Beatrice T., Oakwood High School
Life Bike of a Military Child
When I was little my favorite thing was riding my bike. I loved the breeze in my hair and pedaling fast. I treasured my bike. As a teenager, I don’t have as much time to ride, but life as a teen feels a lot like learning to ride a bike.
I have studied at 7 schools, in 3 continents and 4 countries. My whole life I’ve been moving because my Dad is in the British Air Force. I’ve experienced many cultures and school curriculums. Many people see being a military kid as a problem. Although it can be a challenge, I disagree! The friendships I have made along the way have taught me so much.
Making friends has not always been one of my strengths because it takes confidence. Walking into school as a new student is incredibly hard because of the change in environment, cultural differences, and trying to fit in with new people who have established friendships. Now I’ve experienced starting a new school multiple times I know I can deal with these challenges and my confidence has increased. No matter how hard it feels at the time you have to get back up on the bike of life if you fall off!
One difficult move was to Saudi Arabia. I was just 7; moving to another new country was scary. My best friend there was Teddy; we’d ride our bikes around the neighborhood, even when it was 100 degrees. Although Saudi Arabia was a completely different culture, religion and language, when I was on my bike riding with my friend Teddy, I was joyful.
My plan for a good and happy life is to be joyful through finding my people. Finding your people in life is like staying on the right bike path. Initially, some connections feel good but after time you realize they don’t always want the best for you, or simply your values and interests change.
I intend to find the joy in each personal connection, looking for those people who make us feel like the best versions of ourselves. If we look for good we will find good. For example, in my community Teddy always made me laugh, Elie is caring and thoughtful, Mrs Whitehair tells me I can do anything! Hearing positive voices from people you value helps block out the negative. Moving is positive for me because all the different experiences and friends keep my wheels spinning. Don’t get trapped in the oily chain of negativity when you could be exploring! When I make new friends it doesn’t just affect me but it also takes my pals on the journey with me, it brings us joy by sharing experiences, perspectives and trying each other''s favorite foods! Having fun and feeling happy together just like Dottie Yeck stated.
On my bike of life I sometimes wobble. During my teenage years I have bumps and bruises but all of the struggles make us stronger, and friends who bring joy help us get back up!
