Who’s that guy? I thought to myself, as I noticed a rather quirky looking boy with spiral gauges hanging from his ears and shaggy, bright purple locks, standing next to my friend. Doesn’t he know that people will stare at him because of his hair and ears?! I know my parents would.. This was the day I met my most audacious and aspiring friend, Drew. With sparkling blue eyes of wonder and a mischievous smile, he remains an unfaltering force of individuality that no one can affect.

“Tell me about yourself?” I asked with curiosity.

“What would you like to know?” he replied simply.

“Anything that you have to tell.” Like anyone else who asks this question, expects to hear simple things, for example, their favorite food or band; but I was pleasantly surprised to hear his full story for the past 16 years.
He started from the beginning, such as when he was born and where he came from, but as he continued, he started to let go. Opening up like a book, he revealed himself to be full of mystery, love, and pain. Letting the wondrous words of his most astonishing life leave his mouth, he spoke with such clear emotions, as if I was looking into his heart.

Just as I had asked, he told me everything there was to tell, allowing me to accept him for all that he was, without a care about any form of judgment that I might have had for him. Even when he had broken down into the most vulnerable state, he was fearless when it came to revealing himself to me, or anyone else for that matter who was willing to listen. As he explained his life in such a clear and blatant manner, I started to recognize his great bravery in being an uncommon personal.

Later on that week, I decided to bring him along to church because I learned that he was open to hearing to new ideas. The pastor was nearing the end of the scripture for the day and he asked the crowd, “Is there anyone here who has not accepted Jesus Christ, as your Lord and savior?”

I closed my eyes awaiting the usual silence and continuation of the service, but was taken aback by Drew saying, “I don’t.”

Oh my God, what is he doing right now I thought, somewhat alarmed. With my eyes as big as an owl’s, I turned to face him with my gaping mouth and ghostly face. I knew my friend didn’t accept the existence of Jesus, but I didn’t believe he’d have the nerve to share his opinion in front of so many viewers.

So the pastor called him up with the same kind and understanding voice that he spoke to everyone with, and said, “Will you say this prayer with me then, accepting Jesus?”

“I don’t think I can,” he replied without hesitation, even though he was surrounded by church-attending believers, “I’m an atheist.”
Succeeding this comment, a short discussion took place with the pastor, and he walked casually with ease back to his seat next to mine.

I myself was lightly mortified by my friend’s actions, but I knew that he was simply sharing his beliefs like anyone else would. Drew was not only standing strong with his opinion, but was unwilling to pushover and change just because of all the shocked and disapproving looks that some of the spectators had given him. After surmounting my initial scare, I was more proud than embarrassed to have him by my side. He stood upon that stage, in front of everyone, bypassing every single frivolous stare, and stayed true to himself.

Back at school, the term continued normally, and homecoming week had finally arrived, along with the well-anticipated rally. The announcer hosting the events of the great spirit assembly was building off the rambunctious crowd, and he presented everyone with a little game.

“Who thinks they’re the best at three pointers?!” he yelled excitingly.

Aha definitely not me. I thought to myself. I wonder if anyone I know would go up th-

At that moment, Drew strode onto the pending basketball court with the other freshman, junior, and senior.

I began to panic ever so slightly as beads of sweat started to emit from my forehead. Oh no, oh no, oh no. Does he even play basketball?! I hope he doesn’t embarrass himself.. He’s basically letting everyone judge him for any mistakes he makes.

The game began and the attempts started flowing. Each contestant was desperate to make that one basket that would push them to the next round. Silently hoping he isn’t the first to fail, I supported him with all that I had. Finally, sighing in relief, he was able to progress to the next level.

Thank God… At least you aren’t the first eliminated I thought with a strikingly large amount of tension and stress being allieviated from my body.

The next round started quickly with the last few challengers remaining; even more motivated to make their basket. On Drew’s first try however, I heard a quiet swoosh from the white net, and I was awestruck by the perfection of his shot.

“Isn’t that your friend?” a girl sitting near me had asked.

“Yes! Yes! Yes! Yes!” I squealed enthusiastically.

Now it was finally between my friend, the sophomore, and the basketball playing senior. The odds and the cheers were both most definitely against him, but I didn’t care. I wanted him to win. The whole room was ecstatic, especially on the contender’s sides. Their grades’ cheers were prideful and endless. The senior was exceedingly close to making his last couple attempts, but Drew came up, performing exceptionally well under the pressure, and made his last basket.

The crowd went wild. A group of animated sophomore boys ran up and carried him around with satisfaction, proud of their fellow peer. I was on my feet along with the other underclassmen, happy for my friend who had thrown himself out there, defied the thoughts of everyone, and rejected the fear of defeat.

Although I have only just met my daring ally for only a short time, he has set a massive impact in my life. He is the prime example of the phrase, “be yourself” because he goes about being the unique individual that he is everyday, without the dismay of judgment. Easing through the overwhelming pressure of failure and the opinions of everyone else, he has taught me that it is okay to be bold and different. I am honored and glad to call such a charismatic person like Drew, my friend, and I treasure all the memories that I have and will make with him.