![life lesson essay examples Become a Writer Today](https://becomeawritertoday.com/wp-content/webp-express/webp-images/uploads/2018/09/cropped-BAWT_Colourlarge-e1536943908666.png.webp)
![](http://sektorel.online/777/templates/cheerup/res/banner1.gif)
Essays About Life Lessons: Top 5 Examples and 7 Prompts
Read our guide to see the top examples and prompts on essays about life lessons to communicate your thoughts effectively.
Jordan Peterson once said, “Experience is the best teacher, and the worst experiences teach the best lessons.” The many life lessons we’ll accumulate in our life will help us veer in the right direction to fulfill our destinies. Whether it’s creative or nonfiction, as long as it describes the author’s personal life experiences or worldview, recounting life lessons falls under the personal or narrative essay category.
To successfully write an essay on this topic, you must connect with your readers and allow them to visualize, understand, and get inspired by what you have learned about life. To do this, you must remember critical elements such as a compelling hook, engaging story, relatable characters, suitable setting, and significant points.
See below five examples of life lessons essays to inspire you:
IMAGE | PRODUCT | |
---|---|---|
Grammarly | ||
ProWritingAid |
1. Life Lessons That the First Love Taught Me by Anonymous on GradesFixer.Com
2. the dad’s life lessons and the role model for the children by anonymous on studymoose.com, 3. studying history and own mistakes as life lessons: opinion essay by anonymous on edubirdie.com, 4. life lessons by anonymous on phdessay.com, 5. valuable lessons learned in life by anonymous on eduzaurus.com, 1. life lessons from books, 2. my biggest mistake and the life lesson i learned, 3. the life lessons i’ve learned, 4. life lessons from a popular show, 5. using life lessons in starting a business, 6. life lessons you must know, 7. kids and life lessons.
“I thought I knew absolutely everything about loving someone by the age of fourteen. Clearly I knew nothing and I still have so much to learn about what it is like to actually love someone.”
The author relates how their first love story unfolds, including the many things they learned from it. An example is that no matter how compatible the couple is if they are not for each other, they will not last long and will break up eventually. The writer also shares that situations that test the relationship, such as jealousy, deserve your attention as they aid people in picking the right decisions. The essay further tells how the writer’s relationship became toxic and affected their mental and emotional stability, even after the breakup. To cope and heal, they stopped looking for connections and focused on their grades, family, friends, and self-love.
“I am extremely thankful that he could teach me all the basics like how to ride a bike, how to fish and shoot straight, how to garden, how to cook, how to drive, how to skip a rock, and even how to blow spitballs. But I am most thankful that could teach me to stand tall (even though I’m 5’3”), be full with my heart and be strong with my mind.”
In this essay, the writer introduces their role model who taught them almost everything they know in their seventeen years of life, their father. The writer shares that their father’s toughness, stubbornness, and determination helped them learn to stand up for themselves and others and not be a coward in telling the truth. Because of him, the author learned how to be kind, generous, and mature. Finally, the author is very grateful to their father, who help them to think for themselves and not believe everything they hear.
“In my opinion, I believe it is more important to study the past rather than the present because we can learn more from our mistakes.”
This short essay explains the importance of remembering past events to analyze our mistakes. The author mentions that when people do this, they learn and grow from it, which prevents them from repeating the same error in the present time. The writer also points out that everyone has made the mistake of letting others dictate how their life goes, often leading to failures.
“… I believe we come here to learn a valuable lesson. If we did not learn this lesson through out a life time, our souls would come back to repeat the process.”
This essay presents three crucial life lessons that everyone needs to know. The first is to stop being too comfortable in taking people and things for granted. Instead, we must learn to appreciate everything. The second is to realize that mistakes are part of everyone’s life. So don’t let the fear of making mistakes stop you from trying something new. The third and final lesson is from Frank Sinatra’s “My Way.” People learn and grow as they age, so everyone needs to remember to live their life as if it were their last with no regrets.
“Life lessons are not necessarily learned from bad experiences, it can also be learned from good experiences, accomplishments, mistakes of other people, and by reading too.”
The essay reminds the readers to live their life to the fullest and cherish people and things in their lives because life is too short. If you want something, do not let it slip away without trying. If it fails, do not suffer and move on. The author also unveils the importance of travelling, keeping a diary, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
7 Prompts for Essays About Life Lessons
Use the prompts below if you’re still undecided on what to write about:
![life lesson essay examples Essays about life lessons: Life lessons from books](https://becomeawritertoday.com/wp-content/webp-express/webp-images/uploads/2022/06/Read-the-Book.jpg.webp)
As mentioned above, life lessons are not only from experiences but also from reading. So for this prompt, pick up your favorite book and write down the lessons you learned from it. Next, identify each and explain to your readers why you think it’s essential to incorporate these lessons into real life. Finally, add how integrating these messages affected you.
There are always lessons we can derive from mistakes. However, not everyone understands these mistakes, so they keep doing them. Think of all your past mistakes and choose one that had the most significant negative impact on you and the people around you. Then, share with your readers what it is, its causes, and its effects. Finally, don’t forget to discuss what you gained from these faults and how you prevent yourself from doing them again.
Compile all the life lessons you’ve realized from different sources. They can be from your own experience, a relative’s, a movie, etc. Add why these lessons resonate with you. Be creative and use metaphors or add imaginary scenarios. Bear in mind that your essay should convey your message well.
Popular shows are an excellent medium for teaching life lessons to a broad audience. In your essay, pick a well-known work and reflect on it. For example, Euphoria is a TV series that created hubbub for its intrigue and sensitive themes. Dissect what life lessons one can retrieve from watching the show and relate them to personal encounters. You can also compile lessons from online posts and discussions.
If the subject of “life lessons” is too general for you, scope a more specific area, such as entrepreneurship. Which life lessons are critical for a person in business? To make your essay easier to digest, interview a successful business owner and ask about the life lessons they’ve accumulated before and while pursuing their goals.
Use this prompt to present the most important life lessons you’ve collected throughout your life. Then, share why you selected these lessons. For instance, you can choose “Live life as if it’s your last” and explain that you realized this life lesson after suddenly losing a loved one.
Have you ever met someone younger than you who taught you a life lesson? If so, in this prompt, tell your reader the whole story and what life lesson you discovered. Then, you can reverse it and write an incident where you give a good life lesson to someone older than you – say what it was and if that lesson helped them. Read our storytelling guide to upgrade your techniques.
![life lesson essay examples](https://thoughtcatalog.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/reflect.jpg?w=1920&h=1280&crop=1)
Some Lessons I’ve Learned From Reflecting On Life In 150 Essays
![life lesson essay examples Colleen George](https://thoughtcatalog.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/avatar-538434-Copy-of-itss-okay-to…..png?w=384&h=384&crop=1)
As I look back over my last 149 essays, I see memories, heartbreaks, and joys, all poured into my essays of size 12 font. I see times I was feeling high on life, and simultaneously, times I was struggling and felt as though I was stuck in the dark.. But even more than a simple timeline of moments and checkpoints, I see someone trying desperately to make sense of a messy world full of complicated emotions. I see someone a little bit lost at times, a little bit curious, and also a bit hopeful – someone just trying her best to seek meaning, inspiration, and above all, healing.
It is an understatement to say that writing has been therapeutic for me. When I have felt lonely, or afraid, or let down, I have often sought comfort in writing. Words have been magical – they have been a way to gain a new perspective on my life and on the lives of all of the people around me. Writing has unfailingly encouraged me to look twice at life – to examine what lies beneath the surface, rather than accepting things at face value.
And when I look back at all of these thoughts I have spilled across the white pages of my MacBook, I see many themes that seem to pop into my life over and over again, with each passing year. These themes are mainly lessons – those that I have learned, and those that I am still learning (or relearning). Looking over my writing, I can’t help but notice how as human beings, we are constantly learning. We never seem to stop changing, growing, or healing.
While I do not have all of the answers (or any answers with certainty), I do hope that some of the thoughts I have gathered and the lessons I have learned through examining the world through words may resonate with you as well. I hope they can bring you some comfort or reassurance in the midst of the mountains and valleys of your own life.
1. It can feel comforting to seek home in nostalgia – to live in our memories, to replay them over and over again, like little film strips that continue to roll on. But at some point, we have to remember that life is still happening and the earth is still spinning, right here, right now. At some point, we have to be here for ourselves and for our hearts in the present. We have to be brave enough to hope that the present and the future will be just as good, if not better, than the old memories we are living in.
2. I’m learning that joy doesn’t necessarily mean the absence of sadness, and grief doesn’t necessarily imply the absence of joy. Though we often want to choose an either o r, life is not quite as binary as we make it out to be.
3. I’m realizing that being at peace with life doesn’t mean that everything is perfect, or that we don’t have any troubles or tribulations or low energy nagging at our hearts. Being at peace doesn’t mean that life is wonderful, or that we aren’t stressed, or facing anxiety. More so, being at peace means finding some form of “okayness” amidst all of the parts of life that are not (yet) “okay.” It means sitting amidst the chaos and making the conscious decision to remain calm. To be okay. Ultimately, finding peace means acknowledging the storm and coexisting with it, rather than sitting in the eye of the tornado.
4. It’s the hardest lesson in the world, but sometimes, the best thing we can do is let them go. Sometimes we have to say goodbye to someone good and wait patiently for someone better.
5. Something odd about life is that the right choices don’t always feel right in our bodies. Sometimes, though difficult, we have to find the courage within us to pursue what we need, rather than what we want in the present. We have to take care of ourselves by honoring what we know is best for us in the long run. And oftentimes, in the present, it really does hurt a lot. The pain doesn’t mean the decision is wrong. Sometimes the best choices can leave us let down and hurt. But later on, we will be thankful.
6. I don’t believe that everything happens for a reason. I don’t believe in fate. But I do believe that we can give meaning to some of our hardest most heartbreaking moments. We don’t need to build an identity that is rooted in our grief or in our trauma or pain, but if or when we want to, we can allow the healing process to bring out our best. We can grow new, fresh roots, and we can choose to define ourselves by how we rise back up again.
7. We can’t expect others to heal us – no one can love us so much that we automatically love ourselves. But maybe, when someone does love us, they can remind us what love feels like. They can help us to believe that we are loveable. And this can be the first step of loving ourselves – knowing that we deserve to be loved.
8. Grief is ugly and painful and devastating. Grief is dark swollen eyes and tear-stained cheeks. Grief hurts. But we cannot deny the sheer beauty that grief holds. We cannot deny that grief is, in some ways, a gift. To grieve means that we are blessed enough to have loved and to have been loved by someone special – and this is remarkable. Grief means we are missing someone – someone who touched our lives in an irreplaceable way. And thus, I’d like to believe that the sadness and grief we endure when we lose someone close to us is simply the price we pay for loving them. And there’s something so dear and precious about this.
9. As hard as it is to hear, some people aren’t meant to stay in our lives forever. They are passerbys, like boats in the night. And though they may only stay for a short while, they stay safely in our hearts indefinitely. Temporary people can leave permanent footprints.
10. Anxiety and overthinking do not change the situation. They only turn a gentle rain shower into a hurricane.
11. We can miss someone, but we can’t lose ourselves when we lose them. We can miss them, but we can’t let our lives be over when they are gone. Because we still have our lives to live. And we still have so much love left in us to give. 12. We don’t need a reason to have hope – we don’t need evidence or logic, as much as we think we do. We don’t even need to fully understand or grasp what hope is. We just have to find it in our hearts to believe that hope exists. We have to bravely decide to give in to hope, even when we can’t see it or touch it – even when we don’t know if it is there. When life is dark, we have to believe that there is something still worth living for around the corner. And this belief – this hope – this is what will help us move forward.
13. It’s okay to find home in another person. It’s one of the sweetest, purest parts of life. But somewhere along the way, we must also find home within ourselves.
14. We know we are healing when we piece back together our broken parts and turn them into something greater than what we had before.
15. Perhaps, when someone doesn’t love us or doesn’t fight for us, it isn’t actually a reflection of us. Perhaps their inability to love us does not mean that we are unloveable, or hard to love. Maybe it means that they have been hurt one too many times before and that their walls are now built high of concrete and stone. Or maybe it means that they have been defeated by love one too many times – maybe love continues to let them down, time and time again. And maybe, even if they want to love us, they simply cannot. And we can keep trying and trying to knock down those walls. But perhaps when they don’t love us, the very best thing we can do is to hug them close, wish them the best, and then walk away. Because even if they were special, we each deserve someone who is ready to let us in fully.
16. Most of the time, when we think we need closure from someone else, what we truly need is closure from ourselves – permission from ourselves to let things be. To accept the ending and to understand that it’s time to let the ending stay an ending. We must find the strength to seek peace and healing on our own. Healing is our responsibility, not the responsibility of the person who hurt us.
