Dear Tough Guy,
You may think that you are some hot stuff because you walk around with a scar on your arm that has a story to go with it. You will immediately regret it as soon as it is done. Although some of your friends will think you are stronger or tougher than they did before, it does not matter. You my friend are very stupid. However, here are some tips to help you take your mind off doing it so your arm will be scar free for the rest of your life.
First, these are tips based solely on prevention of this stupid act. The first thing that needs to get hit into your mind is the fact that you do not have to do this. There is no obligation for anyone in the world to burn their arm because someone says it is the only way to prove that you are not a “bad word”. The best thing to do is ignore what they are saying even though you know you can take the pain. You must be forewarned that the pain is not going to be the problem. The real problem is going to be that ugly scar that will stay with you for the rest of your life.
You have always been an independent thinker and leader. Why give into something that you know you already are. Put the lighter down, and tell those who doubt you that if they still think you are a weak person, then fight about it. You have to be smart and block out those who want to bring you down to their level. They are not worth hurting yourself, even though you know you can take the pain. In the end, it is all about your brothers and how they perceive you. They look up to you and look at everything that happens around you. When they see you hurt, it scares them because they think of you as untouchable, and then they think that they have to depend on themselves the way you do! Be smart and keep their trust by being a good example and not hurting yourself because of what your so called “friends” say.
Lastly, put yourself around people who will encourage you to make the right decisions, and do not tell you to do stupid things. You must place yourself with people that enlighten you and make you a better person just by being around them. In the end, it will all pay off and you will not have to try and explain to your parents why your arm is like that.
Sincerely, Dylan J. Kizy
