Things are not always what they seem. And to all young people reading this, regardless of your upbringing or environment… I’m telling you social status is a myth. The kids you label popular are mere humans with the same dreams, doubts and insecurities that you are feeling. That’s right, everyone has to struggle with something. It’s just not always readily visible.
I was NOT a “popular” kid in school. I went to a large high school with 1100 in my senior class, and felt fairly anonymous in the big scheme of things. What I DID have were several good friends who I trusted and who helped me feel like I belonged. When I needed someone to talk to, I reached out for it.
I have since reconnected with many of the so-called popular kids on Facebook and had conversations that revealed this truth: Everybody hurts… it’s what you do about the pain that matters. I also know now that someday you will look back on your gigantic problems and realize they were relatively small in hindsight.
There is no permanent peace in a pill or a bottle. Reach out and talk to someone when you’re down. Join a team or club or volunteer for something that gives your life purpose. There are more people who love and care about you than you could ever imagine. Trust me… things are not always what they seem.
Please share this with another young adult if you find it valuable. Peace.
Exactly, David! You should never wish you were someone else or had someone else’s life. You’re uniquely the right person to deal with YOUR issues. You’d never want someone else’s problems, because they do have them. The grass may look greener, but it’s not! 🙂 I wasn’t “popular”, either, but had my group of friends (I’m pretty sure you were one of them!). And the thing is, none of that matters at this stage of the game. We can ALL be friends and support each other! 🙂