Vulnerability by Elijah

Vulnerability by Elijah - July 2025 Scholarship Essay

If I could impart one piece of advice to my past self, it would be to embrace vulnerability and allow myself to truly feel. In my younger years, I often built walls around my heart, fearing the pain that vulnerability might bring. I believed that by staying guarded, I could protect myself from disappointment and heartbreak. However, I now realize that in shielding myself from the lows, I also inadvertently muted the highs, creating a life that was safe but often lacked the depth and richness that comes from genuine connection.

By allowing myself to be vulnerable, I would have opened myself up to deeper, more meaningful relationships. I would have been more willing to take risks, to pursue my passions wholeheartedly, and to embrace the unknown with courage and optimism. I would have learned to trust my instincts and to believe in my own worthiness, knowing that even in moments of failure or rejection, I am still deserving of love and belonging. Embracing vulnerability is not about being weak or fragile; it's about being brave enough to show up authentically, with all my imperfections and insecurities, and to trust that I am enough.

Ultimately, my advice to my past self would be to let go of the fear of being hurt and to embrace the full spectrum of human emotions. By allowing myself to feel deeply, I would have lived a more vibrant, connected, and meaningful life. I would have learned that vulnerability is not a weakness but a superpower, one that allows me to build stronger relationships, pursue my dreams with passion, and find true joy in the simple moments of life.