be an inspiration to others

Being an inspiration to others is a huge responsibility! I think I’ve found a way to use the internet wisely.

I have an illness called “ulcerative colitis” and for years I’ve been looking for a cure… or at least some answers. There’s no cure for what I have, but there is a way to deal with it through diet and medication.

I am pretty much alone in my struggle until one random night I was looking up my illness on youtube. I have no idea why. Maybe I was looking for new information or news or anything. To my surprise I found a number of video blogger talking about their disease and their struggles and triumphs. I was quickly fascinated by using media to bring awareness to this illness. Why didn’t I think of it?! I mean, media is used to bring awareness to other conditions like cancer, aids, diabetes… why not colitis? So I jumped on the bandwagon and started making my own videos/documentary about colitis. So far the feedback was pleasant. I was half-expecting derogatory comments because… well, its youtube. And when you put yourself out there on Youtube, its almost asking for it. I haven’t received any bad feedback. I’m so relieved!!

I’ve decided to write a letter to my congressman and the mayor. All too often I complain about how much I hate my town. But saying curse words and giving people “the finger” while on the road is far from a solution. I desperately want to move away from here because my town has been plagued with angry teenagers who grow up to be angry people; making the quality of life here miserable. Unfortunately, with the rising cost of gas… it looks like I am stuck here just a little longer. I might as well try to make a difference somehow.

The purpose of the letters that I am writing is to ban cellphone use in class, ban ipods from schools, enforce jaywalking laws, and have safety and hygiene programs in schools. I figure to target the youth so eventually this place will be a place to actually “live” in again.

I know I sound like a grumpy old lady but really I’m only 25-years-old! I am proud to be from New Jersey, I just don’t like living here anymore because of the changing times. Kids shouldn’t have to go through metal detectors before entering class in public schools! Unfortunately, we have to resort to these procedures because of the rising crime rate.

I think these letters this may be a small step to make a difference. I often hear that if you want to see things improve in your city, write to your congressman. I’ve heard that advice more than a couple of times. Besides a few teachers in highschool, one of the sources was from a comic called “Calvin and Hobbes” by Bill Watterson. The character, Susie Derkins, often wrote to her congressman. I think we all should.