My senior year in high school I had one goal in mind, to get an athletic scholarship. I had always played basketball for my school team and could not imagine not playing for my college team. My high school coach told me that the further my team went into the state playoffs the more college coaches would be interested in me. Therefore, losing in my league’s championship by three points broke my heart because that was not far at all. At this point I was not too confident in my future and did not think things could get any worse from here on out.
The Easter before my senior year one of my closest aunts had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. The survival rate of this cancer is incredibly low but my aunt was an upbeat person and never seemed to be too worried. My aunt had been going to chemotherapy during my senior year and it seemed to be going very well. Her body showed no signs of breaking down and it almost made our family forget about her condition a little bit. Then within a week of my team losing in the championship, her condition worsened and her doctor was suggesting that moving her to a hospice would be the best thing to do. Witnessing one of my closest aunts struggling for her life made me realize that I should not let basketball control my life and be thankful that I was healthy enough to play a sport.
After her passing I tried to not let a loss in a basketball game dictate my every move anymore. I will always remember her as a woman that was always laughing and more importantly a strong person but the last few days of her life will always stick with me. A couple of weeks after her passing I got a couple of offers that I liked to play college basketball. I got a chance to pursue my dream, but the passing of my aunt taught me the importance of life itself and that nothing is promised. I wish she could have seen where I am today but I'm thankful for the lessons that she taught me.
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3 comments:
You're essay was very moving and well thought out. The fact that you pulled from an important personal life event was very effective in gaining a belief for this essay. By mentioning it, you helped the reader/listener gain a feel for your life and why you believe in what you believe. Your essay was well written and effective in a speech.
I think your essay was very good. You were able to tell your story and explain how it has changed your life. Is there anything that your aunt said about basketball? Did she have any influence directly? Maybe that is something you could consider to add in, if it applies.
I really enjoyed reading your essay. It was really inspiring to hear your story. Very moving, good job.
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