When Average Isn't Good Enough
By Nikki

In today's society, what does the term average really mean? The dictionary's definition suggests it means middle, ordinary, or regular. In many things this is true. However, when it comes to anything competitive, I've learned that being average just isn't good enough.

The term average has been redefined throughout history. The average American family, for example, is vastly different now than during the 1950s. Back then, living with both parents was the norm and school children earning a C grade were considered average. Now, earning a C grade is thought to be almost equivalent to failing. The contemporary pressures to always be above average within our academic, athletic, and social commitments can cause physical and emotional problems. 

One of my best friends and his older brother both destroyed themselves under these pressures. Eric, the oldest, was an avid soccer player and did well academically. Greg also did well academically and was a gifted performer in various drama productions. Both brothers killed themselves within 19 months of each other and our school deeply felt their loss, never really understanding why they would do such a thing. Many thought that the pressures placed upon them to succeed were too great. 

As I watched Greg struggling to live in the shadow of his brother's self-inflicted death, trying to be both sons for his parents, everyone assured us that he would be fine. Some said playing the lead role in the school's production of Ordinary People, would be good therapy for him. However, the night before the play was to open, Greg also committed suicide.

It was through these events that I began to understand the pressures placed on students to be the perfect son or daughter, the perfect student, or the perfect athlete. No one can be perfect. Everyone has individual strengths and weaknesses. There will always be someone who earns better grades, who is a better athlete, or a better performer. Being average isn't a bad thing -- I like being average. I just wish society would accept the average individual with as much respect for their talents and contributions as they do the exceptional individuals.

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