POMEROY–High school brings on a whole new level of stress to feel accepted. Some people are even changing themselves to be like others. What is so wrong with being yourself, even if that means being a bit different? My mom has said that if everyone was the same, the world would be very boring.

A variety of different personalities is what makes the world go around. Honestly, I’m pretty happy with who I am at this moment. My parents are raising me well, I have great friends, and I have companionship from one true love, my dog.

There are times I wish I could be different, but that quickly passes and I’m thankful for the life and opportunities I have been given. My friends laugh at me for the odd things I do sometimes, though, like the time I ran home and researched D.B. Cooper for two hours just because I watched a forty-five–minute documentary on it in science class. I’m the type of person who has to have all the facts before I can come to a conclusion. And D. B. Cooper mysteries are so fascinating to me. It’s just how I’m wired, I guess.

If everyone went home and researched Dan Cooper for two hours, I wouldn’t seem so weird, and what would be the fun in that. I am different from you, from my classmates, and everyone else in this world. If you choose to be like someone else, that is your choice, but as Dr. Seuss said, “why blend in when you were born to stand out?”

I hope everyone stays true themselves. Have a great week and embrace the chilly fall weather.