Being quiet different, I never got bullied, got pulled aside, locker got "freak" word every morning, or head got pushed into the toilet seat in school. Only once in a while, I get stares, that's all. Maybe it's the different culture. People don't get bullied here by being quiet, or that you can see spirits or talk to them.
But somehow I can connect my characteristic in Norman. He isn't interested in making friends, or get involve in the school play. In fact, he gets annoyed all the time except he has taste normal people don't have - zombies. He is different because he has a gift (if you rather call it a gift), that even his family doesn't buy it.
Well, of course zombies not my cup of tea, nor I'm paranormally gifted. At least he is better than me I guess. Having at least a square friend like Neil isn't that bad, who would stand up for you, and believe in your "gift" and try to understand you.
When you only get stares, you have positive words to move on. Yes he gets bully but never being negative. He is a fighter. He turns the table in the end, and persuades Aggie to let go.
You don't have to make a great breakthrough to be a fighter. You are already a fighter, even in a very insignificant way. You fight not to have conflict, to be calm against agitation, for textbook instead of facebook, or food cravings. These everyday battles make you a fighter. You will never, ever underestimate yourself!
If you can't get through my words, how can you get through my head?