“Don’t judge others by appearance, but rather by what’s in
their hearts." ~ 1 Samuel 16:7
Paige and Paris were fraternal
twins. Genetically, they shared half
their DNA in common, about the same as siblings born at different times. They shared two parents, a suburban home and
the same ride to school. That’s where
any similarities ended. Paris was
popular – Paige was not.
Paris has over 2,500 Facebook friends; more that some small colleges.
She talks to college boys on her smart
phone for several hours each night. A
fake ID allows free ice-cream drinks (pretty girl discount) at a local
nightclub. Sometimes she amps up her
cool quotient by smoking flavored cigarettes.
If the Principal catches her, she flirts with him until he lets Paris
goes with just a warning. Popular girls
walk in the formation of migrating geese.
Paris leads the wedge with that “I’m way out of your league!” kind of attitude.
Paige doesn’t scale the dizzying heights of “popularity.” She’s more “likeable” – the kind of girl preferred by a tight knit group of
peers who enjoy simply “hangin’ out.” She’s
well-adjusted on many levels, including enjoying good relationships with her
parents and other adults, as well as being able to handle diverse social
situations. She’s less a trend “setter”
than a trend “spotter.”
On the road to school this morning, few words were
spoken. Paris slept; the victim of too
many late nights texting, tweeting, and posting. As they neared the high school entrance,
Paige spotted a car up ahead speeding way too fast around the tight curve.
Before she had time to react, the car slid on the snow-packed
road slamming into their car. Air bags
popped, metal crunched, windows shattered.
While waiting for an ambulance to arrive, Paris immediately
posted a comment on Facebook about the crash.
Within seconds, she scored dozens of ‘Likes’ and comments.
And while Paris’ friends tweeted, Paige’s two best friends showed
up independently before the paramedics arrived.
Young people - friendship isn’t measured by the number you
have, but rather by those who’re there when you need them most.
Many of you go to dangerous lengths to be accepted by as
many kids as possible. Being high on
the school pecking order brings more: security, envy, connections, and favors.
But not all popular kids go on to be successful adults. People who reach their "popularity peak"
in high school, sometimes fall sharply when high school ends. Being popular doesn’t guarantee good grades,
honest friendships, or people who care about your needs.
Realize that by being happy with yourself, your looks, your
grades, your compassion and your sense of humor, makes you a better person and
will help you make a better life for yourself in the future. Above all, stick
to friends that you completely trust.
“Make each day a masterpiece, make
friendship a fine art, drink deeply from good books (especially the Bible), build
a shelter against a rainy day, give thanks for your blessings and pray for
guidance every day!” ~ Coach John Wooden
