I was often ridiculed because of my stutter, I often told myself that I'm just not trying hard enough. I always downplayed myself and hid away in shame in response to stuttering. It took me so many years but now I finally understand that it's not my fault. Also, my stutter does not give anyone a reason or justification to make fun of me in any way. I fight with a problem I didn't choose. Why not show it? You have absolutely no reason to be ashamed of yourself. I know it's not easy to believe but it's the truth; at least in my eyes. Imainge you broke your arm and someone else is making fun of you. How would you react– how would your friend react? They wouldn't laugh or try to diminish your worth. Because they care about you. In my mind, if someone can't accept you for who you are and can't validate your problems then I don't think you should spend much more time with them, there are better people waiting for you.