ROYP: From Nick Vujicic to Disney’s Mulan our readers share their inspiring words to live by
Each week, we’ll be asking some Young Post readers to share a little bit about themselves and a quote that gets them through life
Hey, everyone! Ever since I was young, I felt like I’m too bold, too opinionated, and too straight-forward. Unlike the people around me who said one thing and did another, I didn’t follow in their footsteps. I’ve always had very concrete beliefs, though at some points, I did start to question myself and wonder if I was wrong. It was a tough journey because it took me a long time to accept myself for who I am. People gave me a hard time, especially because my flaws were their highlights!
Most inspiring quote:
Speak your mind even if your voice shakes. – American social activist Maggie Kuhn
There’s a very fine line between speaking for yourself and being assertive. With time, you learn where that fine line is. I often feel that people (especially teenagers) are scared to stand up for themselves because they fear criticism. I’m not saying that you should respond to negativity all the time. Sometimes, insecurities can affect you, and we’ve all been there. But the world is cruel, and if you don’t stand up for yourself, no one else will. So speak your mind, there’s nothing wrong with that – it’s just that some people can’t handle the truth! Honesty is valued more than sugar-coated lies, after all.
Saba Iftkhar (16)
Hi everyone! The DSE puts so much pressure on students that I often fell ill and was unable to go to school. I am worried that I’ll miss more lessons, and therefore, may not be able to get good grades in next year’s public exam.
Most inspiring quote:
“The victory is not when I stand up. The victory is when I realise that I can’t do it on my own.” – Australian motivational speaker Nick Vujicic
Though exams are about testing individual abilities, sharing my worries with schoolmates and teachers helps a lot. It is important to know that I’m not alone, that someone will always back me up when I get into trouble. I’m very grateful that I have them in my corner. Without their efforts, I wouldn’t have enough motivation to study hard until the DSE.
Clara Chan(17)
ROYP: From the wisdom of the ancients to Dolly Parton, our readers share their most heartening quote
Hello there! I love new challenges, especially when it comes to my passions, like baking, dancing, and creative writing. But my greatest challenge yet is the IB Diploma.
Most inspiring quote:
“The flower that blooms in adversity is the most rare and beautiful one of all.” – Disney film Mulan
It has been a challenge to balance my studies and extra-curricular activities. The quote from the Disney film reminds me that stress is only a small part of growing up, and that each challenge only helps to toughen me up! It is important to take a step back sometimes, and reflect on how far I have come. Also, I feel I should try to step out of my comfort zone whenever possible.
Belinda Ng (16)
Hey guys! Like any human being, I like to learn new things and read. Also, like any human being, I have a constant urge to procrastinate. I feel that homework can wait ... until 15 minutes before the deadline (in fact, this piece is being written dangerously close to when it’s supposed to be submitted).
Most Inspiring Quote:
“An investment in knowledge pays the best interest” – Scientist/inventor Benjamin Franklin
I find this quote really inspiring; it makes me want to learn, read and experiment, and generally do more with my life than waste time by just sitting in front of a TV screen or staring at a wall (even though doing this is okay, too: work hard, play hard right?).