I’ve had this picture on my hard drive for a while; I don’t even remember where I got it. Every time I see the thumbnail, I can’t help but smile, or even laugh. Best I can tell, it’s a legit, non-photoshopped family picture, probably snapped begrudgingly in the portrait studio at a Wal*Mart somewhere in southern Indiana. I can imagine that there is some pretty interesting drama in that family.
But you have to respect the second son. He knows who he is, and he knows who he is not. Despite the conformal pressure in his family unit, he’s his own man, and probably always will be. I’m sure he will be an effective leader one day, and I respect his individuality.
Be true to yourself, regardless of who the system tells you you should be. Excel based on your achievements, not based on your appearance. If the system tries to program you for sweater vest and clip on bow-tie but your inner Axl Rose promises organ rejection, you know which way to go . . .