My unpopular opinion is that people prioritize prosperity over truth due to the normalization culture perpetuated by social media. This culture seeks to provide validation and comfort to users, but it is unrealistic for everyone to be constantly happy. In reality, striking a balance between positivity and negativity is crucial. The issue arises when inappropriate things are normalized, leading to support and defense from others. This toxic and manipulative mindset prevails on social media, where dissenting opinions are often dismissed as incorrect. Furthermore, This unpopular opinion is based on my observations of my generation, Generation Z. Our generation is characterized by various practices, personalities, beliefs, and identities. However, I believe that these aspects have taken a wrong turn due to the influence of social media. Social media's peak influence during our formative teenage years significantly shaped Generation Z. The normalization and cancel culture that emerged have fostered the promotion of absurd practices, invalidating truth while elevating falsehoods. In my previous statement, I highlighted the influence of social media on my generation's practices and beliefs, including Astrology and Numerology. Astrology, widely embraced today, often serves as an excuse for certain behaviors based on zodiac signs. For instance, phrases like "I'm a Virgo, that's why I'm rude" or "I'm a Pisces, which explains my selfishness" are common. In my opinion, relying on signs for self-expression is unnecessary and a cowardly way to justify character traits. Astrology encompasses more than just zodiac signs. Each sign is associated with daily horoscopes that offer predictions about the future. These horoscopes, received via email or other mediums, often forecast the week ahead or the emotional state based on planetary positions. Typically, these horoscopes emphasize positivity over negativity. Consequently, individuals place faith in these predictions, attributing real significance to them and praising their accuracy. However, when things go awry in their lives, they are left questioning why the horoscope did not fulfill its supposed duties. Additionally, where there is Astrology, Numerology follows. Numerology revolves around the belief that numbers possess inherent power. To engage with Numerology, individuals look for repeated numbers, particularly triplicate numbers like 333, 222, or 555. Those who believe in Numerology claim that these numbers are messages from the universe or their spirit guides. I hold the opinion that this belief is not true. However, I do acknowledge that numbers hold significance and meaning. After all, why wouldn't God communicate through all of His creations? The problem arises when people idolize and attribute exclusive power to numbers rather than acknowledging the creator behind them. I hold this opinion because of conflict. However, as a Christian, I must uphold the truth. I question why there seems to be an emerging environment that fosters deception. Life is not solely about constant positivity; we need challenges to learn and grow. Without balance, we cannot develop a disciplined mind. The normalization of wrongful actions or beliefs perpetuates a culture that lacks correction. Over time, these ideas manifest and attract like-minded individuals, forming groups centered around them. Consequently, if you hold a different belief, you risk being excluded and deemed wrong for not aligning with their misguided perspective. I wish it was different.

The last book I read was "Numbers That Preach," by Troy A. Brewer. The book is about understanding God's mathematical lingo. It has revolutionized my understanding of God's divine language and reinforced the importance of unwavering faith in His signs. Throughout my college journey, I have witnessed the undeniable presence of divine guidance, further strengthening my belief in the power of faith. Moreover, reading has been an essential point of my intellectual development and quest for knowledge. It is through the power of reading that I navigate the complexities of life, constantly seeking personal growth and fresh perspectives. During my initial year in college, I encountered financial hardships when my mother's application for a parent-plus loan was rejected, significantly impacting my expected financial aid. However, by God's grace, the situation took a miraculous turn. I received unexpected financial support, covering my tuition expenses entirely. This experience resonated deeply with the teachings of "Numbers That Preach," as I learned to recognize the signs of God's presence guiding me throughout my academic journey. It instilled in me a renewed trust in His divine guidance and opened my mind to broader perspectives. Reading has played an integral role in my personal and intellectual growth. Even as a child, I possessed an insatiable curiosity, which extended beyond the pages of books. During my spare time, I would embark on exploratory research, delving into diverse topics and gathering knowledge from various sources. Sharing these newfound insights with others filled me with immense joy, sparking engaging conversations. However, I soon realized that these research episodes were primarily for my own development, shaping my thinking patterns and influencing my demeanor even to this day. It is through reading that I can communicate my deepest emotions and unravel the mysteries of the unknown. For me, reading is far from a mere abstract pursuit; it holds practical significance in navigating real-life situations. Similar to the Bible's employment of parables to convey profound truths, "Numbers That Preach" serves as a practical guide. Reading acts as a vehicle, transporting me to rabbit holes or precipitous cliffs of knowledge. It cultivates personal growth, expands my perspectives, and facilitates intellectual and spiritual exploration. Reading has become an intrinsic trait that defines my identity and enables me to navigate the world with curiosity and a thirst for knowledge. By embracing reading as a transformative adventure, I continue to evolve and seek knowledge that broadens my horizons.

The biggest culprit of America's mental health crisis is social media. Social media is a platform for unrealistic, forced, and negative expectations. Additionally, It is a breeding ground for indirect persuasion of the human mind. Our minds are blinded or washed from seeing it as a facade. We know but continue to apply social media's ways into our lives. For instance, women participate in dangerous procedures, teens participate in dangerous challenges for views, societal expectations, and more. Also, it gives a time limit on things one wants to accomplish based on how old or young. It will make it seem like time is running out to have fun and succeed. All levels can collectively persuade to improve America's mental health crisis. For example, partake in screen time breaks. Each level can release programs or guides to limiting screen time. Additionally, to persuade an endurance break for cellphones. For example, when captivated by a device, one misses memorable and essential moments— like quality time with family and friends. Also, a missed opportunity for cognitive interactions to help build character. Not having these moments can affect one by needing more social skills in their environment. Furthermore, covid-19 plays a major role in the ongoing mental health crisis. People had to separate and be shut in a home for months. The majority of them dealt with mental health issues and were not comfortable with loneliness. Furthermore, people were shut in with horrible living conditions, broken relationships with family, and more. Equally important, elderly people who live alone. They were at a higher risk than most because of their health and age. It was the biggest toll on America's mental health. A potential contribution of Affordable or free therapy should be given to those still impacted by Covid-19. In fact, any illness that is inflicting their abilities to perform their best. For example, receiving therapy through unemployment, snap benefits, or documentation of low income. It can be given through all levels. Especially, at the personal level because of the amount of courage to reach out. It would tremendously help those in need to heal from old and fresh mental wounds. Lastly, societal expectations are the third culprit of America's ongoing health crisis. Society is the IV for social media. They are injecting it with deceiving and unrealistic expectations. It is a hive mind of opinions wanting to be truths. They constantly debate a woman's or a man's roles. Further, people emphasize their opinions on appearance because of how it makes them feel. The entire platform is twisted and conniving to the point that excessive consumption is poisonous to the human mind. As a result, people change their appearance. They will go as far as making permanent body procedures to please others. Consequently, a break is needed if social media is making one change themselves into someone they are not. The truth is needed. The truth needs to be consistent on a user's timeline, like negative news is consistent. Society misses out on so much trying to add their opinions into lives that are not theirs. Advice is great but constant objection about one's decisions is questionable. Furthermore, This factors into suicide rates. Young children are killing themselves, trying to live up to something impossible. It affects and hurts families across the nation. Therefore, the entire country needs to fast. It will weaken social media and strengthen their minds.