with that.
I have to say, yeah, I was made fun of a little in elementary school and even in middle school, but the thing is, you have to not let people see that it gets to you, even if it does. Hold your head up high and don't show any sign that you should be embarrassed for loving what you love, because you SHOULDN'T, not one bit. They guys that first made fun of me for being a Star Wars fan in 1st and 2nd grade realized that hey, here was a girl they could actually talk to about stuff they enjoyed, and by 3rd grade we were talking about where to buy rare action figures and levels on video games and all sorts of things. That didn't stop some of them from making fun of me for other things later, but sometimes, school is like that...it isn't far, but kids can be cruel. The thing was though, they learned eventually that I could have pretty neat conversations with them and actually know what I was talking about, and that particular thing was something they finally decided was cool about me...and they were right. :) There's nothing wrong with being different.
And the other really cool thing that you'll see as you get older is that when you grow up, there really are TONS of other girls like you out there, and you'll get to meet them! The friends I have now are nearly all into the same things I am, and we do awesome things like go to conventions and make costumes and have movie and TV show marathons. We're all happy and comfortable with who we are and there's nothing like the fun we have together, and you'll be able to find that someday.
I think it's wonderful that you've had the courage to keep carrying your water bottle...that's a wonderful show of strength, and it says so much about the content of your character as a person. Just keep being yourself, and you'll show them how amazing you are. I hope everything turns out wonderful for you, Katie!
Dear Katie (and Katie's Mom),
I have to admit up front that I'm a man, not a woman. but I *was* like you when I was a little boy. I loved Star Wars and Star Trek and robots and spaceships and all sorts of other wonderful imaginative things, and I was teased and picked on terribly by other kids - boys and girls alike, just for being the kind of person I was. So I know how much it must have hurt you to be bullied, too. Please believe me, not only does it eventually get better in time, but there are boys out there who have no problem with girls liking Star Wars at all or anything else that makes someone "different." I read your story and many of the letters girls and women have sent you, and I have to honestly tell you that I envy you, because I didn't have this kind of support when I was your age (and we didn't even have the internet back then!). I think you hearing all these stories and using them to feel better about yourself and what *you* like is a terrific thing.
Stay strong, keep your chin up and smile and don't let those bullies ruin your fun. You have so many people on your side, so many who might not even see this article but if they did they'd speak up for your side of things in a heartbeat! I wish you the best of happiness.
I sense the Force is strong with you :)
Katie,
I have always been a huge Star Wars fan! Watching Star Wars for the first time with my daughter was a great moment for me, especially since she loved it! Rowan even dressed up as Darth Vader for Halloween in kindergarten! I was worried that some kids might make fun of her but by halloween they had all accepted that Rowan was not a pink or disney princess kind of girl. She had trouble when kindergarten first began because some of the boys told her she was supposed to like girl stuff not boy stuff, I told her Star Wars is for everyone and there is no boy stuff or girl stuff, its all just stuff. People can like whatever they want, this year for her birthday Rowan wanted spy gear and science kits, no pink stuff at all! And you know what she has a giant Star Wars poster hanging in her room that I bought years ago, and everyone who sees it thinks Rowan is lucky. So hang in there, like what you want and be who you are, because there are many of us Star Wars gilrs out there! Plus you what? when we went to Disney Land, Rowam got picked for the Jedi Training Academy and got to fight Darth Vader! It was so cool and there were lots of girls there.
greetings, katie! you're such a strong person that deserves the world! i'm a 23-year-old married woman who loves all kinds of "guy" stuff. from maybe when i was around your age, i played with teenage mutant ninja turtles and read comics with my brother. even now, i adore transformers and play video games with my husband. i remember watching star wars when it first came out and i enjoy it to this day. i remember being teased for some time, and it was hard. however, my parents were as supportive and understanding as yours are now, and i got through those tough times. please tell them anything you want to, and remember they'll always love and help you no matter what. i wish i could give you a big hug, but i'll just say: don't give up, continue to be strong, and may the force be with you!
Katie, I am a woman who likes all sorts of science fiction and fantasy. I play role playing games (D&D style) the old fashioned way - on a table with paper and pencil and dice, not a computer. I was brought up on Star Trek and Star Wars and a whole lot of cheesy as well as good sci-fi movies. At your age I played with Lego and matchbox cars as well as Barbies, and was always teased. My love of sci-fi took me into a computer career, and I also now help run a large convention dedicated to sci-fi and fantasy.
My niece (who is five) is totally into Star Wars (every stuffed animal she owns has a Star Wars costume on it), Superhero cartoons (she dressed as Ironman last Halloween, and as Batman for Christmas) and movies, and all the things the boys like. They tease her too, but she has decided that this is who she is and what she likes and she's going to just keep going on doing what she does, because it makes her happy. Her parents explained to her something similar to what your mum has said.
If you enjoy it, if it's something that makes you happy, don't let anyone tell you it's "wrong". It isn't.
I know that as a Star Wars fan I should say May the Force Be With You, but I'm a huge Star Trek fan as well, so Live Long and Prosper Katie!
Dear Katie,
Greetings from Canada! I am a woman and I love Star Wars and lots of other similar things. And I want you to know that "dwsoda" is right - I have a wonderful boyfriend who loves sharing these interests with me.
Be strong, be proud of what you are. They're just jealous that they can't rock a pink water bottle like you can rock a Star Wars one!!! ;)
Hi Katie,
I'm 24 and I'm a fellow girl who loves Star Wars. When I was in elementary school, I was teased by boys too because I was different. I liked Legos and Star Trek and dinosaurs and I wasn't like all the other girls. It's taken me years to realize that I'm fine just the way I am!!! Let those boys and other people say what they want- it doesn't matter. As long as you're happy with yourself, that's all that matters. I'm in school right now getting my Master's in geology with a bunch of boys who still tease me! But I'm proud of who I am and you should be too! :)
Hi sweet pea!
I remember falling in love with Star Wars when I was a little girl and the older I get the more I love it. I'm in college and I still rock my Star Wars shirts!
Keep your chin up, Katie! It's a big, bright, beautiful world out there, filled with other geek girls and boys who can't wait to lightsaber fight and watch the movies with you.
You're going to realize that the things that make you different are what make you special. Never stop being who you are. You're beautiful and precious and it's more than ok to be a girl and a geek. Know that you have a whole lot of love being sent your way by other geekettes who've had to put up with their fair share of bullying.
May the Force be with you, little one.
Hello Darling Katie,
My name is Rebecca, and I love Star Wars. I was always the "different" kid growing up, I had glasses, and an eye patch, and i was the only American in my whole school.
Being unique was hard sometimes, but in the end I became stronger because of it. Even though I am a grown up now, I still love Star Wars, video games, and even though I am a girl I drive an enormous black truck called a Titan.
I hope that all of these positive messages have showed you that not only is it ok to be a little different, all the people who felt different as kids grew up to be way cooler because of it.
When I was reading the story your mom posted, I thought about what I would have done if I was in your situation. I think I might have started to go to a pink water bottle as well, but after pondering it, I decided I probably would decorate my Star Wars water bottle with a pretty ribbon, to show that I am a girl Star Wars Fan and proud of it.
I am proud of you Katie, keep fighting the good fight.
Becca
Hi Carrie! Katie is absolutely beautiful! Please let her know that no less than 5 people have linked this from my friend's list on Facebook so far today (and I'm sure more will!) :) As a self-proclaimed "geek girl" myself, I copmletely understand what Katie's going through. I love Star Wars, and when I was little I played with both "boy" and "girl" toys. I had Barbies along with G.I. Joes, both He-Man and She-Ra, and many action figures and even wrestlers! I read sci-fi and fantasy, too. I am proud to say that I've been fortunate in that this has helped me make many great friendships with males throughout my life, and I'm also proud to be one of only 2 females in my IT department. So it's true that geeks will take over the world, and geek girls will make it even more awesome!
Katie, keep your geek flag flying and don't ever change yourself!
~ Kris
Katie
Someday, boys will be more than thrilled that you like Star Wars. Believe me. Don't ever feel like you need to apologize for the things you are interested in. Your real friends will love you for who you are, and the more people you get to know, the more you will find that lots of other people like the same things you do! Hang in there, be brave, and know that you are the coolest girl in the world. Don't let anyone (especially boys) convince you otherwise!
Hi Katie!
Don't let those boys ever make you uncomfortable - there is nothing wrong with being a girl who likes Star Wars, just like there's nothing wrong with wearing glasses (like me!). When I was a kid, I got so excited when my dad rented the films for us; it was the highlight of any holiday that we got to watch them back-to-back with pizza and fizzy drinks. Now I'm a grown up nerd, I usually watch them with my friends rather then my family - the other day we staged a lightsaber battle around the house (complete with Nerf Guns for the clone troopers!) and it was *awesome*. So in short: keep doing what you love, and don't let anyone stop you, 'cause it's fun!
May the force be with you! :'D
Dear Katie,
YOu are a very brave person! I have a love of Star Wars too :) I also was adopted and wear glasses, I also have something called ADD and that means i can't concentrate on things too easily, but when i was kid in school, I was teased for being different too. You must be brave hold your head up high and not be afraid to to say "so what!" "I like star wars too So What?!"
You know what else i like, Dressing up. I'm an adult and i love halloween because i can wear my awsome star wars costumes, and some of my friends think it's too childish to dress up. I just remind them that it's my way of having fun and that not everyone has fun the same way :)
May the force be with you Little Katie :)
~Kris
Hi Carrie! Katie is absolutely beautiful! Please let her know that no less than 5 people have linked this from my friend's list on Facebook so far today (and I'm sure more will!) :) As a self-proclaimed "geek girl" myself, I copmletely understand what Katie's going through. I love Star Wars, and when I was little I played with both "boy" and "girl" toys. I had Barbies along with G.I. Joes, both He-Man and She-Ra, and many action figures and even wrestlers! I read sci-fi and fantasy, too. I am proud to say that I've been fortunate in that this has helped me make many great friendships with males throughout my life, and I'm also proud to be one of only 2 females in my IT department. So it's true that geeks will take over the world, and geek girls will make it even more awesome!
Katie, keep your geek flag flying and don't ever change yourself!
~ Kris
Hi sweet pea!
I remember falling in love with Star Wars when I was a little girl and the older I get the more I love it. I'm in college and I still rock my Star Wars shirts!
Keep your chin up, Katie! It's a big, bright, beautiful world out there, filled with other geek girls and boys who can't wait to lightsaber fight and watch the movies with you.
You're going to realize that the things that make you different are what make you special. Never stop being who you are. You're beautiful and precious and it's more than ok to be a girl and a geek. Know that you have a whole lot of love being sent your way by other geekettes who've had to put up with their fair share of bullying.
May the Force be with you, little one.
Katie,
I tried posting once before but my internet connection died so I am not sure if this already posted or not. If you get it twice, my apologies. I wanted to make sure that you got it though! :)
I am a 29 year-old mom with 3 small kids (2 girls, 1 boy) who are all going to be the age you are now very soon. I am so thankful that you and your mom were brave enough to share your story! It will be very helpful to me when my kids are your age and going through the same kinds of things!
I am a HUGE science fiction fan, including Star Wars. I also love playing video games. The ones I like the most always seem to be ones that "guys" usually like. When I was in high school, my favorite show was a science fiction show about aliens called The X-Files. A lot of people I went to school with, including some of my own friends, gave me a hard time for liking it so much and not really liking more of the "girlier" shows that they liked. It was hard sometimes. But I made the decision that I was going to like what I liked, whether they did or not. I wanted to be myself and not pretend to like things that I really didn't.
I know it's hard sometimes to not be like everyone else. But as you get older you will see that there are a lot more people out there who are like you than you think there are. As I've gotten older, I've learned that there are A LOT of girls and women who like science fiction and gaming just as much as I do.
You will also see that being different from other people makes you who you are. You are the only YOU in this entire world. And you should celebrate that!! I am very happy that I am the only ME that there has ever been and that there will ever be. :)
The last thing I wanted to share was this. For a long time I thought that because I liked "guy" stuff like science fiction and gaming, I wasn't supposed to like "girl" stuff too. The truth is, I loved playing with Barbies and dolls when I was a little girl just as much as I liked playing with Legos and hotwheels. As an adult woman, I love to knit, crochet, and sew just as much as I enjoy watching science fiction and playing video games. Don't ever let people make you think that because you like something that "guys" usually like, it means you can't also like things that "girls" usually like. You don't ever have to let other people define who you are!
You are a beautiful and courageous girl! Thank you again for sharing your story. You are helping so many other kids who are going through the same things that you are right now! You have a wonderful mom who obviously loves you very much! It's wonderful that you wanted to talk to her about what was bothering you so she could help you!! Keep being who you are and who you want to be! Best wishes! ~Jen
Dear Katie,
I don't know if you're still reading these, but I wanted to give you some support anyways. I'm a 23 year old woman, and I LOVE Star Wars. My older brother got me into them before I could read. I watched Return of the Jedi so many times, I could recite the opening text word for word. I also like a lot of other nerdy things like video games and computer and am a little overweight with glasses. I've always been a little different from the other kids, and as a result I was always bullied, by boys and girls.
Keep your chin up, Katie. When you get a little older, you will have boys who will think you are the most amazing girl ever because you love Star Wars. They'll also think girls with glasses are the cutest thing ever and will tell you so. Those bullies are just jealous that you are proud of who you are and don't hide it like they do.
You're beautiful, and they can never take that away.
Katie, you are one girl gal! I loved Stars so much when I was your age that I used to stay home "sick" from school, just so I could watch it! I'm 32 and I still love Stars and am considering buy a Star Wars lunchbox of my own to take to work!
You are a brave, beautiful girl...the boys are clearly jealous of your confidence and your sweet lunchbox! You also have a mom that sounds really cool and really, really loves you. Don't ever be afraid to talk to her if you're ever sad or upset. Talking to mom will always make you feel better!
...cont. (slippery fingers typing this on the iPhone.)
Anakin loves geek stuff. Has a great group of awesome friends who get it. And those who don't, support him.
Trust me, when you're older, the boys get it. And they wonder where are the gals are who love what they love.
Also, a few years back I ran into a guy who made fun of my last name by calling me Wendy Vermin (Vermeers). In return I called him Jesse Frog (Gregg) because it hurt my feelings. We laughed at how scarred we were to the point of not hanging around or talking to each other all thru til past highschool. We realized how silly that was and that if we could have done it differently, we would. So nows your chance to do it differently. Make friends, not war...cept "Star Wars". If he can get past the girl/boy stereotype, i bet he'd be a great friend. And if he can't get over it, he's missin out on a cool young lady.
Will someone get StarWars.com's mega blogger, Bonnie Burton on the case?
Good luck sweetie!
Katie,
I a 33 year old woman and I have loved Star Wars all my life! I was bullied too and usually people do it because they aren't brave or they think you are better than them and it makes them mad. People try to tell you that you have to be one way or another but you don't. I love dressing up and looking pretty but I also love movies like SW and TV shows like Clone Wars. You are a beautiful little girl! Please always remember that! Did you know that Ahsoka (Ashley) from Clone Wars cares about you? Isn't that so cool! She wants you to know that there are a lot of girls who love SW so she talked about you on her Facebook page that is for Star Wars fan girls and their guy friends to come together in friendship and excitement over SW. You are very special in all the right ways kiddo!
Love,
Margie from Michigan
http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/HerUniverse
Note to Mom here is a link to the premier anti-bulling site http://jodeeblanco.com/index.htm
Dear Katie,
YOu are a very brave person! I have a love of Star Wars too :) I also was adopted and wear glasses, I also have something called ADD and that means i can't concentrate on things too easily, but when i was kid in school, I was teased for being different too. You must be brave hold your head up high and not be afraid to to say "so what!" "I like star wars too So What?!"
You know what else i like, Dressing up. I'm an adult and i love halloween because i can wear my awsome star wars costumes, and some of my friends think it's too childish to dress up. I just remind them that it's my way of having fun and that not everyone has fun the same way :)
May the force be with you Little Katie :)
~Kris
Katie, I am a woman who likes all sorts of science fiction and fantasy. I play role playing games (D&D style) the old fashioned way - on a table with paper and pencil and dice, not a computer. I was brought up on Star Trek and Star Wars and a whole lot of cheesy as well as good sci-fi movies. At your age I played with Lego and matchbox cars as well as Barbies, and was always teased. My love of sci-fi took me into a computer career, and I also now help run a large convention dedicated to sci-fi and fantasy.
My niece (who is five) is totally into Star Wars (every stuffed animal she owns has a Star Wars costume on it), Superhero cartoons (she dressed as Ironman last Halloween, and as Batman for Christmas) and movies, and all the things the boys like. They tease her too, but she has decided that this is who she is and what she likes and she's going to just keep going on doing what she does, because it makes her happy. Her parents explained to her something similar to what your mum has said.
If you enjoy it, if it's something that makes you happy, don't let anyone tell you it's "wrong". It isn't.
I know that as a Star Wars fan I should say May the Force Be With You, but I'm a huge Star Trek fan as well, so Live Long and Prosper Katie!
Katie (and Carrie),
I heard about the boys saying Star Wars was not for girls and to that I say, "PPppppppthtthtthth!" *Ooop, I think I spit a little*
It just so happens that both my wife and daughter (Jersey, 6) like Star Wars AND Star Trek.
You tell those boys you can like whatever you like and if THEY don't like it, well, "Ppppthththtpphthtth!" *Dang it. I did it again.*
Stay strong, Girl!
-Your friends in Spokane, WA.
Dear Katie - I am so old that there was no Star Wars when I was a little girl, and people mostly didn't use water bottles unless they were in the desert. But I loved my doll who had dark hair like mine and I loved cowboy movies and my cowboy boots and even wore them to choir practice! It's not important what these boys think about your water bottle -- it's great that you love Star Wars and that you got the bottle you wanted. Of course I have water bottle now and it's my favorite color, bright blue, but it's pretty boring.
Dear Katie,
YOu are a very brave person! I have a love of Star Wars too :) I also was adopted and wear glasses, I also have something called ADD and that means i can't concentrate on things too easily, but when i was kid in school, I was teased for being different too. You must be brave hold your head up high and not be afraid to to say "so what!" "I like star wars too So What?!"
You know what else i like, Dressing up. I'm an adult and i love halloween because i can wear my awsome star wars costumes, and some of my friends think it's too childish to dress up. I just remind them that it's my way of having fun and that not everyone has fun the same way :)
May the force be with you Little Katie :)
~Kris
Dear Katie - I am so old that there was no Star Wars when I was a little girl, and people mostly didn't use water bottles unless they were in the desert. But I loved my doll who had dark hair like mine and I loved cowboy movies and my cowboy boots and even wore them to choir practice! It's not important what these boys think about your water bottle -- it's great that you love Star Wars and that you got the bottle you wanted. Of course I have water bottle now and it's my favorite color, bright blue, but it's pretty boring.
Katie, I am a woman who likes all sorts of science fiction and fantasy. I play role playing games (D&D style) the old fashioned way - on a table with paper and pencil and dice, not a computer. I was brought up on Star Trek and Star Wars and a whole lot of cheesy as well as good sci-fi movies. At your age I played with Lego and matchbox cars as well as Barbies, and was always teased. My love of sci-fi took me into a computer career, and I also now help run a large convention dedicated to sci-fi and fantasy.
My niece (who is five) is totally into Star Wars (every stuffed animal she owns has a Star Wars costume on it), Superhero cartoons (she dressed as Ironman last Halloween, and as Batman for Christmas) and movies, and all the things the boys like. They tease her too, but she has decided that this is who she is and what she likes and she's going to just keep going on doing what she does, because it makes her happy. Her parents explained to her something similar to what your mum has said.
If you enjoy it, if it's something that makes you happy, don't let anyone tell you it's "wrong". It isn't.
I know that as a Star Wars fan I should say May the Force Be With You, but I'm a huge Star Trek fan as well, so Live Long and Prosper Katie!
Hi Katie,
When I was little, I used to watch Star Wars and Star Trek all the time with my Dad. Now when I see them I think of him and it makes me smile!
