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Dear Jellybean,
In the area i live in, sports is the life everyone lives. Most guys play football or soccer and girls play softball or cheerlead (i dont even take p.e. class). I've never been good at sports because i dont like competition within teams (there is a lot of tht where i live, especially against white people and african americans - many people are racists), so i don't play anything. This year my friends have talking about their new year's resolutions having to do with their sports, and for the first time i feel left out. I'm a fairly good dancer (although its mostly street dancing/hip hop) and i can do some tumbling moves. Peers say i look like a cheerleader should (perfectly toned body, blonde hair, perfect make-up, big hair, ect.) although, as i said, i don't play any sports. The thought of being a cheerleader for the community team has occured to me, but the girls on the team are rude and put me down at school. I don't want to be anywhere i'm not wanted but dance class is no longer an option so i really want to do this, but not alone. I don't know what i should do, try to be the cheerleader within my group of friends and be the outsider on the team (my friends and i think the girls on that cheerleading team are jealous of our semi-popular status) or not try at all?
-Cheerleader at heart
Dear Cheerleader at heart,
I think the truth of what you want lies not in your letter, with all its reasons for why you "look like a cheerleader", but in the way you signed off. You call yourself a "cheerleader at heart" - and I'm a big advocate of people following their hearts!
You can't know what will happen if you join the cheer squad. Yes, it's possible that the other cheerleaders will continue to be rude, and you'll be an "outsider" on the team. But it's also possible that the other cheerleaders will be impressed by your spirit, get to know you as a person, and learn that you're not just about your "semi-popular status" but a nice person who is open to being friends with people outside of her usual group.
What I'm saying is, don't let your worries prevent you from trying something that appeals to you. It could work out - and become a wonderful new hobby, and a great place to meet new friends and expand your horizons. At worst, you'll find out it's not the place for you, and chalk it up to experience. At least you'll know that you tried, and didn't give up without giving it your best. Talk to the cheer coach and let her know you might be interested in trying out. Ask what the requirements are, and if she's willing to give you a shot at becoming a squad member. Good luck!
