In a world run by crazy, sky-high standards and where being yourself is becoming a distant myth, it’s easy for anybody to feel ostracized — that they need to change within drastic measures to be seen. But who would’ve thought that it would only take one cute little contestant from It’s Showtime like Annika Co to remind us that there’s nothing wrong with being who you are?

Mini Miss U Annika

In the It’s Showtime‘s segment Mini Miss U, contestant Annika Co was asked to do an impromptu acting challenge with Vice Ganda. The actor-comedian and Annika play best friends who’ll have a performance together, but things take a turn when Vice suddenly feels scared. Vice delivered with his usual wit, but Co wowed the audience more with her words of wisdom with flying colors. 

“Because I’m afraid that the audience might not like me,” Vice said. 

“Who cares if the others don’t like you? I like you, and everybody else does,” Co answered, to which the studio audience with loud cheers. “What matters is somebody still likes you. 

Vice continued the banter with Co and asked another question. “But who is that person that still likes me even if I am no longer the best? People like people who are the best, but once they learn that they’re not the best anymore, they don’t like them.”

“You shouldn’t be worrying about if you’ll be the best in the world. You have to be the best version of yourself,” the Mini Miss U contestant answered. 

Vice was touched by Co’s words, and even his fellow It’s Showtime host Anne Curtis couldn’t help but cry. The Filipina actress said it was so pure, and if everyone could be like her, then perhaps hatred won’t have a ground to stand on. 

Netizens found themselves profoundly moved

For a kid as adorable and talented as Co, it’s no surprise why many were deeply touched by her words on the Mini Miss U segment. Many netizens say Co reflects an upbringing of healthy parenting, where feelings aren’t invalidated, and it’s okay to fail.

Some pointed out that Co’s words resonate so much because many never had the chance to hear words of affirmation from their own families.

People also praised Co’s parents for instilling positive values at such a young age. Continue to be kind and be an inspiration to others, Annika!

Why positive and healthy parenting matters

It won’t be an exaggeration to say that raising kids to become the best version of themselves is one character-defining journey for any parent. There are countless bumps and barricades along the way, and how parents deal with them makes a lifetime of difference for their kids.

That’s why Psychologist Caley Arzamarski advocates for positive parenting, which encourages parents to “catch kids being good” and give more positive feedback, instead of always focusing on bad attitudes. Parents are also encouraged to spend more time with their kids and focus on what they can control. Let’s face it. Parenting isn’t a one-size-fits-all thing, but it doesn’t mean you can never be good at it.

Were you also touched by Annika’s words?