There's nothing high in "high moral ground"
Today I was challenged to stand on my ground. Most people would call it the "high moral ground," but I don't understand why it's called the "high moral" ground. There's nothing high and fun about it. And in the moment it doesn't feel moral. It's just plain dirt -- when you stomp on it, a puff of dust will cover your shoe. It's solid, but can be kicked up with effort and force.Ā
During choir today, a good friend asked to look at my Physics homework. We have become closer through our time together in choir, and honestly our friendship is one of the best things that has happened to me in high school.
But when she looked at my notebook and began to copy my answers, I told her I didn't like it. I didn't allow people to copy my homework. Honestly I'm half-dead today so the implication of my actions on our friendship didn't pass through my mind.Ā
She asked me why I would do that. It was as if she was confused at the way I reacted. You don't learn much in real physics, most people bs the homework, and most of the people I know just copy off each other. She told me "It's physics...it doesn't even matter."
But when she said that I woke up. I really did. Because it does matter. Cheating on a midterm and cheating on a homework assignment are both still cheating in the end. Sure, you can say that it's not as "severe to an extent," but as much as one may try to categorize it....the bottom line is that cheating is cheating.
Today, through this experience I feel more assertive (aka freaking awesome) and definitely my stance and reply to cheating has been solidified. I don't have to be afraid...and it feels good.
As for our friendship, ehh, we'll work on it. If something this little gets in the way we care for each other, then something needs to change.Ā
