In my early childhood, when I was around 6, I experienced an event that can be considered a displacement. Growing up, most of my mom’s side of the family lived around our neighborhood. Therefore, we spent most of our time together. In addition, my mom side of the family is very light in skin color and they inherited dirty blonde hair. Because i was the only one form that side of the family to have darker skin complexion, I was often bullied and placed aside. They often mimic the way I would talk, because I became very shy. This essentially  triggered me to act a certain way in order to get their attention. For example, I started to dress very formal and preppy all the time, because thats the way I saw their lighter complexion friends dressed. I adopted their mannerisms, for example being completely self cautious about everything I did.
In other words I wanted their approval. I had to assimilate to them. However, I still stood out because of my appearance. After a while, as we grew older my cousins began to see that I had the talent of singing. That helped me tremendously because for once they started to see that being different was alright after all. They began to want to hear me sing, and they didn’t push me aside anymore because I looked different.
This is a displacement of appearance. Because I looked different I stood out. People noticed and some would judge because of it. However, my talent is what essentially gave a good impact towards our relationship, and it triggered us to become closer.
It must be tough to be the only one in the family that is different. Although I did not experience what you did I understand it is difficult to get through and it’s not only in family relationships but also outside people judges people on the way they look. But it is a good thing that they notice that even though you are different from them it is ok. Sometimes it takes time to know each other better but it’s great that things worked out for you.
I could never imagine going through something like this. I never have felt this kind of displacement. I feel as if you handled the situation as best you could. You had to try and find some common ground with your family members in order for you to feel accepted. I’m glad that you overcame this displacement with a positive outlet such as singing.