After reading Self-Reliance by Emerson, the most compelling statement was "imitation is suicide". Emerson is stating that by taking on someone else's identity we are killing our own. I believe it is important to be true to myself. I cannot live contently in someone else's shadow. Finally, I will not let my own identity slip away. If we conform to others beliefs we are losing our own. Day in and day out I have lived my life how I see it fit, not caring what others may think. .
I feel it is important to be honest with myself. I do what I want and try not to follow the crowd. I have never done something just because it was the "cool" thing to do. My favorite singer is Jesse McCartney. Very few people listen to him and many of my friends laugh at me when I tell them how much I love his music. That has never stoped me from listening to the songs i love. I do things based on what makes me happy. I wear the clothes that make me feel beauitful. It doesnt matter if they are in-style or not. I wear my hair how I like it, even if someone thinks it looks better another way. I do what I want because that is what makes me happy. .
Also, I don't believe I could be happy living someone else's life. I need my own goals, hopes and dreams. I want to go to UCLA, have a good job, and raise a family. The only way I can achieve my dreams is by setting personal goals. I need to be able to do my own thing. I cannot do this unless I live life for myself. .
Finally, I cannot let my own identity slip away. By following the crowd. I would be losing myself in the process. What I have worked for and all that I have done are very important to me. I try every day to get good grades, to make my parents proud of me, and makes decisons that will help my future grow in a positive way. I cannot let myself become just another face in the crowd. I have to be my own person. .
