Constructive Rebellion Anonymous

There is a certain type of rebellion that is advantageous. It is the curiosity that cannot be tamed, the courage to challenge authority, and the tactfulness to make things happen. It knows no bounds, for the ambition exceeds personal potential. Dynamic in nature, this rebellion dwells in the realm of dreams, waiting to be put into action. Safety and comfort may intercede, and indeed they may overcome it, but for some people the rebellion is so strong that it cannot be hindered despite the obstacles.

I was born adventurous, but I was also born into a rather mundane family, featuring my dad as the boring businessman and my mom as the stereotypical “soccer mom”. My brother and I, however, were different from our parents, much to their discontent. We were like Bert and Ernie; we did everything together. By far, we had the greatest influence on each other, but not necessarily a positive one.

Chris was two grades above me, and in his freshman year of high school, he started to find his own sense of adventure. Drinking, smoking, and hanging out with friends were his escape. In middle school, I naturally started to follow him down that path. I never really thought twice about my actions until the end of seventh grade after the food...