Living At School
I have lived in Gretna my entire life. I attended Gretna Elementary, Gretna Middle School, and currently Gretna High School. My dad has always been heavily involved in my school life in one way or another, immediately foreshadowingdepicting how I would have to live my life and closely watch my actions. It was hard for me to enjoy my life like my other classmates, because I was always known and was expected to behave maturely, so in return, I resolved to observe the kids without strict parents and with fun schedules. Watching and analyzing others in my community has taught me more lessons than any teacher or class ever could in many unexpected ways.
Early On
In elementary school, I adored sitting in class, listening to my teachers read stories and watch movies on rainy days, but as I’ve aged, school has become the bane of my existence. A lot of the high expectations and strict rules that our school district has implementedcreated have created an unhealthy learning environment unsuitable for a teenager’s mental health needs. Insecurities, perfectionism and burnout are a result of these uptight principles because students internally reflect on ambitious goals. This then leads to self-deprecation and unachievable standards a person holds for themselves.
Watching Around Me
I’ve realized, especially in Gretna, that many people feel pressured to act, look, or think a certain way to fit in. Looking back, I know there were moments when I held back parts of myself because I was worried about how others might react and feared what it would do to my reputation. I’m sure many others have felt the same way, and I wish our town were more open to ideas and individualism.
What I’ve Learned
Ironically, a majority of the happiest and most influential people I’ve met are those who don’t fit perfectly into the expectations of our community. The individuals in our community who are sometimes overlooked are often the most creative and self-expressive. They appear quieter and misunderstood in public, likely shaped by experiences that others don’t fully comprehend.
Being authentic and unique is rare, but I’ve noticed it’s also what makes people memorable. Individuality allows people to explore new things and find out who they want to be. Creativity and self-expression matter more than ever now in a world that is beginning to lose color and a sense of humanity.
Don’t Be So Uptight
Gretna often attempts to motivate its students to push themselves and step out of their comfort zones, introducing them to the real world after school. But what it’s never taught me is that growth doesn’t just come from achievement but from allowing yourself to be different, and sometimes, the most meaningful lessons are learned far beyond the walls of any classroom.
