Identity Theft

Identity. Where does who we are come from? Does it come from our parents, our experiences, or other outside influences such as the media? It seems like even from school age we are constantly being told who we are by outsiders looking in. However if we do not know our own identity, how can we tell them they are right or wrong.

             At first glance most people that you meet will place you within a maze, and watch you scurry around to find a way out and to prove yourself. At first glance most label me as unfriendly and snobby. In high school I was labeled as the stuck up overachiever, the girl who was involved in everything; president of three clubs, involved in sports, drama, student government, the list continues. Amongst my friends I am the conservative one, the one who always did the right thing and never took risks. Amongst my family I am the hardworking one, always working on weekends and never leaving a moment for myself.  To society I am the typical college student soon to be buried knees deep in student loans. All of these labels have made me question at one time, are they perceptions correct? Sure I can stand here and claim I don’t care what others say, but that would be a lie. However certain opinions matter more to me than others.

            I never knew how others in my family truly perceived me until I received 15 letters at senior retreat. Senior retreat is three day off campus retreat where intense emotional activities and discussions are held based upon finding yourself and God. One night I was told to go into a dark room, find a spot, and close my eyes. When I opened my eyes I saw a dozen letters from my family members telling me my best qualities. My godmother stated “you are compassionate, easy going, and have a great sense of humor. “ My aunt stated, “ you are very respectful, and make each person in our family young and old feel special.” The opinions of my close family and friends mean the most to me, and they see me for who I truly am. I hope they see me and admire who I am because so much of myself is them. I learned compassion from my grandparents, discipline from my mother and aunts, but most importantly love from each member of the family.

So now the big question, who am I? My name is Corrie and I am hardworking, loving, dramatic, organized, compassionate, stubborn, and assertive. I believe in God, in love, in miracles, and that there is good in everyone.  I never show my emotions, I let my mind get the best of me, and always try to look at the positive rather than the negative. Although it took me much time to figure out who I am and describe it in an essay, I am still growing. I will continue to learn from my own mistakes and learn to deal with the twists and turns life has for me.

For so long I have been telling myself I don’t care what people label me as, or what they think, but I have been lying. Instead of accepting the labels placed upon me, I choose to believe in myself, supported by my family and friends. Those who do not know me, quickly judge the person that they think I am, however my goal is not to please everyone. Instead of altering my life to fit their judgments, I will let my actions speak for who I am.