By Julia Weatherhead
Limestone School, grade 11
With attention to the problems we face in society today, it takes a special person to make a difference. I want to be that person who makes a difference. I believe life is not like a blooming rose, it is more like a thorny bush. Life consists of negative people who say and do things that are hurtful; these things can push them over the edge where they think their life is worthless. However, it takes a person with a positive influence to change their thinking; an act of kindness or a helpful gesture can help them see that people do care.
A lot of people struggle with personal problems in their lives that either might be at home or at school. I believe one way to show kindness is to share your love toward others by simply giving them a sweet smile. Furthermore, I think not only showing them love, but also showing them that you care by helping them with a good gesture. For example, if they may need help with school work in a certain class, I could try to help or lead them to others who might be able to help. Another good gesture would be to introduce myself to new students and show them around. As a result, students would feel comfortable to come to me if they are troubled. I would like to be that person, who others can trust and confide in.
Additionally, I believe the best thing a friend could do is to offer them time to speak openly and share their heart to you. Most of all, I would definitely listen to their sound of voice and their words, because what they might be saying may be the struggles they are going through. I would allow them to pour out their misery, frustrations and emotions. On the other hand, I truly believe giving advice to the person would definitely make them feel they are truly cared about and just to let them know you’re there for them. Moreover, I might be able to enlighten them with my life lessons and experiences, which may help them to understand their purpose in life. Finally, how wonderful it is to know that you have made a difference to a person you showed kindness to; you were their comfort at the time of need just like a child who runs to his mother for comfort.
I believe that Rachel Scott was one of the greatest influences who we can learn from today and cherish her kind words in our hearts. Even though her enemies flared at her with hatred words, remarks and actions, she was willing to follow her faith in a way where she could enlighten the world. She respected her opponents, even though she suffered emotionally from their hurtful words and actions toward her. She forgave others and herself. She was willing to show kindness and sympathy to the disabled, the new students and the lost. She put others first before herself. Most of all, she was not afraid of dying. The following quote in her diary before she was killed should encourage all who faced the same trials. “Don’t let your character change color with your environment. Find out who you are and let it stay its true color.”
All in all, I believe if we take the time and learn from our mistakes, we may be able to help those who are going through the same things, and if we take that one small step to show some kindness we will start a chain reaction. I encourage people to show kindness, become friendly, and make a difference like Rachel Scott. Truly become that blooming rose and choose not to be the thorny bush. It will change your life.
