Tie-dying, abstinence from meat products, and practicing the teachings of a large Asian

man; these three subjects were what made up the inner workings of one

sophomore Keegan Sharp. Three simple words made up the label formed from these practices: a vegetarian Buddhist hippie. While opinions varied on the

reasoning behind vegetarianism, Sharp’s reasoning was a way to protect the

lives of animals. “I decided to be a vegetarian to lower the demand for meat to save animals,” Sharp said. “It’s cruel to them. If more and more people stop eating meat, I think that we can save animals’ lives.” Buddhism was based on the teachings of Buddha, the iconic man who traveled across southern Asia and taught people to eliminate negative practices from their lives. “I chose to be Buddhist because the idea of Christianity is too corrupt for me,” Sharp said. “It helps me live life in harmony with others. I meditate a lot, and I also think about what would make the world a better place, even if I couldn’t accomplish the things myself.”

“Hipsters” in the 1960s were not the same as hipsters today. Rather than beards, scarves, and tight pants, these “hippies” were those who practiced flower power ideals, such as meditating and wearing bright colors. “At first, being called a hippie was an insult because I was into the Beatles and nobody else was,” Sharp said. “Now I’ve grown used to it and try to embrace it. I think what people think makes me a hippie is my love of wearing tie-dye and rainbows, my love for animals, meditating, and trying to find the good in every situation.” Although Sharp’s label as a vegetarian Buddhist hippie was not expected of a usual high school environment, his anticipations were high as he dove into the upcoming year. “I’m looking forward to meeting new people and getting to become closer to friends who are already there,” Sharp said. “I think I’m going to fit in pretty well. I love hanging out with my band friends; they’re all very accepting of others, and I have a feeling that I will be more accepted and less judged than in junior high.”

Sophomore Keegan Sharp meditates on a park bench to reflect on events from the day. “I meditate because it helps me sort out things and focus on what I need to do, how to do it right, what would make people happy, and sometimes I just do it to clear my head,” Sharp said.

band, beatles and buddhaSophomore Keegan Sharp shares his special interests in his unique interests, beliefs, and customs

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