~Penn Boger, Class of 2024

Life is not always fair, but it can be better that way. Sometimes I like fairness and other times I like a challenge. Sometimes I like the challenge that unfairness gives me, but it can be overwhelming and makes me want the upper hand. Other times it’s good for it to be even and fair, it all depends on the situation.

A month ago I went to CC wrestling practice where I wrestled Kile. He is heavier than me so it gives me a challenge, but it gives me a good challenge. Kile is about 40 pounds heavier than me and we are around the same skill level. His 40 pounds obviously gives him a huge advantage but I like the challenge. So we shake hands and start wrestling. I can feel a mix of his and my sweat running down my face. He shoots in for a high crotch double but I sprawl just in time. His 40 pounds of extra weight conquers me which gives him a chance to spin behind and break me down. He tries to pin me but I don’t let him. Soon enough our coach calls us to the middle, we bump fists and start practice. I never let up; I never gave in; I never let him take full control of me. No matter how unfair something is, just keep trying. It’s important to have an unfair life to grow and learn from it but it is also important to to learn and grow from respect. 

It’s good to be respected but it is even better to respect others. I mostly respect my peers, elders, family, and friends. I respect people because I look up to them or I enjoy their company. 

In the words of David Joseph Schwartz… “It is well to respect the leader. Learn from him. Observe him. Study him. But don’t worship him. Believe you can surpass him. Believe you can go beyond him. Those who harbor the second-best attitude are invariably second-best doers.” Respect your leaders; respect who you trust; respect what you believe in. It is always good to give people your respect.