POMEROY–Being brave is probably the one thing I should have been advised about because it is such a double-edged sword. Being brave can create regret because you take chances, sometime big chances. If you avoid doing something because you are afraid (not brave) that can be a real regret. I’m not saying having fear is not a good thing, fear can keep you from harming yourself. But fear can also build regret, even for a young person like me.

So far in my short life, the only things I really regret are the things I chose not to do. I never really looked back and told myself I shouldn’t have done something because the reality behind it is that I learned a thing or two from breaking the rules or stepping outside my comfort zone. If only I had stepped just a little further though. I don’t think I have missed out on anything because, daring or not, these are the years people say I’ll remember for the rest of my life and I am going to spend them however I please.

Occasionally, I do wish I had cooler stories to tell or more people to share these moments with, but I wouldn’t trade what I do have for the world. I think that that is the mistake a lot of people make. They see they have a small friend group and wish that they could go out and live widely on the weekends, when in reality, their small friend group contains the best people and their mild moments together are that much more sentimental. I think that the only important thing about our lives is that we are happy in the choices we make. As long as we do everything we want to do and live life in every possible way, I think that the fear of life outrunning us will vanish. No regrets.

I hope everyone had a fantastic Thanksgiving while staying safe!