There is something to be learned from a rainstorm. When meeting with a sudden shower, you try not to get wet and run quickly along the road. But doing such things as passing under the eaves of houses, you still get wet. When you are resolved from the beginning, you will not be perplexed, though you will still get the same soaking. This understanding extends to everything.

In a few short weeks, the seniors of Southern Illinois University will move on to the next level. The next level won’t be the same for all of us. Some will step out into the real world. You’re tired of school, and frankly, I don’t blame you. Others will go on to advanced degrees because they are necessary to succeed in their particular fields. And still others, afraid to face the world, will do all they can to stay here. No matter what we do or where we go, there will be trials and tribulations.

You can try and try to avoid them, but they’ll still come. Face them head on. Find the resolve inside yourself. The heavier the storm, the quicker it will pass. If you stand up, you may be battered and bruised, but you will retain control of the one thing you can:yourself. Whether you are black or white, there will be people out there who will do their absolute best to hold you down. They may be jealous that you are doing the things they are unable to do. Or they might just be petty people, with petty and insignificant thoughts. Not everyone out there will be your friend.

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You may know them for years and never see it coming. It may hurt when it does, but if you find that resolve, you will come through it stronger. When they hurt you, thank them. Say thank you for letting me know who my friends are. Thank you for making me a stronger person. Thank you for opening my eyes to the reality of the world. Then use your strength of character to rise above them. Use their negative energy to fuel your positive life and move on. There are many people in the world who will rely on you during their time of need and then not give you a thought afterwards.

You can’t avoid them, but if you come to understand this, it won’t perplex you when it happens. It will just make you stronger. When you are in the real world, don’t forget. Don’t forget yourself. Don’t forget your friends. Don’t forget your family. One close, loyal and true friend cancels out a hundred disloyal and dishonest ones. Don’t be afraid to lean on them. It is what they are for. They will hold you up when others are trying to push you down. All you have to do is ask.

It’s a rough world out there. Ohh baby, baby it’s a wild world (playin’). But it really is. We all have the strength to move through it though. If you feel weak, if the petty people are bringing you down, look around. Your friends will give you the push you need to get over the speed bumps. That’s what they are, speed bumps, not roadblocks. Remember that; write it down. They can’t defeat you. They won’t defeat you. Your victories will defeat them.

Don’t Get Me Wrong appears on Tuesday. Mars is a senior in university studies. His views do not necessarily reflect those of the Daily Egyptian.