There are events in high school that define who we are as  people. Our character is based on how we react to these events. Whether the reaction is well-received or controversial, you made the decision to do that action.

I have always prided myself in being a positive person in other people’s lives. I felt that whenever someone was having a bad day, it was my duty to cheer them up. I wanted to help them look on the bright side of things and to know that everything happens for a reason.

Junior year was one of the hardest years of my life. I let the events that occurred that year shape who I was as a person. I was no longer taking my own advice. I didn’t want anyone’s help or pity. I became a pessimist. My character was under duress. I let the events that were occurring define who I was as a person. I accepted the situation I was in and did nothing to change it.

It wasn’t until one of my teachers, Mrs. Wagner, noticed that I wasn’t myself anymore. She made me stand up on a chair and chant, “Today is going to be a great day,” until she believed that I believed it. While my usual self would have loved the attention, at the moment, I felt it was so embarrassing for the entire class to watch me say that I would have a good day. It allowed me to reflect on how my attitude was affecting others. It showed me that others care about how I am doing. It showed me that every day can be a great day. It is how we react to the situations that we are thrown into that define how our day is going to go. This event was a turning point for me.

Every day is an opportunity to be life-changing. Instead of sulking over events that I have no power to change, I now focus on bettering myself. I now start everyday saying “Today is going to be great.” I have the power to shape what my day is going to be through my attitude toward situations. If I focus on only putting positive energy into the world then I will see positive outcomes.

I am so thankful that I got up on that chair junior year. It showed me I am in control of my own attitude. It showed me I have the power to change my outlook on life. I decided I am going to have a great day.

I put myself into a dark place, but through the help of the people who care for me, I found my way out. I promise that once you change your attitude, things will begin to look up. If everyday you choose happiness, you will be happy in the end. Sometimes it just takes standing on top of a chair to realize it.

Nick Drahozal

Opinion Editor