Personal Narrative: Obstacles In Life

People are often faced with obstacles in life, and in this way I am no different. Although I have dealt with various issues throughout my life, I am fortunate enough to say that none have been as dire as suffering a serious illness or losing an immediate family member or friend. With that being said, it is difficult for me to pinpoint one noteworthy moment in life that has shaped me the most. I think it would have to be when I injured myself before both my sophomore and junior seasons of basketball, and I feared I would never get a chance to step on the court again. Through the recovery process from both my injuries, I surprisingly learned that these injuries would not define me or my basketball career. Just last month, I proved to myself how much I’ve grown since first injuring myself two years ago, when I finally marched on the court as a starter for my high school varsity basketball team.

It would have been easy for me to throw in the towel because all my efforts seemed to only amount to me getting my dreams dashed.

However, with the help of my supportive family, friends and teammates, I persevered. During the two seasons I was injured, I learned more about my life than I did the game. Initially, during the difficult and painful days of recovery, I found it hard to enjoy my life. I had some moments of self-pity thinking about what I was missing out on. However, it wasn't longer before I realized that these days would go by much easier if I maintained a positive attitude. I reasoned that this injury would allow me to focus on schoolwork. It also meant I could work out on my arm strength for the upcoming baseball season, my second favorite

sport.

This experience showed me and others who I am. I am a optimistic person who has learned that life is going to test you but that hard work combined with a positive attitude can help overcome whatever obstacle is placed in front of you. In addition, I did learn some new things about my first love, basketball. I realized there was more to the game than just being able to put a ball in the hoop. There were these things like: being a leader and teammate. I tried to be the biggest cheerleader for the guys on my team because of all their encouragement to me in my darkest of moments. I tried to mentor and help the guys on the team that needed advice on how to get better and to build their confidence. All the lessons I have learned through my toughest times of basketball have allowed me to become the person I am today. I try to never get down on myself if I am struggling in a class or after a tough game.

In the future, I anticipate I will maintain my optimistic outlook as I begin the next chapter in my life. I am excited at the thought of attending Stonehill College and being accepted in the Moreau Honors Program. I look forward to being on my own, making new friends and taking advantage of all the opportunities Stonehill offers its students . I would like to participate in their internship and study abroad programs. Everything I do and learn at Stonehill will provide me with the tools and knowledge to prepare me for my future career and life.