Different Versions of You
Recently when I was mindlessly scrolling through TikTok (formerly known as Musically), I came across a video that had me thinking about all the different possibilities, of all the people I have ever met. Suddenly, I started to think about all the relationships, friendships I have ever had. Some even include random strangers. And I began to think about how everyone has their own life and their own reality of what is happening each and every day. Soon after, I came to the realization that we each have our own perception of reality and there is a version of us that is unique to all who meets us.
Here is where the TikTok video comes in. I came across this video from @lost_thoughts on TikTok, which poses the question, “Is it not weird how so many versions of you exist in peoples minds?” Some know you as the shy kid that does not talk, some see you as the annoying kid that does not shut up, some see you as cold and mean, and others find you caring and kind”. And it’s true. We all experience this and see the world, life, relationships, and friends through our eyes. A good way to think about it is as a kaleidoscope. The different colors are all the different versions of us perceived by those around us.
I believe this is the reason why we may view ourselves in another way than our friends or family might. I cannot speak for all of us, but it can be one of the reasons, other people can so easily see the beauty in us before we, ourselves can. For instance, I know that I am incredibly grateful to have such wonderful individuals around me. They are hard workers, smart, caring, beautiful, creative, and the list goes on and on.
Do my friends and family know the impact they have? I hope so. But in case they do not I am going to share the version of them I experience. However, out of respect for their privacy, I will not mention any of their names.
Friend 0205 => Outgoing, enthusiastic, explorer, amusing, celebrates others, assertive, empathetic, and friendly. She always made me feel included. To this day, she still invites places. She is an absolute joy to be around. And her passion for others goes above and beyond. I know even “Joey” would agree.
Friend 0206 => Friendly, reserved, compassionate, well-spoken, keen, quick-witted, cultured, and sophisticated. She mentored and supported me during a time I needed it the most. She is constantly learning and growing. I feel as though I learn so much from her. It is always fun hanging out with you.
Friend 0425 => Fun, adventurous, kind, caring, navigator, loving, intelligent, social. She always makes me feel special and cherished. She gives great advice. She is always up to do whatever. I love taking the city by storm with her.
Friend 0822 => Goofy, clever, independent, sweet, genuine, creative, upbeat, and life of the party. She is fun to be around. She is one of the most talented people I know. Her spunk always brightens up my day. I enjoy our walks around the neighborhood and to the park.
Friend 0904 => Cheerful, adaptable, artistic, expressive, down-to-earth, caring, sharp, friendly. She is a ray of sunshine and always brightens up my day. Her zest for life is off the charts. She gives off such upbeat and happy vibrations. We connected over our love of ramen as well as our love for spice.
Friend 1022 => Outdoorsy, passionate, selfless, quick-witted, funny, adventurous, genuine, charismatic. She always makes me feel seen. Whenever I was homesick, she was there to comfort me and support me. She opened me up to new plenty of new experiences. Road trips with her are the best.
Friend 1105 => Hilarious, crazy (in a good way), spontaneous, always up for a good time, studious, caring, inspiring, bright. She always makes me laugh. Whenever I need a shoulder to cry on, she’s there. She gives a lot of great insight. The adventures we have shared, are some of the wildest stories.
Friend 1206 => Brainy, fascinating, kind, honest, enjoyable, bold, passionate, articulate. He is a great teacher and I have learned so much from him. He has taught me to stand up for myself and not care others think. And he has taught me how important it is to enjoy every day. Starting the day with you, were some of the best.
Friend 1208 => She is Calm, cool, collected, laidback, brilliant, caring, an inspiration. Makes dreams become reality with lots of hard work behind the scenes. I always feel a sense of ease when I am with her. I never feel like I am being judged. She is really easy to open up too. Best workout buddy.
To this day, this is the version of them that I know and have had the honor to experience. Each and everyone of them, along with my family members are a constant inspiration in my life. They help me to be better, challenge me to do better, but also remind me to enjoy each day to the fullest. And because of that, I want to thank you for being such an positive impact on my life. Please know, you are inspiration to this world, and you are making a difference. Because of you, someone is smiling a little brighter, they are more confident in themselves, they are open to trying new things, and they are better because of it. Because of you.
“A different version of you exists in the minds of everyone that knows you” •Unknown