Growing up, I loved to play with my brother's lego sets and help my Dad build things in his wood shop. Now I'm an Architect! Keep loving what you love- you never know where it will lead you. And if they're smart, the other kids will catch on too. :)
Emily
Katie, I am a woman who likes all sorts of science fiction and fantasy. I play role playing games (D&D style) the old fashioned way - on a table with paper and pencil and dice, not a computer. I was brought up on Star Trek and Star Wars and a whole lot of cheesy as well as good sci-fi movies. At your age I played with Lego and matchbox cars as well as Barbies, and was always teased. My love of sci-fi took me into a computer career, and I also now help run a large convention dedicated to sci-fi and fantasy.
My niece (who is five) is totally into Star Wars (every stuffed animal she owns has a Star Wars costume on it), Superhero cartoons (she dressed as Ironman last Halloween, and as Batman for Christmas) and movies, and all the things the boys like. They tease her too, but she has decided that this is who she is and what she likes and she's going to just keep going on doing what she does, because it makes her happy. Her parents explained to her something similar to what your mum has said.
If you enjoy it, if it's something that makes you happy, don't let anyone tell you it's "wrong". It isn't.
I know that as a Star Wars fan I should say May the Force Be With You, but I'm a huge Star Trek fan as well, so Live Long and Prosper Katie!
I'm a woman, and a teacher in elementary school. I've loved Star Wars since I was little.
I wore a Chewbacca shirt to work on Halloween and dressed as Leia last year.
Be proud of what you like! Don't let anyone tell you what "girls like"!
Hi Katie,
Could you show us a picture of your R2D2 water bottle? It sounds so cool!
I want to get one too. I never knew that there was an R2D2 water bottle. You're so lucky to have one.
May the Force be with you!
Michael
Hi Katie,
Could you show us a picture of your R2D2 water bottle? It sounds so cool!
I want to get one too!
I never knew that there was an R2D2 water bottle. You're so lucky to have one.
May the Force be with you!
Michael
Dearest sweetheart,
I hope by now you have been warned that girls can be just as mean and silly as those boys were. It seems scary that the other kids who are meant and supposed to be your friends can be so rotten. I wish I could say it gets easier. It doesn't. It breaks my heart you have to learn this lesson so early in your school life, but maybe it hides a good thing. Already you are showing yourself and those kids that you are going to use your star wars stuff cause you like it. You are showing them that you don't care what they say. It is VERY brave. Most grown-ups can't do that. The more you show how brave you can be, the less it will hurt when they say mean things. Some may even stop being so mean. I even have some information that you might like to hear. The man who made the Star Wars movies, and everything else Star Wars, has a daughter named Katie too. Guess what else, she's adopted too. (Mom, look this up on IMDB.com, George Lucas, to confirm). I am 28 years old. I'm a mom to a 3 year old girl. I grew up watching the star wars movies. My three year old loves them too. There is no WAY the star wars stuff is just for boys. Princess Leia was one of the hero's, and easily the smartest one. And after all this, if they still bother you, smile at them. Tell them "thank you for your thoughts". Those boys will be so confused they'll stop bugging you after awhile.
All love sweetness,
Txmom
Hi Katie -
I used to be one of those dumb boys who said dumb things like that, and I'm sorry. I think I wanted people to laugh and not make fun of me, and I didn't understand that I was hurting someone's feelings.
I am impressed that you took your water bottle back to school, and that you wore a Star Wars t-shirt, and I'll bet some of those boys were too. (even if they won't admit it) It takes a lot of guts to do something you know you could get made fun of for.
One last thing - the place I work at is a video game studio, filled with lots of people with fun, cool jobs. There are more men that work here than women, but those women are some of the smartest, coolest, most fun people you could ever meet. And you know what? When they were little girls, they were the ones with the Star Wars water bottles.
Hi Katie -
I used to be one of those dumb boys who said dumb things like that, and I'm sorry. I think I wanted people to laugh and not make fun of me, and I didn't understand that I was hurting someone's feelings.
I am impressed that you took your water bottle back to school, and that you wore a Star Wars t-shirt, and I'll bet some of those boys were too. (even if they won't admit it) It takes a lot of guts to do something you know you could get made fun of for.
One last thing - the place I work at is a video game studio, filled with lots of people with fun, cool jobs. There are more men that work here than women, but those women are some of the smartest, coolest, most fun people you could ever meet. And you know what? When they were little girls, they were the ones with the Star Wars water bottles.
Hi Katie -
I used to be one of those dumb boys who said dumb things like that, and I'm sorry. I think I wanted people to laugh and not make fun of me, and I didn't understand that I was hurting someone's feelings.
I am impressed that you took your water bottle back to school, and that you wore a Star Wars t-shirt, and I'll bet some of those boys were too. (even if they won't admit it) It takes a lot of guts to do something you know you could get made fun of for.
One last thing - the place I work at is a video game studio, filled with lots of people with fun, cool jobs. There are more men that work here than women, but those women are some of the smartest, coolest, most fun people you could ever meet. And you know what? When they were little girls, they were the ones with the Star Wars water bottles.
Hi Katie -
I used to be one of those dumb boys who said dumb things like that, and I'm sorry. I think I wanted people to laugh and not make fun of me, and I didn't understand that I was hurting someone's feelings.
I am impressed that you took your water bottle back to school, and that you wore a Star Wars t-shirt, and I'll bet some of those boys were too. (even if they won't admit it) It takes a lot of guts to do something you know you could get made fun of for.
One last thing - the place I work at is a video game studio, filled with lots of people with fun, cool jobs. There are more men that work here than women, but those women are some of the smartest, coolest, most fun people you could ever meet. And you know what? When they were little girls, they were the ones with the Star Wars water bottles.
Hi Katie -
I used to be one of those dumb boys who said dumb things like that, and I'm sorry. I think I wanted people to laugh and not make fun of me, and I didn't understand that I was hurting someone's feelings.
I am impressed that you took your water bottle back to school, and that you wore a Star Wars t-shirt, and I'll bet some of those boys were too. (even if they won't admit it) It takes a lot of guts to do something you know you could get made fun of for.
One last thing - the place I work at is a video game studio, filled with lots of people with fun, cool jobs. There are more men that work here than women, but those women are some of the smartest, coolest, most fun people you could ever meet. And you know what? When they were little girls, they were the ones with the Star Wars water bottles.
Hi Katie -
I used to be one of those dumb boys who said dumb things like that, and I'm sorry. I think I wanted people to laugh and not make fun of me, and I didn't understand that I was hurting someone's feelings.
I am impressed that you took your water bottle back to school, and that you wore a Star Wars t-shirt, and I'll bet some of those boys were too. (even if they won't admit it) It takes a lot of guts to do something you know you could get made fun of for.
One last thing - the place I work at is a video game studio, filled with lots of people with fun, cool jobs. There are more men that work here than women, but those women are some of the smartest, coolest, most fun people you could ever meet. And you know what? When they were little girls, they were the ones with the Star Wars water bottles.
Hi Katie. My name is Amy and I live in Maine. Last week my parents finalized the adoption of my baby sister. Her name is Shyanne and she is 5 years old and in kindergarten. She also wears glasses. She doesn't look like the rest of our family, but no one has ever brought our family more joy or love. No one else has ever taught us so much in such a brief period of time. Being different isn't something you should be scared of, it's something you should be PROUD of. Even though we've never met I am so proud of you for not letting the bullies bring you down. You keep your chin up and stand up for what you believe in. Different is beautiful.
Hi Katie,
My name is Kim, I'm 22 and a girl.
I used to be like you, boys would tease me for liking Star Wars but I'm proud to say I love Star Wars! I have books, figures, all the films... I've even met the actor who plays Darth Vader ;) It doesn't matter if you're a boy or a girl! Be proud to be different, sometimes different can be better! x
Hi, Katie.
I was your age when the first Star Wars movie was released, and I've loved them ever since. I used to make my mom put my hair up in Princess Leia braids, and I begged for Star Wars action figures for Christmas. Tell those boys that all the really cool fans are girls.
Hi Katie,
My name is Kim, I'm 22 and a girl.
I used to be like you, boys would tease me for liking Star Wars but I'm proud to say I love Star Wars! I have books, figures, all the films... I've even met the actor who plays Darth Vader ;) It doesn't matter if you're a boy or a girl! Be proud to be different, sometimes different can be better! x
Hi Katie,
My name is Kim, I'm 22 and a girl.
I used to be like you, boys would tease me for liking Star Wars but I'm proud to say I love Star Wars! I have books, figures, all the films... I've even met the actor who plays Darth Vader ;) It doesn't matter if you're a boy or a girl! Be proud to be different, sometimes different can be better! x
Hi Katie,
My name is Kim, I'm 22 and a girl.
I used to be like you, boys would tease me for liking Star Wars but I'm proud to say I love Star Wars! I have books, figures, all the films... I've even met the actor who plays Darth Vader ;) It doesn't matter if you're a boy or a girl! Be proud to be different, sometimes different can be better! x
Hi Katie,
My name is Kim, I'm 22 and a girl.
I used to be like you, boys would tease me for liking Star Wars but I'm proud to say I love Star Wars! I have books, figures, all the films... I've even met the actor who plays Darth Vader ;) It doesn't matter if you're a boy or a girl! Be proud to be different, sometimes different can be better! x
Hi Katie,
My name is Kim, I'm 22 and a girl.
I used to be like you, boys would tease me for liking Star Wars but I'm proud to say I love Star Wars! I have books, figures, all the films... I've even met the actor who plays Darth Vader ;) It doesn't matter if you're a boy or a girl! Be proud to be different, sometimes different can be better! x
Hi Katie,
My name is Kim, I'm 22 and a girl.
I used to be like you, boys would tease me for liking Star Wars but I'm proud to say I love Star Wars! I have books, figures, all the films... I've even met the actor who plays Darth Vader ;) It doesn't matter if you're a boy or a girl! Be proud to be different, sometimes different can be better! x
Hi, Katie.
I was your age when the first Star Wars movie was released, and I've loved them ever since. I used to make my mom put my hair up in Princess Leia braids, and I begged for Star Wars action figures for Christmas. Tell those boys that all the really cool fans are girls.
P.S. May the force be with you :)
P.S. May the force be with you :)
At the age of 61, this lady has seen Star Wars more times than you can imagine. I know every character and most of the dialogue. That doesn't make me different, it makes me "unique" like 7 of 9 on Star Trek. I like being unique. People remember me and I feel special. Well, I AM special. So are you. Remember that.
Arlene
Dear Katie. I am a 35 year old girl and I love Star Wars. I have since I was 5 years old. Growing up, I had all the action figures, in a big Darth Vader carrying case. When they re-released the Star Wars movies back in 1997, I went to the midnight first showings. I have Lego Star Wars Kits, and a miniature replica light saber. Don't ever let a boy tell you that Star Wars or anything else you like is just for boys. There are a whole bunch of girls out here who will back you up.
Hi, Katie.
I was your age when the first Star Wars movie was released, and I've loved them ever since. I used to make my mom put my hair up in Princess Leia braids, and I begged for Star Wars action figures for Christmas. Tell those boys that all the really cool fans are girls.
Hi Katie!
Star Wars is the coolest! I'm 32, and I know that seems really old to you, but when I was your age I was just like you. I wore glasses, and I liked science and math, and I LOVED anything about space - I knew I wanted to be an astronomer and study the stars. And that's what I did.
It's hard, I know, because kids tease anyone who's different. I was different. I was a nerd, and girls aren't supposed to like math (I really hope no one says that to you). I got teased a lot. The thing is, as we grow up, people start to realize that the things that make us different are the things that make us special. Now, when I talk to people about astronomy and physics, they think it's really cool!
So hang in there, and when people pick on you for being different, remember that being different is good, and someday all those kids will know that, too.
May the Force be with you!
Alexis.
Hi, Katie.
I was your age when the first Star Wars movie was released, and I've loved them ever since. I used to make my mom put my hair up in Princess Leia braids, and I begged for Star Wars action figures for Christmas. Tell those boys that all the really cool fans are girls.
And if you haven't seen it, check out "Christmas Tauntauns," all about a little girl who wants Star Wars toys: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Up-eRyp5e0A
Hi Katie!
I am adopted and I love Star Wars too! I was never brave enough to show it at school though, and I wish now that I had been. I always had more fun playing with my brother's GI Joes and Star Wars action figures than I ever did with my My Little Ponies! Be proud of who you are and what you like, we're all out here rooting for you!
Hi Katie,
Well I am a girl, and I love Star Wars. I can remember playing Star Wars with my cousins when I was not much older than you. And guess what......they were all girls.
I too was always different and picked on. I was too tall, I was too quiet, I was tooo _ _ _ _. If they want to make fun of you they will find something. It was very difficult to deal with while growing up, and I remember coming home crying on a regular basis. I looved school, but hated what I had to deal with on the bus everyday. I hated that I was "different", until one day I realized that different IS better. Being the same as everyone else is BORING. Who wants to be boring? Not me!!!! Being different is what makes us interesting. It is what draws people to us. As I've grown older I have purposely let the different side of my personality thrive.
Please, please, please be yourself! It does not matter what other people think about you, it is what you believe about you that is the most important. It takes many adults years to learn this lesson. What a difficult yet wonderful opportunity this is for you to learn such an important lesson at such a young age.
Ellen (36)
Hi, Katie.
I was your age when the first Star Wars movie was released, and I've loved them ever since. I used to make my mom put my hair up in Princess Leia braids, and I begged for Star Wars action figures for Christmas. Tell those boys that all the really cool fans are girls.
And if you haven't seen it, check out "Christmas Tauntauns," all about a little girl who wants Star Wars toys: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Up-eRyp5e0A
Hi Katie,
I'm a 30 girl from the UK. I have loved Star Wars and other sci-fi movies and tv shows from a very early age. I too was teased for what I liked when I was younger, but I found the best way to deal with this was to be proud about what I like, so I am thrilled to hear that you're continuing to use your water bottle and wearing your Star Wars t-shirt. As you get older you'll find more and more people just like you. I have a lot of friends, both girls and boys, who love the same things as I do and we have a great time watching our favourite movies and tv-shows and even going to conventions where there are so many more people just like us to meet. These sci-fi conventions actually have just as many girls at them as they do boys. Soon you will find that boys will actually love the fact that you like something they like, afterall they're not going to be interested in talking about makeup or pink! If I'd gone to school with you I would have been proud to be friends with someone so cool.
Hi Katie! I've loved Star Wars since I was little, and I'm now a grown woman who proudly displays her Star Wars action figures in my house. Some people will always want to pick on someone who is different, because they're insecure about themselves and afraid of anyone who is braver than them. Like someone brave enough to bring her Star Wars water bottle to school because it makes her happy. And that's the most important thing: never be ashamed of loving something that makes you happy. I got teased a lot for being the "Star Wars girl" in my class, but I didn't stop loving Star Wars, and eventually my classmates accepted that that was just who I was. I knew that Princess Leia and Padme and Luke Skywalker would never give in to bullies, and I wanted to be like them more than I wanted to be "the same" as everyone else.
By taking your water bottle back to school and wearing your Star Wars t-shirt, you've proven that you're stronger than the people who bully. That's what Star Wars is about: standing up for what is right in even when the whole galaxy is against you. And what happened to the ones who fought for right? They won! You're a true fan, and someday you'll discover there's a whole world of Star Wars fans out there, and many of us are girls!
Hi Katie, I have loved Star Wars and other sci-fi films and tv shows from a very early age. I too was teased for what I liked, but I found that the best way to overcome the bullies was to be proud of what I liked. If they can't make you embarassed or upset, then they'll soon become bored with the teasing. I'm so happy to hear that you're doing just that with wearing you Star Wars t-shirt. As you grow up you'll meet more and more people just like you. I have many friends, both boys and girls, who love the same things and we have a great time watching movies and tv shows together and even attending conventions where we get to meet a whole bunch more people just like us. Sci-fi conventions actually have just as many girls as boys at them. Definitely not just for boys! You'll also find that boys will soon love the fact that you like the same things as them. Afterall they'll get bored very quickly talking to other girls about makeup or pink! If I'd gone to school with you I'd have been proud to have such a cool friend!
Kirsty
Katie-
May the force be with you, sweetie. I am 34 years old, and I have loved Star Wars since I was your age. I have a little girl who is 4 years old who is just as girly as they come, but asked to dress up as a storm trooper for Halloween this year! Here she is in her costume http://yfrog.com/2tojcj. You can't tell there's a girl in there, but take my word for it! :)
Please don't let anyone take from you something that brings you joy. Be proud of the very special person that you are, and know that whenever other kids tease you, it's because they are feeling bad inside themselves.
I suggest that you and your mommy find a book call "Everybody Knows That" by Susan Pearson. It's all about two friends, a boy and a girl, who find out that some things that are labeled "boy" things and "girl" things don't really make any sense.
Take care & keep your chin up!
Hi Katie! I am a 33 year old woman, who also has a young daughter. I am also a HUGE Star Wars fan!! Growing up, Princess Leia was on of my favorite role models. She is strong, brave, loving, responsible and willing to fight for her beliefs. If you love your Star Wars water bottle, then carry it proudly and tell those boys, they simply don't know very much about Star Wars if they think it's only for boys! :) Listen to your heart (and your Mommy) and stand up proud for what you love.
Hi, Katie.
I was your age when the first Star Wars movie was released, and I've loved them ever since. I used to make my mom put my hair up in Princess Leia braids, and I begged for Star Wars action figures for Christmas. Tell those boys that all the really cool fans are girls.
And if you haven't seen it, check out "Christmas Tauntauns," all about a little girl who wants Star Wars toys: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Up-eRyp5e0A
Hi Katie!
Don't listen to them for one second! I know a lot of girls who like Star Wars. You know what? They're the coolest girls I know! I love Star Wars and I have a 3 year old daughter who loves Star Wars too!
Keep taking your Star Wars stuff to school, Katie. The next time the other kids say something to you about it just ignore them and remember that you are way smarter than they are and that you will one day rule the world!
Hi Katie,
Like many other commenters, Star Wars was my first movie too. I remember being in the theatre for The Empire Strikes Back and falling in love. I'm now 31 and have three kids who all love Star Wars. One of my boys is in first grade too, and he says he wishes more girls his age liked Star Wars. My daughter is nine and wears her hair as "Princess Leia buns" pretty often, even to school.
Keep on liking what you like. Don't let other kids decide for you what to like and what is fun. You are amazing and they aren't smart enough to realize it.
Hi Katie! I am a 33 year old woman, who also has a young daughter. I am also a HUGE Star Wars fan!! Growing up, Princess Leia was on of my favorite role models. She is strong, brave, loving, responsible and willing to fight for her beliefs. If you love your Star Wars water bottle, then carry it proudly and tell those boys, they simply don't know very much about Star Wars if they think it's only for boys! :) Listen to your heart (and your Mommy) and stand up proud for what you love.
Hi Katie!
Don't listen to them for one second! I know a lot of girls who like Star Wars. You know what? They're the coolest girls I know! I love Star Wars and I have a 3 year old daughter who loves Star Wars too!
Keep taking your Star Wars stuff to school, Katie. The next time the other kids say something to you about it just ignore them and remember that you're way smarter than they are and that you will one day rule the world!
Katie, there is nothing wrong with liking Star Wars just like there is nothing wrong with having to wear glasses. I have worn glasses since I was in 1st grade. Also, 4 years ago I married a girl who ALSO loves Star Wars and Star Trek just like I do! Don't let some mean bullies take you away from something that you enjoy.
There is nothing wrong with being different. All of us are different in some way...some of us are different in many ways. But, Katie, it's our differences that make us who we are. If everyone was exactly the same, this world would be pretty boring. So don't be embarrassed about being different and don't let anyone else make you embarrassed about it either.
Hang in there Katie. There are a LOT of people out here who support you.
The most awesome girls I know all love Star Wars. Mark Hamill had it right when he said Star Wars belongs to the fans because we loved it and made it our own. And if you can't trust Luke himself then who can you trust? :)
Hi Katie! I am a 33 year old woman, who also has a young daughter. I am also a HUGE Star Wars fan!! Growing up, Princess Leia was on of my favorite role models. She is strong, brave, loving, responsible and willing to fight for her beliefs. If you love your Star Wars water bottle, then carry it proudly and tell those boys, they simply don't know very much about Star Wars if they think it's only for boys! :) Listen to your heart (and your Mommy) and stand up proud for what you love.
