Editor’s note: In honor of Spirit Day, an annual event in which millions of people around the world wear purple as a sign of support for LGBT youth and to speak out against bullying, today’s post features three paintings by YWR co-founder Linda R that prominently feature the color purple. Spirit Day was started in 2010 by teenager Brittany McMillan as a response to the young people who had taken their own lives.
~Moon in my Hand, by Linda R
“Experiencing a childhood being bullied and abused, I turned inward, convincing myself that I was strong, that if I tried hard enough then I could do great things when I grew up…even hold the moon in my hand.”
~Bedtime Story, by Linda R
“Frightened and unable to sleep, I often pretended that a friendly dragon was my protector, and would read her a bedtime story in exchange for watching over me through the night. Afterward, I was able to leave my troubles behind and go to sleep.”
~My Patchwork Tree, by Linda R
“Many times as a child, after being subjected to bullying taunts at school, or being physically hurt by neighborhood bullies, I needed a safe place to hide, to think, to forget. This high ledge and a ghostly sycamore tree became my sanctuary.”
You Will Rise Project 
Love these!