17. Sometimes growth is quiet and subtle and doesn’t look like growth. Sometimes growth is simply viewing a situation from a fresh perspective. Sometimes growth is trying something new, despite whether or not it ends up being a good experience. Sometimes growth just means making it through each day and noticing one small good thing about the world each night. Some seasons are for making leaps and bounds, while others are simply for surviving and just being. Both seasons are important. Both are needed.
18. How do we know when we are healing? I think we know that we are coming close when we feel immense gratitude that something happened, rather than devastated by the fact that it ended.
19. We don’t always need to find the silver lining. Sometimes really crappy, awful things happen, and there is much more bad than good in the world. Sometimes we go through devastating, heartbreaking experiences that don’t have a silver lining, and the idea of trying to find one only hurts us further. In these really rough moments, we don’t need to search for the light. But maybe, when we are ready, we can remind ourselves that there is still light in the world. Maybe there’s no shining light in our situation, but there is still goodness somewhere out there. And hopefully knowing this will help us make it to the other side
Perhaps the secret isn’t avoiding pain or numbing ourselves from pain, but rather, putting our energy into cultivating joy and peace. Perhaps when we value joy over pain, life becomes a little bit easier.
Read more Wellness .
About the author
![life lesson essay examples](https://thoughtcatalog.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/avatar-538434-Copy-of-itss-okay-to…..png?w=512)
Colleen George
“there can be magic in the messes” @apeaceofwerk
More From Thought Catalog
![life lesson essay examples 5 Lessons I Learned From Watching ‘The Office’](https://thoughtcatalog.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Jim-and-Pam-From-the-Office.png?w=768&h=384&crop=1)
5 Lessons I Learned From Watching ‘The Office’
![life lesson essay examples Why The Guy You Want Don’t Want You](https://thoughtcatalog.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/JRW_0630.jpg?w=768&h=384&crop=1)
Why The Guy You Want Don’t Want You
![life lesson essay examples 5 Totally Reasonable Predictions For ‘House Of The Dragon’ Season 3, We Swear](https://thoughtcatalog.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/House-of-the-Dragon-Season-3-Predictions.jpg?w=768&h=384&crop=1)
5 Totally Reasonable Predictions For ‘House Of The Dragon’ Season 3, We Swear
![life lesson essay examples 50 Plot Holes In The ‘Harry Potter’ Universe You Probably Didn’t Notice](https://thoughtcatalog.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/screen-shot-2019-09-04-at-5.18.38-pm.png?w=768&h=384&crop=1)
50 Plot Holes In The ‘Harry Potter’ Universe You Probably Didn’t Notice
![life lesson essay examples 10 Behaviors That Can Destroy Relationships](https://thoughtcatalog.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/24730486516_573886bde9_6k.jpg?w=768&h=384&crop=1)
10 Behaviors That Can Destroy Relationships
![life lesson essay examples People Who Seem ‘Moral’ and ‘Mature’ But Are Actually Narcissistic Display These 3 Subtle Behaviors](https://thoughtcatalog.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/pexels-alvincaal-13069386.jpg?w=768&h=384&crop=1)
People Who Seem ‘Moral’ and ‘Mature’ But Are Actually Narcissistic Display These 3 Subtle Behaviors
- Social Justice
- Environment
- Health & Happiness
- Get YES! Emails
- Teacher Resources
![life lesson essay examples life lesson essay examples](https://www.yesmagazine.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/110-Cover-Medium.jpg)
- Give A Gift Subscription
- Teaching Sustainability
- Teaching Social Justice
- Teaching Respect & Empathy
- Student Writing Lessons
- Visual Learning Lessons
- Tough Topics Discussion Guides
- About the YES! for Teachers Program
- Student Writing Contest
Follow YES! For Teachers
Eight brilliant student essays on what matters most in life.
Read winning essays from our spring 2019 student writing contest.
![life lesson essay examples young and old.jpg](https://i0.wp.com/www.yesmagazine.org/wp-content/uploads/imports/13866581868447bd825ca592c3addc1e.jpg?resize=650%2C390&quality=90&ssl=1)
For the spring 2019 student writing contest, we invited students to read the YES! article “Three Things That Matter Most in Youth and Old Age” by Nancy Hill. Like the author, students interviewed someone significantly older than them about the three things that matter most in life. Students then wrote about what they learned, and about how their interviewees’ answers compare to their own top priorities.
The Winners
From the hundreds of essays written, these eight were chosen as winners. Be sure to read the author’s response to the essay winners and the literary gems that caught our eye. Plus, we share an essay from teacher Charles Sanderson, who also responded to the writing prompt.
Middle School Winner: Rory Leyva
High School Winner: Praethong Klomsum
University Winner: Emily Greenbaum
Powerful Voice Winner: Amanda Schwaben
Powerful Voice Winner: Antonia Mills
Powerful Voice Winner: Isaac Ziemba
Powerful Voice Winner: Lily Hersch
“Tell It Like It Is” Interview Winner: Jonas Buckner
From the Author: Response to Student Winners
Literary Gems
From A Teacher: Charles Sanderson
From the Author: Response to Charles Sanderson
Middle School Winner
Village Home Education Resource Center, Portland, Ore.
![life lesson essay examples life lesson essay examples](https://www.yesmagazine.org/wp-content/uploads/imports/16a0ecaf26af467d8e22b253c929cde8.jpg)
The Lessons Of Mortality
“As I’ve aged, things that are more personal to me have become somewhat less important. Perhaps I’ve become less self-centered with the awareness of mortality, how short one person’s life is.” This is how my 72-year-old grandma believes her values have changed over the course of her life. Even though I am only 12 years old, I know my life won’t last forever, and someday I, too, will reflect on my past decisions. We were all born to exist and eventually die, so we have evolved to value things in the context of mortality.
One of the ways I feel most alive is when I play roller derby. I started playing for the Rose City Rollers Juniors two years ago, and this year, I made the Rosebud All-Stars travel team. Roller derby is a fast-paced, full-contact sport. The physicality and intense training make me feel in control of and present in my body.
My roller derby team is like a second family to me. Adolescence is complicated. We understand each other in ways no one else can. I love my friends more than I love almost anything else. My family would have been higher on my list a few years ago, but as I’ve aged it has been important to make my own social connections.
Music led me to roller derby. I started out jam skating at the roller rink. Jam skating is all about feeling the music. It integrates gymnastics, breakdancing, figure skating, and modern dance with R & B and hip hop music. When I was younger, I once lay down in the DJ booth at the roller rink and was lulled to sleep by the drawl of wheels rolling in rhythm and people talking about the things they came there to escape. Sometimes, I go up on the roof of my house at night to listen to music and feel the wind rustle my hair. These unique sensations make me feel safe like nothing else ever has.
My grandma tells me, “Being close with family and friends is the most important thing because I haven’t
![life lesson essay examples life lesson essay examples](https://www.yesmagazine.org/wp-content/uploads/imports/1d9440a9bff14ec8af6ebe80305e68b8.jpg)
always had that.” When my grandma was two years old, her father died. Her mother became depressed and moved around a lot, which made it hard for my grandma to make friends. Once my grandma went to college, she made lots of friends. She met my grandfather, Joaquin Leyva when she was working as a park ranger and he was a surfer. They bought two acres of land on the edge of a redwood forest and had a son and a daughter. My grandma created a stable family that was missing throughout her early life.
My grandma is motivated to maintain good health so she can be there for her family. I can relate because I have to be fit and strong for my team. Since she lost my grandfather to cancer, she realizes how lucky she is to have a functional body and no life-threatening illnesses. My grandma tries to eat well and exercise, but she still struggles with depression. Over time, she has learned that reaching out to others is essential to her emotional wellbeing.
Caring for the earth is also a priority for my grandma I’ve been lucky to learn from my grandma. She’s taught me how to hunt for fossils in the desert and find shells on the beach. Although my grandma grew up with no access to the wilderness, she admired the green open areas of urban cemeteries. In college, she studied geology and hiked in the High Sierras. For years, she’s been an advocate for conserving wildlife habitat and open spaces.
Our priorities may seem different, but it all comes down to basic human needs. We all desire a purpose, strive to be happy, and need to be loved. Like Nancy Hill says in the YES! Magazine article “Three Things That Matter Most in Youth and Old Age,” it can be hard to decipher what is important in life. I believe that the constant search for satisfaction and meaning is the only thing everyone has in common. We all want to know what matters, and we walk around this confusing world trying to find it. The lessons I’ve learned from my grandma about forging connections, caring for my body, and getting out in the world inspire me to live my life my way before it’s gone.
Rory Leyva is a seventh-grader from Portland, Oregon. Rory skates for the Rosebuds All-Stars roller derby team. She loves listening to music and hanging out with her friends.
High School Winner
Praethong Klomsum
Santa Monica High School, Santa Monica, Calif.
![life lesson essay examples life lesson essay examples](https://www.yesmagazine.org/wp-content/uploads/imports/bf9d1581097e43fda99291717b4e9033.jpg)
Time Only Moves Forward
Sandra Hernandez gazed at the tiny house while her mother’s gentle hands caressed her shoulders. It wasn’t much, especially for a family of five. This was 1960, she was 17, and her family had just moved to Culver City.
Flash forward to 2019. Sandra sits in a rocking chair, knitting a blanket for her latest grandchild, in the same living room. Sandra remembers working hard to feed her eight children. She took many different jobs before settling behind the cash register at a Japanese restaurant called Magos. “It was a struggle, and my husband Augustine, was planning to join the military at that time, too.”
In the YES! Magazine article “Three Things That Matter Most in Youth and Old Age,” author Nancy Hill states that one of the most important things is “…connecting with others in general, but in particular with those who have lived long lives.” Sandra feels similarly. It’s been hard for Sandra to keep in contact with her family, which leaves her downhearted some days. “It’s important to maintain that connection you have with your family, not just next-door neighbors you talk to once a month.”
Despite her age, Sandra is a daring woman. Taking risks is important to her, and she’ll try anything—from skydiving to hiking. Sandra has some regrets from the past, but nowadays, she doesn’t wonder about the “would have, could have, should haves.” She just goes for it with a smile.
Sandra thought harder about her last important thing, the blue and green blanket now finished and covering
![life lesson essay examples life lesson essay examples](https://www.yesmagazine.org/wp-content/uploads/imports/fc0060fa8a1c4d12b8d50650fed4d1d9.jpg)
her lap. “I’ve definitely lived a longer life than most, and maybe this is just wishful thinking, but I hope I can see the day my great-grandchildren are born.” She’s laughing, but her eyes look beyond what’s in front of her. Maybe she is reminiscing about the day she held her son for the first time or thinking of her grandchildren becoming parents. I thank her for her time and she waves it off, offering me a styrofoam cup of lemonade before I head for the bus station.
The bus is sparsely filled. A voice in my head reminds me to finish my 10-page history research paper before spring break. I take a window seat and pull out my phone and earbuds. My playlist is already on shuffle, and I push away thoughts of that dreaded paper. Music has been a constant in my life—from singing my lungs out in kindergarten to Barbie’s “I Need To Know,” to jamming out to Taylor Swift’s “Blank Space” in sixth grade, to BTS’s “Intro: Never Mind” comforting me when I’m at my lowest. Music is my magic shop, a place where I can trade away my fears for calm.
I’ve always been afraid of doing something wrong—not finishing my homework or getting a C when I can do better. When I was 8, I wanted to be like the big kids. As I got older, I realized that I had exchanged my childhood longing for the 48 pack of crayons for bigger problems, balancing grades, a social life, and mental stability—all at once. I’m going to get older whether I like it or not, so there’s no point forcing myself to grow up faster. I’m learning to live in the moment.
The bus is approaching my apartment, where I know my comfy bed and a home-cooked meal from my mom are waiting. My mom is hard-working, confident, and very stubborn. I admire her strength of character. She always keeps me in line, even through my rebellious phases.
My best friend sends me a text—an update on how broken her laptop is. She is annoying. She says the stupidest things and loves to state the obvious. Despite this, she never fails to make me laugh until my cheeks feel numb. The rest of my friends are like that too—loud, talkative, and always brightening my day. Even friends I stopped talking to have a place in my heart. Recently, I’ve tried to reconnect with some of them. This interview was possible because a close friend from sixth grade offered to introduce me to Sandra, her grandmother.
I’m decades younger than Sandra, so my view of what’s important isn’t as broad as hers, but we share similar values, with friends and family at the top. I have a feeling that when Sandra was my age, she used to love music, too. Maybe in a few decades, when I’m sitting in my rocking chair, drawing in my sketchbook, I’ll remember this article and think back fondly to the days when life was simple.
Praethong Klomsum is a tenth-grader at Santa Monica High School in Santa Monica, California. Praethong has a strange affinity for rhyme games and is involved in her school’s dance team. She enjoys drawing and writing, hoping to impact people willing to listen to her thoughts and ideas.