Hi Katie,
I'm a daddy who likes Star Wars, and I can't wait to share the joy it brings me with my little girl Maggie. Right now she's still too young for those movies, but she already loves cars, airplanes and space-ships, things some people might wrongly call 'boy' toys. I will *never* tell her to stop, and her mommy and I love playing cars with her. As a daddy, I think it's important that she, and you, continue to enjoy the things that make you both happy. Oh, and don't forget, girls can be Jedi knights too!
Hi Katie!
I am 26 years old, I wear glasses, I'm a girl, and I love Star Wars. I was a little younger than you when I watched Return of the Jedi for the very first time, and jump at any opportunity to watch it again, to this day. I wear Star Wars t-shirts, collect Star Wars action figures, and read Star Wars comic books. I am also making my own girl Boba Fett/Jango Fett armor to wear at conventions.
I am so sorry you've been bullied for liking something boys like. Try to remember that being different is what makes you who you are. You are a beautiful, unique young lady, and no one wants to be someone you are not. Don't be afraid to be yourself, and proudly show it.
I want to tell you about my cousin, who is also 6 years old. Her name is Peyton, and she loves the band Kiss. She likes to wear shirts with skulls on it, and jeans that are worn/holey. She can sing every Kiss song, and her favorite song is "Rock and Roll All Night". Peyton is also in the Black Belt Club at a local Karate school. Her mother (my cousin) is just like your mom, and lets her choose what she wears, and takes to school. One day, she was bullied by some kids for liking Kiss, and Peyton looked at them and said 'You're just jealous, because I know more about them (Kiss) than you do.' And then she turned around, and walked away.
Keep your head held high, sweetie, and remember to be proud of what you like, because it makes you the special little girl that a great many Star Wars fans has fallen in love with. You're an awesome kid, and I can only hope that my children will be as amazing, unique, and beautiful as you and my cousin Peyton.
And as I was writing this, and telling your story to my cousins, Peyton and her mother, Peyton looked at me and told me to tell you that she wishes you a Merry KISSmas, and hopes you get all the Star Wars things on your Christmas list.
Hi Katie, I'm not a girl, but a father of a 7 y.o. princess geek, and I support every hobby she or her 3 brothers have. In our family there's no genre differences, so I'm really sad about what happened to you. I hope everything works out ok for you, and don't be embarrassed for liking Star Wars, keep in mind that you're not alone, even girls of your same age, in the other side of the world share the same passion for Star Wars with you.
Katie -
Keep using your Star Wars water bottle. Those boys are wrong. Lots of girls LOVE Star Wars. I love Star Wars! And I wear glasses.
I bet you grow up to be a strong, smart woman. I can tell that you already are one of the coolest girls EVER!
Hi Katie, I'm a married mom of three and I have loved Star Wars since it was first released. My son is now huge fan as well, and we love to watch the movies all the time. I have always tried to teach my children that it's ok to like whatever they wish to like, that they can have opinions of their own if they are given respectfully, and to be themselves no matter what their friends or schoolmates say or do. Be strong in yourself, you are a beautiful little girl and I hope your time at school gets better soon.
Hi Katie! :)
I am also adopted, am a teacher ( I taught first grade last year) annnddd I wear glasses JUST like yours. Guess what? I LOVE Star Wars too! The first time I ever saw the first movie was when I was in 1st grade and all of them have been my favorite since then I am almost 40 years old! I so wish I had a cool water bottle like yours when I was going to school. Never feel insecure about who you are and the things that you love and appreciate, kiddo. You are a shining star...have a great Thanksgiving break!
Katie, not only am I a girl who likes Star Wars, I saw it 3 times in theater when it came out & then went to a drive-in to see it. When The Empire Strikes Back came out, my birthday present was my mom picking me up from school and taking me to see it the day that it opened.
I was always a little different growing up and I wouldn't change who I am for the world. I like swords and sewing, games and lace, woodcarving and romances.
I played the Star Wars role playing game in college. I still remember the character that I played. In fact, our whole gaming group was 7 women, although later we added one guy. We didn't it plan it that way, that's just how it turned out. And we had lots of fun. All of us love Star Wars. One of them is now in a group that dresses up like Stormtroopers. She even ran a half-marathon in the armor for charity once.
Katie, you like what you like. Don't let anyone -tell- you what to like. Thanks to the things that I like, I have made lifelong friends. We were drawn together by common interests in science fiction and games. Some of those friendships have lasted 28 years now. I think that's a good thing, don't you?
Hi Carrie and Katie!
It's wonderful to see this post getting so much attention - did you know it was retweeted (just now) by the ESA (European Space Agency)? I doubt it's an -official- standpoint by ESA but as they said, may the force be with you :)
Katie, I was your age when the first Star Wars movie came out. I had SO many of the action figures and the Star Wars lunchbox. There are so many girls out there who love Star Wars--those boys have no idea what they are talking about!
Being different feels hard sometimes, I know. It's easy to be the same as everyone else. It takes courage to be different.
I was always different in school...liked things that girls weren't supposed to, dressed differently, but also got straight A's and the teachers liked me (which means that kids were really mean to me--no one likes the super smart kid, right?). But when I was older and I talked to kids that I knew in school they told me how much they wished they could have been more like me, that they hadn't been so afraid to be different, to be themselves.
So really, by loving the things you want to and showing the world you are doing something that other people are AFRAID to do. Those kids are afraid of doing things that are different, that might make them stand out. YOU are being courageous and awesome.
And you are so cute that when you are older, your mom is going to have to help you fight those boys off because they are going to love you to pieces at some point in your future. They just aren't smart enough to know it yet. ;-)
Katie, I am a grown up girl who loves Star Wars! When I was a kid I saw Episode 4 "A New Hope" so many times that I knew all the words. Remember Princess Leia rescues herself! The Force is strong in Princess Leia's family, just like it is strong in your family. You just remember bullies are headed towards the Dark Side of the Force. You stay a Jedi, don't let those bully Siths get you down!
Katie, I am a mother of a 10 year old girl who went through the same thing... See, what these boys don't tell you is they think it's cool, too, they just have their own insecurities so they pick on the cute girls like you! My daughter, too, loves "boy toys" and here's a little secret... most girls do! My daughter loves "Avatar" cartoons and thought she'd be made fun of for it b/c it's not "girly". Little by little, she found out TONS of girls liked it, also. Stand tall and be proud of what you like, because it will help other girls do the same and join you. I LOVE Star Wars and know lots of other girls who like Star Wars. Why should all the boys get cool stuff to themselves?
Thanks, Raquel! Katie was so glad to hear about your daughter!
My daughter Caitlin, who is in 2nd grade, is wearing her Return of the Jedi shirt TODAY.
Stay strong, Katie. You're worth it.
Thanks, Lynne. Katie wants me to tell Caitlin that she is going to wear a Star Wars shirt tomorrow!
Hello Katie!
I am a 23 year old girl and I have loved Star Wars for a long time. I wear Star Wars t-shirts all the time. I also like lots of other 'boyish' things. When I was your age I would always ask for the 'boy' version of the happy meal toy. I liked cars better than dolls. I like to play in the mud and I like 'creepy' things like insects and frogs.
Be yourself! The boys will grow up, they will learn to like the fact that you are into things like Star Wars. It will give you something to talk to them about. In the mean time, stay confident. Everyone is different. Even those boys that pick on you are different, you may not know it, but I bet you they are!
Thanks, Pomme. You and Katie have a lot in common. She also loves insects and frogs. She loves digging in the garden for earthworms!
That is awesome! When I was Katie's age, I actually had a "worm farm" in the recess field at school. (It wasn't really a worm farm, it was just a lot of earthworms I found and put in a shoebox full of dirt, and kept back by the fence.) The teachers eventually convinced me to let the earthworms go free -- but it was fun to find them!
Katie - You keep rocking your star wars gear. Like what you like and be proud!!
Dear Katie,
I'm another female Star Wars fan! See, there are so many of us. I remember when my parents came to get me out of school early to see Return of the Jedi when I was in second grade.
You keep your water bottle and tell those silly kids to mind their own business.
My son is in the first grade and he would think it was so cool if a girl in his class had a Star Wars water bottle.
I think it's cool and I want one too!
KATIE!!! You are AWESOME and not at all alone in your girl-love for Star Wars. I, too, have been a serious fan of Star Wars since I was in first grade. I wanted to go as Chewbacca for Halloween that year, but had to settle for Princess Leia because my mom couldn't sew on fake fur.
Anyhow, you will find that as a female Star Wars fan, you will NEVER be alone and will always be in good company. People that tell you that you are "weird" really just want to be "weird," too. Help them when you can, ignore them when you can't, and you'll always have a smile in your heart because you are being YOU.
I have kids of my own now and they both love Star Wars - even my little girl who is only 2 1/2 years old! I can't wait 'til she is old enough to take a Star Wars thermos to school.
Peace out and may the force be with you...
Southern Female Lawyer
Hi Katie! Don't be ashamed of who you are! I'm not only a wife and a history teacher, I'm also a HUGE Star Wars geek and proud of it! I love Star Wars, Star Trek, comic books and video games! So if you love Star Wars, say it loud and proud little lady! Because the people who really matter in this world are the ones who love you just the way you are.Besides, those silly boys are probably just jealous because they don't have an awesome Star Wars water bottle like you!
WHAT! My 5 year old daughter LOVES clone wars. Don't you listen to those boys. Star Wars rocks. I bet they are just jealous because they don't have a cool water bottle. Don't you dare let those boys bring you down.
Katie,
be proud to be a girl and a geek! I've always loved Star Wars, Star Trek, and am a life long "for boys" anime fan. There is so much we would miss in life if we conformed to what others think we should listen/watch/or read.
Stay true to who you are, and let those who don't like it go find their own things.
Hi Katie! Not only am I a woman and I like Star Wars, but I've got a little girl in first grade and she also loves Star Wars! She loves playing Lego Star Wars with her dad and watching Star Wars with both of us. She likes all sorts of things. She likes Star Wars and Hello Kitty. Avatar and Selena Gomez. Harry Potter and Hannah Montana. She likes frilly dresses, but blue is her favorite color. We've been lucky enough to not have any bully problems yet. Hopefully we won't, but if we do, I hope she's as brave as you are. Keep being brave and don't be ashamed for liking something! You're awesome!
Hi Katie. My name is Jenn, and I love Star Wars (as well as lots of other geeky things). I did when I was your age too, but what I got picked on the most for was the fact that I loved to read. But because I loved it, and despite the fact that it hurt when people in my class made fun of me, I kept it up. I know it's hard, and I know that it hurts, but you have to be brave and just keep telling them that it's okay that you like it too. Someday, when you're older, boys will like that about you. (Trust me, I know this too.) Plus, if they see it's not bothering you, then they'll leave you alone. So just do your best to ignore them, and let your mom know if you need to talk about it, because that will help. I hope for nothing but the best for you.
Katie - when I was younger, I got picked on a lot for always having my nose in a book, loving star wars and star trek, I'm a girl and I love those things and my boys (10 & 4) do too! I'm sorry you're getting picked on now for loving star wars, but I promise you, it gets better. Carry that water bottle with pride and know that there are a LOT of girls who love star wars who are thinking of you.
I wore a Star Wars shirt in High School for my freshman picture in 1977, I say "May The Force Be With You" Katie!!! You are a real Jedi!!
Hi Katie! I think its great that there are other girls who love Star Wars! I'm 28 years old and have loved it since I was a little girl. I always talk about it and I'm a successful housewife and mother of 2 myself. We all share the same love of Star Wars and being huge nerds. Those people who are bullying you are just jealous that you have good taste and they don't. Bully's are people who are hurting inside and don't have a good way to show it so don't worry. Those boys are going to be beating themselves up one day when you guys are older too. You'll see, just be patient and you will find out that there are a lot of us girls out there who like Star Wars or read science fiction novels, or love to read and draw anime things. For now, just keep being yourself, and when they start bullying you, remember, "It's a Trap!" to try and get you to react in kind. Be better and keep using your feelings. just be jedi about it! May the force be with you sweetheart! We think you are a hero! My husband told me to let you know that you rock!
I used to do that too!! That's awesome Katie!
Hi Katie! I have a little story for you!
A long time ago (well not THAT long ago) in a galaxy...well, right here, a girl sat in a movie theater and saw Star Wars. She loved it so much she went right back and sat and watched it again and again and AGAIN. She wrote little stories about it, and thought Luke Skywalker was wonderful, and that Princess Leia was just the woman she wanted to be.
Fast forward a few years...that little girl grew up to be a writer. And do you know what she writes? Star Wars novels! I am Christie Golden, and I was that little girl (which you have figured out by now) and I never ever stopped loving Star Wars. Maybe when you bring your water bottle, you will give some other girl the courage to say "Wow, I like Star Wars too!" Because believe me, we are out there. At the big Star Wars convention I think I saw just as many girls as boys attending and participating!
Something else you might like to know? My sister is adopted! She is tall and blond and I am short and dark haired and we don't even think about it because we are sisters in every way that matters.
It's hard to be different. I was different too. But I'm glad I was, and I know you will be too. Hang in there, and may the Force be with you!
Dear Katie, I saw Str Wars when I was eight (I'm in my forties now) and fell in love. I've stayed a huge fan of all the movies. So I think you've got great taste. Tell those boys not to be lured by the dark side... Always be honest with yourself and love what you love
Hi Katie! I'm 29 years old and have loved Star Wars for most of my life, along with other items that caused me to be teased or laughed at. When I was younger I was not as brave as you and I tried to hide some of the things I liked so I wouldn't get teased. And you know what? It made me miserable. I was unhappy that no one knew the real me. Once I started just being myself (like you are doing) I was much happier.
Several years ago I started work at a new job with a lot of guys that loved star wars. They would hold star wars trivia sessions throughout the day. I won the trivia game each time and the guys were very impressed.
I hope I can find a star wars water bottle to use just like you!
Hello Katie and Katie's mom
I have four girls (12, 14, 18 and 21) and they all love Star Wars. Last summer the two oldest flew to Florida for a big Star Wars convention and there were thousands of Star Wars fans there: men, women, boys and girls. From the pictures I'd guess there were as many girls as boys.
The year they were 6 and 3 they dressed as Luke and Leia for Halloween. Not only can girls like Star Wars, they can pretend to be the boy characters. You just keep on liking that or whatever other fun thing that interests you.
I'm adopted, by the way. When I was born (long ago in a galaxy far, far away) a lot more babies were adopted than now. It *is* different but it is a good kind of different.
PS You remind me of one of my nieces who is also very cute (and wore glasses when she was your age).
Dear Katie & Carrie,
My son "marches to his own drummer" also, and had a few rough years early in school. We've been 'Star Wars dorks', 'Comic Book nerds' and Rennies for quite a while. He tried to "conform" on ocassion, but ultimately would always stay true to himself and what he loved. Now at 14 and ready to graduate 8th grade, most of the kids who sort of picked on him are his closest buddies. It takes time for some to catch on and look at the whole you. Hang in there. And may the force be with you.
Hi Katie,
I am a girl and I LOVE Star Wars. Not only am I girl who loves Star Wars, but I had to wear a patch to school everyday in Kindergarten and wore glasses from 1st grade to 7th grade (when my mom finally let me get contacts) :)
You should carry your Star Wars water bottle with pride, because not only is Star Wars cool, so are YOU! What makes us different is what makes us special. I know it is hard to be different sometimes, especially when kids in your class tease and make fun, but you just have to hold your head up high and remember that it doesn't matter what other people think about you, only what you think of yourself.
I am now 35 years old and I work in a company where NOT liking Star Wars is weird! In fact, when I wore my "It's a TRAP!" t-shirt to work the other day, I got lots of compliments.
I hope it helps to know that there are lots of other girls out there that love Star Wars and think you are awesome for being brave enough to stick up for your self!
Best of luck, and May the Force be with you!!!
All the best,
Kate
Hi Katie! My name is Mish (or Michelle) and I'm 29 years old and a girl and I love Star Wars. I also wear glasses. And my husband loves Star Wars and loves that I love Star Wars. When we had our wedding, I made sure I had the same lace veil as Padme did in Episode II. I walked down the aisle to Padme's music from Episode II as well. And for our wedding cake, I had a Padme action figure in her wedding dress with a Darth Vader action figure (I made that photo my picture here--hope you can see it!).
Now my husband and I have a little boy--he just turned one year old. I love buying him Star Wars clothes to wear (so far he has five shirts!). I call him my little Wookie sometimes when he growls like Chewie. I'm sure he'll like Star Wars too one day, and I intend to teach him that it's okay for girls to like Star Wars too, I mean, his mommy AND godmother like it!
One day those silly boys will appreciate that you like Star Wars. Stay strong sweetie! Don't forget how strong Padme and Leia are!
Dear Katie,
You may not understand this now, but those boys have tiny penises. And they always will. And their lives will suck.
Your life on the other hand, holds nothing but promise. You are beautiful, amazing, and clearly brilliant. First, all the most amazing girls wear glasses - see Tina Fey and myself as perfect examples. Second, be proud of being adopted; your mom PICKED you! She could have had any kid in the world, and you were the absolute best, most perfect kid she could possibly imagine. Finally, embrace your love for Star Wars. Greatest movies out there, hands down. And one day, you
Dear Katie,
I am a 39 year old woman who loves Star Wars, and comic books, and zombies and too many other "boy" things to list here. I have my Princess Leia doll on display right next to my husband's x-wing fighter in our living room. I was lucky to find a cool boy who liked that I liked the same things as him. I will be honest with you and say that most boys are actually stupid. And when I say boys I also mean grown men. They will do things you will not understand and irritate you. You can ignore them or try to take pity on them; but most importantly you cannot let them bother you. They are a challenge but you are a rock star and will have no problem excelling in spite of them.
May the force be with you!
Maria
Hi Katie!
From the sound of your mom's post, you're a pretty amazing girl. I'm a big Star Wars fan too--being a Star Wars fan is one of the coolest things you can be. Did you know the Leia becomes a Jedi too? It's way cool for girls to have glasses (I got mine when I was in first grade) and even cooler to love Star Wars, comic books, video games and anything you think is cool. It's so important to be yourself and love what you love. Bring that Star Wars lunchbox and water bottle into school proudly. I bring mine in to work all the time. :)
--Allison
Hi Katie! Just want to let you know that the boys might make fun of you now, but when they're older and start to take interest in girls, they will LOVE you for your interest in Star Wars. Don't ever show shame in what you love!
Dear Katie,
I was about your age when Stars Wars first came out and I loved it! I still love it as an adult, so when I had a daughter I taught her all about it. She has Star Wars Lego sets, books, and action figures. She wears Star Wars shirts to school, and she's in 8th grade! She made a landspeeder for the Awana Grand Prix and won first place for design.
Now she loves lots of science fiction and watches versions of Star Trek, Stargate Atlantis, and Doctor Who. She has Who t-shirts, books, and action figures and again won first place for her TARDIS grand prix car. She wore a Stargate Atlantis costume for Halloween this year.
One of her middle school teachers started a rocket club this year and there are two other girls in the club in addition to my daughter. They meet once a week to build rockets to launch in the spring. How cool is that??
Enjoy your interests, Katie. There are other girls who like sci fi (and ninjas and pirates!), and one day you will find them. When you watch Clone Wars tonight, know that my daughter will be watching, too. :)
Hi Katie! I, just like you, love Star Wars (and so does my husband, and all of our friends, guys and girls alike). I was also a big girl geek ever since I was very little. I loved all things science and robot and engineering and electronics and insects. When all the other girls in my school were taking cooking and sewing, I took a class on computer programming and one on electric circuits.
I hated the color pink (I like it a lot now, though...see? You can even change your mind about what you like and what you don't...that's what so great about being you!) and I never wore it. I wore as many bright colors as possible, and I was the only person in my school who insisting on wearing green shoes. I got made fun of at first, and sometimes I came home and cried (or I would read--I loved reading so much that when I was upset I would lose myself in a book). But my mom and dad always told me that I had to be me, so I kept wearing those green shoes. By the time I was in Jr. High and Highschool, everyone learned to love me for who I was, and I was voted "most unique" my senior year.
I think they made fun of me early on because they didn't have the guts to wear what they wanted, to like what they wanted, and to be who they were. It's a scary thing, trying to do that. But know that if you just keep being you, people will admire you for it. People will look up to you. People will love you, simply because you are being yourself. There aren't enough people like you in the world...don't deprive the world of you!
