Nobody likes a complainer. No one ever says, “Oh, I just love how they always find something to complain about.” As someone who has done very little else other than complain in the editorials of Volume 53, I feel qualified to speak on this topic.

Disclaimer: The word “complain” in this editorial can easily be replaced by “critique,” “advocate for,” or “eloquently illustrate areas for improvement.”

Now, in these past eight issues, I have “complained” about: online rumors about Kate Middleton, senior stealth tag, school spirit, honoring community members with complex legacies, the eternal parking issue, grading disparity across departments, the new service learning requirement, political engagement and discussion, AP season, guest speakers, and no HTPQ nights, to name a few.

If I lost you somewhere in that list, the bottom line is that I’ve complained a lot. Now, I hope I can impart my last (and first) piece of wisdom in my final editorial: don’t stop complaining!

Yes, this is contradictory. Nobody may like a complainer, but we also need them. I vote for complaining, but I have four rules if you do.

First rule of complaining: have a point. I, like everyone, have fallen into the habit of complaining just to complain. Ranting is a pastime of mine, but there is a reason no one’s job is ranting: It doesn’t solve anything. If you are going to criticize, think about what you want to see instead and propose a solution (For an example, see the last, very short paragraph of this editorial).

Second rule of complaining: always be grateful. You can complain while being grateful. It is possible to be very thankful for something and still complain; take for example, the incredible education we receive at the Upper School yet still find faults in. In fact, acknowledging that you have the privilege of complaining gives you credibility and makes your complaints more valid.

Third rule of complaining: do something. I recognize that not every complaint needs to be shared. But, when you see a problem, approach someone with the power to change it. My notes app is filled with complaints that go nowhere, but what good does that do? For example, every month, I write two of these editorials that may only be read by three people (including my parents), but hopefully that third person does something with it.

Fourth rule of complaining: don’t doubt yourself. Remember, Knights, who we are at our core: complainers. Complaining is the first thing we bond over at Bivouac and our unofficial, fifth school value. When you see a problem, it is easy to convince yourself it’s not that bad or your opinion isn’t important. This is called gaslighting, and enough other people in your life will try to do it to you, so don’t beat them to it. Complain how you see fit, and of course, don’t take anything in this editorial too seriously. After all, this is just the advice of a complainer, and, as we all know, nobody likes a complainer.