University Winner
Emily Greenbaum
Kent State University, Kent, Ohio
![life lesson essay examples life lesson essay examples](https://www.yesmagazine.org/wp-content/uploads/imports/eb9b81fe02984bc0a588cff6db996ea8.jpg)
The Life-Long War
Every morning we open our eyes, ready for a new day. Some immediately turn to their phones and social media. Others work out or do yoga. For a certain person, a deep breath and the morning sun ground him. He hears the clink-clank of his wife cooking low sodium meat for breakfast—doctor’s orders! He sees that the other side of the bed is already made, the dogs are no longer in the room, and his clothes are set out nicely on the loveseat.
Today, though, this man wakes up to something different: faded cream walls and jello. This person, my hero, is Master Chief Petty Officer Roger James.
I pulled up my chair close to Roger’s vinyl recliner so I could hear him above the noise of the beeping dialysis machine. I noticed Roger would occasionally glance at his wife Susan with sparkly eyes when he would recall memories of the war or their grandkids. He looked at Susan like she walked on water.
Roger James served his country for thirty years. Now, he has enlisted in another type of war. He suffers from a rare blood cancer—the result of the wars he fought in. Roger has good and bad days. He says, “The good outweighs the bad, so I have to be grateful for what I have on those good days.”
When Roger retired, he never thought the effects of the war would reach him. The once shallow wrinkles upon his face become deeper, as he tells me, “It’s just cancer. Others are suffering from far worse. I know I’ll make it.”
Like Nancy Hill did in her article “Three Things that Matter Most in Youth and Old Age,” I asked Roger, “What are the three most important things to you?” James answered, “My wife Susan, my grandkids, and church.”
Roger and Susan served together in the Vietnam war. She was a nurse who treated his cuts and scrapes one day. I asked Roger why he chose Susan. He said, “Susan told me to look at her while she cleaned me up. ‘This may sting, but don’t be a baby.’ When I looked into her eyes, I felt like she was looking into my soul, and I didn’t want her to leave. She gave me this sense of home. Every day I wake up, she makes me feel the same way, and I fall in love with her all over again.”
Roger and Susan have two kids and four grandkids, with great-grandchildren on the way. He claims that his grandkids give him the youth that he feels slowly escaping from his body. This adoring grandfather is energized by coaching t-ball and playing evening card games with the grandkids.
The last thing on his list was church. His oldest daughter married a pastor. Together they founded a church. Roger said that the connection between his faith and family is important to him because it gave him a reason to want to live again. I learned from Roger that when you’re across the ocean, you tend to lose sight of why you are fighting. When Roger returned, he didn’t have the will to live. Most days were a struggle, adapting back into a society that lacked empathy for the injuries, pain, and psychological trauma carried by returning soldiers. Church changed that for Roger and gave him a sense of purpose.
When I began this project, my attitude was to just get the assignment done. I never thought I could view Master Chief Petty Officer Roger James as more than a role model, but he definitely changed my mind. It’s as if Roger magically lit a fire inside of me and showed me where one’s true passions should lie. I see our similarities and embrace our differences. We both value family and our own connections to home—his home being church and mine being where I can breathe the easiest.
Master Chief Petty Officer Roger James has shown me how to appreciate what I have around me and that every once in a while, I should step back and stop to smell the roses. As we concluded the interview, amidst squeaky clogs and the stale smell of bleach and bedpans, I looked to Roger, his kind, tired eyes, and weathered skin, with a deeper sense of admiration, knowing that his values still run true, no matter what he faces.
Emily Greenbaum is a senior at Kent State University, graduating with a major in Conflict Management and minor in Geography. Emily hopes to use her major to facilitate better conversations, while she works in the Washington, D.C. area.
Powerful Voice Winner
Amanda Schwaben
![life lesson essay examples life lesson essay examples](https://www.yesmagazine.org/wp-content/uploads/imports/777cebb0c1f34e83abf9e97bf5d3bd4a.jpg)
Wise Words From Winnie the Pooh
As I read through Nancy Hill’s article “Three Things That Matter Most in Youth and Old Age,” I was comforted by the similar responses given by both children and older adults. The emphasis participants placed on family, social connections, and love was not only heartwarming but hopeful. While the messages in the article filled me with warmth, I felt a twinge of guilt building within me. As a twenty-one-year-old college student weeks from graduation, I honestly don’t think much about the most important things in life. But if I was asked, I would most likely say family, friendship, and love. As much as I hate to admit it, I often find myself obsessing over achieving a successful career and finding a way to “save the world.”
A few weeks ago, I was at my family home watching the new Winnie the Pooh movie Christopher Robin with my mom and younger sister. Well, I wasn’t really watching. I had my laptop in front of me, and I was aggressively typing up an assignment. Halfway through the movie, I realized I left my laptop charger in my car. I walked outside into the brisk March air. Instinctively, I looked up. The sky was perfectly clear, revealing a beautiful array of stars. When my twin sister and I were in high school, we would always take a moment to look up at the sparkling night sky before we came into the house after soccer practice.
I think that was the last time I stood in my driveway and gazed at the stars. I did not get the laptop charger from
![life lesson essay examples life lesson essay examples](https://www.yesmagazine.org/wp-content/uploads/imports/24ce549a993a4a638ccc0bccd0db1cd6.jpg)
my car; instead, I turned around and went back inside. I shut my laptop and watched the rest of the movie. My twin sister loves Winnie the Pooh. So much so that my parents got her a stuffed animal version of him for Christmas. While I thought he was adorable and a token of my childhood, I did not really understand her obsession. However, it was clear to me after watching the movie. Winnie the Pooh certainly had it figured out. He believed that the simple things in life were the most important: love, friendship, and having fun.
I thought about asking my mom right then what the three most important things were to her, but I decided not to. I just wanted to be in the moment. I didn’t want to be doing homework. It was a beautiful thing to just sit there and be present with my mom and sister.
I did ask her, though, a couple of weeks later. Her response was simple. All she said was family, health, and happiness. When she told me this, I imagined Winnie the Pooh smiling. I think he would be proud of that answer.
I was not surprised by my mom’s reply. It suited her perfectly. I wonder if we relearn what is most important when we grow older—that the pressure to be successful subsides. Could it be that valuing family, health, and happiness is what ends up saving the world?
Amanda Schwaben is a graduating senior from Kent State University with a major in Applied Conflict Management. Amanda also has minors in Psychology and Interpersonal Communication. She hopes to further her education and focus on how museums not only preserve history but also promote peace.
Antonia Mills
Rachel Carson High School, Brooklyn, N.Y.
![life lesson essay examples life lesson essay examples](https://www.yesmagazine.org/wp-content/uploads/imports/2bb68fdae1cb4623af65d3e0886fa6e1.jpg)
Decoding The Butterfly
For a caterpillar to become a butterfly, it must first digest itself. The caterpillar, overwhelmed by accumulating tissue, splits its skin open to form its protective shell, the chrysalis, and later becomes the pretty butterfly we all know and love. There are approximately 20,000 species of butterflies, and just as every species is different, so is the life of every butterfly. No matter how long and hard a caterpillar has strived to become the colorful and vibrant butterfly that we marvel at on a warm spring day, it does not live a long life. A butterfly can live for a year, six months, two weeks, and even as little as twenty-four hours.
I have often wondered if butterflies live long enough to be blissful of blue skies. Do they take time to feast upon the sweet nectar they crave, midst their hustling life of pollinating pretty flowers? Do they ever take a lull in their itineraries, or are they always rushing towards completing their four-stage metamorphosis? Has anyone asked the butterfly, “Who are you?” instead of “What are you”? Or, How did you get here, on my windowsill? How did you become ‘you’?
Humans are similar to butterflies. As a caterpillar
![life lesson essay examples life lesson essay examples](https://www.yesmagazine.org/wp-content/uploads/imports/58f46499f95547659f96dac509780262.jpg)
Suzanna Ruby/Getty Images
becomes a butterfly, a baby becomes an elder. As a butterfly soars through summer skies, an elder watches summer skies turn into cold winter nights and back toward summer skies yet again. And as a butterfly flits slowly by the porch light, a passerby makes assumptions about the wrinkled, slow-moving elder, who is sturdier than he appears. These creatures are not seen for who they are—who they were—because people have “better things to do” or they are too busy to ask, “How are you”?
Our world can be a lonely place. Pressured by expectations, haunted by dreams, overpowered by weakness, and drowned out by lofty goals, we tend to forget ourselves—and others. Rather than hang onto the strands of our diminishing sanity, we might benefit from listening to our elders. Many elders have experienced setbacks in their young lives. Overcoming hardship and surviving to old age is wisdom that they carry. We can learn from them—and can even make their day by taking the time to hear their stories.
Nancy Hill, who wrote the YES! Magazine article “Three Things That Matter Most in Youth and Old Age,” was right: “We live among such remarkable people, yet few know their stories.” I know a lot about my grandmother’s life, and it isn’t as serene as my own. My grandmother, Liza, who cooks every day, bakes bread on holidays for our neighbors, brings gifts to her doctor out of the kindness of her heart, and makes conversation with neighbors even though she is isn’t fluent in English—Russian is her first language—has struggled all her life. Her mother, Anna, a single parent, had tuberculosis, and even though she had an inviolable spirit, she was too frail to care for four children. She passed away when my grandmother was sixteen, so my grandmother and her siblings spent most of their childhood in an orphanage. My grandmother got married at nineteen to my grandfather, Pinhas. He was a man who loved her more than he loved himself and was a godsend to every person he met. Liza was—and still is—always quick to do what was best for others, even if that person treated her poorly. My grandmother has lived with physical pain all her life, yet she pushed herself to climb heights that she wasn’t ready for. Against all odds, she has lived to tell her story to people who are willing to listen. And I always am.
I asked my grandmother, “What are three things most important to you?” Her answer was one that I already expected: One, for everyone to live long healthy lives. Two, for you to graduate from college. Three, for you to always remember that I love you.
What may be basic to you means the world to my grandmother. She just wants what she never had the chance to experience: a healthy life, an education, and the chance to express love to the people she values. The three things that matter most to her may be so simple and ordinary to outsiders, but to her, it is so much more. And who could take that away?
Antonia Mills was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York and attends Rachel Carson High School. Antonia enjoys creative activities, including writing, painting, reading, and baking. She hopes to pursue culinary arts professionally in the future. One of her favorite quotes is, “When you start seeing your worth, you’ll find it harder to stay around people who don’t.” -Emily S.P.
Powerful Voice Winner
Isaac Ziemba
Odyssey Multiage Program, Bainbridge Island, Wash.
![life lesson essay examples life lesson essay examples](https://www.yesmagazine.org/wp-content/uploads/imports/a13873e7b0b54848a69c21b2e0df783f-e1659048201422.jpg)
This Former State Trooper Has His Priorities Straight: Family, Climate Change, and Integrity
I have a personal connection to people who served in the military and first responders. My uncle is a first responder on the island I live on, and my dad retired from the Navy. That was what made a man named Glen Tyrell, a state trooper for 25 years, 2 months and 9 days, my first choice to interview about what three things matter in life. In the YES! Magazine article “The Three Things That Matter Most in Youth and Old Age,” I learned that old and young people have a great deal in common. I know that’s true because Glen and I care about a lot of the same things.
For Glen, family is at the top of his list of important things. “My wife was, and is, always there for me. My daughters mean the world to me, too, but Penny is my partner,” Glen said. I can understand why Glen’s wife is so important to him. She’s family. Family will always be there for you.
Glen loves his family, and so do I with all my heart. My dad especially means the world to me. He is my top supporter and tells me that if I need help, just “say the word.” When we are fishing or crabbing, sometimes I
![life lesson essay examples life lesson essay examples](https://www.yesmagazine.org/wp-content/uploads/imports/c86faf09115f42609014234a6b519848.jpg)
think, what if these times were erased from my memory? I wouldn’t be able to describe the horrible feeling that would rush through my mind, and I’m sure that Glen would feel the same about his wife.
My uncle once told me that the world is always going to change over time. It’s what the world has turned out to be that worries me. Both Glen and I are extremely concerned about climate change and the effect that rising temperatures have on animals and their habitats. We’re driving them to extinction. Some people might say, “So what? Animals don’t pay taxes or do any of the things we do.” What we are doing to them is like the Black Death times 100.
Glen is also frustrated by how much plastic we use and where it ends up. He would be shocked that an explorer recently dived to the deepest part of the Pacific Ocean—seven miles!— and discovered a plastic bag and candy wrappers. Glen told me that, unfortunately, his generation did the damage and my generation is here to fix it. We need to take better care of Earth because if we don’t, we, as a species, will have failed.
Both Glen and I care deeply for our families and the earth, but for our third important value, I chose education and Glen chose integrity. My education is super important to me because without it, I would be a blank slate. I wouldn’t know how to figure out problems. I wouldn’t be able to tell right from wrong. I wouldn’t understand the Bill of Rights. I would be stuck. Everyone should be able to go to school, no matter where they’re from or who they are. It makes me angry and sad to think that some people, especially girls, get shot because they are trying to go to school. I understand how lucky I am.
