"I can't believe you snuck out! You're grounded!"

Ah, the rebellious phase. That point in a teenager's life where they start to push at their bonds and break the rules. A time for being grounded, experimenting with their hair, getting piercings or tattoos, and a plethora of other instances that scream to the world that they aren't sure what they're doing but that they don't want to play by their parent's rules any longer. Many teens begin to test the waters with small dips: coming in a few minutes after curfew, changing the way that they dress, and starting to challenge their parents more.

But there are some teens, like myself, whose invitation to the rebellion must have been lost in the mail. My friends began acting out when we were in ninth grade, so around age 14. My one friend would tell her parents that she was going to the movies with a friend, but forget to mention that she and her "friend" had been going out for two weeks. Many of my friends would take these small steps. One went all out for her rebellion: she dyed her hair, got at least three piercings, and gave her parents major attitude. She's settled down considerably now; as have my other friends who apparently got the invite (Did they write the address incorrectly?!)

I, on the other hand, always turned in my homework on time, got good grades, stayed home most weekends, never snuck out. I didn't really have the desire to do any if the rebellious things my peers were doing left and right.

However, I am happy to report that my invitation has finally made it to me (there was an issue with the price of stamps). Sophomore year of college I decided that I wanted to go out with friends and stay out all night. I wanted to finally dye a layer of my hair purple (cool colors for cool people!). So I did it without considering the consequences, and not caring what my parents would think. Honestly, they didn't even notice really; probably because I wasn't living in their house.

So if you happen to be like I was, always wondering where my invitation was, don't worry. You'll get your chance to rebel. Because I am inviting you and all your straight-laced friends to the rebellion right now! Enjoy the new sense of freedom!