I really don’t think that smoking, use of drugs, or virginity is a measure of self-respect. Also, pretty often, they don’t have anything to do with fitting in at all.
Most of the people I know that smoke, smoke because the want to, not because they want to fit in. I smoke occasionally, and I sure as hell don’t “fit in.”
Having sex has nothing to do with self respect, in my opinion at least. If you’re ready for it, then I don’t see why it’s anyone else’s business.
Sometimes, I don’t go to school. That’s true. However, it has nothing to do with respecting myself. It has to do with the fact that my depression has a tendency to take over my life, and some mornings, I just can’t get out of bed. I’m not trying to fit in. People make fun of me for not being in school, along with various other things relating to being depressed.
If you decide you don’t want to smoke or do drugs or have sex, that’s good for you. However, it doesn’t make you any better than anyone else. Shaming other people is not okay. We’re all human. None of these things make you worth any less or more than anyone else.
ladies and gentlemen and variations thereupon… regan avery. being smart.