I am trying to remain three-dimensional in a one-dimensional world, and it is much harder than it sounds. I am faced with the expectations and norms of society each and every day. Most other teens and young adults take part in reckless behavior to have "fun."

Aside from behavior and actions, how people express themselves can easily be categorized as one-dimensional. Most outfits you'll see on display in the mall, or on the cover of magazines, or clothed on the bodies surrounding you, all have the same skimpy, sexual appeal. I have a thin waist and larger breasts, most of these outfits seemed to be custom fit for me--in all ways except one. Yes, it may compliment my curves and attributes, but does it compliment who I am as a person? My character? Don't get me wrong, you could easily spot me wearing similar outfits while on the beach, but in other public settings, such as school and work, I hope it is much less likely for me to be spotted wearing similar clothes. I am a clothing addict and don't abide by any fashion trends other than my own. I am trying to continue to express myself through my clothing, without allowing others to misjudge my character. Therefore, my wardrobe currently has more modest and classy clothes than skimpy clothes.

When it comes to how I pass my time, I believe that I have the clearer sense of what "fun" truly means. Rather than getting wasted or falling into the hook-up culture, I stick to my norms. On days where I have no plans in particular, which is rare, I'll gladly pick up a good read. When I am with friends we enjoy shopping, going out to eat, taking pictures, walking, watching movies, volunteering, etc. Rather than falling into the party/hook-up culture, I attempt to make the most memorable experiences with quality friends.

Social media allows anyone to be anyone. There are endless filters to change the way you look. There are endless people you can claim to be "friends" with. Each and every post, true or not, makes you look as you display yourself. I personally try to use fewer filters. I go through a mental process each time before I post a status. I've grown up knowing that what I post online is always out there somewhere on the web and could be held against me when applying for a school/job. I remind myself that people who cyberbully are generally doing it online for a reason; they would never be able to say such horrible things in person. Cyberbullying has been happening nonstop for several years now, having easy access to several online social platforms, some even allowing your account to be anonymous. Lately, "roast pages" have been created to anonymously "roast," which means embarrass/expose/break down others. In an attempt to promote the concept of remaining three-dimensional, I compliment others online and spread awareness.

Money is another large concept. Many kids get handed money for shopping, gas, etc. I don't need to work, but thankfully, I do. I take pride in earning my own money. I know what it means to work hard. I know what it means to be deserving. At the same time, I keep up with my grades and social life. There are few excuses not to work for what you earn. So rather than allowing my parents to hand me money time and time again for things I want, I earn my own money.

So yes, I may sound boring to you. Yes, it may sound easy to maintain these tasks. Yes, it may seem easier to just live recklessly.

I can assure you that these tasks are far from easy. Most days I feel alone. I feel as if there is no one else in the same or similar stage in life. I feel as if others are either introverted or spend each weekend partying. I feel as if I live in a world, or at least a section of the world, that has lost appreciation for works of art, little things, quality time with friends, sobriety, modesty, and so much more. So while trying to be myself to my fullest potential, I realize many people find that too hurried or too boring of a concept. I respond with, why wait? It's never too soon to make a difference. It's never too soon to better myself. It's never too soon to fall in love with my surroundings, even if I may not fit into them well.

Trying to remain three-dimensional in a one-dimensional world has been the hardest, yet most awarding journey. I cannot wait to see where this journey leads me and what each greater dimension has in store for me.