There have been times where I have over-thought about the future and also times I have been too hard on myself. During these times I’d tell my mom my worries about living up to my own expectations of myself and she would give me advice. My mom always gives me helpful advice but I remember a certain time where something she said really stuck with me. One day I was taking a walk with my mom to the post office and I remember feeling very anxious. That whole day I was looking at major choices, and career options which resulted in stressing myself out because I did not have an idea on what I would choose. At that moment, my mom told me the phrase “the one who perseveres, reaches.” This was the first time I’ve heard my mom say this phrase. Hearing this reassured me, and it continues to reassure me to this day. This phrase is important to me because it encourages me to believe in myself and it also motivates me to work hard. Whenever I have doubts in myself or feel discouraged, this phrase reminds me to continue to try my best and remain determined. I am still undecided on what career path I would like to follow but I don’t stress about it anymore. This phrase allows me to take everything one day at a time and because of it I know eventually I will be where I am meant to be. This phrase has also helped in other times of my life such as when I am having bad days. When I think of this phrase, it inspires me to not give up any of my goals because of any negative thoughts or feelings I may have at times. The phrase helps me keep in mind that since these feelings and thoughts are temporary, they shouldn’t influence permanent decisions. This phrase also helps me generally get through any stressful or difficult times. One specific time where this phrase supported me during a tough time was when I was going through personal troubles meanwhile having many important exams and projects due. I felt a lot of pressure and stress so I felt like giving up on my projects and exams but then I reminded myself of the phrase my mom told me it motivated me to see it through. In the end, remaining committed to my work paid off because I ended up increasing my grade to an A in my classes. I believe anyone can use this phrase or any phrases similar to this one at any tough time in their life because it is very supportive. The people who I think can most benefit from knowing this phrase are people who can tend to overthink or become overwhelmed similar to myself.
I feel many people can relate to hearing advice, lessons, or phrases and words from the older generations in their community and family. When you’re younger and you hear these phrases and words you don’t really think much of them. However, as you get older you begin to understand what the phrases and words really mean and how impactful they are. I believe everyone carries a part of their community that helps them get through difficult times. For example, In “TELL ‘EM ALL TO COME AND GET ME: A YEAR OF BEING ‘ALRIGHT’” by Hanif Willis-Abdurraqib, he mentions the song Alright by Kendrick Lamar as something that gets him through wreckful times. “It meets you at eye level and gives you what you need — an escape from the fight, or a push to get back into the fight. It is the warm nod and knowing smile from a black face emerging in a sea of white (WILLIS-ABDURRAQIB).” This song gives Willis-Abdurraqib the same feeling I get when I am reminded of the phrase “the one who perseveres, reaches.” Different phrases, words, and songs will connect to people and communities differently, but ultimately they all have significant meanings to everyone.
Excellent and insightful!