Integrity is sacred to Glen—I could tell by the serious tone of Glen’s voice when he told me that integrity was the code he lived by as a former state trooper. He knew that he had the power to change a person’s life, and he was committed to not abusing that power. When Glen put someone under arrest—and my uncle says the same—his judgment and integrity were paramount. “Either you’re right or you’re wrong.” You can’t judge a person by what you think, you can only judge a person from what you know.”
I learned many things about Glen and what’s important in life, but there is one thing that stands out—something Glen always does and does well. Glen helps people. He did it as a state trooper, and he does it in our school, where he works on construction projects. Glen told me that he believes that our most powerful tools are writing and listening to others. I think those tools are important, too, but I also believe there are other tools to help solve many of our problems and create a better future: to be compassionate, to create caring relationships, and to help others. Just like Glen Tyrell does each and every day.
Isaac Ziemba is in seventh grade at the Odyssey Multiage Program on a small island called Bainbridge near Seattle, Washington. Isaac’s favorite subject in school is history because he has always been interested in how the past affects the future. In his spare time, you can find Isaac hunting for crab with his Dad, looking for artifacts around his house with his metal detector, and having fun with his younger cousin, Conner.
Lily Hersch
The Crest Academy, Salida, Colo.
![life lesson essay examples life lesson essay examples](https://www.yesmagazine.org/wp-content/uploads/imports/3a099d5e540c4d16ad75b982dbd04d82.jpg)
The Phone Call
Dear Grandpa,
In my short span of life—12 years so far—you’ve taught me a lot of important life lessons that I’ll always have with me. Some of the values I talk about in this writing I’ve learned from you.
Dedicated to my Gramps.
In the YES! Magazine article “Three Things That Matter Most in Youth and Old Age,” author and photographer Nancy Hill asked people to name the three things that mattered most to them. After reading the essay prompt for the article, I immediately knew who I wanted to interview: my grandpa Gil.
My grandpa was born on January 25, 1942. He lived in a minuscule tenement in The Bronx with his mother,
![life lesson essay examples life lesson essay examples](https://www.yesmagazine.org/wp-content/uploads/imports/92681307d2da45d3b3d8a1d5ae671238.png)
father, and brother. His father wasn’t around much, and, when he was, he was reticent and would snap occasionally, revealing his constrained mental pain. My grandpa says this happened because my great grandfather did not have a father figure in his life. His mother was a classy, sharp lady who was the head secretary at a local police district station. My grandpa and his brother Larry did not care for each other. Gramps said he was very close to his mother, and Larry wasn’t. Perhaps Larry was envious for what he didn’t have.
Decades after little to no communication with his brother, my grandpa decided to spontaneously visit him in Florida, where he resided with his wife. Larry was taken aback at the sudden reappearance of his brother and told him to leave. Since then, the two brothers have not been in contact. My grandpa doesn’t even know if Larry is alive.
My grandpa is now a retired lawyer, married to my wonderful grandma, and living in a pretty house with an ugly dog named BoBo.
So, what’s important to you, Gramps?
He paused a second, then replied, “Family, kindness, and empathy.”
“Family, because it’s my family. It’s important to stay connected with your family. My brother, father, and I never connected in the way I wished, and sometimes I contemplated what could’ve happened. But you can’t change the past. So, that’s why family’s important to me.”
Family will always be on my “Top Three Most Important Things” list, too. I can’t imagine not having my older brother, Zeke, or my grandma in my life. I wonder how other kids feel about their families? How do kids trapped and separated from their families at the U.S.-Mexico border feel? What about orphans? Too many questions, too few answers.
“Kindness, because growing up and not seeing a lot of kindness made me realize how important it is to have that in the world. Kindness makes the world go round.”
What is kindness? Helping my brother, Eli, who has Down syndrome, get ready in the morning? Telling people what they need to hear, rather than what they want to hear? Maybe, for now, I’ll put wisdom, not kindness, on my list.
“Empathy, because of all the killings and shootings [in this country.] We also need to care for people—people who are not living in as good circumstances as I have. Donald Trump and other people I’ve met have no empathy. Empathy is very important.”
Empathy is something I’ve felt my whole life. It’ll always be important to me like it is important to my grandpa. My grandpa shows his empathy when he works with disabled children. Once he took a disabled child to a Christina Aguilera concert because that child was too young to go by himself. The moments I feel the most empathy are when Eli gets those looks from people. Seeing Eli wonder why people stare at him like he’s a freak makes me sad, and annoyed that they have the audacity to stare.
After this 2 minute and 36-second phone call, my grandpa has helped me define what’s most important to me at this time in my life: family, wisdom, and empathy. Although these things are important now, I realize they can change and most likely will.
When I’m an old woman, I envision myself scrambling through a stack of storage boxes and finding this paper. Perhaps after reading words from my 12-year-old self, I’ll ask myself “What’s important to me?”
Lily Hersch is a sixth-grader at Crest Academy in Salida, Colorado. Lily is an avid indoorsman, finding joy in competitive spelling, art, and of course, writing. She does not like Swiss cheese.
“Tell It Like It Is” Interview Winner
Jonas Buckner
KIPP: Gaston College Preparatory, Gaston, N.C.
![life lesson essay examples life lesson essay examples](https://www.yesmagazine.org/wp-content/uploads/imports/cd173d070cfe4c3c80c6a33c5997cdad.jpg)
Lessons My Nana Taught Me
I walked into the house. In the other room, I heard my cousin screaming at his game. There were a lot of Pioneer Woman dishes everywhere. The room had the television on max volume. The fan in the other room was on. I didn’t know it yet, but I was about to learn something powerful.
I was in my Nana’s house, and when I walked in, she said, “Hey Monkey Butt.”
I said, “Hey Nana.”
Before the interview, I was talking to her about what I was gonna interview her on. Also, I had asked her why I might have wanted to interview her, and she responded with, “Because you love me, and I love you too.”
Now, it was time to start the interview. The first
![life lesson essay examples life lesson essay examples](https://www.yesmagazine.org/wp-content/uploads/imports/f51f7823911e47f0bdd7f7c0f1a9b703.jpg)
question I asked was the main and most important question ever: “What three things matter most to you and you only?”
She thought of it very thoughtfully and responded with, “My grandchildren, my children, and my health.”
Then, I said, “OK, can you please tell me more about your health?”
She responded with, “My health is bad right now. I have heart problems, blood sugar, and that’s about it.” When she said it, she looked at me and smiled because she loved me and was happy I chose her to interview.
I replied with, “K um, why is it important to you?”
She smiled and said, “Why is it…Why is my health important? Well, because I want to live a long time and see my grandchildren grow up.”
I was scared when she said that, but she still smiled. I was so happy, and then I said, “Has your health always been important to you.”
She responded with “Nah.”
Then, I asked, “Do you happen to have a story to help me understand your reasoning?”
She said, “No, not really.”
Now we were getting into the next set of questions. I said, “Remember how you said that your grandchildren matter to you? Can you please tell me why they matter to you?”
Then, she responded with, “So I can spend time with them, play with them, and everything.”
Next, I asked the same question I did before: “Have you always loved your grandchildren?”
She responded with, “Yes, they have always been important to me.”
Then, the next two questions I asked she had no response to at all. She was very happy until I asked, “Why do your children matter most to you?”
She had a frown on and responded, “My daughter Tammy died a long time ago.”
Then, at this point, the other questions were answered the same as the other ones. When I left to go home I was thinking about how her answers were similar to mine. She said health, and I care about my health a lot, and I didn’t say, but I wanted to. She also didn’t have answers for the last two questions on each thing, and I was like that too.
The lesson I learned was that no matter what, always keep pushing because even though my aunt or my Nana’s daughter died, she kept on pushing and loving everyone. I also learned that everything should matter to us. Once again, I chose to interview my Nana because she matters to me, and I know when she was younger she had a lot of things happen to her, so I wanted to know what she would say. The point I’m trying to make is that be grateful for what you have and what you have done in life.
Jonas Buckner is a sixth-grader at KIPP: Gaston College Preparatory in Gaston, North Carolina. Jonas’ favorite activities are drawing, writing, math, piano, and playing AltSpace VR. He found his passion for writing in fourth grade when he wrote a quick autobiography. Jonas hopes to become a horror writer someday.
From The Author: Responses to Student Winners
Dear Emily, Isaac, Antonia, Rory, Praethong, Amanda, Lily, and Jonas,
Your thought-provoking essays sent my head spinning. The more I read, the more impressed I was with the depth of thought, beauty of expression, and originality. It left me wondering just how to capture all of my reactions in a single letter. After multiple false starts, I’ve landed on this: I will stick to the theme of three most important things.
The three things I found most inspirational about your essays:
You listened.
You connected.
We live in troubled times. Tensions mount between countries, cultures, genders, religious beliefs, and generations. If we fail to find a way to understand each other, to see similarities between us, the future will be fraught with increased hostility.
You all took critical steps toward connecting with someone who might not value the same things you do by asking a person who is generations older than you what matters to them. Then, you listened to their answers. You saw connections between what is important to them and what is important to you. Many of you noted similarities, others wondered if your own list of the three most important things would change as you go through life. You all saw the validity of the responses you received and looked for reasons why your interviewees have come to value what they have.
It is through these things—asking, listening, and connecting—that we can begin to bridge the differences in experiences and beliefs that are currently dividing us.
Individual observations
Each one of you made observations that all of us, regardless of age or experience, would do well to keep in mind. I chose one quote from each person and trust those reading your essays will discover more valuable insights.
“Our priorities may seem different, but they come back to basic human needs. We all desire a purpose, strive to be happy, and work to make a positive impact.”
“You can’t judge a person by what you think , you can only judge a person by what you know .”
Emily (referencing your interviewee, who is battling cancer):
“Master Chief Petty Officer James has shown me how to appreciate what I have around me.”
Lily (quoting your grandfather):
“Kindness makes the world go round.”
“Everything should matter to us.”
Praethong (quoting your interviewee, Sandra, on the importance of family):
“It’s important to always maintain that connection you have with each other, your family, not just next-door neighbors you talk to once a month.”
“I wonder if maybe we relearn what is most important when we grow older. That the pressure to be successful subsides and that valuing family, health, and happiness is what ends up saving the world.”
“Listen to what others have to say. Listen to the people who have already experienced hardship. You will learn from them and you can even make their day by giving them a chance to voice their thoughts.”
I end this letter to you with the hope that you never stop asking others what is most important to them and that you to continue to take time to reflect on what matters most to you…and why. May you never stop asking, listening, and connecting with others, especially those who may seem to be unlike you. Keep writing, and keep sharing your thoughts and observations with others, for your ideas are awe-inspiring.
I also want to thank the more than 1,000 students who submitted essays. Together, by sharing what’s important to us with others, especially those who may believe or act differently, we can fill the world with joy, peace, beauty, and love.
We received many outstanding essays for the Winter 2019 Student Writing Competition. Though not every participant can win the contest, we’d like to share some excerpts that caught our eye:
Whether it is a painting on a milky canvas with watercolors or pasting photos onto a scrapbook with her granddaughters, it is always a piece of artwork to her. She values the things in life that keep her in the moment, while still exploring things she may not have initially thought would bring her joy.
—Ondine Grant-Krasno, Immaculate Heart Middle School, Los Angeles, Calif.
“Ganas”… It means “desire” in Spanish. My ganas is fueled by my family’s belief in me. I cannot and will not fail them.
—Adan Rios, Lane Community College, Eugene, Ore.
I hope when I grow up I can have the love for my kids like my grandma has for her kids. She makes being a mother even more of a beautiful thing than it already is.
—Ashley Shaw, Columbus City Prep School for Girls, Grove City, Ohio
You become a collage of little pieces of your friends and family. They also encourage you to be the best you can be. They lift you up onto the seat of your bike, they give you the first push, and they don’t hesitate to remind you that everything will be alright when you fall off and scrape your knee.
— Cecilia Stanton, Bellafonte Area Middle School, Bellafonte, Pa.
Without good friends, I wouldn’t know what I would do to endure the brutal machine of public education.
—Kenneth Jenkins, Garrison Middle School, Walla Walla, Wash.
My dog, as ridiculous as it may seem, is a beautiful example of what we all should aspire to be. We should live in the moment, not stress, and make it our goal to lift someone’s spirits, even just a little.
—Kate Garland, Immaculate Heart Middle School, Los Angeles, Calif.
I strongly hope that every child can spare more time to accompany their elderly parents when they are struggling, and moving forward, and give them more care and patience. so as to truly achieve the goal of “you accompany me to grow up, and I will accompany you to grow old.”
—Taiyi Li, Lane Community College, Eugene, Ore.
I have three cats, and they are my brothers and sisters. We share a special bond that I think would not be possible if they were human. Since they do not speak English, we have to find other ways to connect, and I think that those other ways can be more powerful than language.
—Maya Dombroskie, Delta Program Middle School, Boulsburg, Pa.
We are made to love and be loved. To have joy and be relational. As a member of the loneliest generation in possibly all of history, I feel keenly aware of the need for relationships and authentic connection. That is why I decided to talk to my grandmother.
