Gratitude For The Whole by James

Gratitude For The Whole by James - November 2016 Scholarship Essay

I can only imagine the array of college experience on the horizon, however, if I had to narrow it down to a few fundamentals, I can see my gratitude surrounding the promise of a developed self-reliance paired with the humble nature of a “team player.”

Throughout my life I’ve been fortunate enough to appreciate and experience the fruits of honest labor. I am constantly inspired by those that pull themselves up by their bootstraps and with drive and determination achieve the impossible. I believe that college is a garden through which one must take responsibility in order to make things grow. I am thankful for the future; each and every opportunity to prove to myself that I am capable of caring for the seeds that I’ve planted. As ideas begin to develop and grow, I begin to reaffirm my ability of self-reliance. As this confidence begins to flourish I am able to step out, meet others, and begin to collaborate.

“It takes a village.” This saying spread through the fertile soils of my mind as I was studying Permaculture in Chang Mai, Thailand. This is where I began to understand the concept of self-reliance in a group atmosphere. As we built houses, bridges, and gardens it was as if each decision we made was made together. This integrative harmony is what I strive for. I am thankful for each opportunity that college will provide for me in working with others.

As I move forward with my college education I am so thankful for each and every day that comes my way. I will do my best to learn from every experience, good or bad. All the while, embracing my ability to find inspiration within myself, so that I can bring more to a team, working together to change the world.