Stand By Me by Ashton

Stand By Me by Ashton - March 2024 Scholarship Essay

Working closely with my friend Cole at a camp for disabled children was a profoundly transformative experience that shaped my understanding of empathy, resilience, and the power of friendship. Cole grew up rich. Not a little rich, but crazy rich. But the funny thing about Cole is that he would throw it all away in an instant if he could. He hated all that stuff. Cole viewed life from the perspective of a kid with learning disabilities, who was a survivor of a difficult home life, but has kindness and empathy to share. I don't have learning disabilities, but I have always battled anxiety. My home life is a bit messy, and we scrape and struggle to get by. Cole and I met through my grandmother when we were little and have grown up together. As we embarked on this journey to Camp Stand By Me together, I discovered the profound impact of embracing diversity, overcoming adversity, and finding strength in each other's differences.

At the outset, I was uncertain of how to navigate the dynamics of our friendship within the context of the camp. My friend's unique perspective brought to light the challenges faced by individuals with learning disabilities and difficult home lives, which differed greatly from my own experiences. However, as we immersed ourselves in the camp community, I quickly realized that our differences were not obstacles but rather opportunities for growth and connection.

One of the most significant lessons I learned was the importance of empathy and understanding. Through his experiences and insights, I gained a deeper appreciation for the struggles faced by individuals with learning disabilities and the importance of patience and compassion in supporting them. My friend's resilience in the face of adversity inspired me to adopt a similar mindset, to approach challenges with optimism and determination, and to celebrate victories, no matter how small. Cole's spirit was contagious, not just to me, but to the campers as well.

Working alongside my friend at the camp provided countless opportunities for personal and professional growth. Together, we navigated the complexities of serving children with disabilities, from facilitating activities to providing emotional support. Our collaboration taught me the importance of teamwork, communication, and mutual respect in achieving common goals. The camp experience fostered a sense of community and belonging that transcended our individual differences. Surrounded by dedicated counselors and compassionate campers, I felt a profound sense of purpose and fulfillment in serving others. Through acts of kindness, generosity, and compassion, we created a supportive environment where everyone felt valued and accepted.