Here’s a reflection: look at your own

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May 26, 2010 • written by Randal Walton  
Filed under Commentary, Senior Editorial

Everyone tells you that high school exists to “prepare you for life ahead.” But, I completely disagree. “Life ahead” doesn’t actually start until after college. At least, professional life; on the issue of social life, that starts now. However, I think that there’s another reason why high school exists: Finding out who you are and being that person.

            What does that phrase mean? Does it mean to “follow your heart” at whatever you do? Or maybe it means conforming to every single trend until you find one you like? Though the topic is just about as debatable as the Health Care Bill, I guess I’ll take a crack at it and submit my own definition. I think that finding out who you are means to define your goals, values, personal style, and to not let anyone criticize you for it or take it away from you.

            Now I know that in high school it’s a hard thing to find – you. But you have to because without it, you’ll never go anywhere. You will always be stuck following the crowd and blending in. How can you find out who you are? It’s quite simple really. Seeing as I am the self-proclaimed “expert,” I guess I can give you a few hints.

            First of all, listen to that little voice in your head, follow those insignificant gut instincts. If you ever feel that maybe you shouldn’t be doing something, then don’t do it. That little voice? It has a name: conscience. It only wants to protect you; it’s like a little Jiminy Cricket, so listen to it.

            Secondly, don’t get caught up in the hype. If you don’t like a certain trend, don’t follow it. For example, I think that wearing leggings as pants (as in leggings with a shirt) is just ridiculous. Therefore, I’m never going to think once about wearing leggings like that; that’s not even what they were meant for.

            Thirdly, and this is the most important hint, know what you are and aren’t going to do. Learn how to say no and don’t be afraid to do it. I know that people have been telling you to do this since the fifth grade, but here is where it really matters. Here is where saying no can save your life and propel you into a better one. Don’t be afraid to stay away from drugs, alcohol, gangs and sex. If anyone gives you crap about it, just remember that you’ll be better than they will ever be.

            In the end, that’s what being an Eagle is all about – being you. Through my four years at East, I have discovered myself and have become a better person because of it. And though I’ll be wearing different colors next year (royal blue and white – GO UNCA BULLDOGS!), I’ll always be proud to say that I’m an East Meck Eagle and that I’ll always know what it feels like to wear the blue and gold.