Learning to Live by Ariel

Learning to Live by Ariel - April 2015 Scholarship Essay

Education is the bridge in which individuals can manifest their ideals and desires into a practical skill and opportunity. By pursuing a higher education, the full potential of a person’s strengths can be equipped. The exploration and challenging of cognitive abilities provides a setting in which a student can begin to understand their own character and how they can contribute to society as a whole. Every single person is of value and unique in the skills and ideas they possess. Education seeks to develop these skills and utilize them to better improve the person in a holistic manner. When a person reaches a confidence in self and purpose, their abilities can be transferred to the community at large.

It is in challenging ourselves today that there will be growth and success in tomorrow. Education provides one such challenge. In line with Augustinian philosophy, education acts as a light in which the shadows of opinion can be illuminated. By approaching life with an openness to learning, an individual will allow their minds to absorb truth that will translate into empathy, respect, and responsibility for mankind. Striving to be the greatest one can be is not only self-fulfilling but will overflow into the daily interactions with society.

Human beings possess an intellect and spirit that far exceeds that of animals or nature. But like nature, a role exists for every individual. The grass does its best to clothe the earth and provide nutrition for many creatures. Rain provides renewal, refreshment, and restoration. Mankind has a gift for thought and skill. The cultivation of this gift will yield a harvest of great achievements in every area of life. However, the most important and timeless achievement is in the form of relationships. The individual who has learned the value of living in a selfless manner has achieved one of the highest honors in education. By contributing individual strengths to the community a person experiences true success. The acquisition of education is not only the starting point, but also the guiding principle in living life exceptionally. It is in becoming learners every day that we can teach the greatest lessons and unveil our highest potential.