Over the summer, I was given the task of writing an essay based on someone who has positively influenced my life. Please read the essay and tell me what you think.
The person who has held the most positive impact on me is Phylicia Harington. She has played a very important role in the upbringing of me. Since 2013, the lessons she has taught me have inspired me to become a better me, every day. For this, I am forever grateful. The three lessons she has taught me area: to be comfortable in my own skin, to give respect in order to get it, and to always make the right decisions for me! Over the years, these lessons have helped me to become a strong and independent young man.
The first lesson is, “You are who you are. There is nothing I, you, or anyone else can do about it. Live baby.” When she spoke these words to me, my thirteen-year-old mind could not fully develop that statement. Lost for words, I asked myself, “How do you feel?” The only thought I had was that this teacher genially cared. She made it crystal clear that accepting who/what we are is the first step of living a happy life.
The second lesson was, “If you want people to respect you, you need to respect them.” She had noticed a change in my behavior as the year progressed, so she spoke these words to me. She went on to say that I would never be satisfied with anyone’s attitude towards me if I always had an attitude. She then told me that it was time I take responsibility fot my actions. I t is not always someone else’s fault as to why I am not having the best day. Although I did not want to heart it, it was the truth. Now, I can honestly say I try not to put the blame on anyone else for my behavior.
The third and final lesson was, “You only live once. Make decisions that are right for you. People will try to get you to do something stupid, but you are not the only one dealing with the consequences. Do understand though, you will make a lot of wrong decisions. Just do not make the same mistake over and over again.” I can honestly say that this has been the biggest fight, for me. I am still working on this, and she spoke these words five years ago. I had to learn that decisions not only affect now, but the near and far future too. It is up to me whether I make good or bad decisions. All I can really say is decisions, decisions.
In conclusion, Ms. Harrington has helped me build my confidence, learn the values of respect, and the importance of decision making. Allowing Ms. Harrington to enter my life was truly one of the best decisions I have ever made. I would not take it back, for anything in the world. Because of these lessons, I live by this quote: “I can, and I will!”
love this, she seems like a great person!