Expectation

Reading "Our Barbie, Ourselves" by Emily Prager led me to think about my own life; specifically, the many things that I am expected to be and do in everyday life. This may have a negative connotation, but in reality some expectations are necessary for a positive environment and life. For example, the expectation that I stay away from drugs and alcohol keeps me safe. The expectation that I drive without using my phone or being distracted prevents me from endangering myself or others on the road. The expectation that I treat others with respect and kindness preserves m relationships and keeps the environment around me pleasant. The ones that derail me, however, are the ones that continue to dominant my life. My parents expect exceptional grades - no excuses. I must be a good example for underclassmen - in every situation. I must have exclusive commitment to each of my clubs - with no falter in time dedicated. It seems as though my life isn't my own. It seems as if my life is not decided by the paths that I create, but the roads carved out by the ones around me. Every time I finally grasp an inkling of independence or consciousness, someone or something overtakes me, covering my path with weeds. So why is it like this? Why does it appear like we are dolls being controlled and toyed with until we become obsolete? Just as if we were Barbie. In a world that stresses that "you can be whatever you want to be," it doesn't seem like it.