I can't speak for the crowd, but as for me....

     Being a high school student, I'm continually reminded of the ignorant, shallow-minds of the majority of my peers. It's as if no one knows how to think for themselves; with all religion aside I think it's important to have a stance for something, ANYTHING. But that being said: there will always be a critic out there anticipating to jump on ones back at the first sign of a chance. I hate being categorized. There is so much more to me than what meets the eye–both good and bad–and so many people aren't willing to give it a second chance because of whom they've made up in their mind to be who I am. But when it comes down to it, you are what you do. If you're in band you're socially awkward, if you play football you cheat on every test, if you wrestle you must smoke, or if you dance you must be easy–and the list goes on. Stereotypes, even if they are true, have broken man's ability to make up their own mind thus becoming subconsciously judgmental of everyone. I try my best not to fall into this trend but as a human I find myself thinking less of people who don't have the same beliefs, morals, or insight that I do. And even more so to those who DO claim to have the same beliefs, morals, and insights that I do!

     No one is perfect, I have overlearned this concept eight too many times, but if you are going to claim to be something–than be it! If you claim to be an starting running back, score some touchdowns; if you speak of being extremely intelligent, let your grades speak for you, if you say you're a druggie, get high. In the same way, if you tell people you're a Christian be a Christ Follower and show them the truth. 1 Peter 3:15 says, "Always be ready to give anyone who asks you for the reason for the hope that you have, but do this gentleness and respect." I can't speak for every "Christian" when I say this but I will remain prepared and I will continue to be set apart and open minded, ready to take on my next trial.