Is it really ok to be different or do people just say that to make you feel better about yourself?

It isn't only OK, it is the only reason we as a species still exist today! For all that diversity has been turned into a buzzword, scientifically-speaking diversity is absolutely crucial to all life on a fundamental level. Genetic diversity makes us more resilient and able to withstand disease. Social diversity allows us to have a society that is multifaceted and provides for the wide variety of needs we have as human beings. So being different is objectively a good thing. To add to that, there is no such thing as normal. That's not just a saying either, that's a fact. There is no normal. The people you think are just saying that to make you feel better, are just as different as you and anyone else. It may not seem so because we live in a media-centric world where certain types of bodies, personalities, or ways of being are represented more than others, but that representation does not translate into reality. At the end of the day, we are all completely different, and at the same time more alike than we realize.

I think there are not any bad sights on being different. Not everyone is the same. We all have our own life, own ways, our own difficulties, and our own ups and downs. We all are unique in some way. People may call us "different", "extraordinary" or even maybe "too good" or "too bad" and etc. But these are their thoughts and I think they mustn't rouse interest in us. Everyone has his own mindset, thoughts, and point of view. Life will be much easier when we accept ourselves as we are. Because when we do so, the right people will found us. The ones whose presences are really important and helpful for us. There is a saying by Oscar Wilde: "Be yourself. Everyone else is already taken".

It's ok to be different. Being different helps you stand out, and be your true self. You are your own person, so be you.. not someone else. You are unique, so let it shine through. Differences are what make life fun! You might not be the same as your friend. They might not be the same as you. But you can learn new things from each other like how to cartwheel, cook a meal or speak a new language/languages! Being different can sometimes make us feel sad or worried. Good friends will like you for who you are! You can show others that being different is OK.