Katie Morrison

As a little girl, I quickly picked up on things I liked and disliked. It started with food, and often clothing, but very quickly led to personality traits.

My favorite storybook from a very young age was Junie B. Jones. Now, if you’ve ever heard of, or read Junie B. Jones, you probably know that she is a very unique little girl. She was naughty but also packed with bravery, and most importantly wit. I wanted to be just like her when I grew up, so as I lived each day I strived to be more and more like Junie. However, as I begin to grow older, I have come to the sad realization that wanting to be like Junie forever isn’t exactly ideal. She has many good pieces, but some pieces that I cannot hold onto forever. I cannot forever fear enthusiasm and liveliness. 

I just recently attended Wyoming Auxiliary Girls State, in Cheyenne. It was one of the most amazing experiences of my life. For those who don’t know what Girls State is, let me tell you. Girls State is a program for high school 11th grade girls in the state of Wyoming, to learn more about the Wyoming system of government and gain more pride in our state. While I am not overly knowledgeable about government, I went into this week with a sense of fear. Out of fear I quickly opted to use my Junie B. tactics. I grew quiet and was OK with not coming out of my shell. Much like the time Junie B. stayed behind her teacher’s desk to avoid the real world. The longer I sat quietly, surrounded by exciting, outgoing girls, I grew more confidence. As I grew out of my shell I quickly began to use the good aspects I learned from Junie B. I used my wit, charm, and sassiness, to build great bonds and make many new friendships. I learned lots that week, because I was able to get out of my shell and live in the moment. 

At Girls State I got to take part in many great opportunities. My favorite thing was of course dressing each day in my business clothing, and taking off on a new adventure. I got to be a part of many great discussions, and learn about the other perspectives of girls my age. I served as a senator that week, and took great joy in being placed in the Senate. I was also elected as one of the justices of the Supreme Court which was one of the coolest opportunities. But most importantly I learned to be outgoing and enthusiastic. I could not have done it without my knowledge of little miss Junie B. Jones.