Define Normal

Story

In my opinion, one of the hardest parts of growing up and going to school is feeling different. Kids seem to define what it is to be “normal” first when we’re young. I remember going to school one day and instantly regretting what I wore because it was completely different from what the other girls wore. It wasn’t the “normal” dress standards that my classmates set as the “cool standard.” Then, in high school, you were different if you didn’t have the same hobbies or interests, or if you weren’t also in the dating scene or going to the football games every week.

Even after school ends, sometimes the feeling of being different doesn’t go away. The truth is: there’s always going to be something that sets you apart from others. It’s just the way of life! It’s exciting, though, to be different. There’s so much more to offer to this world when we’re not doing the same thing or acting the same way as those around us. That’s why my hope for you with this strap is that you feel encouraged to step out of others’ standards and live by your own definition. Our differences are what make us extraordinary.

Be bold,

Landri

Artist

Daneisha Kirksey