—Luke Steinkamp, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio
After interviewing my grandma and writing my paper, I realized that as we grow older, the things that are important to us don’t change, what changes is why those things are important to us.
—Emily Giffer, Our Lady Star of the Sea, Grosse Pointe Woods, Mich.
The media works to marginalize elders, often isolating them and their stories, and the wealth of knowledge that comes with their additional years of lived experiences. It also undermines the depth of children’s curiosity and capacity to learn and understand. When the worlds of elders and children collide, a classroom opens.
—Cristina Reitano, City College of San Francisco, San Francisco, Calif.
My values, although similar to my dad, only looked the same in the sense that a shadow is similar to the object it was cast on.
—Timofey Lisenskiy, Santa Monica High School, Santa Monica, Calif.
I can release my anger through writing without having to take it out on someone. I can escape and be a different person; it feels good not to be myself for a while. I can make up my own characters, so I can be someone different every day, and I think that’s pretty cool.
—Jasua Carillo, Wellness, Business, and Sports School, Woodburn, Ore.
Notice how all the important things in his life are people: the people who he loves and who love him back. This is because “people are more important than things like money or possessions, and families are treasures,” says grandpa Pat. And I couldn’t agree more.
—Brody Hartley, Garrison Middle School, Walla Walla, Wash.
Curiosity for other people’s stories could be what is needed to save the world.
—Noah Smith, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio
Peace to me is a calm lake without a ripple in sight. It’s a starry night with a gentle breeze that pillows upon your face. It’s the absence of arguments, fighting, or war. It’s when egos stop working against each other and finally begin working with each other. Peace is free from fear, anxiety, and depression. To me, peace is an important ingredient in the recipe of life.
—JP Bogan, Lane Community College, Eugene, Ore.
From A Teacher
Charles Sanderson
Wellness, Business and Sports School, Woodburn, Ore.
![life lesson essay examples life lesson essay examples](https://www.yesmagazine.org/wp-content/uploads/imports/255588a0dd804f58b6917fe37d35e7fc.jpg)
The Birthday Gift
I’ve known Jodelle for years, watching her grow from a quiet and timid twelve-year-old to a young woman who just returned from India, where she played Kabaddi, a kind of rugby meets Red Rover.
One of my core beliefs as an educator is to show up for the things that matter to kids, so I go to their games, watch their plays, and eat the strawberry jam they make for the county fair. On this occasion, I met Jodelle at a robotics competition to watch her little sister Abby compete. Think Nerd Paradise: more hats made from traffic cones than Golden State Warrior ball caps, more unicorn capes than Nike swooshes, more fanny packs with Legos than clutches with eyeliner.
We started chatting as the crowd chanted and waved six-foot flags for teams like Mystic Biscuits, Shrek, and everyone’s nemesis The Mean Machine. Apparently, when it’s time for lunch at a robotics competition, they don’t mess around. The once-packed gym was left to Jodelle and me, and we kept talking and talking. I eventually asked her about the three things that matter to her most.
She told me about her mom, her sister, and her addiction—to horses. I’ve read enough of her writing to know that horses were her drug of choice and her mom and sister were her support network.
I learned about her desire to become a teacher and how hours at the barn with her horse, Heart, recharge her when she’s exhausted. At one point, our rambling conversation turned to a topic I’ve known far too well—her father.
Later that evening, I received an email from Jodelle, and she had a lot to say. One line really struck me: “In so many movies, I have seen a dad wanting to protect his daughter from the world, but I’ve only understood the scene cognitively. Yesterday, I felt it.”
Long ago, I decided that I would never be a dad. I had seen movies with fathers and daughters, and for me, those movies might as well have been Star Wars, ET, or Alien—worlds filled with creatures I’d never know. However, over the years, I’ve attended Jodelle’s parent-teacher conferences, gone to her graduation, and driven hours to watch her ride Heart at horse shows. Simply, I showed up. I listened. I supported.
Jodelle shared a series of dad poems, as well. I had read the first two poems in their original form when Jodelle was my student. The revised versions revealed new graphic details of her past. The third poem, however, was something entirely different.
She called the poems my early birthday present. When I read the lines “You are my father figure/Who I look up to/Without being looked down on,” I froze for an instant and had to reread the lines. After fifty years of consciously deciding not to be a dad, I was seen as one—and it felt incredible. Jodelle’s poem and recognition were two of the best presents I’ve ever received.
I know that I was the language arts teacher that Jodelle needed at the time, but her poem revealed things I never knew I taught her: “My father figure/ Who taught me/ That listening is for observing the world/ That listening is for learning/Not obeying/Writing is for connecting/Healing with others.”
Teaching is often a thankless job, one that frequently brings more stress and anxiety than joy and hope. Stress erodes my patience. Anxiety curtails my ability to enter each interaction with every student with the grace they deserve. However, my time with Jodelle reminds me of the importance of leaning in and listening.
In the article “Three Things That Matter Most in Youth and Old Age” by Nancy Hill, she illuminates how we “live among such remarkable people, yet few know their stories.” For the last twenty years, I’ve had the privilege to work with countless of these “remarkable people,” and I’ve done my best to listen, and, in so doing, I hope my students will realize what I’ve known for a long time; their voices matter and deserve to be heard, but the voices of their tias and abuelitos and babushkas are equally important. When we take the time to listen, I believe we do more than affirm the humanity of others; we affirm our own as well.
Charles Sanderson has grounded his nineteen-year teaching career in a philosophy he describes as “Mirror, Window, Bridge.” Charles seeks to ensure all students see themselves, see others, and begin to learn the skills to build bridges of empathy, affinity, and understanding between communities and cultures that may seem vastly different. He proudly teaches at the Wellness, Business and Sports School in Woodburn, Oregon, a school and community that brings him joy and hope on a daily basis.
From The Author: Response to Charles Sanderson
Dear Charles Sanderson,
Thank you for submitting an essay of your own in addition to encouraging your students to participate in YES! Magazine’s essay contest.
Your essay focused not on what is important to you, but rather on what is important to one of your students. You took what mattered to her to heart, acting upon it by going beyond the school day and creating a connection that has helped fill a huge gap in her life. Your efforts will affect her far beyond her years in school. It is clear that your involvement with this student is far from the only time you have gone beyond the classroom, and while you are not seeking personal acknowledgment, I cannot help but applaud you.
In an ideal world, every teacher, every adult, would show the same interest in our children and adolescents that you do. By taking the time to listen to what is important to our youth, we can help them grow into compassionate, caring adults, capable of making our world a better place.
Your concerted efforts to guide our youth to success not only as students but also as human beings is commendable. May others be inspired by your insights, concerns, and actions. You define excellence in teaching.
Get Stories of Solutions to Share with Your Classroom
Teachers save 50% on YES! Magazine.
Inspiration in Your Inbox
Get the free daily newsletter from YES! Magazine: Stories of people creating a better world to inspire you and your students.
The Ivy Coach Daily
- College Admissions
- College Essays
- Early Decision / Early Action
- Extracurricular Activities
- Standardized Testing
- The Rankings
October 21, 2016
Life Lessons in College Essays
![life lesson essay examples Life Lesson in College Essay, Lessons in Admissions Essays, Lessons in College Admission Essay](https://www.ivycoach.com/wp-content/uploads/imported-files/Life-Lessons-In-College-Essays.jpg)
It’s important to have a life lesson in college essays, right? A great Personal Statement wouldn’t be compelling if it didn’t wrap up with a story about a life lesson learned, right? Maybe it’s about understanding the value of hard work. Maybe it’s about understanding the importance of perseverance and overcoming adversity in pursuit of your goals. Maybe it’s about realizing that all people are, in many ways, more alike than different. These are the kinds of life lessons that make for compelling storytelling not only in the Common Application’s Personal Statement but in the unique supplemental essays for the schools to which students apply, right?
One of these things doesn’t belong in college essays: a life lesson, great storytelling, and colloquial writing. Which one is it, you ask?
No, not right. But the regular readers of our college admissions blog know that the entire introductory paragraph above was one big setup. Life lessons have no place in college admissions essays to highly selective schools. Life lessons are cliche. You pulled your hamstring but nursed your way back from injury to compete in the 100 meter dash again? You may not have won but you tried your best? Cliche. You realized that the folks in Soweto, South Africa are just the same as you and your neighbors in Greenwich, Connecticut? Cliche. You learn about the importance of love and family from your wise grandfather? Cliche.
Life lessons have no place in college essays. Let’s say it again. Life lessons have no place in college essays. When admissions officers are reading hundreds upon hundreds of essays, how many come-from-behind races can they possibly enjoy? The answer is zero. “Full House” was a terrific television show on ABC. And its sequel “Fuller House” is a nice followup on Netflix. For those not familiar with “Full House,” Danny, Jesse, and Joey often imparted life lessons on D.J., Stephanie, Michelle at the end of each episode. But college admissions essays are not episodes of “Full House.” So leave the life lesson out and don’t think twice about it.
You are permitted to use www.ivycoach.com (including the content of the Blog) for your personal, non-commercial use only. You must not copy, download, print, or otherwise distribute the content on our site without the prior written consent of Ivy Coach, Inc.
Related Articles
![life lesson essay examples The Bosawas Biosphere Reserve is featured in Nicaragua.](https://www.ivycoach.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Avoid-Writing-About-Service-Trips-In-College-Essays.jpg)
Avoid Writing About Service Trips in College Essays
August 13, 2024
![life lesson essay examples This is an exterior view of University Building from the Harper Quadrangle at the University of Chicago.](https://www.ivycoach.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/Weirdest-College-Essay-Prompts-For-The-2024-2025-Admissions-Cycle.jpg)
Weirdest College Essay Prompts for the 2024-2025 Admissions Cycle
![life lesson essay examples Students walk across Harvard Yard at Harvard University.](https://www.ivycoach.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Tips-For-Writing-A-Competitive-College-Essay-scaled.jpg)
Tips for Writing a Competitive College Essay, From Admissions Experts
August 12, 2024
![life lesson essay examples This is President John F. Kennedy's college essay.](https://www.ivycoach.com/wp-content/uploads/imported-files/A-Bad-Why-College-Essay.jpg)
A Famously Bad ‘Why College’ Essay
August 10, 2024
![life lesson essay examples Students mingle inside an MIT building with high ceilings and floor to ceiling windows.](https://www.ivycoach.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/Why-Applicants-Should-Avoid-Fluffing-Up-Their-College-Essays-scaled.jpg)
Why Applicants Should Avoid “Fluffing Up” Their College Essays
August 9, 2024
![life lesson essay examples The exterior of the Arthur Irving Institute is featured at Dartmouth College.](https://www.ivycoach.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/How-To-Write-A-College-Essay-1-scaled.jpg)
How to Write a College Essay: Top 10 Tips for a Great Essay
Toward the conquest of admission.
If you’re interested in Ivy Coach’s college counseling, fill out our complimentary consultation form and we’ll be in touch.
Fill out our short form for a 20-minute consultation to learn about Ivy Coach’s services.
- Entertainment
- Environment
- Information Science and Technology
- Social Issues
Home Essay Samples
Essay Samples on Life
As you are browsing through essays about life, think about choosing something that reflects your social position or customs that are able to tell your target audience about your local community. It will make writing much easier as you can explore something that you know well and compare what you think to specific publications that you discover online. It is what makes this aspect of college writing a bit challenging because you should set a problem or an issue related to life processes before you continue with exploration. Once you find a competing subject, proceed with an outline and structure your ideas first. If you are unsure about how to get things done, consider browsing through our life essay examples. The topics that we have presented range from the criticisms of Kantian Ethics in the business industry to the conflicting ideas presented by the classic vegetarian diet. Take a closer look at two different life essay samples and compare various paragraphs to determine what tone fits you best. If there are complex concepts that you research, offer brief information in your introduction paragraph. It will help your readers to follow the logic and understand your writing in a clearer way.
Entrepreneurship as a Career: Navigating the Path of Innovation
Entrepreneurship as a career is a compelling journey that offers individuals the opportunity to create their own path, shape their destiny, and contribute to the economy through innovation. While the road to entrepreneurship is laden with challenges and uncertainties, it is also marked by the...
- Entrepreneurship
Challenges Faced by Entrepreneurs: Innovation and Success
Challenges faced by entrepreneurs are a testament to the intricate journey of turning visionary ideas into tangible realities. While entrepreneurship is often associated with innovation and opportunity, it's also characterized by a multitude of hurdles and obstacles that test an entrepreneur's resilience and determination. In...
My Academic Goals: Nurturing Dreams, Pursuing Excellenc
Academic pursuits form the foundation of knowledge, growth, and the pursuit of a meaningful life. In this essay, I open the doors to my aspirations, offering a heartfelt exploration of my academic goals. Through a combination of focused objectives, unwavering dedication, and a thirst for...
