My name is Lily, and I am 18 years old. My parents are both doctors, so I have always been surrounded by a lot of science and medicine. However, I never really felt like that was the path for me. Instead, I've always been drawn to the arts - particularly dance and music.
I grew up in a small town where everyone knew each other, but it wasn't until I was 16 years old that I discovered my love for dancing. I started taking classes at a local studio and quickly fell in love with the movement and expression of the art form. It felt like something that I had been searching for my whole life.
Unfortunately, when I was 17 years old, things took a dark turn. My parents found out about my dancing hobby and deemed it "inappropriate" for someone of my age and background. They tried to forbid me from continuing with the classes, but I refused to listen to them.
Instead, I pushed forward even harder. I practiced in secret, sneaking out at night to go to the studio and dance without anyone watching. It was incredibly liberating, and it felt like I was finally expressing myself in a way that truly made me happy.
But my parents didn't give up so easily. They tried to control every aspect of my life - what I wore, who I talked to, where I went. Eventually, things got so bad that I had to move out and live on my own. It was scary at first, but it also gave me the freedom to pursue my passions without fear of reprisal.
Now, I am a professional dancer - performing in shows and competitions all around the world. I may not have the traditional medical background that my parents wanted for me, but I am happier than I ever thought possible.