"While children are struggling to be unique, the world around them is trying all means to make them look like everybody else."

Here's the deal: We live in a world that often pressures us to conform, to fit in, and to be like everyone else. This is especially true for kids who are just starting to figure out who they are. On one hand, they're trying to express their individuality and stand out. On the other hand, society pushes them to blend in, to be part of the crowd. It's a tug-of-war between self-expression and conformity.

Historically, this idea has been around forever. Think about the 1950s in America. The era was all about conformity—white picket fences, cookie-cutter houses, everyone striving for the "American Dream." Kids were expected to follow in their parents' footsteps, dress the same way, and even think the same way. Fast forward to today, and while things have changed, that pressure to conform hasn't disappeared. It's just taken new forms—social media, for instance. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok often push a certain image of what’s "cool" or "acceptable." The struggle to be unique in such an environment can be exhausting.

Now, let's get into a real-life example to make this concrete. Imagine a middle schooler named Jake who loves painting abstract art. He's passionate about it and spends hours every day creating pieces that express his thoughts and emotions. But when he shares his art at school, his classmates don't get it. They tease him, saying things like, "That's weird" or "Why don't you draw something normal?" Jake finds it hard to keep painting what he loves because the world around him is pushing back, trying to make him conform to their idea of what's "normal."

So, how can we apply this wisdom in our lives? First, we need to recognize the value of individuality. Encourage the kids (or even the adults) in your life to explore their interests, no matter how unconventional they might seem. Don't just tell them it's okay to be different—show them. Celebrate their unique qualities and talents. If you're a parent, teacher, or mentor, set an example by embracing your quirks and interests too.

Imagine a scenario to illustrate this concept further. Picture a high school talent show. One student, Sarah, wants to perform a spoken word piece she's written. It's deeply personal and touches on topics like mental health and societal expectations. She's nervous because it's not the typical song or dance performance everyone expects. But she goes for it. The audience is stunned into silence, and then they erupt in applause. Sarah's courage to be herself, to share her unique voice, inspires others. The next year, more students come forward with diverse, unconventional acts—each one embracing their individuality.

In the end, it's about creating environments where people feel safe to be themselves. Whether it's in schools, workplaces, or social circles, we have the power to shift the culture. Encourage those around you to be true to themselves, and don't be afraid to do the same. It's not always easy, but it's worth it. Because at the end of the day, it's the unique voices, the out-of-the-box thinkers, and the non-conformists who bring the most color and creativity into the world. And isn't that what we all need a bit more of?

So, next time you catch yourself—or someone else—trying to fit into a mold, take a step back. Remember that the struggle to be unique is real, but so is the beauty of individuality. Embrace it. Celebrate it. Nurture it.