I'm now a professor of forensic entomology (I solve murders for a living), and I can honestly say that I wouldn't have chosen such an obscure profession if I hadn't spent all that time being me. Don't let anyone ever tell you who you are. There are so many women like you and me (and all these other commenters), and we make the world go 'round. I mean, who is going to make all the interesting discoveries, those boys who think girls should hate Star Wars and wear pink? No way!
The greatest people in the world are those who are different, and who love being different. You already wear glasses (and from your picture, I think you and I have the exact same pair! I love your style, girl!), and you are adopted. How many people from your school can say that?!? You are well on your way to taking over the world, and we are all with you.
I know it's hard, but it's also really, really fun. By the way, my husband is super jealous of your water bottle--I read him this post, and the one thing he asked was "where did she get the bottle?" You keep doing what you are doing, and I promise that you will be very very happy because of it. You have a fantastic day at school, and tell those boys that you have all of Texas A&M University on your side.
--Adrienne
Hi Katie! As a guy, I just want you to know that when you're older and those same boys start liking girls, they will LOVE you for your love of Star Wars! Never show shame in what you love!
Hi Kaite, my name is Roan I am 12 years old, when I was in first grade I loved the movie The lord of the rings, my favorite character is Aragorn, and I bought a figure of him at the Target store, the lady asked me if it was for my brother and I said, no its for me!
I also had a lord of the rings lunchbox, no body teased me but I would have just said I can buy whatever I want to, I dont tell you what to bring lunch in. I like star wars too and my favorite character is Obi Wan Kenobi.
Hi Katie, my name is Megan and I love Star Wars too, along with all sorts of other nerdy things.
Don't worry about what those boys say. I'm sure they're just jealous that you got an awesome Star Wars water bottle and they didn't.
Don't let any bullies tell you what you can and can't like. Do what makes you happy and ignore anyone who tells you you're not supposed to be happy. They're probably just unhappy themselves and want to pull you down to their level.
Here's a secret: Nerds rule the world. It takes a very smart person to become a leader these days, and smart people tend to be nerdy and like things like Star Wars. Keep working hard in school and being yourself and I bet you'll go far. Maybe you'll be President. Maybe you'll be a great filmmaker and make a movie as awesome as Star Wars. I wish you all the luck in the world.
Hi Katie!!
I want you to know that I'm a huge Star Wars fan, and even though I was the only girl my classes who liked it when I was little, as I grew up and went on to high school, I met lots of other girls who loved Star Wars as much as I do! One girl proudly carried a plastic Yoda toy hanging from the strap of her backpack, and there were a lot of boys who thought it was cool that we weren't afraid to show our love for Star Wars.
My little brother and I also spent lots of time watching the movies together and playing with Star Wars toys. It never seemed like a "boy's only" or "girl's only" thing to us :)
I'm glad that you're feeling better about bringing your Star Wars waterbottle to school, and I want you to know that I think you are very strong and brave to stand up for yourself and do what makes you happy. If you like something, don't be afraid to show it. Sometimes, being different can seem like a scary thing, but I've always found that being different can help you to shine brighter and be happier. Being different is what makes us all special.
And Katie, you are very special!!
Hi Katie,
I'm a 36 year old woman who has loved "Star Wars" since the first movie came out back in the 1970's. My brother and I would pretend we were Jedi Knights before I even knew girls could be Jedis.
I still love "Star Wars" ~ when "The Phantom Menace" came out in theaters, I went to see it 15 times! I have all the Queen Amidala dolls, all the "Jedi Apprentice" and "Jedi Quest" books, and still love Qui-Gon Ginn and Obi-Wan Kenobi.
I'm not alone ~ my sister, who is 5 years younger than me, is a huge "Star Wars" fan, as is my mother!
As for my brother, he's all grown up now and is married with four daughters of his own. Recently he let them watch the movies ~ Emma is 11, twins Mara and Rachel are 8, and Elizabeth is the baby at 4. They LOVE "Star Wars" (Emma in particular thinks young Anakin Skywalker is cute!). Every Saturday morning, they have to watch the "Clone Wars" cartoon.
It's too bad you don't live near them, because I'm sure they'd love to play with another girl who loves "Star Wars" as much as they do!
I know what it's like to be bullied ~ I was bullied growing up for being different, too. But please don't let the other kids get to you. Being unique and different makes you special, and it makes you who you are. Never, EVER, let anyone change that! It's why people love you in the first place.
May the Force be with you :)
Jeanette
Hi Katie! :)
You know, when I was your age I had a Star Wars lunch box that I brought with me to school each day. The boys made fun of me too. They told me Star Wars was only for boys and I told them it was for everybody. I continued to proudly use my Star Wars lunch box and wear my Star Wars t-shirts and play with my Star Wars toys. I never stopped liking Star Wars and in the end those same boys stopped teasing me and accepted me for who I was. I hope the boys at your school will do the same, but if they don't please do not be afraid to be who you are because you are beautiful.
I know that when they tease it is hurtful, but don't give them the power to change even a little bit of who you are. Star Wars is for everybody, just like the color pink is too!
Those boys could learn a lesson or two from Princess Leia, Padme, Yoda...etc. Be strong, be proud of yourself and stand up for what you believe in.
Hi Carrie & Katie!
Greetings from Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Al! This morning, I saw the NASA post sharing your story on Facebook! I just had to register to chime in with my support, YAY Star Wars!!
Like the 1000+ peeps before me, I heartily hands-down agree that there is nothing more cool than Star Wars. Katie, YOU are awesome for realizing this at such a young age! How else are we going to get back to the Moon and Mars if young people like yourself aren't excited about space travel?
Dream big! Katie, one day you could be in the pilot seat of NASA's next generation heavy launch vehicle. Or, maybe you'll be the scientist to study Newtonian physics, propulsion and orbit dynamics designing your own Millennium Falcon. When you decide what you want to be when you grow up, I hope you still have a Star Wars water bottle to drink from.
3 Cheers and a hip hip for intergalactic travel, Star Wars and especially you, Katie.
~Ruthie
Katie,
When I was 12, the Star Wars movies became my favorite movies. I'm 26 now, and they're still my favorites. I don't know why these boys made fun of you, but I know from experience that some people will make fun of others for anything just to make themselves feel better. I also believe these guys may be kind of strange, because most guys I know like Star Wars, and when you get older and other boys your age find out you like Star Wars, they will think that you're one of the coolest girls ever. Even now I'm sure there are other girls and boys your age who love Star Wars. Just be yourself and don't be afraid to like what you like even if others find it strange.
Hi Katie!!
I want you to know that I'm a huge Star Wars fan, and even though I was the only girl my classes who liked it when I was little, as I grew up and went on to high school, I met lots of other girls who loved Star Wars as much as I do! One girl proudly carried a plastic Yoda toy hanging from the strap of her backpack, and there were a lot of boys who thought it was cool that we weren't afraid to show our love for Star Wars.
My little brother and I also spent lots of time watching the movies together and playing with Star Wars toys. It never seemed like a "boy's only" or "girl's only" thing to us :)
I'm glad that you're feeling better about bringing your Star Wars waterbottle to school, and I want you to know that I think you are very strong and brave to stand up for yourself and do what makes you happy. If you like something, don't be afraid to show it. Sometimes, being different can seem like a scary thing, but I've always found that being different can help you to shine brighter and be happier. Being different is what makes us all special.
And Katie, you are very special!!
Hi Katie! I am another girl fan of Star Wars! I saw the original movies when they came out in the theaters way back when I was a child, and have loved them ever since. I count myself very lucky to have had the opportunity to have met many of the wonderful people who are fans, and some of the very lucky people who actually earn a living imagining the Star Wars universe, and no one has ever suggested to me that Star Wars is for boys only. Remind them that one of the best and smartest characters in Star Wars is a girl -- Princess Leia! You rock your water bottle, and you're always welcome at my lunch table.
Hi Katie,
I read the story your Mommy wrote, and I just had to write you a message. I don't have anything very special to say, but I hope that you know that people from all over the world are supporting you. We live in Philadelphia, and I have people here who read your story, and they are from Scotland! Every single person is different in some way, and other people will actually choose you to be their friend (and girlfriend or wife when you are older) because of those differences. We are so happy that you felt strong enough to take your water bottle back to school! You are very brave and strong! And anyway, those boys don't have control over what you like. I hope you are proud of yourself! What a great girl you are!
Sincerely,
Nancy
Katie,
I have always been a huge Star Wars fan! Watching Star Wars for the first time with my daughter was a great moment for me, especially since she loved it! Rowan even dressed up as Darth Vader for Halloween in kindergarten! I was worried that some kids might make fun of her but by halloween they had all accepted that Rowan was not a pink or disney princess kind of girl. She had trouble when kindergarten first began because some of the boys told her she was supposed to like girl stuff not boy stuff, I told her Star Wars is for everyone and there is no boy stuff or girl stuff, its all just stuff. People can like whatever they want, this year for her birthday Rowan wanted spy gear and science kits, no pink stuff at all! And you know what she has a giant Star Wars poster hanging in her room that I bought years ago, and everyone who sees it thinks Rowan is lucky. So hang in there, like what you want and be who you are, because there are many of us Star Wars gilrs out there!
Katie,
I am a 28 year old female who has LOVED star wars for as long as I can remember. Someone may have already posted this quote, but I've always loved the words, "The challenge is trying to be yourself in a world that's trying to make you like everyone else."
And I've had the biggest crush on Mark Hamil and Harrison Ford, even though they're a lot older now. So, Star Wars is definitely NOT just for boys!
Hello Katie!
I just wanted to say that I think it is totally awesome that you like Star Wars. I am 24 and I've been a Star Wars geek for most of my life. I read Star Wars novels, I've watched the movies at least half a billion times and I have won multiple games of Star Wars Trivial Pursuit. I've even made up my own Star Wars adventure stories. Yes, you are different, but those differences are what make you wonderful; how boring would this world be if we were all the same? Be yourself and remember that you are strong in the Force.
May the for be with you, always.
Thanks, Mical, for the supportive words for Katie! She has also made up her own Star Wars adventure stories!
Hello,
My name is Katie too and I love star wars. I have watched them all my life and I have read the books and played all the games. You are a wonderful girl! keep up hope!
Thanks, Katie. My Katie was excited to hear from another Star Wars fan with her same name!
Hi Katie! Look at http://gonehuntingfarmboy.webs.com/
The front page has a good essay about the differences between female and male Star Wars fans and how female fans are so misunderstood - written by a female! As my mom says, if we were all the same and liked the same things - the world would be a very boring place! Keep the world interesting Katie and enjoy what you like!
Thanks, Valerie, for the great link. Katie was very keen to look it up!
Hey, Katie - my son goes to your school, too - but he's older than you! He likes anybody who shares his interests - including girls who like Star Wars!
I've always been a HUGE Star Wars fan, myself, but I thought I would share a blog I like with you - it's written by a young woman who is OBSESSED with Star Wars and other great geeky stuff. Just type "Star Wars" into the search function: http://www.epbot.com/
Thanks, Michele, for reaching out to Katie! Hopefully Katie will run into more boys like your son! And thanks for the great link!
Hi Kelli! Thanks for reaching out! I knew two girls named Kelli in high school. One was a year ahead of me and has an older sister named Carrie. Another was two years ahead of me and has a younger sister named Kim. I am not going to write last names for privacy reasons, but I am assuming you are one of those two!
Dear Katie, I'm very sorry to hear that you don't want to be any more different than you already are. You see being different is a very special thing, not everyone can be different. Being the same is easy, it takes no work at all to do what everyone else does, but only a very few people are strong enough to be different. Right now being different seems to be one problem after another, but when you get bigger it's going to be the best thing ever. I promise it will get better, you'll even come to enjoy being different. One day you'll discover lots of super cool different people who like Star Wars and things just like it. Together you will all do things that the normal people can only imagine. Until then, try to be strong and remember different people are the ones who walk on the moon, win Olympic medals, and write books.
Amen Sista!!!! I totally agree with you!!!
Hi Katie! I'm a girl, I'm adopted, and I also love Star Wars! When I was a kid, I was teased a lot for being different when I was growing up. I know it hurts, but the important thing to remember is that you are your own person, and that you are not alone. Everyone has their quirky interests that others might not share. You are awesome.
May the Force be with you!
I'm a 27 year old woman and Star Wars has been my favourite film(s) my entire life! And Katie, girls are allowed to like whatever they want, and so are boys!! If the kids you know haven't realized that yet it just means they aren't as smart as you.
When I was in grade 1 the kids teased me because they thought that my shoes were boys shoes. It really upset me, but it turns out that they were unisex shoes (for boys and girls) and after a few days they got bored of teasing me for that and stopped.
I wish you the best of luck, but I don't think you need it since it sounds like you're really lucky to have a great mom who understands that you can choose to be whoever you want to be, whether you like stuff that's meant for boys or for girls (and Star Wars is DEFINITELY meant for both).
Hi Katie!!!
Well I'm 26 years old single mom, my son already 2 years old loves Stars Wars too like his mommy, and I can promise you this: I'll teach my son that Star Wars is either for girls or boys and that is bad to bullie about accessories preferences, so once he gets old enough for school and if he sees a girl like you instead of bulling her he will play with the girl and cheer her up for having such amazing taste!!!...
Kisses from Mexico!!
Katie,
There are some AMAZING comments here, thank you for being you, and having your story shared with the world! I bet a LOT of other people have been inspired because of how those kids at school made you feel and how your mom wrote about. So it just goes to show, that even though something makes you sad for a bit, good things can come from it!
I never went to school, my mom homeschooled me, so I NEVER felt like I was normal, ever. The things I liked, computer games, math, and YES Star Wars, were not what other girls liked, and I knew they didn't want to hang out with me sometimes because our interests were different. It made me sad too, but I'm really glad I didn't stop loving the things I love, just because they didn't understand me.
Each of us in this world is totally unique, like a snowflake, and to try to be like other people means wasting what's special about yourself. So like what you like, do what you love, and as you can see, there are PLENTY of people in the world who will support you.
OXO
Felicia
Katie-
I'm not a girl, but I would never tease a girl for liking Star Wars. In fact, I think I like girls *more* who like Star Wars!
What Felicia said is really true. A lot of people like Felicia, and one of the big reasons is because she likes a lot of geek stuff. It's one of the reasons *I* like her, and also because she wears her geek proudly. So do I, and so do LOTS of other people.
Your mom is pretty cool for writing about you, and you're pretty cool for doing what you need to do. Never be afraid to follow what interests you. It's a big Universe out there, with room for all of us!
Katie, a PS for what I commented before, regarding adoption? Princess Leia is adopted, as is Luke but don't forget Superman is also adopted as is Superman Returns director Bryan Singer. You can't be in better company than that!
Hi Katie,
I just wanted to let you know that I am 33 and have been a Star Wars fan for as long as I can remember. In fact, I just watched all 3 original Star Wars movies in the last 3 days and you know who one of the leads was, Princess Leia. She straightened the two boys out and made them into better people! They were great shows and they always will be! I love anything science fiction or fantasy related, and that's absolutely wonderful.
I also wanted to say it's ok to be different. I was a tomboy growing up, always playing sports (soccer, basketball, whatever) with the boys in my neighborhood and my class. Even today I'm not much into "girly" things (I don't really like the color pink on a lot of things and would rather be playing a contact sport like soccer) but that doesn't matter. I have friends, boys and girls, who love me for who I am. But most of all, I have a great family (which I know you do too) who have always loved me and been there to support me when I needed it.
Stay true to what you like and know that those mean boys (and maybe some girls) will be scared like you were at some point in time. Hopefully you can be a friend to them when they need it and say it's ok.
May the Force Be With You!
G'day Katie, i'm writing to you all the way from Australia (we don't REALLY say G'day).
I can't believe the boys in your class would pick on you for having a star wars drink bottle, i think they are jealous, maybe they wanted one and their mum wouldn't buy it for them.
so not only do you have a GREAT drink bottle but you have the COOLEST mum aswell.
I have 2 little girls my 2yr old daughter is the BIGGEST tomboy, we live on a farm and she LOVES motorbikes, frogs, playing outside in the mud or driving a car, she's more adventurous and full on than most kids her age and it looks like her little sister is going to be exactly the same.. you know what I LOVE THAT ABOUT THEM.
It makes them different which to me makes them SPECIAL.
Your special to your mum and your family and thats all that matters, these little boys will grow up one day and their child might be picked on and they will think back to these years and realise just how wrong they were.
Take your drink bottle to school and drink from it proudly, your a gorgeous little girl and FWIW i wear glasses and lots of gorgeous celebs do too.
Hi Katie! I think you are such a cool, pretty girl. I'm a girl and I LOVE Star Wars! It's the best! I'm a bit older than you and I impress the boys with my Star Wars knowledge all the time. When you're a bit older, I promise they'll realize how cool it is that you like Star Wars. So you just hang in there and enjoy your water bottle. You are awesome! May the force be with you.
I'm so glad I found out about you! You are awesome Katie! I'm a woman in California, and I heard about your love of Star Wars and I think you are so cool. I'm 34 years old, and I've loved Star Wars since I was 8 years old. I was an Ewok one year for Halloween! I had action figures, and I love to pretend I was R2D2 or a Jedi. Keep using your imagination and love what you love!
Hi Katie! I created a profile just so I could leave a comment for you! I am another Katie and I love Star Wars! When you get older the boys will think it's really cool that you like Star Wars too (but don't tell them that.) I went through a similar situation to yours when I was in grade school. I was always different from the other kids and they didn't like it, so they teased me. It took me a long time to realize that it wasn't because I was doing anything wrong, it was because they were so insecure with themselves. My classmates teased me because I liked cats. I tried to change myself but I wasn't happy with myself, and today I have finally accepted who I am and have made a living caring for cats! Stay strong sweetie! I hope all these comments show you that it's ok to be different! Best of luck! Fellow "geeky" Katie!
Hey Katie,
My name is Angela, and I've always liked a lot of things that are supposed to be "for boys". When I was little I got teased by people because I liked monster trucks instead of barbies and would rather wear my Transformers t-shirt than a pretty dress. Now I'm a grown-up who still likes stuff that's supposed to be "for boys" and I've never been happier. Star Wars is awesome, and I don't care who tells you differently. It's important to like the things you like no matter what anyone says. I got teased for my Batman backpack too. Don't let those first grade boys get you down, ok? Best wishes from New Mexico!
Hi Katie!
I'm a 34 year old woman who has always liked all sorts of things a girl shouldn't like. I liked playing with my older brother's cars and trucks and getting dirty and preferred jeans instead of dresses. I was also always different and it was tough. But as you can see from all of the comments we're leaving you, you are not alone. There are many of us and we can tell you that it gets better. Don't let other people put you down and make you feel bad!
You know those boys teasing you for not being a "proper girl"? Well, one day they will grow up and complain that their girlfriends and wives don't like the same things they do and that they can't talk to them about all of those cool things!!!
Oh, and give your mom a big hug for supporting you in not always liking what a "normal" girl is supposed to like. You are VERY lucky to have such an awesome mom! My own mom didn't and still doesn't understand why I don't like what what other girls like, so remember to thank your mom for being so supportive!
Hi Katie, it sounds like you've got great taste in movies *and* school supplies!
My sister and I grew up watching Star Wars with our mom, who is just about the coolest lady I've ever known. And you know what? Anybody who thinks it's just for boys is just plain wrong!
Star Wars is for everybody who's smart and fun and knows a great story when they see it. You listen to your mom and all these great men, women, boys and girls leaving you messages, and never, ever forget that you can like and do whatever you want.
Now, if you can find a *pink* Star Wars water bottle, I hope you'll let the rest of us know!
Katie, I am a Kindergarten teacher in Chicago, and I love Star Wars more than anyone in my school. I have to stories to hopefully cheer you up. First of all, for the past two years, I went to school for Halloween dressed in a Jedi costume that I made, and you would not believe how many times I heard people (kids and adults) tell me that girls could not be Jedi. Little do they know, but once they saw the costume, they had to admit it was pretty cool. I have an opportunity, as do you, to teach these people that you can be the kind of person you want to be, and follow the interests you like best of all. Perhaps you will give someone courage to do the same thing.
