Good Life Award - Winners
2007
Good Life Award Writing Contest
Honorable Mention
Zoe Ellen Smith
9th Grade, Centerville High School
| Like all teenagers I have goals and dreams. I want to succeed and feel accomplished in my life. To do this I will develop my talents, study hard, learn well, and make good and moral choices. By following these guidelines I can become anything that I want to be and overcome any roadblocks that might throw me off course during my teen years. One of my biggest goals is to get outstanding grades in school and go to a good college. When I am a senior and applying to colleges, I want to have the security of knowing that I tried hard and did well in school. When colleges look at my application I want them to say, “Wow! We want her to come to our school.” Getting good grades takes a lot of time, dedication, and hard work. I must complete all of the assignments, understand what I am learning and study each day. As soon as I know of a test or quiz then I try to begin to study so that I will remember everything, not be as stressed out, and promise myself a better grade. By following this plan I am more likely to get good grades. Music is one of the things I use to develop my talents and find joy, peace, and comfort. It also lets me express myself through song. Like most teenagers, I love music. Music can bring peace and is a way that helps me relieve tension and stress. When I play the piano or sing, it helps me express my feelings. By practicing I increase my ability and my self-esteem grows and I also have something good to share with other people. Most teenagers are pretty self-centered, but if we can find something to give to others to make them happier, we get away from that selfish phase and become happier and more mature. Music helps me do this by letting me share my talents with others. One of my goals is to become a music teacher after college. If I become a music teacher I could share my love with other people, especially children. Then, hopefully, they would see the joy, peace, and relief that music can bring to them. Another thing that I will do to make sure that I thrive during my teen years is make good and moral decisions. By not doing drugs, not dating too young or having sex, and choosing my friends wisely, I will avoid a lot of the roadblocks that other teenagers face daily. I will have a lot less stress, I will not have as many emotional issues, and I will be able to stay in school and fulfill my other dreams. I’ll lead a happier life. By working hard and trying my best I can succeed and overcome any obstacles to a good life. If I follow my dreams and not get discouraged, I can make my dreams become a reality and become anything I want to be. |