There are times in life when being the bigger person is the only choice you have. After having the greatest first semester that a college student could have, I came into the second semester thinking the smooth ride would continue. I was incredibly wrong. Without going into any detail, I would like to express that after the events that have occurred within the walls of my dorm room, none of which were of my doing, I have chosen to take the high road--the only road I know how to navigate.
Michelle Obama has inspired me countless times in the last eight years during her time of being our First Lady, but her speech at the 2016 Democratic National Convention has stuck with me. The speech went viral, as most of hers do, but the phrase "When they go low, we go high" was a piece of that speech that was everywhere the next day and can still be seen popping up in articles and on Facebook months later.
"When they go low, we go high" has been my motto of the week for many reasons; I never want to be the "bad guy" no matter what the situation is. Whether my friends are not being good ones, my job is not going well, or school gets hard, I will always try my very best to rise above the problem or conflict, thanks to Michelle Obama, the queen of inspirational speeches, and my mom who reminds me of this quote often.
"When they go low, we go high" has taught me many things this week:
1. Take the high road
In taking the high road I have not only found myself to be a lot less sad about the situation, but also I am seeing that I am the only one in control of my feelings and I can handle myself any way that I want to. Handle yourself in the most mature way possible, so that you cannot be seen as the problem, only as the solution.
2. Pick yourself up
Nothing has ever been fixed by being sad, moping around, and not going to class. I could have skipped class and not talked to anyone, but instead I got out of my room more than ever to take my mind off of things, and it sure helped clear everything up.
3. Your true friends will appear when you need them most
This week I have learned exactly who my truest and most loyal friends are. I have found the ones that I really belong with, and those who will not hurt me or leave me behind. Some friends come to your rescue when you least expect it, and those are the ones to cherish most.
4. Family is always there
Not only have the daily talks with my mom absolutely cured all of my problems, but her surprise visit made my week bearable when I really did not think it would be. My parents are the ones who will always be by my side, and they always make sure to remind me that I can rely on them for anything.
5. There is always tomorrow
No matter what rough situation you are put in, tomorrow is a new day, and with each day that passes, it is easier to forget the problems and the negativity and focus on who and what truly matters. Tomorrow can always be the day you find your happy again.
Thank you Michelle Obama. I already miss you.
