If I Could Do it All Again by Madeline

If I Could Do it All Again by Madeline - April 2016 Scholarship Essay

A common piece of advice that is asked is, "What would you share with someone younger than you?" This can be different for everyone. As we grow in age, we also grow in wisdom; wisdom we hope to pass down to those who haven't yet learned from experience.

The most important thing I have learned through my high school years is to surround yourself with the right people. As cliche as that may sound, it is honestly the most important thing I have learned. People may come and go, but you are stuck with yourself and the decisions you've made for the rest of your life. Sadly, it took me far too long to realize this. I followed my friends around in ninth and tenth grade, having no idea who I was or what I liked to do. It takes a lot of courage, but there is a point where you can no longer be a follower, you have to become yourself. I started to weed out my true friends from those who were only around me so they weren't alone. It had come to a point where I rather be alone than with fake friends, and I think that everyone gets to this point in their life. My advice would be to find who your true friends are as soon as possible. Don't waste time on those who won't be lasting friends. It is better to have a few true friends who will be with you through thick and thin than those who are only around when it is convenient.

This process isn't easy. During it, I was lonely, depressed, confused, and considered giving up. Deciding to put some friends in the back ground is difficult. They may wonder why you are ignoring them or no longer share what you used to. It is entirely your decision who stays in your life and who doesn't. If that person isn't who you want to have influencing you, then take them out. Your life is entirely your own, so it is important that you take control of it and not let your life run away without you.

Removing people from your life is painful, but the ultimate goal is to surround yourself who build you up. Encircling yourself with people who are the best influence and lead you to a better life. I would share this advice with a younger me and definitely with someone who is struggling in their early high school years. Our lives are our own, and we need to be careful who we share them with.