23 · Friday, November 4, 2011 OAKVILLE BEAVER · www.insideHALTON.com Only you are the author of your life story By Tyler Connelly Gr. 12 T. A. Blakelock H.S. T oday we live in a global society that can be called dysfunctional. We are misled by politicians, religious leaders, financial and industrial leaders. We are aware of economic and ecological problems, but don't seem to be able or willing to address them. This scenario can also be likened to a family in conflict. I know that there are many young people who are experiencing or who have experienced similar `breakdowns' in their own personal lives as a result of the failure of adults to be more responsible and responsive to their needs. I grew up in a small town that had a population of maybe 7,000. The town was nice and small with not too much going on. Everybody almost knew everybody and our neighbours were the greatest people you could ever meet. My family was really close. Although growing up was okay, most of the time, like most families we had our issues. The one thing that I am pretty confident about is the ability for almost all of us to overcome challenges that, at first glance, may seem to be overwhelming. For high school students who are faced with challenges they, as young people, have to realize that they are not the only ones confronting issues. They may not have it as bad as others. I am in my final year of f high school and I can tell you that there is one person who can make things happen for the better and that person is you. Whether the challenge has been coping with peer pressure or parental pressure at home, resolution lies within. It's up to the individual and his or her strength of character. From a personal perspective, I can say that my high school experience has been positive. I have teachers and support staff who I can talk to about any problems. I can also make this argument for many others of my peer group. I am making my own life. I think we should always consider our past, but always look more to the present and the future. Remember, this is your life story and you are the author. I have nothing but a future to look forward to and I have a past on which I can build that future. I will graduate this year and I'm not quite sure what I am going to do with regards to a career. What I do know is that I am going to be a positive influence on whoever comes in contact with me. I know that may seem to be an impossible goal, but I'm going to try and "trying" is the most important commitment a person can make. Look for our flyer in today's paper! Only in selected areas. See in store for complete details. Download your local news app... rought to y you by y: : and ENTER TO WIN an all-new 2012 Toyota Camry LE! Scan this QR code to download your free app or visit www.localnewsappcontest.com No purchase necessary. Contest open to Ontario residents 18 years of age or older. Odds of winning depend on the number of eligible entries received. One (1) grand prize will be awarded. Approximate retail value of the grand prize is $23,700. Entrants must correctly answer, r unaided, a mathematical skill-testing question to be declared a winner. Contest closes December 17, 2011 at 11:59pm. To T enter and for f complete contest rules, visit www.localnewsappcontest.com. Camry LE toyota.ca