- Education Goals
What Are Your Academic Goals: Charting a Course for Excellence
The realm of education is a canvas of possibilities, a space where aspirations, knowledge, and growth intertwine. In this essay, I provide an intimate insight into my academic goals, offering a glimpse into the dreams that fuel my educational journey. Through a combination of focused...
Professional Goals for Graduate School
Graduate school represents a pivotal juncture in one's academic and professional journey, offering a platform to refine skills, acquire specialized knowledge, and embark on a trajectory of achievement. In this essay, we delve into the realm of professional goals for graduate school, exploring how these...
Stressed out with your paper?
Consider using writing assistance:
- 100% unique papers
- 3 hrs deadline option
My Goals in Life as a College Student
The college journey is an exciting chapter in life that holds immense potential for personal growth, academic excellence, and shaping future trajectories. In this essay, I delve into the aspirations and ambitions that define my goals in life as a college student, highlighting how these...
Educational Goals: Charting the Path to Personal and Academic Excellence
Setting clear and achievable educational goals is an essential foundation for personal growth and academic success. In this essay, we delve into the significance of educational goals, particularly in the context of college, where they serve as a roadmap for academic achievement, personal development, and...
My Future Goals as a Doctor
Introduction Becoming a doctor is a lifelong dream of mine that stems from my passion for healing and helping others. This essay will examine the reasons for my desire to become a doctor and the goals I seek to achieve in my medical career. Passion...
- Personal Goals
The Enigma of Crushes: Navigating Emotions and Relationships
Introduction Crushes, those ephemeral yet potent feelings of infatuation and attraction, have intrigued and confounded individuals across cultures and generations. From the flush of excitement to the pang of uncertainty, crushes embody a complex emotional landscape that often blurs the boundaries between friendship and romance....
- Relationship
Exploring Who I Am: Unveiling the Layers
The question "Who am I?" is one that lingers in the minds of individuals on a quest for self-discovery. As I navigate the intricate tapestry of life, I find myself continually peeling back layers to reveal the essence of my being. This essay embarks on...
- About Myself
Reflecting on What I Did Over Thanksgiving Break
Thanksgiving break arrived as a welcome respite, offering a chance to step away from the usual routine and immerse myself in a world of relaxation and meaningful connections. This period of time allowed me to indulge in activities that brought me joy, strengthen relationships with...
- Thanksgiving
What Do You Love About Yourself: Embracing My Unique Qualitie
Embracing self-love is a transformative journey that involves acknowledging our strengths, embracing our imperfections, and celebrating the qualities that make us distinctively who we are. In this essay, I delve into the question of "what do you love about yourself," shedding light on the attributes...
- Personal Qualities
Unveiling My Future Career Goals
What are your future career goals? This question serves as a compass guiding me through the intricate map of aspirations, unveiling a vision of the future that I am diligently crafting. My future career goals are not merely destinations; they are the milestones that mark...
- Career Goals
Unveiling My Educational and Career Goals
What are your educational and career goals? This question invites a glimpse into the tapestry of aspirations that I have woven, reflecting my vision for personal growth, professional achievement, and meaningful contributions to society. My educational journey serves as the launching pad for my career...
Unveiling My Career Goals in the Healthcare Field
What are your career goals related to the healthcare field? This question unveils my aspirations to contribute to the well-being of individuals, families, and communities by venturing into the dynamic and impactful realm of healthcare. A career in healthcare is not only a path to...
- Health Care
Unveiling My Academic and Career Goals
What are your academic and career goals? This question serves as a compass guiding individuals to envision their educational pursuits and professional aspirations. Academic and career goals are not merely destinations; they represent the pathways individuals chart to realize their dreams, make meaningful contributions, and...
Things I Like About Myself
Self-discovery is a journey that unfolds over time, allowing us to unearth our strengths, quirks, and unique qualities. As I navigate the labyrinth of life, there are numerous aspects that I cherish and celebrate about myself. This essay serves as a heartfelt exploration of the...
The First Thanksgiving: A Historical Reflection on Unity and Gratitude
The story of the first Thanksgiving is a cornerstone of American history, marking a pivotal moment when two distinct cultures came together in a spirit of unity and gratitude. This seminal event, which took place in the early 17th century, remains a powerful symbol of...
Thanksgiving Reflection: Gratitude, Growth, and the Power of Connection
As another Thanksgiving comes around, I find myself immersed in a reflective state of mind, contemplating the significance of this cherished holiday. It's a time when the world seems to slow down, and the aroma of a festive feast fills the air. Yet, beneath the...
A Heartwarming Thanksgiving Narrative: Embracing Family and Traditions
Thanksgiving has always held a special place in my heart as a holiday that brings my family together in a tapestry of warmth, laughter, and cherished memories. Each year, as the days grow shorter and the air turns crisper, the anticipation of Thanksgiving begins to...
Thanksgiving: The Best Holiday for Gratitude, Unity, and Joy
Among the myriad holidays that punctuate the calendar, Thanksgiving stands out as a special and cherished occasion that brings people together in an unparalleled celebration of gratitude, unity, and joy. Rooted in traditions that emphasize family, feasting, and reflection, Thanksgiving holds a unique place in...
A Journey to Talk About Myself
Introduction Self-discovery is a lifelong voyage, a journey to unravel the layers of identity that define us. In this essay, I embark on the task of talking about myself. From sharing anecdotes that tell my story to delving into my passions, values, and aspirations, I...
Talking About Myself: Unveiling My Story
Introduction Exploring one's own identity is a journey that unfolds through introspection, experiences, and self-expression. In this essay, I embark on the task of talking about myself, delving into various aspects that define who I am. From my background and interests to my values and...
Navigating the Student Debt Crisis
The student debt crisis in modern society is a pressing issue that has far-reaching consequences for individuals, families, and the broader economy. This essay delves into the complexities of the student debt crisis, examining its origins, the socio-economic implications it poses, the role of higher...
- Student Loan Debt
Navigating HR Career Goals with Purpose
HR career goals encompass the ambitions of individuals who are drawn to the dynamic realm of Human Resources, driven by a passion for cultivating a harmonious workplace, nurturing talent, and fostering organizational success. In a rapidly evolving business landscape, a career in HR holds the...
- Human Resources
Should Students Be Required to Perform Community Service to Graduate High School?
For decades, the education system has primarily been viewed through the lens of academic achievement, but the tide is turning towards a more holistic understanding of what truly prepares students for the world. Integral to this discussion is the role of community service in molding...
- Community Service
- High School
Unveiling the Layers Within: A Glimpse of Myself
Introduction Every individual is a tapestry of experiences, emotions, and thoughts woven together to create a unique story. In this essay, I take the opportunity to share something about myself, offering a window into the essence of who I am. By delving into aspects of...
The Essential Role of Human Values in the 21st Century
The 21st century presents a myriad of challenges and opportunities that call for a renewed emphasis on human values as guiding principles to shape individual behaviors, societal norms, and global interactions. In an era marked by technological advancements, cultural diversification, and interconnectedness, the role of...
- 21St Century
The Dynamics of Power in George Orwell's "1984"
George Orwell's novel "1984" presents a harrowing exploration of power and its various manifestations within a dystopian society. The novel delves into the complex dynamics of power, including the ways it is exercised, maintained, and resisted. Through the lens of the Party's authoritarian regime, this...
Reflecting on My Negative Qualities
** Introduction ** We are all complex beings, composed of both admirable qualities and less desirable traits. In this essay, I take a candid look at the negative qualities within me, acknowledging that self-awareness is the first step towards growth and self-improvement. While discussing these...
Nature vs Nurture in Shaping My Identity
Introduction The age-old debate of nature versus nurture delves into the intricate interplay between genetics and environment, unraveling the factors that contribute to our individuality. In this essay, I embark on a personal exploration of this theme, delving into how both nature and nurture have...
Discovering Identity: A Narrative of Self
We are all protagonists in the stories of our lives, navigating the twists and turns that define our existence. In this narrative essay, I invite you to join me on a journey through the chapters of my own life – a journey of self-discovery, growth,...
What Are Your Goals: A Glimpse into My Aspirations
The journey of life is marked by dreams, ambitions, and the pursuit of personal growth. In this essay, I offer a candid glimpse into my aspirations, answering the question, “What are your goals?” By delving into my educational, professional, and personal dimensions, I share the...
Explaining Why Dreams and Goals Are Valuable
Human existence is marked by an innate yearning for progress, fulfillment, and purpose. At the core of this drive lies the pursuit of dreams and goals, powerful constructs that transcend cultures, backgrounds, and ages. In this essay, we delve into the profound value of dreams...
For or Against Setting Long-Term Goals to Land a Dream Job
The pursuit of a dream job is a journey that ignites aspirations, ambitions, and the desire for professional fulfillment. At the heart of this endeavor lies a critical decision: should one set long-term goals to navigate the path towards their dream job? This debate has...
- Dream Career
My Community Service Experience
My journey into the realm of community service was less about an obligatory chore and more about a serendipitous discovery of my potential, my passion, and my connection to the broader world around me. The experiences I garnered, the people I met, and the lessons...
SMART Goals: A Blueprint for Achieving Success
In the pursuit of success, setting goals is a cornerstone of personal and professional development. However, not all goals are created equal. Enter SMART goals: a structured and strategic approach to goal-setting that enhances the likelihood of achievement. In this essay, we delve into the...
Mandatory Community Service: Balancing Societal Needs
The concept of mandatory community service, often seen in academic curricula and judiciary systems, has spurred diverse reactions and debates. Rooted in the idea of fostering societal growth and instilling civic responsibility, mandatory community service juxtaposes societal needs with individual autonomy. This synthesis essay integrates...
Embarking on the Odyssey of Literacy: A Narrative of Words and Worlds
Our lives are narratives, composed of stories that intertwine, evolve, and shape our understanding of the world. Amidst this intricate tapestry of experiences, one thread stands out prominently in the tapestry of my existence – the thread of literacy. This literacy narrative essay is a...
Unveiling the Tapestry of Self: An Introspective Journey
Every life is a story, a narrative woven with the threads of experiences, emotions, and aspirations. As I embark on the path of introspection, I invite you to join me in exploring the intricate layers that comprise the canvas of my existence. This introductory essay...
The Importance of Community Service
The importance of community service is a beacon that guides individuals towards meaningful engagement, personal growth, and societal transformation. Community service transcends altruism; it's a vital component of building stronger, more compassionate communities. This essay explores the multifaceted reasons behind the importance of community service,...
Human Values in 21st Century: A Blueprint for a Better World
The 21st century presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities that demand a reevaluation of the values that guide human behavior. In this era of rapid technological advancements, cultural diversification, and interconnectedness, the importance of human values in the 21st century cannot be overstated....
![](http://sektorel.online/777/templates/cheerup/res/banner1.gif)
Exploring Career Goals for Students
Career goals serve as the compass that guides students through the labyrinth of academic pursuits, professional ambitions, and personal growth. As the future beckons with opportunities, setting clear and achievable career goals empowers students to chart their course, make informed decisions, and work towards the...
- College Students
Pursuing Public Health: Navigating a Path to Achieve Career Goals
Public health career goals reflect the aspirations of individuals committed to safeguarding and improving the well-being of communities on a large scale. In a world where health challenges are diverse and ever-evolving, a career in public health offers a unique opportunity to make a lasting...
- Public Health
Personal Health Goals: A Journey Towards Optimal Well-Being
The quest for well-being is an enduring journey that we embark upon with the intention of leading healthier and more fulfilling lives. In this essay, we delve into the realm of personal health goals, exploring how these aspirations empower individuals to take charge of their...
How I Spent My Thanksgiving
My Thanksgiving this year was a heartwarming and memorable experience filled with cherished moments, delicious food, and quality time spent with loved ones. As the holiday approached, I eagerly anticipated the opportunity to reflect on my blessings, create lasting memories, and share gratitude with those...
How Will Our Understanding of Who We Are Shape the Goals We Develop for Ourselves
The journey of self-discovery is a profound exploration that transcends the boundaries of time and circumstance. In this essay, we delve into the intricate interplay between our understanding of who we are and the goals we develop for ourselves. By examining the ways in which...
Nurturing Social Work Career Goals
Social work career goals embody the aspirations of individuals driven by a deep commitment to uplifting vulnerable populations, advocating for social justice, and fostering positive change within communities. In a world marked by disparities and challenges, a career in social work holds the promise of...
- Social Work
A Message to Myself: Reflections, Encouragement, and Self-Compassion
Within the depths of our thoughts lies a space where we can have a heartfelt conversation with the most familiar person of all—ourselves. This message to myself encapsulates a journey of introspection, offering reflections, encouragement, and a reminder of the importance of self-compassion. In this...
Me, Myself, and I: The Triad of Identity in 500 Words
In the intricate mosaic of human existence, the triad of "Me, Myself, and I" forms the cornerstone of identity—a fusion of experiences, thoughts, emotions, and aspirations that intertwine to create a unique narrative. In this essay, we delve into the complex interplay of these three...
