I am writing in response to the opinion column by Sarah Emery (“Don’t cry over spilled mocha latte with whipped cream,” SN 9/22). I always frown upon articles that bash and trash the very pinnacle of superficiality: trendiness.

Yes, trying to fit in gets pathetically out of hand - just look at all programming on MTV and 75 percent of the high school experience. Tragically, I know firsthand.

And yes, theoretically, one should refrain from the “follower” role and live as an individual, but come on now, this is America. A place where prepubescent star pee wee football players are given complexes from being bombarded by endorsement bidding wars between Nike and Reebok, where the “Jerry, Jerry” chant is better recognized than the current presidential candidates.

In other words, some people just don’t have the depth needed to define themselves instead of letting other aspects of life define them. Emery’s point is well taken, however wearing Abercrombie & Fitch or incorporating “whodi” into your daily vocabulary is not as evil as it seems. It doesn’t mean you’re a sellout. Really. The key is to do these things without attempting to carve your niche out of the tree of conformity.

However, you’ve got to admit, the pride derived from receiving a compliment is priceless. Well, at least as priceless as that mocha latte with whipped cream.

Carah Herring
Lansing Everett
High School senior