Overcoming Generational Curses by Justin

Overcoming Generational Curses by Justin - October 2019 Scholarship Essay

Justin Tyrone Curtis
25 September, 2019

Generational curses are a worldwide epidemic. They act as an hourglass for the next line. Within this time, kin are forced to decide whether they take on it’s past generation’s struggles or ascend from them. Marvin Morris, my grandfather, greatly exemplifies the definition of creating a route of escape from generational curses which inspired me to be ambitious and pursue English Education.
The Morris family were farmers. Early 1960s, daily life entailed a laid out schedule of farming; feeding livestock, cleaning houses and stables, planting crops, and harvesting. Appreciation was rarely shown from his father. Hugs, “nice job[s],” and “love you[s]” were rare. His push off for success occurred at the age of 16 whilst leaving from home due to years of abuse from his father. Marvin resided with his grandparents who were poor and taking care of their other daughter’s twins, which she bore at a young age. He knew to get to his long term goal lots of time and energy were going to be applied along the way. Thus leading him to a series of odd jobs.
Throughout the duration of his highschool experience, at William C. Jason Comprehensive High School, he worked with his grandfather on the weekends farming in 1968. While balancing school work and family jobs, he worked pizza delivery and at Townsends chicken plant. After leaving for college, he worked two jobs during the school year; the post office doing deliveries and at Delaware State University’s library, from 1969 to 1972. Summer’s varied from working in Dupont Experimental Company, other plants, dishwashing, and many more occupations. He pushed to learn more at University, resulting in his Doctorates in Education. My grandfather is currently retired from teaching in the Cape Henlopen School District. In contrast, many millennials today don’t go to the extent past generations have to achieve their goals. Back then, it was a “means of survival.” A lot of minorities faced the same rigorous trials of upbringing as my grandfather. You had yourself to depend on solely.
Marvin’s experience as a student at William C. Jason, a “Vocational Negro High School,” had all teachers of color which was detrimental to his view on the attainability of pursuing education. In addition, there was a high demand for males of color in the teaching field. He had a strong passion for reading and skill building, which in turn made him suitable for the teaching field. Whilst attending Delaware State University, he remembers a huge influence in his life. Mr.Coleman was the head of the financial department and he helped him pay off a lot of his tuition. To this day, he’s more than thankful to him for his help because it marked a huge growth within his success.
From his experience, the characteristics that he developed were determination, perception, patience, and charisma. Determination is the recipe to success. A geared mind can make it easier to get through the troubling hoops of life that occur. Perception is being able to “see yourself doing something.” If you don’t see yourself doing something it most likely means it’s not the right fit. Thirdly, patience is key. It takes time to get to where you want to go in life. It’s like a painting, many steps have to be applied to create the big picture. In the end, it will be rewarding; leaving you secure financially and content with your career choice. Last, “people remember the first impression you left them with.” People come in and out of your life and might be essential to giving you that “push” in the right direction. Be courteous. You’ll find others will be more than willing to help you when you need it. Success definitely affects your financial well being but there is more to life; family, friends, and memorable adventures. A support system is important to always have.
In conclusion, I share a love for reading and the need for continual self development. I am spreading my horizons in literature, guitar playing, and my painting ability. Similar to his outlook on his teachers at William C. Jason, I saw potential for success in English education within him.Thus leading to my determination to attend Wesley College of Dover, DE and continue my family’s legacy.