How Can You Help Your Community: A Pathway to Positive Change
The question of how you can help your community is not merely a theoretical inquiry; it's an invitation to action and a testament to the power of individual agency in creating positive change. In a world marked by diverse challenges, every individual possesses the ability...
- Helping Others
Navigating the Housing Crisis: Challenges and Implications
The housing crisis is a pressing issue that reverberates across the globe, impacting individuals, families, and communities. This essay delves into the complexities surrounding the housing crisis, investigating its root causes, the far-reaching consequences, and the potential strategies to alleviate the challenges and ensure access...
How I Learned to Love Myself
The odyssey of self-love is a deeply personal and transformative one—a journey that I embarked upon with uncertainty and emerged from with a profound sense of how I learned to love myself. In this essay, I delve into the layers of this voyage, exploring the...
Helping My Community: A Journey of Impact and Empowerment
Helping my community is not just a mere notion; it's a personal commitment that fuels my desire to contribute to positive change. In a world that presents numerous challenges, taking an active role in improving the lives of those around me is both a responsibility...
Goals of Social Work: Empowering Communities and Fostering Change
Social work is a profession deeply rooted in the principles of compassion, empathy, and advocacy for vulnerable populations. In this essay, we explore the profound goals of social work, examining how social workers dedicate their efforts to empower individuals, families, and communities, and create lasting...
Goals and Aspirations: Pioneering the Path to Personal Fulfillment
Human existence is fueled by the pursuit of dreams and ambitions, encapsulated within the realm of goals and aspirations. In this essay, we delve into the profound significance of setting goals and nurturing aspirations, uncovering the essence of how they shape our lives, drive our...
My Personal Financial Goals in Life: Financial Freedom
As I embark on the journey of life, I recognize the profound impact that my personal financial goals will have on shaping my future. In this essay, I delve into the aspirations and plans that define my financial path, highlighting the importance of setting clear...
- Personal Finance
Expectations for Myself as a Student
The journey through academia is a pursuit of growth, knowledge, and self-discovery. As I step into this realm, I am guided by expectations for myself as a student—goals that encompass not only academic achievements but also personal development and a commitment to lifelong learning. In...
About Yourself (Personal Examples)
Example 1: Exploring Identity Through Life's Lessons As I journey through the labyrinth of life, I am reminded of the countless experiences that have shaped the person I am today. From the innocent days of childhood to the trials and triumphs of adulthood, my story...
- Personality
Introducing Myself: Uniqueness Within and Self-Presentation
Stepping onto the stage of self-presentation, I embark on the journey of introducing myself—an endeavor that requires delicacy, authenticity, and an appreciation for the intricacies that define my identity. In this essay, I navigate the nuances of self-introduction, exploring the essence of who I am,...
Knowing Myself: Unraveling the Self
The pursuit of knowing myself is an intricate voyage—a path that winds through the labyrinth of thoughts, emotions, and experiences that comprise the essence of who I am. In this introspective essay, I delve into the significance of self-awareness, the layers of identity, and the...
A Journey Unveiled: My Autobiography
Introduction Life is a voyage marked by milestones, challenges, and self-discovery. As I set my pen to paper, I embark on an introspective journey to chronicle the chapters that have shaped my existence. This autobiography is not a mere recollection of events, but a canvas...
Understanding Myself: the Complexities of Self-Discovery
Embarking on the quest of understanding myself is an odyssey of introspection—a journey that delves into the intricacies of thoughts, emotions, and experiences that shape the unique tapestry of my identity. In this reflective essay, I delve into the significance of self-awareness, the layers of...
The Place I Can Be Myself: a Haven of Authenticity
Amid the bustling rhythms of life, there exists a sanctuary—a refuge where pretenses fade, and authenticity flourishes. In this introspective essay, I delve into the place I can be myself, reflecting on the significance of finding solace in an environment that embraces my true identity,...
Myself as a Writer: Crafting Words, Weaving Worlds
Embracing the identity of a writer is a journey of words and wonder—an odyssey that unfolds through the art of crafting narratives and evoking emotions. In this introspective essay, I delve into the essence of myself as a writer, reflecting on the power of storytelling,...
- Being a Writer
Myself as a Counselor: My Journey as a Compassionate Guide
Stepping into the role of a counselor is an embodiment of empathy, guidance, and a commitment to fostering mental well-being. In this introspective essay, I delve into the realm of myself as a counselor, reflecting on the qualities that define my approach, the significance of...
Discovering Myself: Inner Exploration
The journey of discovering myself is a profound odyssey—a quest that delves into the intricacies of identity, purpose, and the essence of being. In this introspective essay, I embark on an expedition through the inner landscape, unraveling the layers of my character, aspirations, and the...
Unveiling the Dimensions of My Personality
The human personality is a complex tapestry woven from various dimensions, each contributing to the unique individual that we are. Over the course of my life, I have embarked on a journey of self-discovery, delving into these dimensions to better understand and appreciate the intricacies...
My Journey as a University Student
Introduction Embarking on the journey of university life has been a transformative experience that has shaped my identity in profound ways. This essay delves into the various facets of my journey, from academic pursuits to personal growth, as I navigate the intricate landscape of becoming...
Presenting Myself for College: Unveiling My Journey
Stepping onto the threshold of higher education, I embark on a new chapter of my life with a sense of excitement and curiosity. This essay encapsulates about myself for college, providing insights into my background, aspirations, and the unique qualities that make me a suitable...
Exploring Myself as a Reader: Embarking on Literary Journeys
As the pages of countless books unfold before me, I find myself immersed in a world of imagination, knowledge, and introspection. This essay delves into the depths of my relationship with books, unraveling the intricate tapestry of experiences that define about myself as a reader....
Understanding Myself and My Personality
When it comes to exploring the depths of one's being, the journey becomes both fascinating and complex. This essay delves into the intricacies of about myself and my personality, offering a glimpse into the tapestry of experiences, beliefs, and traits that make me who I...
How Will Taking This Course Help You Achieve Your Career Goals
How will taking this course help you achieve your career goals? This question encapsulates the pivotal role of education in shaping the trajectory of professional aspirations. In a rapidly evolving world, where knowledge is power and adaptability is key, enrolling in a specific course holds...
How I Value Myself: Nurturing Self-Worth
At the core of a fulfilling and empowered life lies the practice of self-worth—a journey of recognizing, appreciating, and embracing one's intrinsic value. In this reflective essay, I embark on an exploration of how I value myself. From acknowledging my strengths to embracing my vulnerabilities,...
Why Do You Want to Achieve Your Goals
Setting and pursuing goals is an inherent aspect of human nature, driven by our desires, aspirations, and ambitions. In this essay, we delve into the profound question of why do you want to achieve your goals, exploring the underlying motivations that fuel our determination to...
Insights about Achieving Goals in Life
Setting and striving to achieve goals in life is a fundamental aspect of personal growth and fulfillment. It allows individuals to envision their desired future, create a roadmap to success, and work diligently to turn aspirations into reality. The journey of achieving goals in life...
How Will College Help Me Achieve My Goals
Entering college is not just a stepping stone to higher education; it's a transformative experience that can significantly shape and propel one's future. In this essay, I will delve into how college will help me achieve my goals by providing a platform for academic growth,...
How a Graduate Degree Can Help You Achieve Your Career Goals
Graduate degrees serve as powerful catalysts for propelling career ambitions to new heights. In a world where expertise, specialization, and innovation are highly valued, pursuing advanced education opens doors to enhanced opportunities and the realization of long-term career goals. This essay explores the symbiotic relationship...
History of Myself: Chronicles of Identity and Transformation
The history of myself is a narrative that unfolds across time, encompassing a tapestry of experiences, emotions, growth, and transformation. In this reflective essay, I embark on a journey to trace the history of myself—from the origins that shaped my identity to the chapters of...
Being Myself: Embracing Authenticity and Finding Inner Harmony
In a world often shaped by expectations and comparisons, the journey of being myself emerges as an exploration of authenticity, self-acceptance, and the pursuit of inner harmony. In this reflective essay, I delve into the intricacies of embracing my true self—the challenges, revelations, and rewards...
Diagnostic: Exploring My Identity
As I sit down to write this diagnostic essay about myself, I find myself reflecting on the journey that has brought me to where I am today. I believe that self-discovery is a lifelong process, and this essay is a snapshot of my current understanding...
Describing Myself: Narrative of Self-Discovery
Every individual is an intricate tapestry of stories, experiences, and emotions. In this narrative essay, I embark on a reflective journey to unveil the layers that compose the canvas of my identity. Through the art of storytelling, I delve into the myriad experiences that contribute...
How Do I Define Myself: Unraveling the Layers of My Identity
The essence of being human lies in the intricate tapestry of individuality that weaves together experiences, beliefs, aspirations, and values. In this introspective essay, I embark on a journey to explore the profound question of how do I define myself. From the colors that paint...
- Self Identity
The Canvas of Self: A Kaleidoscope of Experiences
The journey of self-discovery is an intricate dance that weaves together the threads of experiences, passions, and aspirations. As I stand at the threshold of introspection, I am reminded of a quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson: "To be yourself in a world that is constantly...
- Personal Experience
Educational and Career Goals: Navigating the Path
Educational and career goals shape a roadmap to personal and professional fulfillment. In a world driven by continuous learning and dynamic career landscapes, setting clear objectives is essential for achieving success and making meaningful contributions to society. This essay delves into the significance of defining...
Cosmetology Career Goals: Pursuing Beauty and Creativity
Cosmetology career goals weave a tapestry of aspirations centered around the art of beauty, self-expression, and transformation. In a world where appearance plays a significant role, cosmetologists take on the role of artists, enhancing natural beauty and boosting confidence. This essay delves into the importance...
- Cosmetology
Computer Science Career Goals
Computer science career goals form the foundation of individuals' aspirations to explore, innovate, and create in the realm of technology. In a world characterized by rapid technological advancements, computer scientists play a pivotal role in shaping the digital landscape and driving transformative change. This essay...
- Computer Science
Community Work: Empowering Change through Collective Efforts
Community work is a cornerstone of building resilient, inclusive, and thriving societies. This essay explores the significance of community work, its role in fostering positive change, the benefits it brings to individuals and communities, and the ways in which it contributes to social progress and...
Community Service: The Synthesis of Societal Progress and Personal Growth
The tapestry of society is woven with myriad threads, each representing diverse pursuits, challenges, and endeavors. Among these threads, community service stands out as a beacon of altruism and societal progress. Through various academic studies, personal narratives, and historical references, it becomes evident that community...
- Personal Growth and Development
The Role of the Community Service Scholarship
The journey to self-discovery often meanders through the paths of service to others. As I pen down this essay for the community service scholarship, I reflect upon how my involvement in community service has been a crucible for personal growth, leadership, and a deeper understanding...
- Scholarship
Report on the Significance and Impact of Community Service
Across the globe, community service plays an invaluable role in fostering community ties, instilling values of responsibility, and enhancing personal growth. This report delves deep into understanding the essence, multifaceted benefits, and the broader implications of community service. Through systematic analysis and real-world examples, we...
Proposal for a Comprehensive Community Service Project
In today's interconnected world, the emphasis on collective growth and community well-being has never been more pronounced. A well-conceived community service project can create lasting positive impacts, not just for immediate beneficiaries but also for volunteers and the community at large. This essay proposes a...
Community Service is the Best Form of Punishment
In recent years, the criminal justice system has come under scrutiny, leading to calls for more rehabilitative rather than punitive methods of dealing with offenders. One such approach that has gained traction is the use of community service as a form of punishment. Advocates argue...
Community Service in High School Should Not Be Mandatory
The concept of community service in high schools has consistently been a subject of contention. While proponents extol the myriad virtues of community involvement, a growing consensus believes that community service in high school should not be mandatory. This essay provides a comprehensive examination of...
Why Community Service is Important: The Ripple Effect
Why community service is important is a question that delves into the heart of social responsibility, empathy, and the profound impact individuals can have on the world around them. Community service is more than just a requirement; it's a powerful catalyst for positive change that...
Unpacking the Value of Community Service Hours
The concept of community service hours, often a requirement in academic and organizational settings, has sparked diverse opinions. While some see it as a mere checkbox to tick off, others view it as an avenue for genuine personal growth and societal contribution. Delving deeper into...
Community Service for High School: Building Foundations for the Future
When we think of high school, our minds often gravitate towards academic pressures, extracurricular activities, and the perennial quest for personal identity. Yet, amidst these, an increasingly significant component of the high school experience is community service. Introducing community service for high school students offers...
The Integral Role of Community Service in Society
Community service, often perceived as a simple act of volunteerism, holds a profound impact on individuals and communities as a whole. It not only fosters social cohesion but also strengthens communal ties and promotes personal growth. This essay delves into the pivotal nature of community...
Community Responsibility: Culture of Care and Accountability
Community responsibility is a cornerstone of building strong, resilient, and harmonious societies. This essay delves into the significance of community responsibility, its role in fostering positive change, the benefits it brings to individuals and communities, and the ways in which individuals can actively contribute to...
