Popularity is a fruitless effort. How could one possibly know what the other is thinking and feeling at all times, let alone a number of people? Does one even know how she or he feels at any moment in time?
Popularity is a waste of time — even a waste of life. Not to mention, boundaries are crossed, responsibilities shifted, and hearts crushed at every turn. It is a journey we have all taken at some point just to find ourselves lonely, hurt, or confused along the way.
I have experienced a lot — ups, downs, and all arounds. And I choose the route of principle. Friendships are beautiful and necessary. Yet, friendships are very different than being or doing what is popular. When you are guided by principle, it will be much easier to select friendships that result in love and growth.
This is what I am teaching to the next generation: When you know who you are, what you stand for, and what you won’t fall for, it means you simply can’t morph. And that is my advice, for any of us at all ages — Don’t morph.
Don’t betray your heart at the chance that you will be accepted one day. That one day might be fun, but I’d rather have a friend who sits with me on my worst day and supports me through it. Thank you to my sweet friends, of all ages and stages, who have done this for me along the way.
Sarah Guldalian 