Fact: Whyvillians enjoy choosing a variety of parts to put on their face, or, in other words, they like "picking their noses". Fact: Citizens spend a lot of time examining and purchasing parts and redecorating their animated faces. Fact: The styles that you choose to wear will sometimes reflect on your character.
If you believe that the last statement is of course a fact, then you might hold interest towards what I have to say. We all know that fashion and style is a dominant part of Whyville. It gives individuals the chance to expand their horizons by designing their own parts and manufacturing their own products. Customers have the chance to spend their money in a valuable way. Once they have acquired the part, it is theirs to do as they please. However, should there be limits towards what these parts can be used for?
Lately, I have noticed people stepping out of the boundaries and treading thin water. This means that they use face parts in an inappropriate manner. What example are we setting when they do this? Clothing items are a privilege and can be easily taken away from us. What purpose do you have when you exploit yourselves? Obviously not to become popular, because those who design animated faces that send the wrong message are far from being considered superior. Here are just some examples that I have seen in the past few hours:
While at the Pool Party I came across a crowd of girls who were all huddled together. Innocent enough, right? Wrong. These girls had on a typical outfit, except for the fact that their tops were bunched slightly below their chests and their bellybuttons were exposed. It seemed as if they used a patch of skin-coloured cover-ups and a beauty mark to establish this look. However, it seemed highly unsuitable for Whyville and not a moral message that I consider we should be sending out to others. What do parents, sponsors, and our younger citizens think of this?
I then continued to the Playground. As soon as I entered, I came across individuals who appeared to have something in their mouths. Upon further examination, I noticed it was something that looked similar to a pipe; however, I cannot quite categorize what it was. Think of what may be offensive about having a "pipe" in your mouth....
Some words or slogans that people put above their faces can be offensive. Although people realize that punishments could resurrect from taking advantage of the privilege to have a face, many people still consider doing so. They certainly don't realize that it affects how other people view our town. And yet others do not even comprehend that it is an animated face and is purposely supposed to look different from that of the outside world. Whyville is the only place where you can green, blue, or pink hair, several piercing on your faces, tattoos, and more without being judged. Humans can miraculously evolve into dogs, cats, bears, or aliens before your very own eyes.
We are constantly sending the wrong message with our actions. Maybe to you it doesn't seem offensive, but to others it might. Don't be another stereotype. Surely, everyone wants to look beautiful, hip, or cool, but there are many other ways in doing so. Show that you are mature and responsible and cover up. Take out those "pipes" and replace it with a welcome smile. Use some of that energy in other forms that are more useful. Whyville is not based upon fashion, although it is a diminutive aspect. Allow people to have a virtuous perspective on you while trying to maintain that diversity.
Live and learn,
-TIKE
