Mr. Kane Got Blacklisted

Joe was at a loss for words.

Keegan looked at him, “So you don’t like it, but you don’t want to change it?”

Joe remained silent.

Why did it feel like he was getting a lecture from the top student back in high school? Serious, but to the point.

He opened his mouth, wanting to argue, but no words came out. After a while, he finally said, “I didn’t think that far.” He had only been focused on defying his family.

Keegan said, “Your life is your own. Whether you take it seriously or just go through the motions, it’s still your life. Ignoring what you don’t like won’t make it go away. Just getting by won’t solve the problem; it’ll still be there.”

“You go through school half-heartedly, graduate half-heartedly, then maybe you get a job or stay at home. And then what? Is that the life you want?”

Joe stared at Keegan for a long time before admitting, “No.”

He didn’t enjoy his major, so he didn’t put in much effort, just wanting to graduate quickly. But as Keegan pointed out, what happens after graduation? Should he find a job in his field or just work at his family’s company? Neither option appealed to him. He’d spent four years just getting by and gained nothing.

it feels too late to change my major,” Joe said,

do anything. Don’t limit yourself. Remember that student who retook the college entrance exams this year and scored high enough to pick a

sighed, “Why don’t you two start a class for lost causes? The way you talk makes me feel like if I don’t study hard, there’s no hope in

succeed without a great education, but that’s rare. Most successful people didn’t do poorly in school. Even ordinary people can secure a stable job

Stella were

is your social circle. When you need help or information, people will respond based on the value you bring, not just how

make friends? Isn’t that kind of relationship not genuine from the

you. Whether you keep going, stop, or change direction, you’re choosing your companions. If your goals align, you’ll have shared experiences, and that’s where the connection comes

friends based on their usefulness. I’m saying it’s like running a marathon. It doesn’t matter how fast or slow you go, the goal is the same. People with

not waste time, but Keegan broke it down and explained why it was

for dealing with young people. First Julian, now Joe—Keegan

before, now called him

I agree with what you said, so I’ll follow your advice.

smiled, “Let’s talk after you pass your exams

waved and ran into