Different Lives, Same Friends by Michaela

Different Lives, Same Friends by Michaela - March 2024 Scholarship Essay

Growing up in Utah, I have always had friends with very similar beliefs and faith as me. Elementary school was easier for me that way, but I began to face a lot of difficulties with people who were different from me in Jr. High. I began to realize that I liked to have conversations with people who were different from me because it gave me new perspectives. It also taught me how I also needed to discuss my perspectives just as much as I listened.
In high school I quickly became close friends with many people who did not share the same perspectives and ideals that I did. The one thing that kept us friends through differing opinions and discussions was respect. I have found that when their is respect from both sides, anyone can get along.
Me and my best friend in high school, Bennett, could not have a bigger difference in opinions, but I love our friendship more than anything, and it stems down to the fact that he will listen to my opinions without any harsh tones or eye rolling. He won’t talk badly about my religion. And I do the same for him. I listen to him talk about differing politics and beliefs and try to understand where he is coming from.
Through our friendship, I have been able to move out of my childhood home and live with five girls who all have differing opinions on a vast amount of subjects. I have been able to maintain relationships through respect with every single one who shows me that same respect. Having people in my life with different opinions has really helped me understand the concept of differing opinions and it makes it easy for me to meet people who I grow to love.