Last year, for the very first time, I had a little girl in my class who was also a Star Wars fan. We exist, and we are not alone. This girl's favorite color was black and she enjoyed Star Wars, scary movies, and Disney Princesses. She had all different kinds of interests, but she always asserted herself with poise and confidence when questioned on her views. She was her own person, and very proud of herself. She could also answer just about every trivia question I threw at her, and that's something the boy fans could not do. Stay strong, Katie, and people will see you for the beautiful, smart girl you are. I'm sorry that you have to go through this, but keep your chin up and may the Force be with you.
Hi Katie!!! My name's Rebecca and I'm 14 years old. I've made this account specially to comment here. I love Star Wars (particularly the Clone Wars). My favorite character is Ahsoka, she is proof alone that Star Wars is not only for boys. Recently, I bought a clone wars shirt- from the boys section. I'm not afraid to love star wars, and neither should you. :) Remember that sometimes, star wars can be a connection to boys. Sometimes, I play star wars with a bunch of kids younger than myself. It may look strange to some people to see a teenager like myself running around with a lightsaber. And, did you know that 49% of all star wars fans are girls? So remember, when people tease you for loving star wars, stand up for yourself, because you're not alone. The way i found this article was by a company called "Her Universe", and it was created by Ashley Eckstein, the voice of Ahsoka Tano herself (I'm a major fan). It's an entire community of star wars fangirls like me and like you. :)
You're not alone, Katie. :)
Keep up the good work, and wear that star wars shirt proud!
-Rebecca
Hey Katie!
I'm a girl who has never been into really "girly" things. I grew up with short hair, glasses, playing video games and basketball. I love comic books, and Star Wars is one of my absolute favorite things -- my big brother saw them when they originally came out and I inherited his 1979 Star Wars t-shirt when he moved out. It has a lot of holes in it, but that just makes it a holy relic, to me. (I also like lame puns.)
I know it's awful when kids tease you. Sometimes, it's unintentional -- I had one kid in 4th grade say something REALLY horrible to me, but in hindsight, I don't think he meant it maliciously, he was just a bit of a dope -- but other times, like with these boys at your school... yeah. Not so accidental in their case. I'm sorry you're having to deal with them.
Never let anybody make you feel lame for something that you love. We're special for our differences, and while it can be hard to cope with people who haven't figured that out yet, it is absolutely worth sticking it out. Always, always be yourself. You'll find people who love you for who you are, and they are way cooler and more fun to hang out with than people who think girls can't like Star Wars.
-Sydney K., age 26
Go Katie! I'm 24 and grew up with Star Wars - last week I bought a Star Wars t-shirt from SuperHeroStuff.com! You'll love that website, trust me. :)
And apparently, those boys forgot that there ARE girls in the Star Wars movies! Who do they think Princess Leia is? A BOY?! And what about the female voice actors in the Star Wars cartoons?! :P I have a handful of guy friends that love it when a girl is interested in the same stuff as them; video games, superhero movies, etc. My little sister loves Star Wars, Megaman, Pokemon, and tons of other "boy" stuff.
And never, ever be afraid of "being different". Everyone is! That's what makes us interesting. :] May The Force be with you, sweetheart!
P.S. Have one of your parents look up "Lil jawa" by baboonspaceship on YouTube! Yet another female Star Wars fan, in costume! :)
Hi, Katie! My name is Lauren, and I'm a girl that loves Star Wars! I love all SORTS of geeky things, too. Have you ever heard of Star Trek? Doctor Who? Sailor Moon? I bet you'd love them all. I got very excited to hear about you. I go to conventions every year dressed as Star Wars characters. I won an award from LucasFilm for dressing up as Padme! And guess what? The same boys who made fun of me when I was a kid now LOVE my costumes, and talking about Star Wars with me. When you get older, people will stop being so worried, and will start loving who they are. If you love who you are TODAY, you'll be WAY ahead! I'll be thinking of you the next time I put on my Queen Amidala gowns. :)
http://www.cosplay.com/member/2297/
May the Force be with you!
Katie! Adorable little Katie, let me tell youuuu, little boys are crazy. I think they're just jealous of your water bottle, or maybe they haven't even SEEN Star Wars and are just worried that you're beating them at (what they THINK) is their own game!
You know, I LOVE star wars. I plan on making sure my kids (sons and DAUGHTERS INCLUDED :D) watch all the movies, and making them proud Star Wars fans (like you!)
Hey, fun fact (but don't tell my boyfriend), I'm actually the one who told HIM to watch Star Wars because I was the fangirl! So we went to prom, had a nice evening...then kicked back at home and watched Star Wars Ep IV. We even play Lego Star Wars after I told him about it. FTW.
Psst by the way. I think your glasses are cute. I think you are cute. :] Listen to your mom! She has great advice to give you. :D :D That's all you need, a great mom, a star wars water bottle and cute glasses. You're set. :] <3
Dear Katie,
I am a nanny for 3 children who all love Star Wars very much, 2 of which happen to be girls 6, and 9 years old. I have also been a fan of Star Wars since I was about your age, maybe even a little younger. I used to have a Star Wars tee shirt I would proudly wear. I think Star Wars is an excellent movie for girls to watch. It shows women doing things that are brave, and holding leadership. If Star Wars was just for boys, would there be girls doing such cool things? I do not think so. So, Katie I think you should be proud of your water bottle, because it is very cool. Those boys do not know what they are talking about. So next time they start to tease you about Star Wars just being for boys, you will know that they are wrong. Be proud of the things you like, and as you will learn in life boys are silly, and are usually wrong about several things. Star Wars is defiantly for girls too.
Hey, Katie! I'm a 21-year-old college senior, and I'm a pretty big fan of the SciFi genre in general, including Star Wars. I just wanted to let you know that I've met a lot of people in college, male and female, who share that interest and are pretty proud of their differences. Staying true to what you love is much more fun than trying to fit in all the time, and you'll make some of your closest friends by finding other people who think being different is awesome.
You sound like a really cool person, so don't let anyone get you down for liking what you like. The things that make you different are some of the things that make you special.
If you want, you should see if your mom will take you to an anime or SciFi convention sometime. They tend to encompass a wide range of interests, and people dress up as their favorite characters from things like Star Wars, Star Trek, Doctor Who, and a lot of other movies and series.
Don't let anyone's teasing discourage you. Remember, you are seriously awesome. :)
-Michelle
Hi Katie,
First of all I'd like to tell you a little about myself, I'm 22, I'm adopted too and I absolutely love Star Wars, I am a card carrying member of the Empire (The 501st legion) I like Star Wars so much.
I just want to tell you that liking 'boy' things isn't bad or strange at all, actually, in college, it was cool! (So you're so awesome, you're beyond everyone elses awesome) And the fact that you're being so brave and great may give another girl the courage to be a little different too.
Just know that, with about 555 comments on here right now, there are a lot of other girls like you and we know just how awesome you are!
A long time ago, in a galaxy, far far away...
there was a girl named Katie who loved Star Wars. And she was right to love Star Wars, despite what anyone else had to say about it. And she was right to express her love of Star Wars by choosing to drink out of a Star Wars water bottle, despite what anyone had to say about it. And the force was with her, all the way.
Use the force, Katie! Stick with it and all will be well. And believe me, there are plenty of us who love Star Wars, boys & girls alike, and we stick together and make the world a better place!
Katie - I was five when I saw Star Wars for the first time. I had the sleeping bag and the sheets and pillow cases. And when I went for sleepovers, I was lucky - my friends were girls like me and they thought my sleeping bag was cool. And when the new movies came out, I was glad to take *my* little girl with me to see the new ones because she loved the old ones, too. I still have my Foreshadowing poster hung in my room and she still has her Darth Maul poster hung in her room. I am 38 and she is 15. And now that I am an adult, I get to go to conventions where there are a lot of other women who love Star Wars and games and science fiction and lots of other things that we were told were only for boys when we were little. And we have a lot of fun doing it.
So I hope you keep liking Star Wars. And if some days you don't feel like carrying the bottle, I get that, too. There are some days I just want to be "normal", too. But must of the time? I am pretty darn happy being a girl who likes Star Wars and lots of other things that make me different. And I hope you do, too!
And then she met a boy, who was so very impressed with her poster and decided he should probably marry her.
Katie, girls who like Star Wars are pretty amazing. And one day, those boys who are being mean to you will figure that out. I know that I did.
Dear Katie,
Boys at your age are a little more prone to peer pressure. When you get older, there will be boys who will think you are super cool for liking Star Wars. They may even watch the movies with you or share their toys. To those who don't, who needs them! Boys are silly and take a while to mature.
When I was your age I had to wear a patch over my right eye for a year. I hated it, but I also knew that one day it would come off and my eye would be better. I got made fun of a lot, but when it came off and I bought some new, super cute glasses, kids didn't have a reason to make fun of me anymore. Plus, I had my real friends, close friends who liked me for who I am.
You will be fine. Your mom loves you so much and so does the rest of your family. You can tell those boys that a LOT of other girls like Star Wars, and Princess Leia is a real hero.
You are a beautiful, smart young lady. Don't let them get to you. It gets better.
Hi Katie! I'm a woman and I've loved Star Wars ever since I was a young girl like you. I know sometimes it's hard to be different but being different is what makes people special! It sounds like you are a very brave and special little girl and your water bottle sounds very cool! If I had one like it, I would take it to work with me.
I also love your glasses! I wear glasses, too, and I wore them when I was a little kid. I used to not like them when I was little, but I love them now.
May the force be with you!
Hi, Katie.
My name is Jenni and I have a little boy a couple years younger than you. When I was your age, I would play Star Wars on the playground with the boys. It made me mad that I always had to be Princess Leia. So sometimes I would make up a new person to be and they didn't want to play with me anymore so I caved and let them rescue me. I wish I had your bravery back then so I could have stood up to them and I hope my son will learn from you to love what he loves regardless to what others think.
Be who you are and love what you love and never ever let anyone make you feel like you need to change for them.
Thank you so much for sharing with us!
Hi Katie! I know we don't know each other but I wanted to say how proud I am of you for being so brave and strong! It takes courage to be unique and individual and I can see you have that in you! Those boys are probably jealous because you are so cool! I know because I am a girl, and love Star Wars too! In fact I am a member of a worldwide club that dresses in Star Wars costumes all through the year to support great kids like you! So believe me you have an army of stormtroopers at your back if you ever need it! :)
Stay strong and cool and never give up on your dreams and interests!
Hey Katie!
I'm not a huge Star Wars fan (I like the movies, but I don't own all the toys or anything), but I like TONS of other "boy" things. I play video games and role playing games. I have a HUGE collection of "boy" toys and even work in a typical "boys" job (I play video games every day until they break :) )
*Hugs* it's not easy sweetheart. I know it's not easy when you are being picked on, but just looking at these comments, I think you know you are more "normal" than different. Be who you are dear. Follow your dreams, keep the things you like as close to you as you want. And if you want to drink out of a star wars water bottle, I'll raise my star trek one and give you a high five!
Stay strong sweetheart. You are loved, you are special and you are wonderful.
Hi, Katie!
I hope you're still wearing your Star Wars tee-shirt with pride! You can be a strong girl like Leia: she didn't care about what anybody said! She did what she knew was right and she was different, too.
Star Wars is a great movie and there are lots of girls and boys who love it as much as you do. There is no such thing as a movie that is just for boys or just for girls. There are girls who like Star Wars and action figures and there are boys who like Disney princesses and pink bottles. And the world is so much more fun because of that!
May the force be with you.
Hi Katie! I'm a woman and I've loved Star Wars ever since I was a young girl like you. I know sometimes it's hard to be different but being different is what makes people special! It sounds like you are a very brave and special little girl and your water bottle sounds very cool! If I had one like it, I would take it to work with me.
I also love your glasses! I wear glasses, too, and I wore them when I was a little kid. I used to not like them when I was little, but I love them now.
May the force be with you!
My fiancee, niece, and my soon to be sister-in-law all love Star Wars. My niece's favorite character is R2-D2. My fiancee uses her Boba Fett lunchbox as a purse and she is thinking about making herself a costume that looks like Boba Fett.
Hello Katie (& mum)! I'm twenty year, female, and I have spent three quarters of my life loving Star Wars. I wouldn't change this for the world. You are amazing for daring to be who you are, and for taking pride in who you are. Being different is good. Being different is great. Remember, always, that you are magnificent for everything that you are.
Lots of love,
Alice x
Dear Katie,
I was born in 1972, and when the first Star Wars movie came out, my dad brought us to see it in the theater. This was a big deal - we *never* went to the movies! I was only five, and don't remember a whole lot about it, but I remember how exciting it was to see the ships flying around and all the weird creatures - and the girls who were telling other people what to do! We saw every movie in the theater, and I loved Star Wars throughout my childhood. My sister and I had action figures galore. And a landspeeder, which was my favorite! I had an Empire Strikes Back lunchbox that I adored - my mom painted my initials on it in nail polish so it wouldn't get mixed up with anyone else's lunchbox. My love for Star Wars is one of my favorite childhood memories, and I still get a thrill over the movies and the characters. Now that I'm a grownup, I also see how Star Wars (and Star Trek - check that one out, too!) made a big impression on me as a younger girl because of the strong female characters.
You are awesome. You love what you love, and no-one can take that away from you. There are tons of us out here who think so. The boys who don't get it are the ones missing out!
Much love,
Liz
Hi Katie,
I'm a 34 year old woman and one of my favorite memories from when I was growing up was playing with my Star Wars action figures in the living room with my Dad. I hope your memories of your love of Star Wars will be just as good some day.
Here's the secret about school that no one really tells you: Everyone's different but most people hide it. In school I was teased for liking "boy things" like Star Wars but also knights and castles. I was also teased for being a "brain" because being too good at school was seen as being different too.
I'm glad I didn't give up the things I loved because people teased me, even if it was hard at times. I'm a college history professor now and when I talk to my students about knights, castles, and even Star Wars, I'm the coolest professor on campus.
Don't give up the things you love, even when its tough. Good luck with school and may the Force be with you!
Hi Katie!! I'm Rebecca, and I'm 14 years old and LOVE star wars. I particularly love the Clone Wars. Ahsoka Tano is my favorite character, and she alone proves star wars is not just for boys. Recently, I bought a clone wars shirt from the boys section. I wear it proud, and I'm glad you're learning to as well. Did you know that 49% of star wars fans are girls? That shocked me when i heard it, but at the same time it made me feel like I can stand up for what i believe. Maybe your love of star wars can help you make new friends, I know that my love for star wars has led to many interesting conversations with boys. And you know what? Usually i end up knowing more about Star wars than they do, and i think it shocks them. Just remember, dear Katie, you're not alone, in fact, far far far from it. :)
May the Force be with you ALWAYS, Katie!! :D
-Rebecca (aka Skyguy's-Padawan or StarWarsRocks)
Katie, I think it is terrible that those kids are being mean to you because of your Star Wars thermos. But don't ever stop being yourself just because other people don't like it.
I saw Return of the Jedi in the movie theater when I was 9 years old and have loved it ever since. It is not easy being different and I was picked on a lot in school because I liked "boy's stuff". I never let them win because I just kept on being myself and liking the things I like.
I am 36 years old and still wear Star Wars shirts and Transformers and HellBoy and I have a Hello Kitty purse that I use all the time, because those are the things I have always enjoyed.
You are a sweet and strong and beautiful little girl and you go on being yourself. You are an amazing inspiration to us all. Keep being strong and when there are times that you need MORE strength then lean on your Mom and she will help.
I wish you and your family the best.
Hi Katie,
I'm a woman and I'm 35 years old. My dad took me to see Empire Strikes Back when I was 4, and I've been in love with Star Wars ever since. I had a Star Wars lunch box in first grade, too. I know it's hard to be different, but don't let anyone else tell you what you should or shouldn't like. There will always be people who think you should be someone that you're not, and they're wrong. Be yourself. Star Wars is for girls, too!
May the Force be with you!
Veronica
P.S. My little brother used to play with my Barbies and My Little Ponies. There's no such thing as stuff that is just for girls or just for boys. But don't tell him I told you. :-)
Hi Katie!
I'm a long time Star Wars fan. Saw it first in the theater when it came out in the Summer of 1977. Saw The Empire Strikes back the very first show in Denver in 1983 and stood in a really long line to get in. I've seen every one of the Star Wars movies more than once. I love them all. Princess Leia and Princess Amidala? They are both beautiful, strong, intelligent, amazing women.
I have a daughter in 2nd grade now. You know what? She's different than I am. She's not yet into the Star Wars movies. But I have a picture of her & her best friend when they were in Kindergarten dressed up in Disney princess dresses and whacking at each other with light sabers! Because when all is said and done? Princesses can kick butt with a light saber and don't you forget it!!
And if any of those boys give you a hard time again? You remind them that without Princess Leia, there would BE no message to Obi Wan and Luke would've stayed on Tattoine and Han would've never even met him.
Katie, I LOVE Star Wars and I am not ashamed to say so! The first movie I ever saw in a theater was The Empire Strikes Back when I was young, now i'm 34, have been to two Celebrations and still LOVE Star Wars. Never fear, those boys were probably jealous they didn't have your super cool water bottle. You go girl! I used to worry about what other people thought until I realized that life is too short to care what others think and now i'm not afraid to freely admit that I am indeed a Star Wars Geek.
Katie, I am a Mom of three girls and we all Love Star Wars! My girls and I are all rooting for you! Keep your chin up and carry that Star Wars water bottle proudly! You are beautiful just the way you are, don't let others change you into who they think you should be. You are you and perfect!
Hi Katie!
I'm a 24 year-old girl and LOVE Star Wars! So glad you love it too - Princess Leia is the best!! I'm a huge fan of other science fiction stories too. Don't let the boys bother you! Kind of like you, I've worn glasses since I was very young and I'm different in other ways from a lot of the people around me. I have a couple of conditions that mean I see, think about, and understand things differently than most people. I've also been teased in school and it bothered me a lot. It does stop, especially if you can try to ignore it - the boys are trying to bug you, and if you don't show them that they're bugging you, they'll get bored and stop teasing you!
Because I love stories like the Star Wars movies so much, I ended up getting REALLY interested in science and I'm working on my Master's degree in geology, or the study of rocks and the earth. After that, I'm getting my doctorate degree. Being in science is the best (if you ask me, anyway!) because my job lets me do many things: I can work outside and climb mountains and camp in a tent, and other times I work in a lab with all sorts of chemicals or power tools or high-tech machines. I also get to meet up sometimes with other girl and boy scientists from all across the country and world at big conferences where we get to see all of the cool things everyone is doing. The conferences are one of my favorite parts, because everyone there is so excited about what they're doing, and no one ever teases anyone about the projects that they're working on!
I hope that everyone who's left a comment on this post has helped make you feel better! There are all sorts of great stories people are telling here. Being different from your classmates can be hard sometimes, I have to be honest. It's absolutely worth it, though - never forget that! And don't worry about what the boys think, or what others think you should grow up to be. That's YOUR choice - do what makes you happy!
My best wishes for you!
Val
Hi Katie! I'm hoping to give you some words of encouragement to you, from one Katie to another...
As a kid I too was teased. For stupid things. Things I had no control over. Also, I wore glasses and a patch on my eye as a child, so I know how annoying it can be. But I can tell you that as a 22 year old, I LOVE wearing glasses.
Secondly, do not let the petty opinions of others dictate what you love. Star Wars is a globally recognized fan base of both guys and gals and you should have no shame in liking it! I know it's hard at your age, and I didn't figure this out until college but don't let these people get to you. Love what you love because you are unique and you're going to do something wonderful and creative and these boys probably won't have anything to show off because they'll be too concerned with what people will think.
Please know that you are wonderful and unique and that you will do great things. Please continue to wear the backpack and tell those boys that if they are really that concerned with it then maybe they'd like to have the principle call their mothers so they can explain their reasoning of star wars being gender specific. Rock on and know you are loved.
Katie
Hello Katie, just wanted you and your parents to know that I wanted to spread the word via my own blog site, Knights Archive. Keep your chin up! You have tons of people supporting you!
http://knightsarchive.wordpress.com/2010/11/18/a-shout-out-for-katie/
Hi Katie!
