Perserverance by Ashala

Perserverance by Ashala - July 2016 Scholarship Essay

The most important lesson that I have learned from a teacher is perseverance. The ability to move past shortcomings and failures. My teacher quoted this statement from Winston Churchill “Failure is not fatal, it is the courage to continue that counts.” These words made a lasting impression in my life. It reminds me not to waste time crying over spilled milk but instead get more milk. People spend an enormous amount of time thinking about the what ifs, the wish I would haves and the should haves. More often than not they are frozen by indecision, afraid to make another mistake. I believe true learning comes when you have to pick yourself up, analyze the situation and make a different move. But move you must; go fill up your glass again.
Perseverance became a necessary character trait as I filled in college applications. Should the rejection by colleges be a reflection on my worthiness. I think not. I was determined to not let failure stop me from moving forward in the destiny I wish to achieve for my life. My failures up until this point are not fatal. I live, I breathe, I celebrate another day to get it right. I will give my all in what I want. Knowing that there will be obstacles and hard lessons does not deter me. If the outcome that I want does not happen initially, then I will try again.
I believe that my test of character is not in how well I celebrate the easy victories but how well I hold my head up when I lose and how soon do I get back in the fight. Will I have the courage to continue even if I have to walk alone?