Jason Jones’ path to Mr. Norristown was like a movie screenplay. A humble beginning, an obstacle overcome, a sworn enemy, and a journey, in pursuit of greatness.
Jones’ worldview is like Slyvia Plath’s fig tree analogy . . . just not depressing. Each fig on the many branches represents a different and exciting future, but instead of being paralyzed with indecision, Jones vows to reach out and try everything at least once.
One such future is to take part in Mr. Norristown.
Initially, he declared his intention to go head-to-head with fellow contestant Derrel Johnson.
“He’s my arch nemesis… I despise Derrel with every fiber of my being,” Jones said. “I want to beat Derrel. If I don’t, whatever; if I do, I’m going to rub it into his face until we’re old and dead.”
Jones describes their competition in Mr. Norristown as the culmination of their friendly rivalry- a season finale, if you will.
“This is the conclusion, the final battle.”
Though this rivalry has been at the forefront of his mind, Jones also notes he has been participating for the fun of it. It’s another thrilling opportunity ripe and ready for the taking.
Jones has found himself chasing many such opportunities as a senior, a far cry from the student he once was.
“Back in 9th grade I was kind of–not a recluse–but I didn’t really talk to too many people,” Jones said. “I never imagined myself doing something like this, so it’s a nice change of pace.”
Jones, like many others, found himself struggling to adjust to high school as a freshman.
“I remember my very first day, I saw my class, and the door was closed. All I had to do was knock, but I did not want to do that because the class was completely silent. So I just skipped the whole class.”
His apprehension and anxieties kept him from seizing opportunities and living life. His distance from old friends only added fuel to this growing flame.
“It was like a planet they were all orbiting and I was like Pluto,” Jones says. “I was slowly getting further and further away until I was all on my own.”
This forced Jones to meet new friends, who inspired him to get connected and not let life pass him by. Jones would no longer drift aimlessly through life but seize opportunities and open those previously closed doors. Jones even recalls a brief stint in wrestling, having joined when he heard his friend Dilly Bob was doing it.
“I feel like I would have been a new John Cena, but I had to work so I couldn’t do it anymore,” he said.
Jones wishes to leave high school with fond memories to look back on. It serves as proof that he was there, that he was a part of things.
“I want to leave a mark somehow,” he proclaimed. “I don’t care if it’s the smallest little mark. That’s a mark to me!”
Though Jones does have some unease about the future, he still looks forward to pursuing all of the hobbies he didn’t have time for in high school.
“Once I get the chance… once I get the opportunity to do it, I’m gonna take it and you’re gonna see my name in the news,” Jones says. “The best musician, wrestler, pro gamer, and everything else. I’m gonna be the master of all.”
Jones maintains an optimistic view. He has his sights set on various goals, all to the end of bringing enjoyment to his life. Will he accomplish all he sets out to do? Does it even matter? It’s about the active pursuit of what will make you happy, the excitement of not knowing what’s ahead.