Comparison by Grace Nunn

​Comparison
     A girl’s worst enemy is herself. She is the one who puts herself down. She is the one who tries to be someone else. She is the one who compares herself to other people and changes herself to fit their ‘criteria’. Comparison can be a dangerous thing. In fact, S.T.A.R. counselor Jen Lados says, “Comparison is the thief of all joys.” How can you be happy if you aren’t satisfied with being you?
     How is comparison a dangerous thing? Girls struggle to find their identity because of it. They try to change themselves, whether it be their appearance or personality. They always find the flaws in themselves and fail to see how beautiful they truly are. We are all beautiful in our own way, yet we fail to recognize this. In fact, we all go through a time where we wish we could be someone else. We may not realize it, but we are making life like a competition. A competition in which there is no winner.
     There is only one you. If you try to be someone else you are not only robbing yourself of happiness, but you are denying people the chance to see the real you. This leaves everyone unsatisfied. It leaves you vulnerable and negative. Once you start thinking that you’re not enough, you won’t stop thinking like this. You may, but it can be extremely hard to get back onto your path. The path that leads to you and your life. 
    If you want to be you and not be negative about it, you have to fight against the criticism that fills your mind. Look at yourself in a mirror and say that you’re beautiful. Stop trying to be someone else and embrace who you already are. Don’t let the thief known as comparison steal your joy.