For many days growing up:  

 
This was what Max Mustang had to deal with. Born with a different shaped nose than what a Stallion should have, he was picked on and made fun of by many other ponies his age. The only comfort he could find was within the hooves of his mother, who was still ill. Even through the rough days, she would always tell him that he has a bright future and will become a wonderful pony that will inspire others (not aware of what destiny had already placed on him). Never once did Max see his mother cry, which he later believed that if he did see her cry, then he would likely lose hope that things will be better.