Quote:
Originally Posted by Matsimela
(Post 1637963)
Girl, im not gonna lie to you. I know A LOT of people that pledged and changed. Some people get caught up in this thing i like to call the "greek matrix" where they think being in a frat/sorority makes them better than everyone else in the entire world. Whether or not you change after you pledge is on you. But dont let anyone discourage you from wanting to join an org if thats what you really wanna do.
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If you think about it (the collective you, not YOU personally), this can and does happen to people at so many different points in their lives.
For example, if you join a sports team, you may start "acting" like the other sports guys. Working out more, watching game films with the team, and resting the night before the game. You might gain confidence, and earn some success. People start to know your name.
Suddenly, people start saying, "you've changed".
When you join a GLO, you likely spend a lot of time with other members, at meetings, social events, philanthropy, etc. Your GLO may have a "call" or a do or say something that is unique to them. You wear the same colors or letters regularly. You may have moved into their house, or represent them on campus committees. You may walk in groups on your way to class or out at night. You are psyched that you found a group of friends, or joined a group you had your heart set on. You have a lot of different opportunities that maybe your older friends do not.
Suddenly, people start saying, "you've changed.
You have been working at the same place for years, when finally, you get that promotion and raise. You may get a company car and the president may invite you to vacation with him at his time share for a week. You buy a new car because until now, it just wasn't in the budget. You are less stressed now that you are finally contributing to your 401k or don't have to worry as much as to how to afford your daughter's braces. You feel proud because you manage people now, and you've never been the leader in anything. You may even be your friend's boss now. Finally, your major in underwater basket weaving is worth something.
Suddenly, people start saying, "you've changed".
My point is, we change constantly. We change due to new assocations (people), environments (roommates, houses, neighborhoods, jobs), financial status, etc. Often, the people who were close to the person going through the change are nervous - they worry about what is going to happen to their relationship?
Now onto what I think this poster means. With change, people may feel like they are better than those who didn't get chosen join, promote, make the team, etc. But most of the time, I can guarantee, that attitude changes are likely a front. They are petrified. They got what they finally wanted, or worked for, and now what? Should they dress differently? Talk differently? In many cases, they have to. Team jerseys, letters, suits and ties....there are "uniforms" everywhere.
I don't think that the situation is unique to Greeks only. It happens over and over. How we respond to change within our own lives is what's important. Parents always say "be yourself", and now that I am an adult, I can tell you that it's so very true. If you are true to yourself, then any changes you experience will be positive ones.
Best of luck.