HIPPIE CHICK

Dear Jellybean,

You see I'm a huge fan of the Beatles.. I love their music and how they aren't just any other band that will be a big hit and then disappear and be forgotten. The thing is... my classmates and my bestfriends often tease me about liking "Grandpa music" and calls me a "grandma loser freak", this really hurts because it's not like I insult them about their interests. Also I'm somewhat a Hippie-chick coz I believe in peace, loves animals, recycles and am every artistic but I get teased by that also, my classmates and bestfriends called me a "Loser" for whatever I did. I never even started this! will you help me please?
With Love,
HippieBeatle

Dear HippieBeatle,

What's so funny about peace, animals and recycling? You sound fabulous to me. I think people are teasing you, because your unique personality and tastes make you stand out. The funny thing is, in the real, post-high-school world, that is going to make you a very hot property! But for now, you have to deal with a bit of narrow-mindedness on the part of your classmates.

So how to deal? You need to fall in love with your uniqueness, and get loud and proud about it! You're into the Beatles? Stick Fab Four buttons on your backpack! You're all about the environment and animals? Bug your teachers to start a vegetable or herb garden at your school, or schedule a class trip to your local zoo or humane society for animals. You're artistic? Start making your own jewelry and give it to friends as gifts, or sell it to girls in your class. They call you a hippie chick? Wear tye-dye shirts, rock peace sign necklaces, and put flowers in your hair. In other words, instead of hiding your true self from those who bug you, magnify your personality so they have to take notice of how cool, confident, and unique you are.

Every school has leaders, and followers. Let the unoriginals follow the pack... you can be a real leader, because you're about something other than just copying the latest trends. Don't be afraid to let your light shine! Peace out.