Rumors and Such

Yesterday I found out what "juicycampus.com" was. Out of curiosity, I caved and decided to check it out... and was unpleasantly surprised. "Juicycampus.com" is a gossip site for any college campus - it's designed to create controversy and spread rumors. Anyone can post at any time, without the fear of having their identity revealed. If you've seen the movie Mean Girls, this site might be slightly reminiscent of the "Burn Book" (in which a few girls write down rumors about everyone at their high school in a journal). Besides the usual bashing of sorority/fraternity guys and girls, the site also serves to ridicule anyone else who is particularly disliked within the college campus. Apparently the site has become increasingly popular, as the number of views and posts have increased in the past week. One of my friends has become so concerned about other's perception of him, that he checks the site every day to make sure he is not the topic of discussion. 

I am in shock! I can't believe there is a site (specifically for Drury's campus) that calls individuals out by name and encourages others to judge them anonymously. I've heard our college called "Drury High" before, but this is more like "Drury Middle School" behavior.

This discovery leads me to discuss how it relates to my blog. I find it disheartening that my friend feels the need to check the website daily to make sure his name is free from any negative associations. Although I would be worried if my name were the topic of some ridiculous rumor, I cannot justify his behavior. What does that say about your character, if you allow a silly website to dominate your life and perception of yourself? To me, it reveals that you don't have enough self-confidence. People like my friend are people in need of a boost (a really big confidence boost!). I want them to see themselves as good enough - without having to rely on others to tell them through an anonymous website. As part of my initiative to become a woman of influence, this week I am going to try my best to bring out the good in everyone and encourage others to do the same. 

Part of becoming a role model involves building people up, not tearing people down. If I ever hope to influence girls...

I have to stop talking about people in a negative way. 

Although I don't participate in gossip often, I have recently found myself contributing to rumors/negative conversation. I am just as guilty as those who posted online. No matter if it is said out loud, or posted on "juicycampus.com," gossip is gossip. Words are permanent and can be misconstrued. This website has shown me how harsh students can be, and how our campus is in need of strong leaders to put a stop to rumors and discourage the creation of them. 

"A good leader inspires people to have confidence in the leader, a great leader inspires people to have confidence in themselves."