[blueerica]

For me, high school ended up being okay, mostly because I moved... and of all places to my rival school.

In my first high school, Grant High, I spent a great deal of time trying to be someone I wasn't, while trying to keep some sense of myself. (Doesn't sound possible, well, it really wasn't.) Often times caught up in other people's drama, I dealt with it, and even ended up a part of a few fights.

Half-way through my Junior year, we moved to the opposite end of the town next door, our rivals, Newaygo High. While it took me a little while to get to know anyone, I eventually found friends whom I have kept ever since. (That's 12 years, for those who want a good fright!) I was completely myself; well, as much as any teenager can be. We didn't try to be grunge or goth, we didn't try to be popular. We hung with the popular kids, we hung with the geeks and nerds and were social with each. We got invited places because we were engaging people. (Not saying it to brag, but maybe I should a little.) We didn't have to follow their rules, because we had our own, and it was wonderful. To make friends that know you for who you are is a blessed thing - and I'm positive it's why we're still friends today, in spite of the fact that we're scattered across the country.

You'll find it - whatever it is you're looking for. It might not be in high school - maybe in college - maybe after college. You seem like an articulate young man and you'll attract those like yourself. Take the confidence you learned from the "cool crowd" and blend it with your intelligence and true nature. You'll go far.