I'm a geek grrl, too. And I'm old. Probably older than your mom. I've loved everything about space, space travel, astronauts and science/science fiction since I was your age. That's a LONG time. All the boys I know liked the same stuff too. Don't listen to mean people. They aren't worth your time.
If you haven't already, have your mom and dad search twitter for #MayTheForceBeWithKatie. I think you'll like all the girls you see that are supporting you.
Have a great time watching Star Wars again and again and again!
Love ya!
scotchgrrl
Hi Katie!
I am a girl and have loved Star Wars since I was a kid! Now, my kids, a girl and a boy, love Star Wars too. Please don't let children, or anyone you meet in your life, get to you when it comes to what you think of yourself or what you do. You stay strong and hold your head high because you are a beautiful girl and you have a beautiful mom. God made people different just like he made the different colors of the rainbow, and every different snowflake. That is what makes each person unique and special. I'm sorry that you were teased, and I know that it hurt you. It will make you stronger. Unfortunately, there are some children and adults that just don't have beautiful souls, and for some reason it makes them feel good to hurt others. You just forgive and move forward in life knowing that it really isn't 'you', because the person being mean is usually hurting on the inside for whatever reason. You are a beautiful girl, and you aren't 'different', you are special and unique in your very own amazing way. Lots of love to you and your family! And may the force be with you.....always!
;-D
Tracey
Hi Katie!
I saw the very first Star Wars movie in theaters when I was six months old, and I've seen every one of them in theaters since. My parents raised me to do exactly what I wanted, and it turned out that a lot of what I wanted isn't "girly" - I can rebuild a car better than I can make dinner, I teach computer programming - but I'm so happy that I'm who I am, because it means that I'm not embarrassed to tell my geeky friends that I sew and do needlepoint, too. I hope you find that too, that who you are is the important part, and someday it won't matter much what other people think.
Actually, Star Wars was a big influence on one of my most awesome jobs - my best friend suggested, when we were 13, that we learn to play Dungeons & Dragons, and I haven't stopped roleplaying since, though I haven't played D&D in years. But when someone called me, back in 2003, and asked me - the day I was told I was being laid off from a contract position - whether I wanted to work for Wizards of the Coast, who make D&D, I said yes so fast. WotC has a license with Lucasarts; at the time, they were making a Star Wars roleplaying game. So Lucasarts sent up a print of Attack of the Clones, and we all got to go to the theater. We had to be there at 7am, but on the other hand, it was Star Wars, and it was before it was released to the public, too. It really was a case of Star Wars opening up a door for me that I was then rewarded with Star Wars when I went through it! And it helped that my parents were proto-geeks who raised me to be both myself and a geek if I wanted, cause I wasn't gonna get myself to that theatre when I was six months old.
I've read over some of the other comments you've gotten, and it's so awesome to see how many people are telling you that it's cool to be exactly who you are, no matter what other people think of that. It's more important to be a good person than to be trendy, and it's more important to be yourself than to listen to people tell you you're not cool.
Katie,
You're not alone! I'm a girl and a huge Star Wars fan as well since I was old enough to pay attention to the movies. My all time favorite movies are the Star Wars ones and I still own and read every single book that comes out. My best friend (also a girl) and I stood in line to see Episode 3 at midnight on opening night.
Star Wars is awesome and trust me, I know it's hard to believe now, but later in life the boys will -love- that you like Star Wars. :D My husband gets jealous comments from friends of ours because he has a wife who loves being a geek as much, and sometimes more, than he does!
Keep your chin up and remember, the Force will be with you, always.
-Mary
Dear Katie, you are beautiful! I am a girl and I like Star Wars A LOT! When I was younger, I wore glasses and a patch too, and people got to know and love and accept me because I
Katie,
I'm a girl and I love LOVE LOVE Star Wars! All things Star Wars! I always have my whole life. Sometimes even at work I get made fun of a little - I have Star Wars action figures (Jar Jar, Han Solo, Obi Wan, Anakin, Padme and Artoo) on my desk in front of my monitor. I just tell the people I work with - Hey this is me. It's what I like. Be brave. Be strong. Count on your Mom and Dad (they are like Jedi Masters in a way - they know tons of stuff!)
May The Force Be With You!
Hi Katie!
I'm a woman, and I totally love Star Wars! (And Star Trek, and all sorts of other science fiction.) I also have a three-year-old girl who is the most excited when she's watching, coloring or playing with Lightning McQueen from "Cars" -- I hope she gains the strength that you are finding and is able to continue loving what she wants because it makes her happy.
You are a beautiful girl! I hope you keep being true to yourself despite what others think.
Cam
Hi Katie!
I'm in my 30s and I love Star Wars! I've been to 2 Star Wars conventions and have an autographed Darth Tater (he's signed by David Prowse, the man inside the Darth Vader costume) on my mantel. My love of Star Wars also inspired me to study physics and astronomy in college.
I spent a lot of years thinking I had to fit somebody else's idea of what I should like--girls like pink and "girly" things and boys like things like Star Wars. But people aren't that simple. I love Star Wars *and* the color pink and I'm proud of it, even if some people think I'm weird. That's their problem!
Katie,
Im a 22 year old woman and I love Star Wars! Ive grown up watching the movies!! A couple of years ago my sister and I one day sat and watched every Star Wars movie in one day!! So keep on carrying that water bottle and backpack! I also love football and being outside doing things like camping and going hiking things that many girls dont like doing! I have a lot of my college friends that were girls also loved doing the same thing!! I went to a school where football was very big and all of us girls would go to every game and we would also get together and watch pro football games on sundays!!
When I was younger I was made fun of for being different too! I'm 6 foot tall which I hit when I was in high school. All my life Ive been taller than most guys and guys dont like that a girl is taller than them! When I was in 6th I grew about 4-5 inches during that school year and I had also had a health condition that had gone undetected and caused me to be really skinny. So being 5'9 and really skinny I was made fun of for the entire year. They called me all kind of names because of how I looked! Because of their insecurity they made fun of me to make them feel better!
So Hold your head up high and be proud of the things you love!! Continue being yourself and dont let those who are insecure about themselves get you down!!
Stay Strong,
Jennifer
P.S. Im going to be a police officer a job that has been dominated by men and there are men that think we are too weak to do! But girls have continued to prove all the guys wrong and I'm going to do the same!!
Hi Katie!
I'm a 22 year old (young) woman, and I've been a HUGE fan of Star Wars ever since I was the same age as you are now. I know that what the kids have been saying at school can seem mean, but you should know that there is nothing wrong with being yourself and being proud of what you love. If you love something and are passionate about it, then you should be proud of that, and you should never be afraid to be yourself.
I used to get picked on for being different (and for liking Star Wars!), so I know how it feels...if you hold your head up high and let the bullies know that what they're saying doesn't bother you, then they'll see how silly they look, making fun of someone who is clearly as awesome as you are! Believe me that it DOES get better, especially if you're happy with who you are! Don't let it get you down!
I'm SO happy to hear that you've been wearing your Star Wars shirt to school, and that you're reading these comments, those mean kids in the cafeteria should be totally jealous of how cool you are. When I have or adopt children of my own, I hope that they will be as brave as you are, and plan to raise them to be as nerdy as my boyfriend and I are. Be proud, Katie, and know that the world is standing behind you with love and support.
The force is DEFINITELY with you!
Katie, I was born loving Star Wars. As I kid I had the toys, t-shirts, lunchboxes, stickers, everything.
I am now in my thirties and you know what? I bring a Star Wars luncbox to work. I have Star Wars toys in my office and at home. I have a Star Wars backpack that I use every day. I watch Star Wars movies whenever I'm home sick. I have Star Wars stickers on my car. I wear Star Wars t-shirts all the time.
I LOVE Star Wars. And I'm a girl. Don't let those boys make you feel bad for who you are. Your Star Wars water bottle sounds awesome!
I am a girl and I LOVE star wars. My favorite is Yoda. My daughter also likes star wars. she likes Ashoka best. Don't ever be afraid to be who you are and like the things you like. that would only lead to unhappiness. besides, star wars fans are pretty cool and so much fun to hang out with. (:
Hi Katie!
I'm a girl, and not only do I love Star Wars, but I love love love Harry Potter! I'm an adult, too, and I don't care what other people think of what I like. Not everyone has the same likes and dislikes, and that's ok - and if those kids who tease you can't see that, then they are the ones who need to change. It is their loss to not know you - what makes you uniquely you - please don't shed a single tear or spend a single thought on them. And just remember this...who was there to help save the Rebels? Princess Leia. She was one tough chick, and she went right in there with the boys and kicked butt. You can too! Sounds like you have a pretty awesome Mom, and from what I've seen here, alot of people that care about you! I will be thinking of you. xo
Hi Katie,
As I'm sure other people have told you, it's totally cool for girls to like Star Wars! My parents rented all three of them for us when I was a little girl (when I was your age, there -were- only three!), and we had a movie marathon. I was totally hooked on them, and I wish I could have had a Star Wars water bottle.
Now I'm a bit older, 31 in fact, and you know what I take my lunch to work in every day? A Star Wars lunch box. It's a little different from the people who take a plain brown bag, but it makes me happy every day, because it reminds me of being a little girl, and how great it was to see that people who were a little different could save the whole universe.
Because I loved Star Wars so much, my Mom and Dad let me start reading science fiction books, and now I get to write them for other people. Keep being a little different Katie, and don't let anyone tell you that Star Wars is just for boys. Star Wars is for everyone who loves it.
Hi, Katie.
There are lots of us who like Star Wars- my favorite shirt from elementary school had many of the rebellion characters on it, and I wore it until it had too many holes to wear any more! Star Wars and other science fiction are part of the reason I decided to become a physicist, and now I use what I know as a physicist to help people to fight cancer.
I still like Star Wars. Just last weekend, my husband and I made sugar cookies shaped like Darth Vader, Yoda, Boba Fett, and storm troopers!
Don't be afraid to be different. Being you is the most wonderful thing you can be!
-Sarah, 25 and in Kansas
Hey, Katie!
I was born the year Star Wars first came out. I apparently saw it in the theatre SEVEN times because my parents took me. (I was a very quiet baby.) It is the movie my family watches when we get together as family. Me and my sisters and my mom always dug it. We played Jedis and we all kicked butt. Anyway, don't let folks tell you that there's girl stuff and boy stuff--there's just stuff, and if you like it, and think it's cool, don't let somebody keep you from enjoying it.
Continue being awesome!
-Lis
Hi Katie!
I am a HUGE Star Wars fan, and have been since I was just about your age. I saw the very first Star Wars movie with my dad, and I was completely hooked! There is no way, NO WAY anyone will ever take my love for Star Wars away. I am very proud that you are a cool individual that enjoys science fiction. Always enjoy being different---and remember--- you are never alone. :)
Hi Katie,
I'm a seventeen year old girl, and just like you I love Star Wars! In fact, I've loved Star Wars since I was around your age. I want you to know that I think that the fact that you enjoy Star Wars is awesome! I own a couple of Star Wars shirts myself, though I don't own anything nearly as cool as a water bottle. Girls like you and me, and all of the other wonderful women who have commented here all enjoy Star Wars, which proves that it is definitely not just something for boys. ;)
In fact, most of my friends (who are also girls) love Star Wars as well. I even know a girl right around your age who likes it just as much as me. My advice to you is to not let the boys get you down. There is absolutly nothing wrong with being a little different; in fact I think it's a good thing! Being different, and standing out helps to make you who you are. Take care, and May The Force Be With You!
Elizabeth
To Katie
I applaude you, young padawan. I'm sure others before me have told you that those boys were jealous, and they are right. Those classmates of yours do not have an awesome water bottle (or awesome anything apparently) and because they can't control their jealousy, they lash out. You'll learn that not only children but adults will misbehave when they get jealous, or feel deprived, or even neglected. You are well loved, and this story has touched many.
I hope you will remember that when others pick on you, when they call you mean names, when they say mean things, that you hold your head high and embrace who you are, because your family, and even total strangers on the internet will not only encourage, but support you for you.
-Remelisa
Hi Katie!
I'm a geek girl too: Star Wars, video games, comic books, gadgets... you name it, I like it! I'm Mexican, 24 years old, and I have TONS of friends (both male and female) who love Star Wars; we always get together and have loads of fun watching all 6 movies, so don't let anybody change the way you are, because being YOU is what makes YOU special! Always remember that!
Love you!
-Mariel
Hi Katie! I'm a 31-year-old woman who's always loved Star Wars. I even have a Jedi costume that I made to wear to the Episode I premiere, and I grew a real Padawan braid for several years. When I was little, my sisters and I used to pretend we were racing through Endor on speeder bikes whenever we would ride our bicycles, and we always argued over who got to be Princess Leia. (I was usually Han Solo, myself.)
Don't let those boys tell you what you can and can't like! Actually, some of them might like Star Wars too, you know? Maybe see if you can talk to them about it, and perhaps you can make some new friends as well. Tell them why you like it so much, and see if they like it too! Ask them who their favorite characters are, and talk to them about yours. You'll find out that people who like the same things usually can find a lot to talk about!
Katie,
I am a high school teacher. If I ever became your high school teacher, I would think you are one of the coolest kids ever.
May the force be with you.
Hi Katie! You know, it's hard to be a girl sometimes. There are certain things that boys can do/say/wear/like that other people think girls can't do/say/wear/like. Those people are wrong. You have a right to do/say/wear/like whatever you want to! And furthermore, I think you're awesome! I haven't been in school for awhile, but if I was in first grade and I saw you with your Star Wars bottle, I would have sat with you at lunch, then asked you to play at recess. In fact, I would hang out with you now, because you're an awesome person. Don't ever let anyone tell you what to do, what to say, or what you can like. Let them have their opinions and just walk away, knowing that there are so many people out there that think you're great. May the force be with you, Katie!
Dear Katie,
It's OK to like Star Wars or other science fiction shows if you are a girl. Many girls like those shows. I liked Star Trek when I was young and yes, I like Star Wars too.
There are plenty of boys who think it is OK to like Star Wars. Not everyone will be like those boys who teased you. Those boys just haven't got the message that girls can do or like whatever they want.
Katie,
I'm not a girl, but I have three young girls, who are Star Wars fans, and Harry Potter fans, and football fans. Their Mommy is also a fan.
My oldest daughter also helps me work on the car. I, personally, am an iCarly fan, and was a Care Bears and She-Ra fan when I was little.
I was also adopted, and my oldest daughter, who is in third grade, started wearing glasses last year.
I know it's hard, because I ran into some of the same problems when I was younger, but don't ever let anyone tell you who you should be. Remember that God alone has the right to judge you, and He doesn't care if you have a Star Wars water bottle.
There's a poem I read when life starts to get me down. It was written a long time ago by Rudyard Kipling. I didn't find it until high school, and it has helped me a great deal. The poem is called "If" and it can be found at everypoet.com. The end says "You'll be a man my son", but it applies to daughters turning into women, as well.
Much love and God bless.
Hi Katie!!
Let me just say that you are a beautiful, smart young lady who should NEVER, EVER be afraid to be yourself! I am a female college student who still buys Iron Man folders and Batman folders, and that's only because I couldn't find any Star Wars ones! As you get older, you will learn that people make comments that can be hurtful and make you question yourself, but all you have to do is brush those angry words off of you and continue being you! Remember, you can never fight hate with hate. I hope you always remember the kind words from all these people here and continue to live your life the way you want to. You're an inspiration to all :)
Hi Katie! *wave*
My name's Siona. I'm 22 years old, I live in Ohio. I've loved Star Wars since I was about your age; my mom and I watched it together. Chewbacca was her favorite, Yoda and Han Solo were mine. I'm glad you like Star Wars, because it's a great show. As you get older, you might like Farscape, Babylon 5, and definitely see Star Trek! :D
What I'm getting at is that you have no reason to be ashamed of what you love. You go after stuff you like, and don't let anyone stop you!
Hi Katie!
I am 27 years old and have loved Star Wars ever since I was a little girl. When I was young, I had 10 favorite videos I watched over and over again - The Star Wars trilogy, The Indiana Jones trilogy, The Back to the Future trilogy, and ET. Now I still love all of those things. In fact, when I got married I chose to make my cake topper Han Solo and Princess Leia.
Right now I work for a big computer company, and most of my co-workers are men. I can completely understand how you feel, that sometimes it is hard to feel different and it can be a challenge to be one of the only girls among a group of boys. But I love my job and I know that I am good at it, and that makes me feel confident that it is the right job for me even if some people consider it a "man's job."
It makes me excited to know that there is a whole new generation of kids who love Star Wars! I am glad that you are one of them. I know that sometimes it might be hard to feel different, but know that being yourself and doing what you love is the most important thing. And there are always others out there who have the same differences that you do - just look at all these Star Wars girls and women here!
The force is strong with you, young Jedi! You and your mom rock!
Hi Katie!
I opened an account just to tell you that you rock! I'm 20 years old and I've been wearing glasses since I was 8 and now I love them, just as I love Star Wars, also even though I'm not adopted I didn't grow up with my parents but with my grandparends and my aunts, so sometimes I got mean things about my family. I'm not from the US, I live in Colombia (that is in South America) and believe me, here people understand even less about everything that is cool and Star Wars, but I really don't care. I have a very loving and supporting family (just like yours!) an they taught me that being different is not bad (just as not being different isn't bad either) as long as it makes you happy and it doesn't harm other people. The important thing is to be sure of yourself, to show the other kids how you're so cool that they won't be judging you by your water bottle, but instead by who you are. Believe me, I've been there and people that used to make fun of me now stand up for me because they were able to see beyond the glasses and light sabers. Also, keep in mind that your courage might inspire other kids to do the same and express whatever their preferences and hobbies are. Now you are a master Jedi that can stand for justice and individuality.
Sorry if I made some mistakes, english is not my native language.
Keep on dreaming Katie, don't let anyone take that precious right from you (:
Hang in there Katie. I went through the same thing pretty much my whole life. The key? Be that sweet beautiful person in spite of the bullies and because of them. Make your own circle of friendship, love an acceptance. Bullies feed off bad feelings and being mean to others. I tried fitting it, that didn't work. So I looked at the problem from the outside. The people bulling me were really very sad. Their parents didn't seem to like them very much. They always seemed so concerned about what everyone else thought of them. I felt bad for them after a while. My parents like me and I didn't really care if I was into cool stuff or not. In 5th grade I walked around in a trench coat with a magnifying glass pretending I was Sherlock Holmes. You wanna talk about getting teased? Did it stop me? Nope!
Your mom loves you so much kiddo. You are NOT alone! And by the way, when you get old enough to like boys, gamer guys love girls who dig Star Wars. I married one :) and he's the best guy ever. Geeks rule! Girls that have moxie, charm and a healthy love for sci-fi/action/animation are goddesses in the gamer geeks world.
When someone bullies you, just remember, their words come from a lonely place. If things get out of hand never stay quiet! Tell everyone. Age of the geek baby - put it on the internet for everyone to see who the bully is. They can't hide any more and you never have to be afraid. We're all rooting for you sweetie! Stay strong.
Katie sweetie, never be afraid to be who you are!
I am female and an avid Star Wars fan (and I wear glasses!) In school, there are always going to be people who tease, because they think it makes them cool. What they want, is a reaction. Just be proud of who you are, it's the best defense you can have!
And, you can throw these facts at them... According to the Sci-Fi network, 49% of viewers are female. About half! If you ever have the opportunity to go to a Star Wars convention, there are just as many men and women. And you know why Star Wars appeals to women? Because the women in these movies are strong, and stand up for what they believe in! So never let anyone tell you it's wrong to be different :)
~Vera
Hello Katie,
I am a woman that is a Star Wars fan too. My parents first took me to see it in 1977 and from then on, my walls were covered with Star Wars posters and I collected all of the action figures(which I still have and show off proudly). Star Wars isn't just for boys, it's for everyone. Princess Leia and Padme are wonderful role models for girls to grow up strong and fight for what they believe in. So, if you want to carry a Star Wars back pack and water bottle, then do it. Be proud of it. Those boys will look back and realize how cool you are for having these things. You are a beautiful young lady that knows what she likes. Don't let anyone tell you that you can't like something.
Dear Katie,
I'm glad to hear you're finding out about all the girls who like Star Wars! My daughter's going to be five years old soon and loves watching the films and playing LEGO Star Wars. She even wore her favorite Princess Leia shirt today.
