Cards of Inspiration by Allison

Cards of Inspiration by Allison - November 2018 Scholarship Essay

I never got to pick a yearbook quote because it was just something my high school didn't do. I was very disappointed when I found out so it's neat that I get to choose one here. If I had to pick a senior yearbook quote it would be, "It's more important to master the cards you're holding than to complain about the ones your opponents were dealt." by Grimsley from Pokémon Black and White. I know it may be a little childish picking a quote from a video game, but videogames, and especially Pokémon, are a big part of who I am. Besides that, I have also always seen yearbook quotes as either funny jokes or things to learn from. The quote I have chosen is definitely something that I feel people could learn from, and I am one of those people.

My whole life I have compared myself and my possessions to others. It’s something I’ve struggled with for a long time. It’s hindered a lot of my growth and acceptance of myself and this quote reminds me that it’s not about what others have. I feel like we as a society are so pressured to look at what everyone else has. I am an artist, and this mindset has pushed me to endlessly compare myself to other artists and what they are producing. Now, to an extent that is okay, it’s how you learn, but when it keeps you from seeing any talent within yourself at all, then there’s a problem. That’s why this quote resonates with me so much. Not only is it from one of my favorite franchises, but it also connects to something I struggle with every day. It shows me that while I may not have mastered my cards yet, I do have cards that are uniquely my own and I can learn to master them over time if only I let go of what my “opponents” have. But I also just really enjoy the kind of “stick it to em” and hopeful attitude it brings.