Michigan by Rosemary

Michigan by Rosemary - July 2016 Scholarship Essay

To much of my dismay, the most important lesson taught to me by a teacher is that everything in life does not revolve around me. My freshman literature teacher, Mrs. Ruth has always been like a mentor to me and is always honest. With this lesson I have found myself having a better understanding of others opinions, my failures and conquering defeat.
I learned this unfortunate news one day after I lost the running for class president and went to her upset because I did not know why. The next time I learned this lesson, I was in a class debate in another class and asked Mrs. Ruth where I went wrong. She gave me the same advice in this situation adding to think about where my opponents were coming from. Time and time again, when a test grade does not go as planned or when I lose a softball game, Mrs. Ruth is always right there keeping me grounded.
In addition to learning to see the big picture, I have also learned that every failure and bad grade shapes me as a person. Until I was handed this word of thought, I did not grow as I should have. Now, in every struggle, I can see the light at the end of the tunnel because the reminder that I am not entitled to a success but hard work can get me there. My changed point of view strengthened my work ethic and caused me to become less tense.
In the end, I am also able to enjoy my success even more when it comes. My new mindset allows me to share my accomplishments with others more easily since I am well aware that I am tremendously supported by those around me. The lesson I picked may seem odd since most people do not like to hear that everything is not all about them, but most of my academic and athletic triumphs and joys all stem back to my conversation with Mrs. Ruth.
All and all, I cannot do anything but thank her for teaching me this since I have trouble seeing the bigger picture. Ultimately, I have a lesson that I can take with me through every challenge life throws me and no matter what the outcome, find peace and happiness in it. For that, I will always be thankful to Mrs. Ruth.