ANALYSIS/OPINION:

“Breaking the ‘only child’ stereotype mold” (Web, Aug. 11) asserts that only children continue to debunk the myth of being selfish, spoiled and self-centered. As an only child, I can attest to the fact that since my singular entrance into the world, I have experienced bias, which is shattered as individuals get to know me.

When I first meet someone, I am cautious of immediately revealing that I grew up without any siblings, as perceptions are immediately made that are far from reality. I often get comments such as “Oh, you must get everything you want!” and “Wow, it must have been lonely growing up without any siblings.” These assumptions could not be further from the truth.

I have always had to work for the things I wanted, whether it was having five jobs during my undergraduate career to pay for my schooling, or moving to Washington, D.C., to pursue a career in public service. I also could not have done these things without the unconditional love and support of my family. For me, being an only child is not a desolate experience; rather, it gave me confidence from the moment I was born.

MICHELLE MORENO-SILVA

Washington

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