Dear Millennial,

At some point, we have all asked the question of whether or not being atypical is okay. I'm here today to answer that question in the most elongated "yes" you may have ever seen.

It is okay to not agree with what society says is right. We don’t all have to bend to normative social influence. Not everyone cares about politics or stresses about every upcoming college or work-related assignment. And let’s be honest: drinking and partying is not all it’s made out to be. Not having the desire to do the things typical millennials do is absolutely alright. For me, I’m about to turn twenty-one and have every intention to spend my birthday at church or talking to people about Jesus and will probably never step foot in a club or purchase alcohol my entire life. And there isn’t anything wrong with that.

It is okay to stand up for what you believe in even if you’re the only standing. The truth is, no matter what is said or done, someone somewhere is going to be offended. It is simply impossible to please everyone. Even Jesus Himself couldn’t do that. He was literally perfect in every way imaginable, yet He was both persecuted and executed in the most painful way by possible His own people. Granted, His perfection probably lead to other people feeling convicted about things they may have been guilty of, but that’s beside the point.

It is okay to not have it all together. I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but Google doesn’t always know the answer. Some of the best life advice you can get isn’t from a website—it’s from a person that has already lived through what you may be struggling with or experiencing right now. Listen to those that have gained wisdom throughout the years. Don’t be too proud to ask for help, and don’t be afraid to admit that you don’t have everything figured out.

It is okay to be different. You may not belong to a certain group and may not see eye-to-eye with everyone you meet. Stand out. Speak up. Be yourself. Enjoy the time you have and the moments you’re making. Life is a lot more exciting when less people conform to society and instead are okay (and even embrace) being different, abnormal, and atypical.

“Don't copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God's will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.” Romans 12:2 NLT