Mayhem

By Maryann Dakkak

I've got a confession to make. I went to an all girl school and I loved every minute of it. Sometimes I actually miss it, especially when guys act like � guys. But at the same time, sometimes I fully appreciate that guy in my class that gives me a reason to stay awake.

For all you other girls out there who came from a testosterone-free high school, I know you hear me. If there was one thing we learned, it was that as women, we are fully capable of standing on our own two feet alone, without the help of anyone, especially men. And I'm here to say that whether that message is true or not, it's incredibly hard to listen to.

What is it about men's admiration that makes life a little easier to live? I mean, I hate saying that; I want to go back and erase that sentence, but I know it's true. That somewhere deep inside of me (I'm sure it's true for most of you), I really want someone to want me. Or even just to give me a token of appreciation.

And although my high school background tells me that what I just wrote shows weakness and vulnerability, I'm going to stand by it. Last time I checked, none of us live on islands by ourselves. But some of us sure try hard.

When was the last time you told someone they looked fantastic, or that you really appreciated what they did for you? I'm not saying to shower everyone you meet with compliments and flattery, I'm just saying don't hold back.

I feel bad for guys sometimes. I know they check girls out all the time, but if they're caught staring it's a huge social taboo. But honestly, what girl out there doesn't like to be checked out or complimented? The guys on campus fit right in. They all talk about the hot girls when they're with their friends, but how many of those girls knows that anyone out there thinks about them? Surprisingly few.

And what good does that do anyone? The guys don't get anywhere with any of the girls they admire from afar, and the girls wonder if any guy out there really cares.

So let me stand on my soapbox and tell y'all to be a little more honest with yourselves and everyone else. Just admire the beauty around you, and make sure they know it.

On that note, I'd like to say Happy Birthday to myself. I'm 20 today, not a teenager anymore. I'd grow up, but it doesn't sound too appealing. Be good � I know I won't!