Believing in a Better World

I have been in high school for six years. Some will scoff at the implications of that statement. These people do not understand the value of a year at this stage of life. I left behind my friends, my comfort zone and in many ways my short term happiness because I trusted some very wise people, and that risk has both paid off and been paid for. I have learned some things. I will share the three that are most important to me, in hopes that by my words your minds will become more open to what is already around you.

 

I have learned that to be fearless is to be free. Let me explain. To be fearless does not mean to be reckless, or rude, or arbitrarily malicious. To be fearless means that you approach an uncomfortable situation fully aware of the danger, yet go anyway. To be fearless is to break through superficial fears like rejection and failure, and understand that these specters hold no power. Many are held back by their fear, unable or unwilling to break free.

 

I have learned that it is our fear that keeps us from attaining our true potential. I am a firm believer in the seemingly miraculous abilities of our species. Individually our potential is great; together, joined by common purpose and reasoned optimism, our potential is limitless. Individually we are flawed, this is true; in many cases it is our flaws that make us beautiful. But together, we can become something more.

 

I have learned that our strength lies in both unity and individuality. To have no individuality is to lose our freedom; to be without community is to be without purpose (of course, there are some exceptions). To have an even mix is the human ideal. So don’t be afraid to connect. Don’t be afraid to lose. Realize that without fear, you are limitless. Every one of us is special, important, a vital part of the organism that is our species. Be mindful of others as you are mindful of yourself.

 

I’m not going to tell you to say hello to a stranger, to work harder. I’m not going to assure you that your story will be a happy one. You will take what you want from this little speech given by a stranger.

 

But I encourage you to take hope. I encourage you to take inspiration from the conviction of a stranger’s belief. I encourage you to believe that we can build a better world.