nor·mal

(adjective):

- conforming to a standard; usual, typical, or expected.

(noun):

- the usual, average, or typical state or condition.

Most individuals, especially society as a whole, have standards and expectations. However, is anyone even capable of living up to those standards or expectations? The word "normal" is overused and given so much meaning, so what is normal? Urban Dictionary says, "Normal is nothing but a word made up by society," which I find agreeable. Every single thing that "society" does sets extremely high standards for not only celebrities, but also this world as a community. Society has a problem with acknowledging the fact that people are different. This entire world is full of diversity and chaos, but many people don't know how to accept that. My theory is that being normal really doesn't exist because everyone has their own idea of what it means. Knowing this world, that idea will be different for everyone. Beliefs, opinions, feelings, and environmental surroundings completely change the meaning of normal. If a group of people gathered around to discuss what they do in their daily lives or to talk about things that they like or dislike, a few of those people are bound to disagree or think that something is weird.

Everybody has their own habits and they're either similar or totally different. For example, a year ago, when I was moving into my apartment, my parents and I went to eat lunch and I noticed that my dad eats fries with a fork. That's silly, right? That's completely normal for him because he has always done that. While I like dipping my fries into the sauce, my best friend puts the sauce all over her fries. That's our normal. Yet, our normal is uncommon for each other.

The main point here is that the word "normal" is used every day to define tons of things, but, at the end of the day, everyone's definition of normal will vary. I stopped believing in normal when I realized that I was abnormal and that everyone else in this world is too. I have my own habits, beliefs, morals, and opinions. I grew up always being an "outcast," but I never wanted to be like the "popular kids" or anyone else. I'm not what people would call the "typical white girl" who obsesses over Starbucks, fashion trends, and Nutella. Don't get me wrong, Starbucks is great, but I don't fangirl over it. I do my own thing. I don't care what people say, I wear what I want and I embrace my differences because the things that make us different are the things that make us stand out from a crowd that tries to fit in.

Normal doesn't exist because it is simply too difficult to define or, at least, to live up to the worldwide definition. Don't live life as something that can't truly be defined. Be yourself and make your own definition of who you are.