Reflective essay "They are always beside me"

They are always beside me

             Right before I came into this school, there was one unfortunate incident which struck me. It was about how I called a sunbae’s name. My informal way of calling female sunbae aroused resentment among the 15^th wavers and eventually I was branded as an inappropriate 16^th waver. My intention was to become closer with sunbaes, but my intention was grossly misinterpreted.

             Even after I entered the school, my reputation was at an all time low. I tried to overcome the situation which was very bewildering for me, but it was never easy. It seemed to me that there was nobody to stay by my side. I felt I was all alone and excluded. I even worried about whether I could continue on a decent school life. However, as time passed by, some sunbaes started to open up their minds. They started to approach me, and care for me. They gave respect to me and I gave my sincere respect to them. Such mutual interaction of respect continued and my life became much smoother than before.

             Yesterday, I was deeply touched by a sincere letter written by one sunbae from English Debate Society. She was the one who was mostly related to the unfortunate incident last winter. The letter was about how she has opened up her mind towards me. The letter went on and talked about what she has learned from me, my strengths, and weaknesses and so on. This considerate and thorough content of the letter made me smile dimly, because it was a indication of how a person started to care about me.

             Even today, after the prelims in Korea for World Individuals Debating and Public Speaking Championship next year, I didn’t feel good. Although I did my best to smile, and become positive, I couldn’t help myself lose some confidence that I cherished so much. I was really frustrated about the inability and lethargy of myself. I gazed out the window dully while I headed towards the dorm. At that moment, a text message from another sunbae from the English Debate Society came. In the text, sunbae encouraged me to do better and gave great consolation for my shaking soul. I was able to maintain my composure and positive spirit owing to that touching message. A few sentences can make a big difference.

             In the beginning of the semester, I was pretty much afraid and cautious about the entire unfamiliar environment all around me. Teachers, sunbaes, and even friends seemed to antagonize me. But now, I stand firm and feel great pride going to this wonderful school, KMLA. I am no longer afraid of facing hardships because there are lovely people who are always beside me, ready to get rid of the obstacles that hinder my path towards my future. I love my friends, teachers, and sunbaes in my school sincerely and genuinely.