- Accountability
- Responsibility
Computer Engineering Career Goals: Navigating the Digital Frontier
Computer engineering career goals shape the trajectory of individuals seeking to harness the power of technology to drive innovation, solve complex problems, and shape the digital landscape. In an era defined by rapid technological advancements, computer engineers play a pivotal role in designing, developing, and...
- Engineering
Best topics on Life
1. Entrepreneurship as a Career: Navigating the Path of Innovation
2. Challenges Faced by Entrepreneurs: Innovation and Success
3. My Academic Goals: Nurturing Dreams, Pursuing Excellenc
4. What Are Your Academic Goals: Charting a Course for Excellence
5. Professional Goals for Graduate School
6. My Goals in Life as a College Student
7. Educational Goals: Charting the Path to Personal and Academic Excellence
8. My Future Goals as a Doctor
9. The Enigma of Crushes: Navigating Emotions and Relationships
10. Exploring Who I Am: Unveiling the Layers
11. Reflecting on What I Did Over Thanksgiving Break
12. What Do You Love About Yourself: Embracing My Unique Qualitie
13. Unveiling My Future Career Goals
14. Unveiling My Educational and Career Goals
15. Unveiling My Career Goals in the Healthcare Field
- Perseverance
Need writing help?
You can always rely on us no matter what type of paper you need
*No hidden charges
100% Unique Essays
Absolutely Confidential
Money Back Guarantee
By clicking “Send Essay”, you agree to our Terms of service and Privacy statement. We will occasionally send you account related emails
You can also get a UNIQUE essay on this or any other topic
Thank you! We’ll contact you as soon as possible.
Essay Service Examples Life Life Lesson
5 Paragraph Essay on Life Lessons
Introduction
- Proper editing and formatting
- Free revision, title page, and bibliography
- Flexible prices and money-back guarantee
![life lesson essay examples document](https://edubirdie.com/wp-content/themes/essay/assets/img/banner/document.png)
Our writers will provide you with an essay sample written from scratch: any topic, any deadline, any instructions.
![life lesson essay examples reviews](https://edubirdie.com/wp-content/themes/essay/assets/img/banner/reviwes.png)
Cite this paper
Related essay topics.
Get your paper done in as fast as 3 hours, 24/7.
Related articles
![life lesson essay examples 5 Paragraph Essay on Life Lessons](https://edubirdie.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/thumb/1b/8c2d96d66b6841b_375x435.webp)
Most popular essays
- Life Lesson
- Perspective
Over 74 years ago, the Jewish population endured one of the most horrific events in history....
It was a great way to finish my degree with this industry project. I have learned many invaluable...
- Grandmother
An Erie of quiet welcomed my kin, and I went into my grandma's home one night. As we wandered...
My world shattered completely as I listened to my mom talking through the phone. My grandma, one...
- Life Obstacles
- Personal Experience
I believe in the truth that the lessons we learn from the obstacles we face can be fundamental to...
- Literary Criticism
- To Kill a Mockingbird
How can people tell if they know how someone can act without a true experience? In Harper Lee’s...
This quote is taken from the philosophical book Reason in Common Sense, which was written and...
You have not taken the time to discover how to truly make yourself, simply put, yourself. If any...
- Academic Challenges
- High School
The high school experience is something that will forever dominate the psyche of most teenagers....
Join our 150k of happy users
- Get original paper written according to your instructions
- Save time for what matters most
Fair Use Policy
EduBirdie considers academic integrity to be the essential part of the learning process and does not support any violation of the academic standards. Should you have any questions regarding our Fair Use Policy or become aware of any violations, please do not hesitate to contact us via [email protected].
We are here 24/7 to write your paper in as fast as 3 hours.
Provide your email, and we'll send you this sample!
By providing your email, you agree to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy .
Say goodbye to copy-pasting!
Get custom-crafted papers for you.
Enter your email, and we'll promptly send you the full essay. No need to copy piece by piece. It's in your inbox!
24/7 writing help on your phone
To install StudyMoose App tap and then “Add to Home Screen”
![life lesson essay examples Life Lessons Essay Examples](https://studymoose.com/wp-content/uploads/essay-topics/life-lessons.jpg)
Life Lessons - Free Essay Examples and Topic Ideas
Life lessons refer to the valuable and important lessons that we learn throughout our lifetime. These lessons are gained from various experiences, both good and bad, and help us to grow and develop as individuals. They teach us about the world around us, about ourselves, and about how to navigate through life. Some of the important life lessons include learning to accept failure, being humble, being patient, being kind, taking responsibility for our actions, and learning to be resilient. These lessons are valuable because they help us to become better individuals, and to live a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
- 📘 Free essay examples for your ideas about Life Lessons
- 🏆 Best Essay Topics on Life Lessons
- ⚡ Simple & Life Lessons Easy Topics
- 🎓 Good Research Topics about Life Lessons
Essay examples
Essay topic.
Save to my list
Remove from my list
- An Analysis of New York City in Martin Scorsese’s
- A Lesson Learned- An Outsiders Essay
- The biggest life lesson
- School Life and Experiences
- Life Lessons in Anton Chekhov’s The Bet
- Life Lessons In Romeo And Juliet Essay
- A Life Lesson in Keller’s The Story of My Life: Empowering Self-Efficacy
- Individual Lesson Plan: Life Cycle of a Butterfly
- The Great Gatsby Life Lesson Essay
- Plato’s Allegory of the Cave: Life Lessons
- Lesson Plan in I Am a Filipino
- The Fresh Prince of Bel Air
- Criminological Perspectives
- What Have I Learned and Imbibed from Dr. Jose P Rizal?
- The Gift of Happiness
- Life lessons that we get in the Last Leaf
- Life Lessons in Maya Angelous Graduation
- Lessons Learned: What Life Experience Teaches Us
- A Reflection of the Important Life Lessons
- The Life Lessons Taught by Full House, an American Sitcom Free Essay Example
- Life Lessons in Play “Romeo and Juliet” by Shakespeare
- Santiago`s Life`s Journey and Lessons
- Life Lessons Sammy Learned in John Updike’s Short Story
- A Playground of Life Lessons
- Valuable Lessons in Life
- Playing games teaches us about life
- Pet Overpopulation: Negative Effects and Prevention Free Essay Example
- Moral Lessons In LIFE
- The Life Lessons and Morals in the Book, Charlotte’s Web by E. B. White
- The Different Life Lessons of Atticus in To Kill a Mockingbird, a Novel by Harper Lee
FAQ about Life Lessons
![life lesson essay examples search](https://studymoose.com/wp-content/themes/theme/img-rh/search-icon.png)
👋 Hi! I’m your smart assistant Amy!
Don’t know where to start? Type your requirements and I’ll connect you to an academic expert within 3 minutes.
- Share full article
Advertisement
Supported by
Mentor texts
Telling Short, Memorable Stories From Your Life: ‘My Secret Pepsi Plot’
An invitation to students to tell a meaningful story in a limited number of words, with an example from The Times’s Lives column to help.
![life lesson essay examples](https://static01.nyt.com/images/2014/07/27/magazine/27lives/mag-27Lives-t_CA0-articleLarge.jpg?quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale)
By Katherine Schulten
Our new Mentor Text series spotlights writing from The Times that students can learn from and emulate.
This entry, like several others we are publishing, focuses on an essay from The Times’s long-running Lives column to consider skills prized in narrative writing. We are starting with this genre to help support students participating in our 2020 Personal Narrative Essay Contest .
Our Personal Narrative Essay Contest is inspired by The New York Times’s Lives column, which ran from 1996 to 2017 and featured “short, powerful stories about meaningful life experiences .”
The editor of the column once posted some advice on “How to Write a Lives Essay” to guide those who submitted to the column annually. Much of that advice applies to our contest as well.
For example, several points boil down to reminders to keep it simple, including tips like:
Don’t try to fit your whole life into one “Lives.”
Don’t try to tell the whole story.
Tell a small story — an evocative, particular moment.
Better to start from something very simple that you think is interesting (an incident, a person) and expand upon it, rather than a large idea that you then have to fit into a short essay. For example, start with “the day the Santa Claus in the mall asked me on a date” rather than “the state of affairs that is dating in an older age bracket.”
This advice is similar to advice often given to high school seniors writing college essays : You have only 650 words to show admissions officers something important, interesting or memorable about who you are and what matters to you. A list of awards you’ve won won’t do it, but an engaging story about making brownies with your stepbrother just might.
We are having trouble retrieving the article content.
Please enable JavaScript in your browser settings.
Thank you for your patience while we verify access. If you are in Reader mode please exit and log into your Times account, or subscribe for all of The Times.
Thank you for your patience while we verify access.
Already a subscriber? Log in .
Want all of The Times? Subscribe .
Essay on Life for Students and Children
500+ words essay on life.
First of all, Life refers to an aspect of existence. This aspect processes acts, evaluates, and evolves through growth. Life is what distinguishes humans from inorganic matter. Some individuals certainly enjoy free will in Life. Others like slaves and prisoners don’t have that privilege. However, Life isn’t just about living independently in society. It is certainly much more than that. Hence, quality of Life carries huge importance. Above all, the ultimate purpose should be to live a meaningful life. A meaningful life is one which allows us to connect with our deeper self.
![life lesson essay examples essay on life](https://d1whtlypfis84e.cloudfront.net/guides/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/23054129/life-1024x683.jpg)
Why is Life Important?
One important aspect of Life is that it keeps going forward. This means nothing is permanent. Hence, there should be a reason to stay in dejection. A happy occasion will come to pass, just like a sad one. Above all, one must be optimistic no matter how bad things get. This is because nothing will stay forever. Every situation, occasion, and event shall pass. This is certainly a beauty of Life.
Many people become very sad because of failures . However, these people certainly fail to see the bright side. The bright side is that there is a reason for every failure. Therefore, every failure teaches us a valuable lesson. This means every failure builds experience. This experience is what improves the skills and efficiency of humans.
Probably a huge number of individuals complain that Life is a pain. Many people believe that the word pain is a synonym for Life. However, it is pain that makes us stronger. Pain is certainly an excellent way of increasing mental resilience. Above all, pain enriches the mind.
The uncertainty of death is what makes life so precious. No one knows the hour of one’s death. This probably is the most important reason to live life to the fullest. Staying in depression or being a workaholic is an utter wastage of Life. One must certainly enjoy the beautiful blessings of Life before death overtakes.
Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas
How to Improve Quality of Life?
Most noteworthy, optimism is the ultimate way of enriching life. Optimism increases job performance, self-confidence, creativity, and skills. An optimistic person certainly can overcome huge hurdles.
Meditation is another useful way of improving Life quality. Meditation probably allows a person to dwell upon his past. This way one can avoid past mistakes. It also gives peace of mind to an individual. Furthermore, meditation reduces stress and tension.
Pursuing a hobby is a perfect way to bring meaning to life. Without a passion or interest, an individual’s life would probably be dull. Following a hobby certainly brings new energy to life. It provides new hope to live and experience Life.
In conclusion, Life is not something that one should take for granted. It’s certainly a shame to see individuals waste away their lives. We should be very thankful for experiencing our lives. Above all, everyone should try to make their life more meaningful.
Customize your course in 30 seconds
Which class are you in.
![life lesson essay examples tutor](https://www.toppr.com/bytes/wp-content/themes/bytes-v2/images/live-classes/tutor-1.png)
- Travelling Essay
- Picnic Essay
- Our Country Essay
- My Parents Essay
- Essay on Favourite Personality
- Essay on Memorable Day of My Life
- Essay on Knowledge is Power
- Essay on Gurpurab
- Essay on My Favourite Season
- Essay on Types of Sports
Leave a Reply Cancel reply
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *
Download the App
![life lesson essay examples Google Play](https://www.toppr.com/guides/wp-content/themes/toppr-guides-v1/images/play-store.png)
Home / Essay Samples / Life / Life Lesson / Life Lessons I Learned from My Parents
Life Lessons I Learned from My Parents
- Category: Life
- Topic: Life Lesson , Parents
Pages: 2 (1013 words)
- Downloads: -->
The Value of Hard Work
Resilience in adversity, the importance of kindness and compassion, the value of family and relationships, the pursuit of lifelong learning, conclusion: a legacy of life lessons.
--> ⚠️ Remember: This essay was written and uploaded by an--> click here.
Found a great essay sample but want a unique one?
are ready to help you with your essay
You won’t be charged yet!
Nostalgia Essays
Suffering Essays
Honor Essays
Ambition Essays
Confidence Essays
Related Essays
We are glad that you like it, but you cannot copy from our website. Just insert your email and this sample will be sent to you.
By clicking “Send”, you agree to our Terms of service and Privacy statement . We will occasionally send you account related emails.
Your essay sample has been sent.
In fact, there is a way to get an original essay! Turn to our writers and order a plagiarism-free paper.
samplius.com uses cookies to offer you the best service possible.By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy .--> -->