This is a picture of me in relief society. Can you see me?

Okay. So maybe it's not quite that extreme. But that's what it feels like. Provo has a bad influence on me. I have talked with a good friend of mine several times about whatever it is about Provo that makes people feel bad about themselves.

Most of the students at BYU are doing pretty well with their lives. They are driven. They are smart, talented, good-looking, thin, and friendly. The competition is cutthroat. Everyone is desperately trying to be more talented, more spiritual, more attractive--more whatever it is than everyone else is.

Anyway, I've noticed that this attitude is affecting me. I spend way too much time worrying about myself and my inadequacies. I don't like it, and I don't like how it makes me feel.

I've been thinking about this lately, so the timing was perfect for me to find this website. I spent some time this afternoon reading through some of their articles, and I like it. I also decided that it is time for me to go on a media fast. Obviously I can't eliminate the internet completely, but from today through April 23 I am not going to watch any movies or television shows. One month with slightly diminished negative media influence. I guess it won't change Provo, but maybe it will help me deal with it a little better.