A Heightened Summer Realization

by Jill
(Texas)

My sophomore year starts for me on Monday. So far, I've met up with some of my school friends that I have not seen all summer, and one of the first sentences out of their mouths has been, "Wow! You've gotten taller over the summer, Jill!"

And I don't think I really have. I've measured myself, and if anything, I've shrunk a half inch from my height of 5'10".

No, instead I think I'm apparently taller because I've discovered this summer that my height is a blessing. All my life I've been looking to differentiate myself from the herd, (i.e. having an amazing eye color or being able to do something not many others can) and now I realize what it is- my height!! It's such an amazing feeling to realize "I'm different, I have the great blessing of being tall and that's what makes me who I am!" I've fixed my posture so that my shoulders don't slouch, and I try not to "get shorter" when I'm talking to a group of people, be them guys or girls.

I've realized that when I'm tall, people see me more over the regular height of those around me. I'm often the first person they make eye contact with when I enter a room with all my friends. I'm noticed more, and its something I hope to use to help make myself a better person and a better leader.

Don't be ashamed of your height. It's what makes you, you. Don't slouch. Don't lean against walls. Be confident, and rise to your full potential. When people see a tall girl standing straight, it makes them think that you have risen over your insecurities and embraced yourself. It helps them rise over their insecurities as well, because let's face it: Everyone, especially in high school, has SOMETHING they don't like about themselves. By embracing your height, not only you become a better person, but you help others become better themselves.

Side note: To those who are taller than me and may feel some animosity towards me because I'm five ten and "complaining about it", I'm not trying to pretend that I have or have not more difficulties than you with height. I value my height and do not wish that I was any taller OR shorter although I must admit I do feel irritated at times when I hear five-eighters complaining. Look at it this way: if we all were meant to be the same height, we would be. But we are not, and we are not going to let those who insist that short is "good" or "normal" bring us down.