To The Ones Who Don't Feel Like They Belong Anywhere

Ever felt like an outsider when you're with a group or even in your own family? Remember how high school had cliques? Jocks, popular kids, the nerds, geeks, loners and theatre freaks?

Those were some groups many people would categorize others. It seems like the "real world" can be the same because like-minded people have their own groups. There are those who are smart or the talented individuals that perform together in shows and recitals together.

At some point, everyone has felt they don't belong anywhere.

I've joined multiple organizations and clubs here on campus but I still feel like an outsider looking in at a fun and happy group. There has always been an unexplainable part of me that has always wanted a group of people to hang out with – even if I do mess up.

It's all something we would like, to feel loved somehow.

Sure, my family will always love me but when it comes to relatives, I don't get their jokes sometimes but laugh anyway.

Especially in Vietnam, I've always received stares from strangers. I cannot be sure if it's because I'm a foreigner or they find my clothes weird. I would wear what Vietnamese people wore, a shirt and shorts or even PJs if I don't feel like dressing up.

There is a desire to feel loved by people other than by my family – which is something all humans want. The ability to be recognized by others and foster friendships with those who are like-minded.

There has always been this feeling, it's hard to describe but I shall try. The feeling is kind of lonely when everyone has at least one person to always talk to and although I have my cousin, it's not exactly the same as making a friend and being close with them.

Sometimes, it feels like, no matter how hard I try, I'll always be the one who hangs out with people but their mind isn't totally there – they'll be checking their phone constantly. I don't mind but it makes me want to check my phone too.

If you're the same, fear not, you're not alone. Sure, we might not fit into a category but maybe we aren't meant to. I enjoy hiking, ice skating, dancing, and writing so my hobbies are all over the place. Maybe we are meant to make multiple friends who are not mutual friends with your friends.

Maybe, it's a chance to connect with people who have similar or opposite interests. You might wonder if there's something wrong with you; if there's something so wrong that not many people would approach you. There's nothing wrong with you, you're one with many talents and it's ok if you don't belong to a group. No one belongs to anyone or anything so don't be afraid to branch out of your comfort zone.