Your story gave me the inspiration to tell her that Star Wars is for EVERYONE, so if anyone tries to tell her differently she'll remember!
Also, I was adopted, too! There are a lot of us out there.
CONFIDENTIAL TO CARRIE:
SPOILERS SPOILERS SPOILERS SPOILERS SPOILERS SPOILERS SPOILERS
SPOILERS SPOILERS SPOILERS SPOILERS SPOILERS SPOILERS SPOILERS
You know, Princess Leia was adopted and raised by Senator Bail Organa and Queen Breha Organa of Alderaan. So one of the most important characters in Star Wars is an adopted girl!
Those boys haven't got a clue!
SPOILERS SPOILERS SPOILERS SPOILERS SPOILERS SPOILERS SPOILERS
SPOILERS SPOILERS SPOILERS SPOILERS SPOILERS SPOILERS SPOILERS
Hi Katie,
My name is Lexi. I'm 25 and found my way here from Epbot - a girly geek filled blog. I'm not a huge Star Wars fan, but I'm definitely a geek. I grew up watching Star Trek, playing video games, fishing, and was involved in lots of other activities that some consider "boys only." This has worked absolutely in my favor as now some of the "boys only" activities I was once teased for are now some of my favorite things to do with my best friends and my boyfriend.
Don't let anyone else's opinion keep you from doing what you love, wearing what you want or carrying your Star Wars water bottle if that is what you want to do!
Katie,
I'm a girl (25) and have loved Star Wars forever! I also love science fiction books of all sorts. And I wear glasses.
When you get to be my age it becomes "cool" to be a girl who likes Star Wars, you'll see. Hang in there and stay true to yourself.
Hi Katie! Just because you are a girl doesn't mean you can't like Star Wars! I am a girl who likes it, too! I like a lot of things that people tell me are "for boys." But, I know that they are wrong, because a lot of my friends, who are girls, like the same things! Stay strong and keep being yourself. Being different makes you more interesting, and pretty soon everyone else will figure that out, too. You will meet lots of people who will want to be your friend BECAUSE of who you are.
Dearest Katie- Let me say that I thought *I* was a big Star Wars fan, but having a water bottle is super-cool. I loved Star Wars so much as a kid, and now, that my first memory is standing in line waiting to get in to see it at the movie theatre (I was 4 at at the time). I am now 36, and still have my Star Wars action figures. They sit on my desk at work so I can see them every day. (sometimes I even let my kids play with them.)
Han Solo is still my favorite, partially because he's cute, but also because the Millennium Falcon is the most awesome ship out there.
Growing up and tough, and sometimes other kids (and grown-ups) don't have good manners. Don't let the mean kids get you down!!
Hi Katie! My name is Sarah and I not only like Star Wars, but lots of other "boy" TV shows and movies, too. And I write Science Fiction, which makes me really different from other girls, too. But you know what? I'm happy being me, so much happier than when I try to be someone else. So you rock that Star Wars water bottle, girl!
Dear Katie,
I'm a woman and I love Star Wars! I live in Philadelphia, but I just had to tell you how much fun I had pretending to be Luke or Leia or Han or even Darth Vader when I was a kid. Star Wars isn't a girl or boy thing. It's an adventure thing.
Your water bottle sounds great!
Dear Katie, I am a librarian living in San Francisco and a friend of Martha's. I'm not a Star Wars fan myself, but regardless of your interests, there will always be someone ready to tell you that it's not ok. It says more about them and what they are afraid of than it does about you. Don't let anyone tell you what you like is stupid, wrong, a waste of time, not for girls, not for kids, not for people from Chicago, or whatever it is.
Hi Carrie & Katie - I've actually blogged about your story, and set up a place for all my fellow geek girls to leave you little encouraging notes, since most of us don't have accounts here. (I made an account here just so I could tell you about it!) Please go here to see all your comments! http://www.epbot.com/2010/11/geek-girls-activate.html
And Katie: Star Wars rocks, and so do you. Keep being awesome.
Katie,
My 8 year old daughter and I are HUGE Star Wars fans. I think you rock for being an individual and letting your classmates know what it is that makes you who you are. Your Mom rocks too for helping you thru this and for supporting your love of Star Wars.
May the Force be with you.
~L~
Hi Katie! I also love Star Wars, and always have. You've gotten lots of great advice from everyone else, but I just wanted to chime in and say that being yourself is the best way to be. Your friends will appreciate you for who you are.
All the best,
Meghan in Colorado
Dear Katie,
Please don't ever be afraid to like the things that you like! I am also a big fan of Star Wars. I was born in 1977 when the first movie came out, and I watched it with my parents when I was 6 years old. The first movie I ever saw in a movie theater was Return of the Jedi. Star Wars is awesome, and don't let anyone tell you otherwise.
Besides, I bet those boys are just jealous that they don't have such a cool Star Wars water bottle. Carry it with pride and always be true to yourself.
Dearest Katie.
I am a woman. I love Star Wars. I was born the year that the first movie came out, a fact that I will proudly tell anybody that asks me my age. My sister and I played with Star Wars toys, and Barbies, and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, and My Little Ponies, and Transformers, and Strawberry Shortcake and all kinds of stuff. We had tea parties and dug in the dirt, went exploring, read books, and did /everything/ and anything, and didn't let anyone tell us that only boys could do something or girls could do something.
Sometimes kids are mean, and sometimes kids tease you for silly things - what you wear, what you drink your water out of, how you wear your hair. It's really more a judgement on their character rather on yours, though I know that my words are going to seem very hollow right now. All I can promise is that it does get better. Even if it sounds like better is a long way away - it does.
Take care. Be strong. Be yourself. Never let go of that.
-Mouse-
Hi Katie!
This is another Katie who likes Star Wars too. Being different is fantastic. You might get teased for it now, but when you're just a teensy bit older being different is what will make you stand out from the boring old crowd and make people want to be your friends. Give it a couple years and those stinky boys will think you're the coolest girl around for liking "boy" things like Star Wars.
Don't let it get you down - you sound like a really cool girl, and if you like Star Wars and want to show it, you shouldn't let what anyone else thinks change that.
hi, katie!
i just wanted to let you know that i am a pretty big girl, with a baby of my own, who is wearing a star wars shirt to work today! i love the movies, too, and saw each of them on their opening nights when they were re-released in the theaters.
i used to get teased a lot in school when i was a kid - i was much smaller than everyone else, and i wore glasses, braces and a back brace! i know that it's hard, but remember that there are many more people out there that love and support you than there are silly boys in school who wish that they had as much confidence in themselves as you do.
all the best from new york!
Hi Katie, I am a total girly-girl, I like dresses and pink and princesses and butterflies. But you know what? I also like spaceships and robots and fast cars. I have been a Star Wars fan since the very first one came out. (Yep, I am old!) It's ok to like anything that you want to like! I am willing to bet in a couple years those same boys will think you are totally awesome for being into the same things that they are into. Don't let go of who you are!
Katie - When I was in second grade, the boys in my class has all these really cool Star Wars action figures. I wanted to play with them, but I was too shy to ask because I was afraid they's say no because I'm a girl.
It's been 30 years, and I regret not asking. I don't know what their reaction would have been, but it makes me sad to think that I held back from being myself.
Today, I have two little boys - one in kindergarten and one in second grade. I do everything I can to encourage them to be themselves. I wish the same for you - please don't be afraid to be yourself.
May the force be with you!
Hello Katie. I'm another Sarah and I loved Star Wars for many years (and I'm not eve 25). I wear Star Wars t-shirts, buy Star Wars action figures, and Star Wars books and posters. I love watching the movies and reading the books. I also love talking about Star Wars with my friends. Just because people say something is just for boys or just for girls doesn't mean you can't like it. I think having a Star Wars water bottle is really cool. I'm saving my money to buy some Star Wars Lego kits -- as an adult!
Next time those boys start teasing, you ask them who their favorite character is! I bet they like Star Wars too and you could have a lot of fun with them. But if they keep being mean, don't you worry about them. They're just jealous that they can't have such a cool water bottle!
Hi Katie!
I was made fun of a lot when I was in school too and I know how hard it is.
I saw the very first Star Wars movie when it first came out way back in 1977! I liked it so much that I went out and bought an R2D2 necklace and wore it all the time. Now that I'm a grownup, I still love Star Wars. I also like comic books and baseball and lots of other "boy" things - even though I'm a lady old enough to be your grandma.
Hang in there Katie, and be yourself.
Dear Katie,
I'm really and truly sorry about your classmates being so unkind. While there are many, many wise people who will respond here and will give you wonderful advice. They are right that being the same isn't all it's cracked up to be and that being different is a fun and wonderful thing.
But for right now, I want to encourage you and assure you that you're not alone. Even when I was your age, I played with my big brother's Star Wars figures. Sometimes they would have big battles and blow things up and sometimes Luke would marry my Strawberry Shortcake dolls. But they were the best toys.
When I was older, I the first one in line on opening night to see the re-release of the Star Wars movies. And when I was in college, I found out that there were lots more people who liked Star Wars. All my friends and I would smoosh into little cars to drive into the nearest city so we could wait all night to see the new movies.
Now that I'm a grown up, I still love Star Wars. And I'm the proud mommy of five children who also *love* Star Wars. And you know what? Three of my kids were adopted, just like you. (They were born in Ukraine) And even though they've only been in America for a little while, they LOVE Star Wars. My 9, 5, and 3 year old daughters argue over who gets to play Padme, Princess Leia, or Luke, Obi-Wan, Yoda, Mace Windu in their games. (Their brothers always have to play Darth Vader and Emperor Palpatine) And all five kids still play with the same Star Wars figures that I did when I was your age!
Don't ever be afraid of being different, Katie. Because even though you might be "different" from the other kids in your class at school, when you get older, you'll find out that there are LOTS of people who are like you after all!
Hi Katie! Another girl (33 years old) chiming in to say I LOVE Star Wars!! I dressed up as Princess Leia when I was a kid for Halloween, and as soon as she was old enough, I introduced my daughter to Star Wars (she loves it too). I agree with the comment above about how as boys get older, they'll appreciate how much you like "boys' stuff." Being yourself can be hard sometimes, but it's so worth it. And so are you.
Katie!! I aam a 32 year old mommy of two kids (6 yr old daughter & 3 yr old son). Both of my kids LOVE Star Wars & it's because **I** love it so much that I introduced it to them very early...so I could enjoy watching it over & over with them. :) I have always loved Star Wars & am proud of that. I just can't believe that anyone would give you a hard time about liking something that is so awesome. YOU are awesome. I hope you know that & I hope that you have a new found confidence to be who you are and to show your love for whatever it might be...no matter what someone else might think. (This is being typed as I wait my turn to play Lego Star Wars with my son. Star Wars will never be un-cool for boys OR girls!!) :)
Kristin in Oklahoma
Hi Carrie, I wanted to say that I read your post on mamapedia (you were the featured blogger) about the comments people made when you told them you weren't going to find out the sex of your third child. I wanted to check out your blog because I recognized your name from high school. I'll keep checking back. I enjoyed this story about your daughter. I have an almost 10-year-old son. Kelli
Hi Katie! I'm 33, I have two young children and a wonderful husband, and I have spent the past 10 years making computer games. The games I work on aren't "girly"; they are mainstream fantasy hack-and-slash. Most of the players of these games are male, as are most of my coworkers. It's been a fun decade. Be true to yourself, and you'll have fun, too.
Dear Katie, I am a 25 year old woman and I have been a HUGE HUGE HUGE fan of Star Wars since the special editions were released in 1997 when I was 11 years old. :) I have since loved all things Science-Fiction and Fantasy that a lot of boys claim to be for 'boys only'. They aren't. And it's silly and unfair for boys to not want to share all of the cool stuff anyway! So keep loving the cool stuff and know that there are lots of us out here just like you!
Dear Katie, Tuesday my granddaughter started first grade. She had picked out a Darth Vader backpack, and was so excited. She came home, sad - I was embarassed, she said. They (boys and girls) said it was a boy's backpack. So we have all been helping her figure out what to say to the other kids, and Daddy helped her roleplay it. Yesterday she came home excited - 3 people asked about her backpack, and she told them "I love Star Wars!'. I hope you're still enjoying Star Wars, too. Oh, and, she's a twin. Her sister wears glasses.
Dear Katie, I am a grandma and I have loved Star Wars since before my two daughters were born and they are both 30ish. My oldest daughter loves Star Wars so much, that was the theme of her wedding. The music walking up and down the aisle and the table names at the reception. Her husband was not such a big fan, but he loves her a lot and he loves whatever makes his wife happy. She still has most of the dialog memorized and can often be found with her light sabre in hand.
I know this is almost a year later, but I still wanted to chime in. I hope Katie still has her Star Wars water bottle - or whatever water bottle she wants.
Katie, by liking Star Wars and being willing to show it, you're showing off your good taste. Go with it! It might be rocky at the start, but it gets so much better!
It was really enjoying to read your post.I also have a child at primary school and it was really happy when I read it. oil painting reproductions I like your writing style and all the information you posted.I will definitely come back to check your posts.
Dear Katie,
i just found out about your story today (I don't know how I missed it). I'm a 42 year old wife, mother, (my kids love Star Wars, too, and other cool science fiction shows) and life long science fiction fan. Star Wars was introduced to the world when I was 8 years old. I even made my own Star Wars lunch box and thermos when I painted over my Peanuts one and put Star Wars stickers on it.
Don't let anybody tell you Star Wars, or anything else, is "just for boys".
Maybe someday you'll join the ranks of all the talented women science fiction or fantasy writers. Maybe you'll produce your generations "Star Wars". Don't let them get you down. Dream big - as big as the whole universe :)
Hi Katie (and to mom),
I am typing this for my 6 year old daughter Olivia, who will be 7 in a couple weeks. Maybe your mom and I can exchange email addresses and you both can be pen pals. When I told Olivia about your story, and that you are in Illinois (we are too) she said "Wow! She likes star wars and wears a patch too?"
Dear Katie (from Olivia with mom helping type),
I'm just like you. And I love Star Wars too. And I like She-Ra and I like puppies. And I like Batman too. What do you like about Star Wars? I wear a patch too. My favorite color is violet. What is yours? And I wish you a good day. Olivia
Hi Carrie and Katie,
This is Carrie, Harrison's mom, from preschool. I just read your post and I have to say, Katie, you are a brave girl. Keep being yourself. I thought I'd tell you that we know several girls who LOVE Star Wars too. In fact, we are going with one to the Space Wars play at Piccolo Theatre in Evanston, here is the link to their upcoming show , a take on Star Wars, http://www.piccolotheatre.com/The-Plays/space-wars-the-panto.html
Hope to see you soon,
Carrie
Thanks, Carrie!
Star Wars is most definitely for girls, too! Say Hi to Harrison!
Carrie
Hi Katie,
My mom told me about your story. I am in the first grade and I am scared of being different too. I am a girl and have short hair and I like Star Wars a lot. I was glad to know that you like Star Wars too.
Keep being brave,
Vivian from New Jersey
Dear Vivian,
I will show Katie your comment when she wakes up tomorrow morning! Thank you for writing to her, and May the Force Be With You!
XOXO,
Carrie
Hi Katie!
I know by now you are feeling much better about liking Star Wars and even being different. I am a 30 year old woman-- but I proudly wore my R2D2 shirt to school when I was in kindergarten. I still love Star Wars and all kinds of science fiction. I can't really understand why boys think Star Wars is only for them. Seems like wishful thinking to me! It's an exciting story with lots of good characters- male and female. There are Lady Jedi's in the story and when it looks like Luke might fail-- Yoda says that Leia has the force too! I'm sure you've heard all this before. :)
I wasn't adopted, but I was different when I was younger too. My parents were older, my dad was a nurse, I had glasses, my family practiced a religion that no one else at my school practiced, and- worst of all-- I got good grades. All this stuff makes you stand out and can make people want to pick on you-- but I took my differences as my shield. I was proud of everything that made me different-- because-- if you are not your own person-- you are no one. I wanted to be someone. :) Once I accepted that I was different in some ways-- people couldn't use it to hurt me anymore. I'm glad you are proud of who you are too. Keep being true to yourself!
Melody
Hi Katie: I'm a Star Wars collector and a grown woman. I have loved Star Wars since I saw it way back in the 1970's. I to was bullied as a kid and I didn't like it at all. I didn't tell my Mom about it and I am so glad you talked to your Mom Don't let anyone ever tell you that you can't like things like Star Wars or anything else you like. You are you and a unique person, and very special to everyone who loves you. Never forget that you are not alone. A lot of other women and girls love some things that people think is not for them, and they like them any way..
Dear Katie, I'm reading about you almost a year after your mom first posted about you and I hope things are going better for you. I'm a 41 year old woman and I like Star Wars and Transformers and GI Joe and a lot of other things that are supposedly for 'boys' only' and I've learned over the years that there isn't anything that is "only" for girls or boys. Like what you like and let it bring you joy.
Hi Katie, my name is Andrea, I'm 18 and I wanted to tell you that you need to pick and find out who you are and not allow someone else to do it for you. I've gone through what you're going through, but in many different ways. I'm not sure how you and your family feel about this but I'm gay and know what it feels like to be different. Ever since I was a little girl I loved video games and sports. I played them constantly everyday of my life. I've played and read almost every Star Wars game/book there is. I've even pre-ordered Star Wars: The Old Republic Collectors Edition for $150. Till this day I still do what I love no matter what anyone tells me. I wish you the best and hope you do the same. And may the force be with you and your family.
Katie, I want you to know a secret that the other kids in your class don't know. Being different is a gift, it means you are special. There are a million bullies in this world and only one "you." They are mean because they are jealous of you, because they are afraid to be different and shine, but you aren't. I'm a girl and guess what? I have loved Star Wars since I was about your age too! I have always been "different," just like you. I used to get picked on because I was smart and creative and good at art and music. It was really hard. But now I know that those things that made me different than the other kids are the things that I love the most. You are a beautiful girl and you are special! Don't be afraid to shine, nobody can EVER take that away from you.
Oh, and Katie? May the force be with you.
Hi Katie,
I have a little girl Kelly who is 8 years old - only a year or so older than you and guess what - she is also adopted, wears glasses & LOVES Star Wars - knows all the characters, storylines, and this fall she even got to fight Darth Vader in Disney World - the best part of her trip!!!
She has Star Wars bedsheets, curtains, books, figures - she loves everything about it just like you. I know its hard for her too because even her teachers gave her a tough time about always playing with the boys and talking about Star Wars all the time but last year her Grade 2 teacher was a woman and she LOVED Star Wars too.
Its okay to be different - makes you very special and being adopted just means someone worked very hard to make you their very own little girl - most kids just get whatever parents they get - your mom chose you just like we chose Kelly - wanted you so badly, nothing would stop her. I hope you keep on loving the things you love and don't let anyone tell you different. May the force be with you :)
Hi Katie!
I'm a girl in high school and I not only absolutely love Star Wars, but I am a total girl geek! I was teased and even bullied a lot in middle school because I read comic books, quote Star Wars, play with Legos, etc. I was also very smart, but its not considered cool to read or get good grades. I would go to clinic almost everyday and ask to go home or hide in the bathrooms to skip class because the other kids weren't nice.
Eventually, I just stopped quoting Star Wars and talking about my interests in order to fit in. I tried to like other conventional "girl" things but I couldn't so I didn't really have any friends or talk to anyone.
Then, I moved on to high school. I was very blessed to go to a collegiate high school were everyone was intelligent and geeky. I am now able to not only quote Star Wars, but have discussions all about Star Wars. It's the most amazing thing ever! My math teacher is one of the biggest Star Wars fans I've ever met (he's even a member of the 501st!) and he decided for a charity event, we would celebrate Share Star Wars, Wear Star Wars school wide! Were having a toy drive and on Dec 16th were encouraged to wear geeky shirts! I celebrated last year by myself but it's excited to be able to celebrate it with other people!
Remember to keep you head up! You're beautiful no matter what you like! Don't let anyone tell you different. I hope you have a great time going through school and life. The entire geek community is here supporting you, for sharing a story I think we can all relate to in one way or another. There is nothing wrong with loving Star Wars, embrace you uniqueness :)
-Alainn
Hi Katie!
