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I think Gandhi was the embodiment of change and optimism. I think he was a venerable figure that truly set the example of how peaceful change and motivation can create much change in not only our communities but in the whole world.

“I look only to the good qualities of men. Not being faultless myself, I won’t presume to probe into the faults of other.-Gandhi” I would say this is something that I need to improve on the most with my intrapersonal relationships. Because of past incidents I have grown somewhat reluctant to trust those who should be trusted. Getting rid of assumptions is the best thing you can get rid of the retched word “normal”. This idea of “normal” causes ridiculous disagreements and demonizes others that are different. “I suppose leadership at one time meant muscles; but today it means getting along with people.-Gandhi” Tolerance and acceptance are key things to have in being a servant leader because it unties people instead of separating them. Society needs to focus not on what our differences are but what our similarities are. This way we will be capable of attacking and resolving the injustices in society or the abuse that is presented to people in general.

My favorite quote of Gandhi is “an ounce of practice is worth more than tons of preaching”. The importance of action is crucial to meeting goals either on a local or international level. The main problem that people have with getting involved is that they only analyze the risk associated with it. Phrases like “I mean can you do, right?” or “What will happen?” impede the protesting process. The freedom to peaceful protest is an undeniable human right. The only way that your attitudes towards something wrong or immoral will change is if you do something about them. Often your words alone can often be a cry on deaf ears. Actions speak louder than words and getting involved with other people in action creates a sonic boom. I want to help low and middle income students reach their goals and become successful people who are motivated and make something of their life. I love to help students realize the potential they have and what resources are available to them for their academic and personal success.

The optimist creed is a great way to motivate and encourage involvement that will cause success. Optimism is the thing that lead me to college, to think clearly about my decisions. The promise “ to give so much time to the improvement of yourself that you have no time to criticize others” is something I like to do on a regular basis. In high school, this was not the case where petty personal things impeded the focus of school at times. This year I’ve learned to focus on myself and see what I can do to help others without criticism.

This summer I hope to be part of the City Youth Commission for Mikva Challenge. Mikva Challenge allows students to get involved in government and politics. The City Youth Commission is a year round program that involves student in the policy making process and allows input from youth in city hall in Chicago.

I motivate other by listening to their story and telling them, “you know what these are the types of things you will see and if you do this and apply yourself, you can obtain your goal”.