I just read most of those amazing posts and even though I am not a girl and not from the United States, I thought maybe you're interested to hear my story as well.
When I was about 11 years old, I already loved Star Wars more than any other movie. But I was not really well liked in school (and also quite a bit overweight), so I got teased constantly. Sometimes it was my Star Wars T-shirt, sometimes the lunch my mum made me every day, on other days it was just a book that I was reading at the time, or my glasses (I had them since I was 7 years old...) or my French name in a German-speaking country. Almost every day I came home crying because the others teased me or beat me up.
But I had the neverending support and love of my parents. No matter what I did or wanted to do or what I liked, they always were behind me and supported me the best they could.
Now I am one of the youngest people ever to achieve the rank of Captain in the Swiss army (you'd be surprised how many Star Wars fans are among those guys :)), I reached the semi finals in the European Championships in Karate last year, I wrote a bachelor thesis with the title "Speeches in Star Wars", my best friend and I are constantly talking about Star Wars and discussing everything new that happens and I have a wonderful girlfriend (I call her my Mara Jade :)) who loves Star Wars almost as much as I do and who gave me a Lightsaber for Christmas...
So let this come from a guy who owns more than 150 Star Wars books: You are awesome! Let the fact that you are different from others give you strength for whatever path you choose to follow, being different is not a weakness, it's an advantage because even though you now have a hard time, it prepares you for a lot of things to come.
The fact that you like Star Wars doesn't make you a bad person at all and I can only agree to what all these girls and women told you before me: there is absolutely nothing wrong with a girl who loves Star Wars.
May the Force be with you :)
Greetings from Switzerland ;)
-Joël
Hi Katie!! I know it's been a while since your mom posted this, but I just wanted to tell you that I'm a girl who loves Star Wars too and I was made fun of too when I was little-- for that and for being taller than everyone else and because my first name is Martha. It's hard to not let the other kids get to you, but one day I realized that they were making fun of me for things that I couldn't change about me and things that I didn't WANT to change either! So I told them that they were going to have to find something more creative to make fun of me for, because their old teasing just didn't make any sense. And you know what? They stopped teasing me! After that, I think they knew that they couldn't hurt me with their words anymore. Because I was proud of who I was and they couldn't make me be ashamed of the things they were saying. And you should be always be proud too! You're a beautiful girl who loves cool, nerdy things and I'll tell you now that I've been asked out quite a few times BECAUSE of those qualities lol! Anyway, I hope things have been better this year and remember to stay awesome!! :)
Hello Katie and Carrie!
My daughters, Avery (7) and Adyson (4), LOVE STAR WARS!!! I came across your blog while searching for Star Wars shirts for them. You are not all that different. Tell your friends, the boys saying that Star Wars is just for boys, to not join the dark side of the force!! ;)
PS We think your water bottle is awesome.
Hi Katie,
I'd just like to tell you that there are TONS of girls who love Star Wars (myself among them). :) I see them every year when I attend sci-fi conventions; lots of women and girls (sometimes outnumbering the guys!) dressed up as their favorite Star Wars characters, buying Star Wars toys and comics, and just enjoying hanging out with other fans.
Never let kids (or adults!) tell you that being different is bad. If everyone liked and did the same things, the world would be a very boring place. It's our differences that make us who we are, and that's how it's supposed to be. Be proud of the things you love and the things that make you YOU, and don't let anyone tell you differently!
Hi Katie!
I just want to let you know, although I'm sure many, many people have already said it, you and all the women who like Star Wars are very brave. I'm a 19 year old guy, and I've loved Star Wars all my life and I think it's awesome that you like it at such a young age. Keep it up!
My entire family is composed of Star Wars fans: my husband is a stormtrooper with the 501st legion; my stepson is a member of the Galactic Academy (as a Jawa) (http://galactic-academy.com/); my 7-year-old daughter will soon be joining him in membership (as another Jawa - she wore her costume to school this year) and I myself am working on completing biker scout armor. Even my 3-year-old daughter loves Star Wars. Never let anyone tell you what you can and can't like!
I'm a year late finding out about this but I still hope you read it. (:
Katie I'm an 18 year old girl and I absolutely love Star Wars. My room has posters Darth Maul and Boba Fett. I have way too many Star Wars action figures and collectables. Even in my car, which I named "The Millennium Falcon" I have Princess Leia on my dash board and a Star Wars button hanging from my mirror. When Star Wars came out on Blu Ray not that long ago, i went to a Star Wars party and got pictures with Darth Vader and some Stormtroopers. It was a lot of fun and their were other girls there too. Today is "Wear Star Wars , Share Star Wars Day" and I'm going to wear my Jango Fett shirt to celebrate. I hope the second grade is treating you okay Katie and I hope your holidays are going great too.
Hey Katie!
When I was in second grade I had a Darth Vader backpack, that I wore everyday until it was so worn that it wouldn't hold anything without having it fall out the bottom. I also had a collection of other Star Wars memorabilia that I kept on a shelf above my bed. I had the Millennium Falcon, the Death Star and dressed up as Darth Vader for Halloween. Other kids used to call me "weird" and I said "Thank you." Now I'm 21, about to finish up at undergraduate school with degrees in music and psychology. I have a great group of friends, and I've found the person I want to spend the rest of my life with. I'm pretty sure that most of them would say that they love me because I'm "weird" (whatever that means) compared to everyone else, because I'm true to who I am, what I like and what I love. Thanks for being an inspiration, Katie!
Hello Katie!
I'm a 40 year old loving Star Wars female :)
When I was little, I got to see the movie in a drive in (Mom and Dad will understand). We had gotten there a bit late since my Dad worked a long shift at his job. When we drove in, it was at the part where the doors open and Lord Vader steps in so he can question Princess Leia .... I can remember that scene so vividly as if it were just a few hours ago.
From that very night it was Star Wars everything! I had action figures, posters, bed sheets, books and even a 'Wicket' stuffed animal. I wanted you to know that I still have these very things today and even MORE Star Wars :)
I've worn glasses since I was young, I was the tallest in my school up until the sixth grade (yep, all the boys were shorter) and I've always kinda 'stood out' from everyone else since I was never really into all the 'girly' stuff many of the girls around me were.
The 'force' is strong in you, just like a Jedi...you have to be who you really are. I know that it hurts and gets frustrating when others do not understand or say things your way. But I would like you to know that YOU Katie are just as amazing as Princess Leia or Padme, you are beautiful and one of a kind.
I'll share a secret with you...I still collect Star Wars and it is my favorite movie....but I also LOVE LOVE LOVE Harry Potter, Lord of the Rings and Twilight :)
I still get teased or looked at oddly when I go out with my Star Wars shirts (or my Harry Potter and Twilight) but that is alright for I know something those people who stare do not....there is wonder and magic out there within stories. We get to see it where others might not.
You Katie are wonderful just the way you are, never forget that!
May the force be with you always,
Michell
Hi Katie!
When I was 6 years old, back in the 1970s (eek!) my aunt and uncle took me to see the first Star Wars movie (Episode IV) when it was in the movie theaters. I fell in love with Star Wars then, and it is still a favorite. I had a Star Wars poster on my bedroom wall, and I also had a Star Wars Play-Doh set that came with a plastic landspeeder, and the moulds to make the characters. My favorite to make was R2-D2... mostly because he was the sturdiest and didn't break so easy!
I am married now, and my husband loves that I like "boy" things, because that is something we share in common. Even though boys you go to school with now may tease you for it, someday they will think you're the coolest girl around!
Just remember, you can be whoever you want to be, and you can like whatever you want to like, and just think, if all girls only liked pink, what a boring place the world would be!!
Kim
Hello, Katie.
I'm a 35 year-old-girl who has loved Star Wars all my life. I wear star wars shirts. I love them. When I got tired of not finding cool star wars shirts for females, I started painting them myself. I'm not alone. My bestie is turning 30, and she loves star wars. We even went to a few of the Star Wars Celebration conventions.
The thing is that some people have trouble with things like this. I'm a Kindergarten teacher, and I hear my kids say, all the time "Pink is a girl color!" or "You can't like Blue, it's for boys!"
I have to tell them that colors don't belong to just boys or girls. Colors belong to everyone. It's the same with movies, and books, and toys.
My favorite non Star Wars toy growing up was Optimus Prime.
I hope, in the year since this was posted, that you've had a chance to see that sometimes people say nasty things because they either don't know better or because they want to make themselves feel better. You've heard all this, I'm sure.
I just wanted you to know people are still reading your story. And thinking you're awesome to rock the Star Wars water bottle in the 1st grade.
May the Force be With You, Always.
Hey there Katie, I can remember when I was younger, me and my dad would sit down and watch star wars all the time, it was one of my favorite movies, along with Jurassic Park and Ninja Turtles. I love things like video games, action figures, and RC cars, things commonly claimed as "boy toys". Says who? Everybody? Doesn't mean they're right, does it? Does it seem boyish to you?
I never got to have star wars gadgets, you are so lucky to have them. You should flaunt it and be proud of what you love, never let anyone tell you what to like or who to be. Try not to let it bother you, I know it's easier said then done, I've been there.
Only advice I have is...
Do what you love, be who you are, and you will always be happy with yourself.
Much love and support,
Calie.
Oh yeah, one more thing, I have a little sister about your age, she loves the movie cars, and I'm pretty certain she likes star wars too.
Hi Katie!
I'm Sara and I'm in 5th grade. I like Star Wars too, and I'm a girl! I have a lightsaber keychain on my backpack and I always wear Star Wars t shirts to school. When ever a boy tells me that girls can't like Star Wars, I just say that Star Wars is meant for everyone! May the force be with you!
PS I also wear glasses!!!!
Dear Sera, Thank you so much for writing to Katie! It's always nice to know about another Star Wars-loving girl! We hope you are having a good start to your new year, and we are very glad to "meet" you. Love, Carrie and Katie
Hi Katie, I'm a 23 year old, I'm a girl and I LOVE Star Wars!!! My dad introduced me to the movies when I was very young and I've been a fan ever since. I have everything from a Star Wars lunchbox to flashlights, t-shirts to.....water bottles!! :) I was bullied when I was younger and can tell you that you should not let other people tell you what is "cool" to like or what you "should" like. More often than not the bullying happens from insecurities. I bet some of the bullies wish they had the confidence to be more like you! Keep your head up and know that there are a whole lot of girls who love Star Wars too!!
May the force be with you,
Lyndsi
P.S. When you're older, the boys don't bully you about it :)
Sorry I'm late, Master Katie. My name is Kitt, and I'm a rogue-Jedi-cum-bounty-hunter (mom can translate that for you, right, Mom?) The Force sent me to read what your mom wrote, and I knew I had to write to you! I have been watching Star Wars since before I started preschool, and when I was in middle school (age 13... wow!) I started to really like to read the comic books, play the video games, and read the books. When I was in my first year of high school, we had Nerd Day at school and I knew EXACTLY what I was going to do for my costume! I rushed into my room to prepare my outfit. I carefully laid out on my bed my Phantom Menace Podrace T-shirt, black tights and a black skirt, a purple lightsaber, and all the makeup and accessories I thought I would need (there's no rule that says bounty hunter Jedi can't wear makeup!) Before I went to school that day, I put on my outfit and a long black coat, and I went into the bathroom and proudly pulled my hair back into a padawan ponytail (with mandatory front braid) and then styled my makeup to look exactly like Queen Amidala's. I pulled on a pair of black boots, hung my lightsaber from my hip and headed out with my fellow bounty hunter, a pink flamingo, to school. As I was walking through the parking lot at lunch that day, a girl who was sitting with her friends called out to me, "Hey, why are you dressed like Star Wars?" I wish I'd had the courage to just grin and wink, and walk on silently, let it roll off my back. Unfortunately, I didn't. I actually said something really rude, to which this particular girl had nothing to say. Her friends told her she'd just been dissed by a Jedi (as if she didn't know that). As I walked past, I didn't look back even though they all shouted after me. I just said, "May the force be with you!" and threw them a Vulcan peace sign behind my back (OK, so that's live long and prosper, and it's Star Trek... not Star Wars... but in the long run, does that matter? Like they really knew the difference!) Most of the other kids liked my outfit, or at least the ones who'd known me since middle school, and those who didn't just stared. I politely stared back and grinned impishly. Their problem, right?
Well, babe, I'm eighteen now, and I still love Star Wars. I still read the comic books, read the books, buy Star Wars napkins for my parties, and eagerly compare action figures with my best friend, Shawnia. She's thirteen and all I can say to that is never underestimate the value of a different-age friend! She and her little sis, Shenoa, and her mom, Molly Kubista (a famous artist) love Star Wars, and they watch every episode of the Clone Wars like clockwork when it comes out, they search online and at shops for rare figurines, and Shawnia and her cousin Jordan (fellow Star Wars lovin chick!) have Star Wars dress-up sleepovers. Shawnia and I have plenty to talk about. She designs outfits for girls (GIRLS!) in the Star Wars universe. My friend Missy raised her boys to love Star Wars. Love Star Wars anyone can. I do! I'm graduating this year, and I won't stop loving Star Wars then, either. I'll teach my kids all about it, and eventually, my grandbabies. I still wear Star Wars T shirts to school regularly (mostly made for boys), I still carry lightsabers, and next time I get my hair cut guess what style I'm gonna try first? ;-D Master Katie, my dear, I even wear men's Star Wars pajama pants, because they just don't make good ones for gals. It's who I am.
I don't know what it's like to be an adopted child, or have a patch. But there are plenty of things that make me different. I wear glasses, and I will all my life. I carry a pink flamingo with me everywhere I go (his name is Cereal). I paint my nails black and I wear Barbie shoe necklaces and peacock feathers and mismatched earrings (and socks!), and I make accessories out of candy wrappers. Every day is a masquerade ball when you're with me. I learned at age eight that I have autism. Lots of kids teased me because of the way I acted, and it still happens. I've learned how to deal with people who don't understand me. Even though it was hard at first, I finally realized that it's OK to accept myself just the way I am, autism, Star Wars, black fingernails and all. There's nothing wrong with me because I'm different. In fact, it's one of the only things that's RIGHT with me, because I'm not afraid to be who I am, and I refuse to hide my real self just to please somebody else. Those who don't accept me learn real quick just how much I care (and guess how much I care? This much! ...holds up zero fingers...) Those who choose to accept me do so because I was never afraid to show my true colors. In sixth grade, when I decided to start dressing like Claudia Kishi from the Baby Sitters Club, and in seventh grade when I started dressing like a hippie, and when I started dressing Mod style, and when I wore toys to school, when I started carrying a flamingo, when I dressed like Queen Amidala for 'formal wear' spirit day, bought violet lipstick, filled my closet with every color of the rainbow, filled my closet with black and started sporting combat boots, bought a million scarves, brought back funky fun things from Japan, boy, every step of the way those kids saw me and sure, at first they wanted to make fun of me. "It's not the eighties!" they'd say as I walked by. "Rainbow bright," they called me, "Starburst," they said. At first I argued, but then I just laughed. May the force be with them all. They learned to accept my eighties-hippie-punk-Jedi style because I followed my heart and showed them true courage. There are some who never stopped, and they're still out there, snickering as I walk by, harassing my flamingo. They've always been there. They made fun of my Star Wars attire, they made fun of my short hair. Certain boys had some very rude things to say about my homemade leather glove. But a bounty hunter doesn't care what boys have to say about her leather glove. She wears it anyway , and straps on a lightsaber, too, just because she can. Who's stopping her?
You know what, hon? Even my spellchecker doesn't like Star Wars! It doesn't think half the things I've written here are real words! I don't care :) Star Wars is half my life. I choose not to pick a galaxy... our galaxy is not better than the Star Wars galaxy, and there's nothing wrong with living in BOTH! You show those boys at school just what a Star Wars lovin' girl looks like. Don't do it with fear. Do it with ATTITUDE! But don't forget to show respect, because isn't that what you're asking of them, too? You get what you dish out, dear, and those boys might be surprised when they're older and find themselves trapped inside the 'mold' they've created, needing to be normal because they don't know any other way of being. You don't have to do that to yourself. Those around you will get used to it if you just show them. Be the only girl in your school with courage. Other girl, and boys, might eventually follow in your path. It might be when you're thirteen or it might be when you're eighteen, but you'll see that those around you are affected by your choices. So don't be afraid to stand out. Don't be afraid to have a Star Wars water bottle, backpack, T shirt, hairdo (ask Chancellors Mom and Dad first), or nail decal (if they have those, tell me where to get them!) I know you're young yet, and you might appreciate this comment more when you're older, but I hope it will always be here for you to read and read again when you feel like it. You can get in touch with me if you ever want to talk about being different, about dealing with bullying or about STAR WARS! May the Force be with you, Master Katie, in everything you do. xoxo, Kitt
Hi Katie - you have a really cool name!
I also like Star Wars, and all sorts of other things people think are just for boys (like Star Trek and playing the Xbox) I know it's been a long time since you had all that bother with the boys at your school, but I hope you are still proudly taking whatever water bottle you want into school.
We live in Scotland, and my little boy is 8. He also loves Star Wars and he loves to read. On a Friday they can take any book they want into school to read. So on the last Friday before the Easter holidays he packed the book he was reading into his school bag and off he went. When he came home from school he was a little bit quiet, so I asked him what was wrong. He told me that some boys in his class had teased him because of the book he was reading. I asked to see the book, the cover is purple with gold writing and there's a picture of a pirate ship on it. The reason the boys were teasing him was a teeny tiny little fairy flying next to the ship. Isn't that silly? I asked Euan what he said to the boys, and do you know what he said? He said "I don't care if it's for girls, it's still a good story." I was so proud of him I nearly punched the air!
Euan has just read your story and he hopes you are still using your Star Wars water bottle. It is important that people like you and Euan keep standing up for yourselves, and trying to show people that life doesn't have to be blue for boys and pink for girls. Keep true to yourself, and be the best Katie you can be. Euan and I think you are awesome just the way you are.
Hey Katie,
I dunno if you even read this stuff anymore, but even if you don't maybe some other little girl out there will and your story, my story, and everyone else's will inspire her to be herself. I love Star Wars, have ever since I was little and watched it with my parents, I love video games ever since my mom introduced me to the Legend of Zelda, I adore the color blue, I like soccer and some other sports, I am a United States Soldier proudly serving alongside my brothers and sisters in arms. I am19 and I want you to know that people are always going to be mean, but you will be infinitely more happy if you be yourself.
Hey Katie,
I was bullied in middle school for being different in more ways to list, and I also liked a book series that everyone made fun of me for. I can honestly say those were some terrible school days, but I made it through, because I knew deep down, that I can't let what people say affect me. I am who I am and I am really super proud about it. What makes you different is what makes you special, and what makes you special is what makes you you. And remember, an original is waaaaayyy better than a copy.
Also, some information to take back to school, you know, Star Wars isn't just for boys. It's for everyone. As a matter of fact, I am currently in a high school class called "Folklore", and I just learned that the whole story of Star Wars is a big fairy tale; of course its in a very modern setting, but it is more of a fantasy fairy-tale than action and science fiction. It's really cool, when you study the story on a high school level, you can see similarities with "Jack and the Beanstalk", "King Arthur", and even "Rapunzel".
So, in other words. Don't stop doing what you do and don't stop being you.
Smiles,
Evan :)
I can't leave a comment directly to the thread so I'm replying to the last post.
I know this is late (by about 2 years hehe) but I found this through Epbot because of some recent happenings in the geek world with women.
Anyway, I felt compelled to post because I am a girl and I am very geeky. I always have been. I always will be.
Growing up in elementary and all through high school I was picked on. I was called names, made fun of, etc. I hated school. I would run into the library at recess and hide in there because it was safe. The bullies wouldn't come in there.
High school was a little better, but not by much. That's when I really came into my geekiness. I got more into video games and other aspects of geek culture (Pokemon was huge for me in HS). I've maintained my geekiness and worn it like a badge of honor. At first glance, I might not seem like a geek all the time, but once people get to know me, it shines through like a lighthouse beacon.
I love being a geek, I love being different and I love sharing that with other people. Just know that you aren't alone and don't ever be afraid to flaunt it. It's part of who you are and that makes you beautiful.
So say we all (please watch Battlestar Gallactica to get this reference, maybe not now, but someday. You'll thank me later!)